Image formation device, software update method, and software update system

Abstract

To improve convenience of a service man in work of updating software.SOLUTION: A printer 3 includes: a first acquisition part 311 which is communicably connected to a first server device 1 for managing the printer 3 and a second server device 2 for storing update software RSW of the printer 3, and acquires an execution request RQ1 for requesting execution of update of software, from the first server device 1; a second acquisition part 312 for acquiring the update software RSW from the second server device 2, in response to the execution request RQ1; and an update processing part 313 for updating the software to the update software RSW.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus, a software update method, and a software update system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses that a service technician manages information such as whether software updates have been implemented and which devices have been updated. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-190239 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, a service technician must visit the site when updating the software, which reduces convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An image forming apparatus according to one embodiment that solves the above problem is an image forming apparatus that is communicatively connected to a first server device that manages the image forming apparatus and a second server device that stores update software for the image forming apparatus, and is equipped with a first acquisition unit that acquires an execution request from the first server device to request the execution of a software update, a second acquisition unit that acquires the update software from the second server device in response to the execution request, and an update processing unit that updates the software to the update software.

[0006] Another aspect of a software update method that solves the above problem is a software update method for an image forming device that is communicatively connected to a first server device that manages the image forming device and a second server device that stores update software for the image forming device, and includes a first acquisition step of acquiring an execution request from the first server device to request that a software update be performed, a second acquisition step of acquiring the update software from the second server device in response to the execution request, and an update processing step of updating the software to the update software.

[0007] Another aspect of the software update system that solves the above problem is a software update system comprising an image forming device, a first server device that manages the image forming device, and a second server device that stores update software for the image forming device, wherein the image forming device is configured to be able to communicate with the first server device and the second server device, the second server device comprising an update memory unit that stores the update software and an update unit that transmits the update software to the image forming device, and the image forming device comprising a first acquisition unit that acquires an execution request from the first server device to request the execution of a software update, a second acquisition unit that acquires the update software from the second server device in response to the execution request, and an update processing unit that updates the software to the update software. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a software update system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first server device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second server device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an update software storage unit. [Figure 5]FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a printer according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a personal computer according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a screen diagram showing an example of an inquiry screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a screen diagram showing an example of an update completion screen. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of main processing of the software update system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] First, the configuration of a software update system 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a software update system 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the software update system 100 includes a first server device 1, a second server device 2, a printer 3, and a personal computer 4.

[0011] The first server device 1 is communicably connected to a second server device 2, a printer 3, and a personal computer 4 via a network NW. The network NW is, for example, the Internet. In this embodiment, the network NW is the Internet, but is not limited to this. The network NW may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0012] The first server 1 also sends an execution request RQ1 to the personal computer 4, requesting that the software SW of the printer 3 be updated. The first server device 1 also receives an operation from the administrator US of the first server device 1, and executes processing based on the received operation. The first server device 1 is configured as a so-called "application server device."

[0013] The second server device 2 is communicably connected to the first server device 1, the printer 3, and the personal computer 4 via the network NW. The second server 2 sends the updated software RSW to the printer 3. The second server device 2 is configured as a so-called "database server device."

[0014] The printer 3 acquires the updated software RSW from the second server device 2 and updates the software SW with the updated software RSW. The printer 3 corresponds to an example of an "image forming device."

[0015] The personal computer 4 is connected to the first server device 1, the second server device 2, and the printer 3 via the network NW so as to be able to communicate with each other. In response to the execution request RQ1 from the first server 1, the personal computer 4 transmits a response indicating whether or not to permit the execution of the update of the software SW of the printer 3. The personal computer 4 also receives operations from the administrator UP of the printer 3 and executes processing based on the received operations. The personal computer 4 corresponds to an example of an "information processing device."

[0016] Next, the configuration of the first server device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first server device 1 according to this embodiment. 2, the first server device 1 includes a first control unit 11, a first operation mechanism 12, and a first communication interface 13. The first control unit 11 controls each part of the first server device 1. The first operation mechanism 12 and the first communication interface 13 are each connected to the first control unit 11 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0017] The first control unit 11 includes a first processor 11A such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a first memory 11B such as a ROM (Read Only Memory). The first memory 11B stores a first control program PG1.

[0018] The first processor 11A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The first processor 11A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the first processor 11A may be configured with the first control program PG1 installed as a hardware circuit. In this case, the first processor 11A may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like. In the following description, the first processor 11A executes the first control program PG1 to thereby realize various functions of the first control unit 11.

[0019] The first memory 11B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The first memory 11B may include, for example, a ROM, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD) as the nonvolatile storage area. The first memory 11B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the first processor 11A and data to be processed. The first memory 11B may also include, for example, a random access memory (RAM) as the volatile storage area.

[0020] The first operation mechanism 12 includes an input means such as an operation switch or a touch panel provided on the first server device 1, detects a user operation, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the first control unit 11. The first control unit 11 executes a process corresponding to the user operation based on the input from the first operation mechanism 12. The user is, for example, an administrator US of the first server device 1.

[0021] The first communication interface 13 is a communication interface that communicates with the second server device 2, the printer 3, and the personal computer 4 in accordance with the Ethernet® standard. The first communication interface 13 is equipped with a connector for connecting an Ethernet® cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The first communication interface 13 is an interface board that has a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the first processor 11A of the first control unit 11 and the like are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that constitute the first communication interface 13 are mounted on the main board of the first control unit 11.

[0022] 2, the first control unit 11 includes a connection request unit 111, an update request unit 112, a notification request unit 113, a first communication control unit 114, and a screen storage unit 115. Each of these units is realized by, for example, cooperation between software and hardware when the first processor 11A executes the first control program PG1. In other words, when the first processor 11A executes the first control program PG1, it functions as the connection request unit 111, the update request unit 112, the notification request unit 113, and the first communication control unit 114. When the first processor 11A executes the first control program PG1, it also causes the first memory 11B to function as the screen storage unit 115.

[0023] The screen storage unit 115 pre-stores first screen information JQS indicating the inquiry screen QS and second screen information JQE indicating the update completion screen QE. The first screen information JQS is read by the update request unit 112 and transmitted to the personal computer 4. The second screen information JQE is read by the notification request unit 113 and transmitted to the personal computer 4. The inquiry screen QS will be further explained with reference to FIG. The update completion screen QE will be further described with reference to FIG.

[0024] The connection request unit 111 sends an execution request RQ1 to the personal computer 4, requesting that an update of the software SW of the printer 3 be performed. The execution request RQ1 is, for example, a connection request that requests a communication connection between the printer 3 and the second server device 2 in order to perform an update of the software SW of the printer 3. Furthermore, when the connection request unit 111 receives a first permission PM1 indicating permission for the execution request RQ1 from the personal computer 4, it sends a first command CM1 to the second server device 2 instructing it to establish a communication connection with the printer 3. The first permission PM1 is information indicating permission for the execution request RQ1.

[0025] The update request unit 112 sends the first screen information JQS to the personal computer 4 and causes the personal computer 4 to display the inquiry screen QS. The inquiry screen QS is a screen that inquires whether or not to allow the update of the software SW of the printer 3. Furthermore, when the update request unit 112 receives the second permission PM2 from the personal computer 4, it sends a second command CM2 to the second server device 2. The second permission PM2 is information that permits updating of the software SW installed on the printer 3. The second command CM2 is a command that instructs the printer 3 to send updated software RSW.

[0026] When the notification request unit 113 receives completion information JE from the printer 3 indicating that installation of the updated software RSW is complete, it sends second screen information JQE to the personal computer 4 and causes the personal computer 4 to display an update completion screen QE. The update completion screen QE indicates that the update of the software SW of the printer 3 is complete. In addition, when the notification request unit 113 receives completion information JE from the printer 3 indicating that the installation of the updated software RSW has been completed, it sends a third command CM3 to the second server device 2 instructing it to disconnect the communication connection with the printer 3.

[0027] The first communication control unit 114 transmits to the second server device 2 a first command CM1, a second command CM2, and a third command CM3. The first communication control unit 114 also receives completion information JE from the printer 3. Furthermore, the first communication control unit 114 transmits to the personal computer 4 an execution request RQ1, first screen information JQS, and second screen information JQE. In addition, the first communication control unit 114 receives the first permission PM1 and the second permission PM2 from the personal computer 4.

[0028] Next, the configuration of the second server device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second server device 2 according to this embodiment. 3, the second server device 2 includes a second control unit 21 and a second communication interface 22. The second control unit 21 controls each unit of the second server device 2. The second communication interface 22 is connected to the second control unit 21 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0029] The second control unit 21 includes a second processor 21A such as a CPU, and a second memory 21B such as a ROM. The second memory 21B stores a second control program PG2.

[0030] The second processor 21A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The second processor 21A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the second processor 21A may be configured to include the second control program PG2 as a hardware circuit. In this case, the second processor 21A may be configured, for example, with an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like. In the following description, the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2 to realize various functions of the second control unit 21.

[0031] The second memory 21B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The second memory 21B may include, for example, a ROM, HDD, SSD, etc. as the nonvolatile storage area. The second memory 21B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the second processor 21A and data to be processed. The second memory 21B may also include, for example, a RAM, etc. as the volatile storage area.

[0032] The second communication interface 22 is a communication interface that communicates with the first server device 1, the printer 3, and the personal computer 4 in accordance with the Ethernet® standard. The second communication interface 22 is equipped with a connector for connecting an Ethernet® cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The second communication interface 22 is an interface board that has a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the second processor 21A of the second control unit 21 and the like are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that constitute the second communication interface 22 are mounted on the main board of the second control unit 21.

[0033] 2, the second control unit 21 includes a second connection unit 211, an update unit 212, a second communication control unit 213, and an update software storage unit 214. These units are realized by, for example, cooperation between software and hardware when the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2. In other words, when the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2, it functions as the second connection unit 211, the update unit 212, and the second communication control unit 213. When the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2, it also causes the second memory 21B to function as the update software storage unit 214.

[0034] The update software storage unit 214 stores the update software RSW in advance. The update software RSW is read by the update unit 212 and sent to the printer 3. The updated software storage unit 214 corresponds to an example of an "update storage unit." The configuration of the updated software storage unit 214 will be further described with reference to FIG.

[0035] When the second connection unit 211 receives the first command CM1 from the first server 1, it sends a connection request RC to the printer 3, requesting a communication connection with the printer 3. The second connection unit 211 then executes processing to establish a communication connection with the printer 3. Furthermore, when the second connection unit 211 receives the third command CM3 from the first server 1, it sends a disconnection request RU to the printer 3, requesting that the communication connection with the printer 3 be disconnected.

[0036] When the update unit 212 receives the second command CM2 from the first server 1, it sends the updated software RSW to the printer 3 and causes the printer 3 to install the updated software RSW.

[0037] The second communication control unit 213 receives the first command CM1, the second command CM2, and the third command CM3 from the first server device 1. The second communication control unit 213 also sends a connection request RC, updated software RSW, and a disconnection request RU to the printer 3.

[0038] Next, the configuration of the updated software storage unit 214 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the updated software storage unit 214. A plurality of first folders FD1 are stored in the update software storage unit 214. The serial number of the printer 3 is assigned to each of the plurality of first folders FD1 as the folder name. In other words, each of the plurality of first folders FD1 corresponds to one printer 3 among the plurality of printers.

[0039] One second folder FD2 is stored in the first folder FD1. The model name of the printer 3 is given to the second folder FD2 as the folder name. The second folder FD2 stores a software definition file and multiple third folders FD3. The software definition file stores the following information about the latest update software RSW stored in the update software storage unit 214 of the second server device 2: version information of the latest update software RSW, release date information, and URL (Uniform Resource Locator) information indicating the storage location of the update software RSW file on the second server device 2. The URL indicating the location where the update software RSW file is stored corresponds to an example of a "private web page."

[0040] Each of the multiple third folders FD3 corresponds to one version of the update software RSW. Version information of the update software RSW is given as the folder name of the third folder FD3. Files corresponding to the update software RSW are stored in the third folder FD3.

[0041] Next, the configuration of the printer 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the printer 3 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the printer 3 includes a third control unit 31, a third operation mechanism 32, a third display mechanism 33, a third communication interface 34, a printing mechanism 35, an ink supply unit 36, and a printing medium storage unit 37. The third control unit 31 controls the operation of each unit of the printer 3. The third operation mechanism 32, the third display mechanism 33, the third communication interface 34, and the printing mechanism 35 are each configured to be able to communicate with the third control unit 31.

[0042] The third control unit 31 includes a third processor 31A such as a CPU, and a third memory 31B such as a ROM or RAM, and controls each part of the printer 3. The third memory 31B stores a third control program PG3. The third memory 31B may also include a magnetic storage device such as an HDD, or a semiconductor storage device such as an SSD. In the third control unit 31, the third processor 31A reads out the second control program PG2 stored in the third memory 31B and executes the processing. In other words, the third control unit 31 executes the processing through cooperation of hardware and software.

[0043] The third processor 31A may be configured as a single processor, or may be configured such that multiple processors function as the third processor 31A. The third memory 31B stores the software SW.

[0044] In this embodiment, the third processor 31A executes the second control program PG2 to control each part of the printer 3, but this is not limiting. The third control unit 31 may include, for example, an ASIC, and the ASIC may execute processing using implemented functions. The third control unit 31 may also include, for example, a signal processing circuit, and the signal processing circuit may execute processing by performing signal processing.

[0045] The third operation mechanism 32 has input means such as operation switches and a touch panel provided on the printer 3, detects user operations on the input means, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the third control unit 31. The third control unit 31 executes processing corresponding to the user operation based on the input from the third operation mechanism 32. The user is, for example, the administrator UP of the printer 3.

[0046] The third display mechanism 33 is equipped with a display panel such as a plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and performs operations such as turning on, off, and blinking the LEDs in a predetermined manner and displaying information on the display panel under the control of the third control unit 31.

[0047] The third communication interface 34 is a communication interface that communicates with the first server device 1, the second server device 2, and the personal computer 4 in accordance with the Ethernet® standard. The third communication interface 34 includes a connector for connecting an Ethernet® cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The third communication interface 34 is an interface board having a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the third processor 31A and the like of the third control unit 31 are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that constitute the third communication interface 34 are mounted on the main board of the third control unit 31.

[0048] The printing mechanism 35 executes a printing function under the control of the third control unit 31. Under the control of the third control unit 31, the printing mechanism 35 prints characters, images, etc. on a printing medium such as printing paper using ink. The printing mechanism 35 includes a print head 351, a carriage 352, a scanning motor 353, and a transport motor 354 as components related to printing. The print head 351 is an inkjet type and ejects ink supplied from the ink supply unit 36 ​​toward the print medium. A carriage 352 carries the print head 351 and scans in the main scanning direction. The main scanning direction intersects with the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction indicates the transport direction of the print medium. A scanning motor 353 scans the carriage 352 in the main scanning direction. A transport motor 354 transports the print medium in the transport direction.

[0049] The ink supply unit 36 ​​houses an ink tank that stores ink, and supplies ink from the ink tank to the print head 351 of the printing mechanism 35. The ink supplied by the ink supply unit 36 ​​is, for example, ink of each color of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K).

[0050] The print medium storage unit 37 is configured to be able to store print media. When the print medium is cut paper, the print medium storage unit 37 feeds the stored cut paper to a transport path (not shown) by transporting it with the transport motor 354. The print medium storage unit 37 may also be configured to collect printed matter, which is the print medium after printing. The configuration for collecting printed matter may be a configuration in which cut paper is stacked and placed on top of each other.

[0051] Next, the functional blocks of the third control unit 31 of the printer 3 will be described. The third control unit 31 includes a first acquisition unit 311, a second acquisition unit 312, an update processing unit 313, a print control unit 314, and a third communication control unit 315. When the third processor 31A executes the third control program PG3, the third processor 31A functions as the first acquisition unit 311, the second acquisition unit 312, the update processing unit 313, the print control unit 314, and the third communication control unit 315.

[0052] When the second server device 2 receives the first command CM1 from the first server device 1, the first acquisition unit 311 receives a connection request RC from the second server device 2 to communicatively connect the printer 3 to the second server device 2 in order to perform an update of the software SW. Furthermore, the first acquisition unit 311 connects the printer 3 to the second server 2 for communication when the connection request RC is received. The connection request RC corresponds to an example of an "execution request for requesting the execution of a software update." In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the first acquisition unit 311 receives the connection request RC from the second server device 2, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first acquisition unit 311 may receive the connection request RC from, for example, the first server device 1.

[0053] The second acquisition unit 312 acquires the updated software RSW from the second server device 2 when the communication connection between the printer 3 and the second server device 2 is completed. For example, when the personal computer 4 transmits the second permission PM2, the second acquisition unit 312 acquires the updated software RSW from the second server apparatus 2. The second permission PM2 is information that permits updating of the software SW installed in the printer 3.

[0054] The update processing unit 313 updates the software SW of the printer 3 to the updated software RSW. The software SW of the printer 3 includes the third control program PG3. The update processing unit 313 prohibits operations on the printer 3 and the acceptance of print jobs during the period from the start of the software SW update to the end of the software SW update. The update processing unit 313 sends completion information JE to the first server device when the update of the software SW of the printer 3 to the updated software RSW is complete. The completion information JE indicates that the update of the software SW of the printer 3 to the updated software RSW is complete. The update processing unit 313 also receives a disconnection request RU from the second server apparatus 2, and disconnects the communication connection between the printer 3 and the second server apparatus 2 upon receiving the disconnection request RU.

[0055] The print control unit 314 receives a print job from the personal computer 4 and executes the print job. The print control unit 314 instructs the print mechanism 35 to perform an operation corresponding to the print job, and causes the print mechanism 35 to execute the print job.

[0056] The third communication control unit 315 receives the connection request RC, the updated software RSW, and the disconnection request RU from the second server device. In addition, the third communication control unit 315 transmits completion information JE to the first server device.

[0057] Next, the configuration of the personal computer 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the personal computer 4 according to this embodiment. 6, the personal computer 4 includes a fourth control unit 41, a fourth operation mechanism 42, a fourth display mechanism 43, and a fourth communication interface 44. The fourth control unit 41 controls each unit of the personal computer 4. The fourth operation mechanism 42, the fourth display mechanism 43, and the fourth communication interface 44 are connected to the fourth control unit 41 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0058] The fourth control unit 41 includes a fourth processor 41A such as a CPU, and a fourth memory 41B such as a ROM. The fourth memory 41B stores a fourth control program PG4.

[0059] The fourth processor 41A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The fourth processor 41A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the fourth processor 41A may be configured with the fourth control program PG4 installed as a hardware circuit. In this case, the fourth processor 41A may be configured with, for example, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like. In the following description, the fourth processor 41A executes the fourth control program PG4 to realize various functions of the fourth control unit 41.

[0060] The fourth memory 41B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The fourth memory 41B may include, for example, a ROM, HDD, SSD, etc. as the nonvolatile storage area. The fourth memory 41B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the fourth processor 41A and data to be processed. The fourth memory 41B may also include, for example, a RAM, etc. as the volatile storage area.

[0061] The fourth operation mechanism 42 includes an input device such as an operation switch or a touch panel provided on the personal computer 4, detects an operation performed by the user on the input device, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the fourth control unit 41. The fourth control unit 41 executes a process corresponding to the user's operation based on the input from the fourth operation mechanism 42. The user may be, for example, an administrator UP of the printer 3.

[0062] The fourth display mechanism 43 has a plurality of LEDs and a display panel such as an LCD, and, under the control of the fourth control unit 41, turns on, turns off, and blinks the LEDs in a predetermined manner, displays information on the display panel, etc.

[0063] The fourth communication interface 44 is a communication interface that communicates with the first server device 1, the second server device 2, and the printer 3 in accordance with the Ethernet® standard. The fourth communication interface 44 is equipped with a connector for connecting an Ethernet® cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The fourth communication interface 44 is an interface board that has a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to the main board on which the fourth processor 41A of the fourth control unit 41 and the like are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that make up the fourth communication interface 44 are mounted on the main board of the fourth control unit 41.

[0064] 6, the fourth control unit 41 includes a connection permission unit 411, an update permission unit 412, and a fourth communication control unit 413. These units are realized by cooperation of software and hardware, for example, when the fourth processor 41A executes the fourth control program PG4. In other words, when the fourth processor 41A executes the fourth control program PG4, it functions as the connection permission unit 411, the update permission unit 412, and the fourth communication control unit 413.

[0065] The connection permission unit 411 receives the execution request RQ1 from the first server device 1. The execution request RQ1 is information requesting the execution of an update of the software SW. When the connection permission unit 411 receives the execution request RQ1, it accepts an operation from the fourth operation mechanism 42 and determines whether or not to send a first permission PM1 to the first server device 1 according to the accepted operation. If it is determined that the first permission PM1 should be sent to the first server device 1, the connection permission unit 411 sends the first permission PM1 to the first server device 1. If it is determined that the first permission PM1 should not be sent to the first server device 1, the connection permission unit 411 does not send the first permission PM1 to the first server device 1. The first permission PM1 is information indicating permission for the execution request RQ1.

[0066] The update permission unit 412 receives the first screen information JQS from the first server device 1. The first screen information JQS indicates the inquiry screen QS. Then, the update permission unit 412 displays the inquiry screen QS on the display panel of the fourth display mechanism 43. Furthermore, when the update start button 540 on the inquiry screen QS is operated by the fourth operation mechanism 42 (for example, by clicking with a mouse), the update permission unit 412 sends a second permission PM2 to the first server apparatus 1. The second permission PM2 is information that permits updating of the software SW installed in the printer 3. The inquiry screen QS will be further explained with reference to FIG.

[0067] The update permission unit 412 also receives second screen information JQE from the first server device 1. The second screen information JQE indicates an update completion screen QE. The update permission unit 412 then displays the update completion screen QE on the display panel of the fourth display mechanism 43. The update completion screen QE will be further described with reference to FIG.

[0068] The fourth communication control unit 413 receives the execution request RQ1, the first screen information JQS, and the second screen information JQE from the first server 1. Furthermore, the fourth communication control unit 413 transmits the first permission PM1 and the second permission PM2 to the first server 1.

[0069] Next, the inquiry screen QS will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a screen diagram showing an example of an inquiry screen 500. In Fig. 7, the inquiry screen QS will be referred to as an inquiry screen 500 for convenience. As shown in FIG. 7, the inquiry screen QS includes a URL display section 510, a current version display section 520, an updated version display section 530, and an update start button 540.

[0070] The URL display unit 510 displays the URL of a private web page that displays information related to the update software RSW in the second server device 2. When the URL display unit 510 is operated by the fourth operation mechanism 42 (for example, by clicking with a mouse), the private web page is displayed on the display panel of the fourth display mechanism 43.

[0071] The current version display section 520 displays the version information of the software SW installed in the printer 3 . The update version display section 530 displays the version information of the update software RSW.

[0072] The update start button 540 is a button object that accepts operation (for example, clicking with a mouse) by the fourth operation mechanism 42. When the update start button 540 is operated (for example, clicking with a mouse) by the fourth operation mechanism 42, the connection permission unit 411 sends a second permission PM2 to the first server apparatus 1. The second permission PM2 is information that permits updating of the software SW installed in the printer 3.

[0073] As described with reference to FIG. 7, the first server device 1 sends the first screen information JQS to the personal computer 4, thereby granting the administrator UP of the printer 3 access rights to the updated software RSW. In other words, the access rights to the update software RSW are managed by different access rights than those for public software. That is, although the update software RSW is stored in the second server device 2, the entity that grants the access rights is the first server device 1, not the second server device 2. Also, the access rights are granted only to the administrator UP of the printer 3 who operates the personal computer 4. Furthermore, the update software RSW is presented only to the administrator UP of the printer 3 who operates the personal computer 4 as the URL of a private web page. In this way, the access rights to the update software RSW are managed much more strictly than the access rights to public software.

[0074] 4, the update software RSW is stored in the update software storage unit 214 of the second server device 2. In other words, even if a person attempting unauthorized access to the update software RSW were to gain access to the update software storage unit 214, they would not be able to access the update software RSW unless they properly selected the first folder FD1, the second folder FD2, and the third folder FD3. In this way, access rights to the update software RSW are managed much more strictly than access rights to public software.

[0075] Next, the update completion screen QE will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a screen diagram showing an example of the update completion screen 600. In Fig. 8, the update completion screen QE is referred to as the update completion screen 600 for convenience. As shown in FIG. 8, the update completion screen 600 includes a URL display section 610, a message display section 620, and an update version display section 630.

[0076] The URL display unit 610 displays the URL of a private web page that displays information related to the update software RSW in the second server device 2. When the URL display unit 610 is operated by the fourth operation mechanism 42 (for example, by clicking with a mouse), the private web page is displayed on the display panel of the fourth display mechanism 43.

[0077] The message display section 620 displays a message indicating that the software SW of the printer 3 has been successfully updated. For example, the message display section 620 displays a message such as "SW update successful." The update version display section 630 displays the version information of the update software RSW.

[0078] Next, an example of the main processing of the software update system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the main processing of the software update system 100. First, in step S101, the first server 1 sends an execution request RQ1 to the personal computer 4. The execution request RQ1 is a connection request that requests a communication connection between the printer 3 and the second server 2 in order to execute an update of the software SW. Next, in step S103, the personal computer 4 sends a first permission PM1 to the first server 1. The first permission PM1 is information indicating permission for the execution request RQ1. In other words, the first permission PM1 is information indicating that a communication connection between the printer 3 and the second server 2 is permitted.

[0079] Next, in step S105, the printer 3 and the second server device 2 establish a communication connection with each other. For example, when the first server device 1 receives the first permission PM1 from the personal computer 4, it sends the second server device 2 a first command CM1 instructing it to establish a communication connection with the printer 3. The second server device 2 then sends a connection request RC to the printer 3, requesting that it establish a communication connection with the printer 3. The second server device 2 then executes processing to establish communication with the printer 3. Next, in step S107, the first server device 1 transmits the first screen information JQS to the personal computer 4, and causes the personal computer 4 to display the inquiry screen QS. The inquiry screen QS is a screen that inquires whether or not to allow the software SW of the printer 3 to be updated.

[0080] Next, in step S109, the personal computer 4 displays the inquiry screen QS on the display panel of the fourth display mechanism 43. Next, in step S111, the personal computer 4 transmits a second permission PM2 to the first server apparatus 1. The second permission PM2 is information that permits the software SW installed in the printer 3 to be updated. Next, in step S113, the second server device 2 sends the updated software RSW to the printer 3. For example, when the first server device 1 receives the second permission PM2, it sends a second command CM2 to the second server device 2. The second command CM2 is a command that instructs the printer 3 to send the updated software RSW. Then, when the second server device 2 receives the second command CM2, it sends the updated software RSW to the printer 3.

[0081] Next, in step S115, the printer 3 updates the software SW of the printer 3 to the updated software RSW. Next, in step S117, when the printer 3 has completed updating the software SW of the printer 3 to the updated software RSW, the printer 3 sends completion information JE to the first server device. The completion information JE indicates that the printer 3's software SW has completed updating to the updated software RSW.

[0082] Next, in step S119, the printer 3 and the second server device 2 disconnect their communication connection. For example, when the first server device receives completion information JE from the printer 3, it sends a third command CM3 to the second server device 2, instructing it to disconnect the communication connection with the printer 3. When the second server device 2 receives the third command CM3 from the first server device 1, it sends a disconnection request RU, requesting that the communication connection with the printer 3 be disconnected. The printer 3 then receives the disconnection request RU from the second server device 2, and upon receiving the disconnection request RU, it disconnects the communication connection between the printer 3 and the second server device 2. Next, in step S121, the first server device transmits second screen information JQE to the personal computer 4. The second screen information JQE shows an update completion screen QE. Next, in step S123, the personal computer 4 displays the update completion screen QE on the display panel of the fourth display mechanism 43. After that, the process ends.

[0083] Step S101 corresponds to an example of a "first acquisition step." Step S113 corresponds to an example of a "second acquisition step." Step S115 corresponds to an example of an "update processing step."

[0084] As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 9, the printer 3 according to this embodiment is communicatively connected to a first server device 1 that manages the printer 3 and a second server device 2 that stores the updated software RSW for the printer 3, and is equipped with a first acquisition unit 311 that acquires an execution request RQ1 from the first server device 1 requesting the execution of an update of the software SW, a second acquisition unit 312 that acquires the updated software RSW from the second server device 2 in response to the execution request RQ1, and an update processing unit 313 that updates the software SW to the updated software RSW.

[0085] According to this configuration, the updated software RSW is acquired from the second server device 2 and the software SW is updated to the updated software RSW, so there is no need for a service person to visit the site, improving convenience. In addition, an execution request RQ1 requesting the execution of an update of the software SW is obtained from the first server device 1, and the updated software RSW is obtained from the second server device 2 in response to the execution request RQ1, thereby preventing unauthorized access to the updated software RSW.

[0086] In addition, the printer 3 according to this embodiment is communicatively connected to a personal computer 4 that accepts instructions from the user, and the personal computer 4 obtains a query screen QS from the first server device 1 that inquires whether or not to allow the execution of an update of the software SW, and displays the query screen QS.

[0087] According to this configuration, the inquiry screen QS is displayed to inquire whether to allow the execution of the software SW update, so the user can decide whether to allow the execution of the update, thereby improving user convenience.

[0088] Furthermore, in the printer 3 according to this embodiment, the inquiry screen QS displays the version information of the software SW of the printer 3 and the version information of the update software RSW.

[0089] With this configuration, the inquiry screen QS displays the version information of the software SW of the printer 3 and the version information of the update software RSW, allowing the user to check the version information of the software SW and the version information of the update software RSW, thereby improving user convenience.

[0090] Furthermore, in the printer 3 according to this embodiment, the second acquisition unit 312 acquires the updated software RSW from the second server device 2 when the personal computer 4 receives an instruction to permit the execution of an update of the software SW on the inquiry screen QS.

[0091] According to this configuration, when an instruction to permit execution of a software SW update is received on the inquiry screen QS, the updated software RSW is acquired, so it is possible to determine whether or not to acquire the updated software RSW according to the user's instruction, thereby improving user convenience.

[0092] Furthermore, in the printer 3 according to this embodiment, when updating of the software SW to the updated software RSW is complete, the update processing unit 313 causes the personal computer 4 to display a message indicating that the update has been completed.

[0093] According to this configuration, when the update of the software SW to the update software RSW is completed, the personal computer 4 displays a message indicating that the update has been completed, allowing the user to confirm that the update has been completed. This improves user convenience.

[0094] Furthermore, in the printer 3 according to this embodiment, the second acquisition unit 312 acquires the updated software RSW from the private web page of the second server 2.

[0095] According to this configuration, since the updated software RSW is acquired from the private web page of the second server device 2, unauthorized access to the updated software RSW can be prevented.

[0096] The software update method of this embodiment is a software update method for a printer 3 that is communicatively connected to a first server device 1 that manages the printer 3 and a second server device 2 that stores update software RSW for the printer 3, and includes a first acquisition step of acquiring an execution request RQ1 from the first server device 1 that requests the execution of an update of the software SW, a second acquisition step of acquiring the update software RSW from the second server device 2 in response to the execution request RQ1, and an update processing step of updating the software SW to the update software RSW.

[0097] With this configuration, the software update method according to this embodiment achieves the same effects as the printer 3 according to this embodiment.

[0098] The software update system 100 of this embodiment comprises a printer 3, a first server device 1 that manages the printer 3, and a second server device 2 that stores update software RSW for the printer 3. The printer 3 is configured to be able to communicate with the first server device 1 and the second server device 2. The second server device 2 comprises an update software memory unit 214 that stores the update software RSW and an update unit 212 that sends the update software RSW to the printer 3. The printer 3 comprises a first acquisition unit 311 that acquires an execution request RQ1 from the first server device requesting the execution of an update of the software SW, a second acquisition unit 312 that acquires the update software RSW from the second server device 2 in response to the execution request RQ1, and an update processing unit 313 that updates the software SW to the update software RSW.

[0099] With this configuration, the software update system 100 according to this embodiment achieves the same effects as the printer 3 according to this embodiment.

[0100] Furthermore, in the software update system 100 according to this embodiment, the update software RSW is private software, and the second server device 2 manages the private software with access rights different from those for public software.

[0101] With this configuration, since the update software RSW is private software, unauthorized access to the update software RSW can be prevented. Furthermore, since the second server device 2 manages private software with access rights that are different from those for public software, by properly setting the access rights for the private software, unauthorized access to the update software RSW can be reliably prevented.

[0102] Furthermore, in the software update system 100 according to this embodiment, the printer 3 is communicatively connected to a personal computer 4 that accepts instructions from a user, the second server device 2 is configured to be able to access the update software RSW from a private web page, the first server device 1 sends an access request to the private web page to the personal computer 4, and the second acquisition unit 312 acquires the update software RSW from the private web page of the second server device 2 when the personal computer 4 permits the access request.

[0103] According to this configuration, since the update software RSW is acquired from a private web page, unauthorized access to the update software RSW can be reliably prevented. Furthermore, since the first server device 1 transmits an access request to the private web page of the second server device 2 to the personal computer 4, unauthorized access to the update software RSW can be reliably prevented.

[0104] This embodiment shows one mode, and any modifications and applications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0105] In this embodiment, the "image forming apparatus" is a printer 3, but is not limited to this. The "image forming apparatus" may be, for example, a copy machine. The "image forming apparatus" may also be, for example, a so-called multifunction peripheral.

[0106] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the case where the "information processing device" is a personal computer 4 will be described, but the "information processing device" may be, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fourth control unit 41 of the personal computer 4 is described as having a connection permission unit 411, an update permission unit 412, and a fourth communication control unit 413, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the third control unit 31 of the printer 3 may have at least one function of the connection permission unit 411, the update permission unit 412, and the fourth communication control unit 413. For example, all of the functions of the connection permission unit 411, the update permission unit 412, and the fourth communication control unit 413 may be provided in the third control unit 31 of the printer 3. In this case, the software update system 100 does not need to include a personal computer 4, and the configuration of the software update system 100 can be simplified.

[0108] In this embodiment, a case is described in which the third processor 31A included in the printer 3 executes the third control program PG3 stored in the third memory 31B, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The third control program PG3 can also be configured as a recording medium on which it is recorded so as to be readable by a computer, or as a transmission medium for transmitting the third control program PG3. The recording medium may be a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory device, including portable or fixed recording media such as flexible disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), Blu-ray (registered trademark) Discs, magneto-optical disks, flash memories, and card-type recording media. The recording medium may be a non-volatile storage device such as a RAM, ROM, or HDD that is an internal storage device provided in the printer 3.

[0109] The functions of the third control unit 31 of the printer 3 may be realized by one or more processors or semiconductor chips. The third control unit 31 may also be configured to further include a co-processor such as an SoC (System-on-a-Chip), MCU (Micro Control Unit), or FPGA. The third control unit 31 may perform various controls by using both the CPU and the co-processor in cooperation with each other, or by selectively using one of the two.

[0110] The processing units in the flowchart of Figure 9 are divided according to the main processing content to make it easier to understand the processing of the software update system 100, and are not limited by the way in which the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The processing units in the flowchart may be divided into more processing units according to the processing content. One processing unit may also be divided so that it includes more processes. The order of the processing may be changed as appropriate within the scope that does not impair the intent.

[0111] The functional units shown in Figures 2, 3, 5, and 6 indicate functional configurations, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. It is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each functional unit individually; a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of multiple functional units is also possible. Some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiments may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software. The specific detailed configurations of the other units of the first server device 1, the second server device 2, the printer 3, and the personal computer 4 may also be changed as desired without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 100...software update system, 1...first server device, 11...first control unit, 11A...first processor, 11B...first memory, 13...first communication interface, 2...second server device, 21...second control unit, 21A...second processor, 21B...second memory, 214...update software storage unit (update storage unit), 22...second communication interface, 3...printer (image forming device), 23...third control unit, 31A...third processor, 31B...third memory, 311...first acquisition unit, 312...second acquisition unit, 313...update processing unit, 314...printing control unit, 315...third communication control unit, 32...third operation mechanism, 33...third display mechanism, 34...fourth communication interface, 35...printing mechanism, 4...print Personal computer (information processing device), 41...fourth control unit, 41A...fourth processor, 41B...fourth memory, 42...fourth operation mechanism, 43...fourth display mechanism, 44...first communication interface, CM1...first command, CM2...second command, CM3...third command, JE...completion information, JQE...second screen information, JQS...first screen information, PG1...first control program, PG2...second control program, PG3...third control program, PG4...fourth control program, PM1...first permission, PM2...second permission, QE...update completion screen, QS...inquiry screen, RC...connection request, RQ1...execution request, RSW...update software, RU...disconnection request, SW...software, UP...administrator, US...administrator.

Claims

1. a first server device that manages an image forming apparatus and a second server device that stores update software for the image forming apparatus; a first acquisition unit that acquires an execution request for requesting execution of a software update from the first server device; a second acquisition unit that acquires the updated software from the second server device in response to the execution request; an update processing unit that updates the software to the updated software; An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. A device that is communicatively connected to an information processing device that receives instructions from a user, The information processing device includes: acquiring, from the first server device, a query screen inquiring whether or not to permit execution of the software update, and displaying the query screen; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. the inquiry screen displays version information of the software of the image forming apparatus and version information of the update software. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 .

4. the second acquisition unit acquires the updated software from the second server device when the information processing device receives an instruction to permit execution of the software update on the inquiry screen. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 .

5. when the update of the software to the update software is completed, the update processing unit causes the information processing device to display a message indicating that the update has been completed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. the second acquisition unit acquires the updated software from a private web page of the second server device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

7. 1. A software update method for an image forming apparatus connected to a first server device that manages the image forming apparatus and a second server device that stores update software for the image forming apparatus so as to be able to communicate with the first server device, the second server device comprising: a first acquisition step of acquiring an execution request for requesting execution of a software update from the first server device; a second acquisition step of acquiring the updated software from the second server device in response to the execution request; an update processing step of updating the software to the updated software; A software update method, including:

8. an image forming apparatus; a first server device that manages the image forming apparatus; and a second server device that stores update software for the image forming apparatus; the image forming device is configured to be able to communicate with the first server device and the second server device; The second server device an update storage unit that stores the update software; an update unit that transmits the updated software to the image forming apparatus; Equipped with the image forming apparatus, a first acquisition unit that acquires an execution request for requesting execution of a software update from the first server device; a second acquisition unit that acquires the updated software from the second server device in response to the execution request; an update processing unit that updates the software to the updated software; A software update system comprising:

9. The update software is non-public software, the second server device manages the private software with access rights different from those for public software; The software update system of claim 8.

10. the image forming apparatus is communicably connected to an information processing apparatus that receives instructions from a user; the second server device is configured to be able to access the updated software from a private web page; the first server device transmits an access request to the private web page to the information processing device; the second acquisition unit acquires the updated software from the private web page of the second server device when the information processing device permits the access request.

10. The software update system according to claim 8 or claim 9.

Images