Image formation device, management server, control method of image formation device, control method of management server, program, and flat rate service management system

Abstract

To provide a mechanism capable of taking over setting data of an image formation device used so far to a new image formation device without labor in replacement of the image formation device.SOLUTION: When contract information is stored, an MFP 101' acquires backup data associated with the contract information from a Web server 102. The MFP 101' compares setting data being applied to the MFP 101' and setting data corresponding to the setting data and included in the backup data, and applies the setting data included in the backup data to the setting data having a difference as a result of comparison.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a management server, a control method for an image forming apparatus, a control method for a management server, a program, and a flat-rate service management system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, a service format in which image forming devices are rented under a subscription contract has become popular. Under a subscription contract, the image forming device being rented is replaced at regular intervals by a new image forming device being rented. Furthermore, under a subscription contract, the setting data of the image forming device being rented is periodically uploaded to cloud storage (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] When replacing an image forming device, the service provider applies the backup data stored in the cloud storage to the new image forming device before shipping it, thereby reducing the user's effort required to set up the new image forming device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-56951 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, with the conventional method described above, there are cases where the user cannot use the new image forming device with the same setting data applied by the service provider. For example, the setting data of the image forming device currently in use may be changed between the time the new image forming device is shipped and the time the image forming device arrives at the user's location. In such cases, the user must perform the work of updating the new image forming device after the new image forming device arrives.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that allows, when replacing an image forming apparatus, to easily transfer setting data from the image forming apparatus that has been used up until now to the new image forming apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising: means for determining whether or not the image forming apparatus stores contract information for a flat-rate service that allows a user to use the image forming apparatus for a fixed period of time; means for, when it is determined that the contract information is stored, acquiring backup data associated with the contract information from a management server for providing the flat-rate service, the backup data including setting data of other image forming apparatuses used by the user; means for comparing the setting data applied to the image forming apparatus with setting data that corresponds to the setting data and is included in the acquired backup data, and for setting data for which there is a difference in the comparison results, applying the setting data included in the acquired backup data to the image forming apparatus. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, when replacing an image forming apparatus, the setting data of the image forming apparatus that has been used up until now can be easily transferred to the new image forming apparatus. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the configuration of a flat-rate service management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the Web server of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4]2 is a diagram showing an example of a management table managed by the Web server of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 5] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure of a backup data upload process executed by the flat-rate service management system of FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of an upload control process executed by the MFP of FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a save control process executed by the Web server of FIG. [Figure 8] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure of a backup data application process executed by the flat-rate service management system of FIG. [Figure 9] 2 is a flowchart showing the procedure of an adaptive control process executed by the MFP of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a backup setting screen displayed on the operation unit of FIG. 2(b). [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a backup data transmission process executed by the Web server of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a procedure of a backup data upload process executed by a flat-rate service management system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a contract information input screen displayed on the operation unit of FIG. 2(a). [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for upload control processing executed by the MFP according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing the steps of a backup data transmission process executed by a Web server according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the configurations shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the configurations shown in the drawings.

[0011] First, an image forming apparatus, a management server, and a flat-rate service management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the configuration of a flat-rate service management system 100 according to this embodiment. The flat-rate service management system 100 is composed of an MFP 101 as an image forming device and a Web server 102 as a management server. MFP stands for Multi Function Peripheral. The MFP 101 and the Web server 102 can communicate via a network 103. The network 103 may be the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network). The network 103 may be wired or wireless.

[0013] The flat-rate service management system 100 provides an MFP flat-rate service that allows a user to use an MFP for a fixed period of time. The MFP flat-rate service is, for example, a subscription service that rents out an MFP body and provides consumables according to a contracted plan. With the MFP flat-rate service, a replacement is performed at regular intervals, in which a rented MFP (e.g., MFP 101 in FIG. 1) is taken away and a new MFP (e.g., MFP 101' in FIG. 1) is rented out.

[0014] Next, the hardware configuration of the MFP 101 and MFP 101' in this embodiment will be described.

[0015] Fig. 2(a) is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP 101 in Fig. 1. In Fig. 2, the MFP 101 includes a control unit 110, an operation unit 116, a reading unit 118, a printing unit 120, a wireless communication unit 122, a FAX communication unit 124, and a communication unit 126. The control unit 110 is connected to the operation unit 116, the reading unit 118, the printing unit 120, the wireless communication unit 122, the FAX communication unit 124, and the communication unit 126. The control unit 110 also includes a CPU 111, a ROM 112, a RAM 113, a storage 114, an operation unit I / F 115, a reading unit I / F 117, a printing unit I / F 119, a wireless communication unit I / F 121, a FAX unit I / F 123, a communication unit I / F 125, and a GPU 127. These are connected to each other via a system bus 106 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0016] The control unit 110 controls the overall operation of the MFP 101. The CPU 111 loads a control program stored in the ROM 112 or the storage 114 into the RAM 113 to perform various control operations such as scanning control and printing control. The ROM 112 stores control programs executable by the CPU 111. The ROM 112 also stores a boot program, font data, and the like. The ROM 112 also stores contract information for a flat-rate MFP service, which will be described later. The RAM 113 is a main memory and is used as a work area and a temporary storage area for expanding the various control programs stored in the ROM 112 and the storage 114. The storage 114 stores image data, print data, various programs, and various setting information. Among the various setting information, backup data includes menu setting values, an address book, and the like. In this embodiment, a flash memory is assumed as the storage 114, but an auxiliary storage device such as a solid-state drive (SSD) or a hard disk drive (HDD) may also be used. An embedded multimedia card (eMMC) may also be used.

[0017] In the MFP 101 of this embodiment, one CPU 111 executes each process shown in the flowcharts described below using one memory (RAM 113), but this is not limited to this. For example, each process shown in the flowcharts described below can be executed by multiple CPUs, RAMs, ROMs, and storages working together. Also, some of the processes can be executed using hardware circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0018] The operation unit I / F 115 connects the operation unit 116 and the control unit 110. The operation unit 116 includes, for example, a display unit such as a touch panel and hard keys, and displays information to the user and detects input from the user.

[0019] The reading unit I / F 117 connects the reading unit 118 and the control unit 110. The reading unit 118 is, for example, a scanner, and reads an image of a document. The CPU 111 converts the image into image data such as binary data. The image data generated in this manner is sent to an external device or printed on recording paper.

[0020] The printing unit I / F 119 connects the printing unit 120 and the control unit 110. The CPU 111 transfers image data (print data) stored in the RAM 113 to the printing unit 120 via the printing unit I / F 119. The printing unit 120 is, for example, a printer, and prints an image based on the image data acquired from the printing unit I / F 119 onto recording paper fed from a paper feed cassette.

[0021] The wireless communication unit I / F 121 is an interface for controlling the wireless communication unit 122, and connects the control unit 110 to an external wireless device via wireless communication.

[0022] The control unit 110 is connected to the public line network 107 by controlling a FAX communication unit 124 such as a facsimile via a FAX unit I / F 123. The FAX unit I / F 123 is an I / F for controlling the FAX communication unit 124, and controls a modem and NCU for facsimile communication to connect to the public line network, control the facsimile communication protocol, and the like.

[0023] The communication unit I / F 125 connects the control unit 110 and the communication unit 126. The communication unit 126 transmits image data and various information inside the device to external devices on the network 103, and receives print data and information on the network 103 from communication devices on the network 103. Methods of transmission and reception via the network 103 include transmission and reception using email, and file transmission using other protocols (for example, FTP, SMB, HTTP, WEBDAV, etc.).

[0024] Fig. 2(b) is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP 101' in Fig. 1. In Fig. 2(b), the MFP 101' includes a control unit 110', an operation unit 116', a reading unit 118', a printing unit 120', a wireless communication unit 122', a FAX communication unit 124', and a communication unit 126'. Note that in this embodiment, the functions and configurations of these units are basically the same as those of the control unit 110, operation unit 116, reading unit 118, printing unit 120, wireless communication unit 122, FAX communication unit 124, and communication unit 126 in Fig. 2(a) described above.

[0025] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the Web server 102 in Fig. 1. In Fig. 3, the Web server 102 includes a CPU 301, a RAM 302, a ROM 303, a HDD 304, and a communication unit 305. These are connected to each other via a system bus 306.

[0026] The CPU 301 reads a control program stored in the ROM 302 and executes various processes for controlling the operation of the Web server 102. The ROM 302 stores the control program. The RAM 303 is used as a temporary storage area, such as the CPU 301's main memory and work area. The HDD 304 stores various data, such as backup data of the MFP 101. In this embodiment, the HDD 304 has a different backup area for each piece of contract information, and the contract information is stored in the corresponding backup area. The contract information is unique ID information issued when a contract for the MFP flat-rate service is concluded. The contract information also includes associated information indicating the contract details, such as a subscription or a one-time purchase. Information indicating the correspondence between the contract information and the backup area is managed by a management table 400 (see FIG. 4 ) stored in the HDD 304 or the like. The backup area is allocated and the associated information is created simultaneously when a contract for the MFP flat-rate service is concluded, and the information is added to the management table 400. The communication unit 305 can exchange data with various devices connected via the network 103.

[0027] Next, the procedure for uploading backup data in this embodiment will be described.

[0028] Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing the steps of a backup data upload process executed by flat-rate service management system 100 of Figure 1. The backup data upload process of Figure 5 is performed by MFP 101 rented to a user under the MFP flat-rate service, and Web server 102. The processing of MFP 101 in Figure 5 is realized by CPU 111 reading a program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing it. Also, the processing of Web server 102 in Figure 5 is realized by CPU 301 of Web server 102 reading a program stored in ROM 302 into RAM 303 and executing it.

[0029] 5, first, the MFP 101 receives an instruction from the user to change the setting data of the MFP 101 (S501). The setting data is, for example, address book data or network setting data. The MFP 101 changes the setting data in accordance with the change instruction.

[0030] Next, in S502, MFP 101 determines whether or not contract information is present. Specifically, MFP 101 determines whether or not contract information is stored in ROM 112. The contract information is written to ROM 112 by the service provider, for example, when MFP 101 is shipped to a user who has signed a contract for an MFP flat-rate service. In this manner, in this embodiment, MFP 101 determines whether or not it is a device managed by the MFP flat-rate service. If contract information is stored in ROM 112, MFP 101 reads the contract information from ROM 112.

[0031] Next, in S503, the MFP 101 uploads the backup data to the Web server 102. The backup data includes at least the setting data of the MFP 101. The setting data of the MFP 101 also includes the setting data changed in S501. For example, if an instruction to change the address book data is received in S501, the backup data includes the changed address book data and the unchanged network setting data. Note that the backup data may also include data other than the setting data of the MFP 101. In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned contract information is also added to the backup data.

[0032] Next, in S504, Web server 102 determines whether or not there is a backup area for storing the received backup data. Specifically, Web server 102 uses management table 400 to determine whether or not there is a backup area in HDD 304 that corresponds to the contract information added to the received backup data. In this embodiment, as described above, when a contract for an MFP flat-rate service is concluded, a backup area in HDD 304 that corresponds to the contract information is allocated, and information indicating the correspondence between this contract information and the backup area is recorded in management table 400.

[0033] If the backup area associated with the contract information added to the received backup data exists in the HDD 304, the Web server 102 saves the received backup data in this backup area in S505.

[0034] Next, in S506, the Web server 102 transmits to the MFP 101 a save completion notification indicating that the saving of the backup data has been completed.

[0035] Next, in S507, the MFP 101 receives a save completion notification from the Web server 102. After that, this processing ends.

[0036] In this way, in the flat-rate service management system 100, backup data including the setting data of the MFP 101 is stored in the Web server 102 periodically, for example, every time the setting data of the MFP 101 is changed. In this way, backup data including the latest setting data of the MFP 101 is held in the Web server 102.

[0037] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure of upload control processing executed by MFP 101 of Fig. 1. The upload control processing of Fig. 6 includes the processing of MFP 101 in the backup data upload processing of Fig. 5 described above, specifically, S501, S502, S503, and S507. The upload control processing of Fig. 6 is realized by CPU 111 reading a program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing it.

[0038] 6, first, in S601, CPU 111 accepts an instruction to change the setting data of MFP 101 (see, for example, S501 described above). Next, in S602, CPU 111 determines whether or not contract information is present (see, for example, S502 described above).

[0039] If it is determined in S602 that the contract information does not exist, that is, if the contract information is not stored in ROM 112, this process ends. If it is determined in S602 that the contract information exists, that is, if the contract information is stored in ROM 112, this process proceeds to S603. In S603, CPU 111 uploads backup data including the setting data changed in S601 to Web server 102 (see, for example, S503 described above).

[0040] Next, in S604, the CPU 111 determines whether or not a save completion notification has been received from the Web server 102. The CPU 111 waits for a predetermined period of time after starting the upload of the backup data. When the save completion notification is received from the Web server 102 (YES in S604) (see, for example, S507 described above), this processing ends. Note that this processing also ends when a backup area no-existence notification, which will be described later, is received from the Web server 102. Furthermore, if communication with the Web server 102 fails for some reason and a save completion notification is not received within the predetermined period of time, the processing may return to S603 after a certain interval and upload the backup data again.

[0041] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the steps of the save control process executed by the Web server 102 of Fig. 1. The save control process of Fig. 7 includes the process of the Web server 102 in the backup data upload process of Fig. 5 described above, specifically, steps S504 to S506. The save control process of Fig. 7 is realized by the CPU 301 reading a program stored in the ROM 302 into the RAM 303 and executing it.

[0042] 7, first, in S701, CPU 301 accepts upload of backup data from MFP 101. Next, in S702, CPU 301 determines whether or not there is a backup area for storing the received backup data (see, for example, S504 described above). Specifically, Web server 102 uses management table 400 to determine whether or not there is a backup area in HDD 304 that is associated with the contract information added to the received backup data.

[0043] If it is determined in S702 that there is no backup area to store the received backup data, that is, if there is no backup area in HDD 304 that corresponds to the contract information attached to the received backup data, the process proceeds to S703.

[0044] In step S703, the CPU 301 transmits a no-backup-area notification indicating that there is no backup area to the MFP 101. After that, this processing ends.

[0045] If it is determined in S702 that there is a backup area to store the received backup data, that is, if there is a backup area in HDD 304 that corresponds to the contract information attached to the received backup data, then the process proceeds to S704.

[0046] In S704, the CPU 301 saves the received backup data in this backup area (see, for example, S505 described above). Next, in S705, the CPU 301 transmits a save completion notification to the MFP 101 (see, for example, S506 described above). Thereafter, this processing ends.

[0047] Next, the procedure for applying backup data in this embodiment will be described. Here, in the MFP flat-rate service, as described above, replacement is performed at regular intervals, in which the currently rented MFP 101 is taken away and a new MFP 101' is rented out. At the time of replacement, the service provider applies the backup data stored in Web server 102 to the new MFP 101' before shipping the MFP 101', thereby reducing the user's effort required to set up the new MFP 101'. However, with this method, if any changes are made to the setting data of the MFP 101 currently in use while the new MFP 101' is being shipped, the user must perform the work of updating the new MFP 101' after receiving the new MFP 101', which is time-consuming.

[0048] In contrast, in this embodiment, when MFP 101' stores contract information, it acquires backup data associated with this contract information from Web server 102. MFP 101' also compares the setting data applied to itself with the setting data that corresponds to the setting data and is included in the backup data. For setting data that shows a difference as a result of the comparison, MFP 101' applies the setting data included in the backup data.

[0049] In this embodiment, it is assumed that backup data including the latest setting data of MFP 101 that the user has been using has been saved in Web server 102 by the backup data upload process of Fig. 5 described above. It is also assumed that a new MFP 101' has been delivered to the user. It is also assumed that the setting data of MFP 101 has been applied to this MFP 101' by the service provider using the backup data of MFP 101 immediately before it was delivered to the user.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing the steps of a backup data application process executed by flat-rate service management system 100 of FIG. 1. The backup data application process of FIG. 8 is performed by new MFP 101′ shipped to a user for replacement, and Web server 102. The process of MFP 101′ in FIG. 8 is realized by CPU 111′ of MFP 101′ reading a program stored in ROM 112′ into RAM 113′ and executing it. Furthermore, the process of Web server 102 in FIG. 8 is realized by CPU 301 of Web server 102 reading a program stored in ROM 302 into RAM 303 and executing it. Note that, as described above, it is assumed that the setting data of MFP 101 has been applied to MFP 101′ by the service provider using backup data of MFP 101 immediately before shipping it to the user. Furthermore, ROM 112′ of MFP 101′ stores contract information that is the same as the contract information stored in ROM 112 of MFP 101.

[0051] 8, first, in S801, MFP 101′ performs startup processing in response to a power-on operation by the user. Next, in S802, MFP 101′ performs initial installation processing in which various settings required when MFP 101′ is started up for the first time. In the initial installation processing, interactive processing with the user is performed as necessary. Note that in this embodiment, as described above, the service provider applies setting data of MFP 101 to MFP 101′ using backup data of MFP 101 immediately before shipping it to the user. Therefore, in the initial installation processing, initial settings other than application of the setting data of MFP 101 are performed.

[0052] Next, in S803, the MFP 101' determines whether or not contract information is present. Specifically, the MFP 101' determines whether or not contract information is stored in the ROM 112'. As described above, this contract information is the same as the contract information stored in the ROM 112 of the MFP 101. In this manner, in this embodiment, the MFP 101' determines whether or not the MFP 101' itself is a device managed by an MFP flat-rate service. If contract information is stored in the ROM 112', the MFP 101' reads the contract information from the ROM 112'.

[0053] Next, in S804, the MFP 101′ requests the Web server 102 to provide backup data associated with the read contract information.

[0054] Next, in S805, the Web server 102 searches for backup data associated with the specified contract information from the HDD 304. Next, in S806, the Web server 102 transmits the backup data found by the search to the MFP 101'.

[0055] Next, the MFP 101' compares the setting data applied to itself (the setting data saved in the storage 114') with the setting data that corresponds to this setting data and is included in the received backup data. If the comparison results in a difference in the setting data, the MFP 101' applies the setting data from the backup data (S807). For example, the MFP 101' compares the address book data and network setting data saved in the storage 114' with the address book data and network setting data saved in the received backup data. If the comparison results in a difference in the address book data, the MFP 101' overwrites the address book data saved in the storage 114' with the address book data saved in the backup data. The MFP 101' also reboots to make the applied setting data effective. This process then ends.

[0056] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the application control process executed by the MFP 101' of Fig. 1. The application control process of Fig. 9 includes the processes of the MFP 101' in the backup data application process of Fig. 8 described above, specifically, S801 to S804 and S807. The application control process of Fig. 9 is realized by the CPU 111' reading a program stored in the ROM 112' into the RAM 113' and executing it.

[0057] 9, first, in S901, the CPU 111′ performs a startup process in response to a power-on operation by a user (see, for example, S801 described above). Next, in S902, the CPU 111′ performs an initial setup process for making various settings required when the device is started for the first time (see, for example, S802 described above).

[0058] Next, in S903, the CPU 111' determines whether or not contract information exists (see, for example, S803 described above). Specifically, the CPU 111' determines whether or not contract information is stored in the ROM 112'.

[0059] If it is determined in S903 that the contract information does not exist, that is, if the contract information is not stored in the ROM 112', this processing ends. If it is determined in S903 that the contract information exists, that is, if the contract information is stored in the ROM 112', the CPU 111' reads the contract information from the ROM 112'.

[0060] Next, in S904, the CPU 111′ requests the Web server 102 to send backup data associated with the read contract information (see, for example, S804 described above).

[0061] Next, in S905, the CPU 111' determines the response from the Web server 102. If communication with the Web server 102 fails for some reason in S905, the process returns to S904 after a certain interval, and the CPU 111' requests the backup data again.

[0062] In step S905, if a backup data absence notification indicating that the requested backup data cannot be found is received from the Web server 102, this process ends.

[0063] If the requested backup data is received from the Web server 102 in S905, the process proceeds to S906.

[0064] In S906, the CPU 111' determines whether the received backup data is empty. For example, if the MFP is the first MFP after the contract is signed, or if backup data has never been uploaded because the backup setting was not enabled on a previously used MFP, empty backup data may be sent from the Web server 102.

[0065] If it is determined in S906 that the received backup data is not null, the CPU 111' compares the setting data applied to the MFP 101' with the setting data that corresponds to this setting data and is included in the received backup data. Next, in S907, the CPU 111' applies the setting data of the backup data to the setting data that is found to have a difference as a result of the comparison (see, for example, S807 described above). Thereafter, this processing ends.

[0066] If it is determined in S906 that the received backup data is empty data, the process proceeds to S908. In S908, the CPU 111' causes the operation unit 116' to display the backup setting screen 1000 of FIG. 10. The backup setting screen 1000 is a screen for enabling the backup setting. If the "No" button is pressed, no further backups will be performed. If the "Yes" button is pressed, backups will be performed periodically thereafter. When the process of S908 is completed, the process ends.

[0067] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the steps of the backup data transmission process executed by the Web server 102 of Figure 1. The backup data transmission process of Figure 11 includes the process of the Web server 102 in the backup application process of Figure 8 described above, specifically, steps S805 to S806. The backup data transmission process of Figure 11 is realized by the CPU 301 reading a program stored in the ROM 302 into the RAM 303 and executing it.

[0068] In FIG. 11, in S1101, the CPU 301 receives a request for backup data from the MFP 101′.

[0069] Next, in S1102, the CPU 301 searches the HDD 304 for backup data associated with the specified contract information (see, for example, S805 described above).

[0070] If the backup data associated with the contract information specified in S1102 is not found, the process proceeds to S1103. In S1103, the CPU 301 transmits a backup data absence notification to the MFP 101′, indicating that the requested backup data cannot be found. Then, the process ends.

[0071] If backup data associated with the contract information specified in S1102 is found, the process proceeds to S1104. In S1104, the CPU 301 determines whether the found backup data is empty data.

[0072] If it is determined in S1104 that the found backup data is not empty data, the process proceeds to S1105. In S1105, the CPU 301 transmits this backup data to the MFP 101'. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0073] If it is determined in S1104 that the found backup data is empty data, the process proceeds to S1106. In S1106, the CPU 301 transmits the empty backup data to the MFP 101'. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0074] According to the above-described embodiment, when MFP 101′ stores contract information, it acquires backup data associated with this contract information from Web server 102. Furthermore, MFP 101′ compares the setting data applied to itself with the setting data that corresponds to the setting data and is included in the backup data. For setting data for which the comparison reveals a difference, MFP 101′ applies the setting data included in the backup data. In other words, even if the setting data of the currently used MFP 101′ is changed between the time the new MFP 101′ is shipped and the time the MFP 101′ is delivered to the user, the user does not need to perform an operation to reflect the change after the new MFP 101′ arrives. This allows the setting data of the previously used MFP 101 to be easily transferred to the new MFP 101′ when the MFP 101 is replaced.

[0075] In the above-described embodiment, MFP 101 is an image forming apparatus managed by an MFP flat-rate service. As a result, when replacing MFP 101, which is managed by the MFP flat-rate service, with MFP 101', the setting data of MFP 101 that has been used up until now can be easily transferred to the new MFP 101'.

[0076] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the backup data includes at least the address book data and network setting data as setting data of the MFP 101. As a result, when replacing the MFP 101, the address book data and network setting data of the MFP 101 that has been used up until now can be easily transferred to the new MFP 101'.

[0077] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, Web server 102 stores backup data including the latest setting data of MFP 101 used by the user in association with contract information. Furthermore, in response to a request from MFP 101' newly shipped to the user, Web server 102 transmits to MFP 101' the backup data stored in association with contract information specified in the request. This allows the setting data of MFP 101 that was previously used to be easily transferred to new MFP 101' when MFP 101 is replaced.

[0078] In the above-described embodiment, the Web server 102 stores the received backup data in a backup area associated with the contract information attached to the backup data, the backup area being allocated when the MFP flat-rate service contract is signed. This allows the backup data received from the MFP 101 to be managed in association with the contract information attached to the backup data.

[0079] Next, an image forming apparatus, a management server, and a flat-rate service management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0080] The second embodiment is basically the same as the first embodiment in terms of configuration and operation, but differs from the first embodiment in that the MFP 101 currently being used by the user is not an image forming device managed by the MFP flat-rate service but an image forming device purchased by the user. Therefore, a description of the overlapping configuration and operation will be omitted, and the following description will focus on the different configuration and operation.

[0081] In the second embodiment, it is assumed that a user is using an MFP 101 that he or she purchased without subscribing to an MFP flat-rate service, and later subscribes to the MFP flat-rate service and replaces the MFP 101 with an MFP 101' managed by the MFP flat-rate service. In the second embodiment, because the setting data of the MFP 101 that was used before subscribing to the MFP flat-rate service is not automatically backed up, the user must issue a backup instruction. Therefore, a process different from the backup data upload process shown in FIG. 5 described above is performed to back up the setting data of the MFP 101. The following describes the differences from the backup data upload process shown in FIG. 5 described above.

[0082] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing the steps of a backup data upload process executed by flat-rate service management system 100 according to the second embodiment. The backup data upload process of FIG. 12 is performed by MFP 101, which a user has purchased and is currently using, and Web server 102. The process of MFP 101 in FIG. 12 is implemented by CPU 111 of MFP 101 reading a program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing it. The process of Web server 102 in FIG. 12 is implemented by CPU 301 of Web server 102 reading a program stored in ROM 302 into RAM 303 and executing it. Note that, in the second embodiment, contract information is also issued when a contract for the MFP flat-rate service is concluded. A backup area corresponding to this contract information is allocated in HDD 304, and information indicating the correspondence between this contract information and the backup area is recorded in management table 400. It is also assumed that contract information input screen 1300 of FIG. 13 is displayed on operation unit 116 of MFP 101. The contract information input screen 1300 is a screen on which the user instructs uploading of backup data including setting data of the MFP 101. The contract information input screen 1300 includes a contract information display area 1301 in which the contract information input by the user is displayed, a backup start button 1302 for instructing the start of backup, and a soft keyboard 1303 for inputting the contract information.

[0083] 12, first, in step S1201, the MFP 101 accepts input of contract information from the user on a contract information input screen 1300 displayed on the operation unit .

[0084] Next, in S1202, the MFP 101 uploads backup data including the setting data of the MFP 101 to the Web server 102. The contract information input in S1201 is added to this backup data.

[0085] Next, in S1203, the Web server 102 determines whether or not there is a backup area for storing the received backup data, similar to S504 described above.

[0086] If a backup area associated with the contract information added to the received backup data exists in HDD 304, Web server 102 stores the received backup data in this backup area (S1204), similar to S505 described above.

[0087] Next, the Web server 102 transmits a save completion notification indicating that saving of the backup data has been completed to the MFP 101, similar to S506 described above (S1205).

[0088] Next, in S1206, the MFP 101 displays a backup completion screen (not shown) on the operation unit 116. After that, this processing ends.

[0089] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the procedure of upload control processing executed by MFP 101 according to the second embodiment. The upload control processing in Fig. 14 includes the processing of MFP 101 in the backup data upload processing in Fig. 12 described above, specifically, S1201, S1202, and S1206. The upload control processing in Fig. 14 is realized by CPU 111 reading a program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing it.

[0090] 14, in S1401, the CPU 111 accepts input of contract information from the user on the contract information input screen 1300 displayed on the operation unit 116 (see, for example, S1201 described above). When the backup start button 1302 is pressed on the contract information input screen 1300, the process proceeds to S1402.

[0091] Next, in S1402, the CPU 111 uploads backup data including the setting data of the MFP 101 to the Web server 102 (see, for example, S1202 described above). The contract information input in S1401 is added to this backup data.

[0092] Next, in step S1403, the CPU 111 determines the response from the Web server 102.

[0093] If it is determined in S1403 that a backup area absence notification has been received, the process proceeds to S1404. In S1404, the CPU 111 causes the operation unit 116 to display a contract information error screen (not shown) including a message indicating that the contract information entered by the user is incorrect. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0094] If it is determined in S1403 that a save completion notification has been received, the process proceeds to S1405. In S1405, the CPU 111 causes a backup completion screen (not shown) to be displayed on the operation unit 116 (see, for example, S1206 described above). Thereafter, the process ends.

[0095] If it is determined in S1403 that communication with the Web server 102 has failed for some reason, the process proceeds to S1406. In S1406, the CPU 111 displays a communication error screen (not shown) on the operation unit 116. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0096] In the second embodiment described above, MFP 101 is an image forming apparatus purchased by a user. As a result, when replacing the MFP 101 purchased by the user with MFP 101', the setting data of the MFP 101 that has been used until now can be easily transferred to the new MFP 101'.

[0097] Next, an image forming apparatus, a management server, and a flat-rate service management system according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0098] The third embodiment is basically the same as the first embodiment in terms of configuration and operation, but differs from the first embodiment in that the MFP 101' is not an image forming apparatus managed by an MFP flat-rate service but is an image forming apparatus purchased by a user. Therefore, a description of the overlapping configuration and operation will be omitted, and the following description will focus on the different configuration and operation.

[0099] The third embodiment assumes a scenario in which a user cancels an MFP flat-rate service contract and replaces an MFP 101 managed by the MFP flat-rate service with an MFP 101' purchased by the user. In the third embodiment, a one-time use backup service is provided to the user by concluding a one-time purchase contract with the user. Note that in the third embodiment, when Web server 102 receives a request for backup data from MFP 101', it performs processing different from the backup data transmission processing shown in FIG. 11 described above. The following describes the content different from the backup data transmission processing shown in FIG. 11 described above.

[0100] 15 is a flowchart showing the steps of a backup data transmission process executed by the Web server 102 in the third embodiment. The backup data transmission process of FIG. 15 is realized by the CPU 301 reading a program stored in the ROM 302 into the RAM 303 and executing the program.

[0101] 15, the above-described steps S1101 to S1102 are performed. If backup data associated with the contract information specified in S1102 is not found, this process proceeds to the above-described step S1103, and then ends. If backup data associated with the contract information specified in S1102 is found, this process proceeds to the above-described step S1104.

[0102] If it is determined in S1104 that the found backup data is empty data, the process proceeds to S1106 described above, and then ends.

[0103] If it is determined in S1104 that the found backup data is not empty data, the process proceeds to S1105 described above, and this backup data is sent to the MFP 101'.

[0104] Next, in S1501, the CPU 301 reads, from the HDD 304, information accompanying the contract information specified by the MFP 101', and determines whether the contract is a one-time purchase type.

[0105] If it is determined in S1501 that the contract is a one-time purchase contract, the process proceeds to S1502. In S1502, the CPU 301 deletes the backup area and associated information associated with the specified contract information from the HDD 304. The CPU 301 also deletes this information from the management table 400. Then, the process ends.

[0106] If it is determined in S1501 that the contract is not a one-time purchase contract, this process ends.

[0107] In the third embodiment described above, if the MFP 101' is an image forming apparatus under a one-time purchase contract, backup data is transmitted to the MFP 101' in response to a request from the MFP 101', and then the backup area in which the backup data was stored is deleted. This prevents the capacity of the Web server 102 from becoming congested due to backup data for a canceled contract.

[0108] In this embodiment, the contract information may include information for identifying the model of the currently used MFP 101′ in addition to the information described above. If the information included in the contract information acquired from the new MFP 101′ matches the model of the new MFP 101′, the Web server 102 transmits the backup data to the new MFP 101′.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a configuration in which the present invention is applied when replacing an MFP in a contracted MFP flat-rate service has been described, but this is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may also be applied when the contract content of the MFP flat-rate service is changed to increase the number of available MFPs. In such a configuration, the newly added MFP compares the setting data applied to itself with the setting data that corresponds to the setting data and is included in the backup data of the currently used MFP. For setting data that shows a difference as a result of the comparison, the newly added MFP applies the setting data included in the backup data. In this way, the setting data of the previously used MFP can be easily transferred to the added MFP.

[0110] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0111] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configurations and methods. (Configuration 1) An image forming device characterized by comprising: means for determining whether contract information for a flat-rate service that allows a user to use the image forming device for a fixed period of time is stored; means for, when it is determined that the contract information is stored, acquiring backup data associated with the contract information from a management server for providing the flat-rate service, the backup data including setting data of other image forming devices used by the user; means for comparing the setting data applied to the image forming device with setting data corresponding to the setting data and included in the acquired backup data, and for setting data that shows a difference as a result of the comparison, applying the setting data included in the acquired backup data to the image forming device. (Configuration 2) The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 1, wherein the other image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus managed by the flat-rate service. (Configuration 3) The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 1, wherein the other image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus purchased by the user. (Configuration 4) The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the backup data includes at least address book data and network setting data as setting data of the other image forming apparatus. (Configuration 5) A management server for providing a flat-rate service that allows a user to use an image forming device for a fixed period of time, the management server comprising: means for storing backup data including the latest setting data of a first image forming device used by the user in association with contract information created when signing up for the flat-rate service; and means for transmitting the stored backup data in association with the contract information specified in a request from a second image forming device newly shipped to the user to the second image forming device. (Configuration 6) The management server described in Configuration 5, wherein the storing means stores the backup data received from the first image forming device in a backup area associated with contract information added to the backup data, the backup area being allocated at the time of signing up for the flat-rate service. (Configuration 7) When the second image forming device is an image forming device under a one-time purchase contract, the management server described in Configuration 6 is characterized in that after sending the backup data to the second image forming device in accordance with a request from the second image forming device, the management server deletes the backup area in which the backup data was stored. (Method 1) A control method for an image forming device, comprising the steps of: determining whether or not contract information for a flat-rate service that allows a user to use the image forming device for a fixed period of time is stored; if it is determined that the contract information is stored, acquiring backup data associated with the contract information from a management server for providing the flat-rate service, the backup data including setting data of other image forming devices used by the user; comparing the setting data applied to the image forming device with setting data that corresponds to the setting data and is included in the acquired backup data, and for setting data that shows a difference as a result of the comparison, applying the setting data included in the acquired backup data to the image forming device. (Method 2) A control method of a management server for providing a flat-rate service that allows a user to use an image forming device for a fixed period of time, the control method of a management server comprising the steps of: storing backup data including the latest setting data of a first image forming device used by the user in association with contract information created when signing up for the flat-rate service; and, in accordance with a request from a second image forming device newly shipped to the user, transmitting the stored backup data in association with the contract information specified in the request to the second image forming device. (Program 1) A program for causing a computer to execute the method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to Method 1. (Program 2) A program for causing a computer to execute the method for controlling the management server according to Method 2. (System) A flat-rate service management system that provides a flat-rate service that allows a user to use an image forming device for a specified period of time at a fixed rate, wherein a first image forming device used by the user has a means for uploading backup data including the latest setting data of the first image forming device to a management server, the management server has a means for storing the backup data uploaded by the first image forming device in association with contract information created when signing up for the flat-rate service, and a means for transmitting the backup data stored in association with the contract information specified in a request from a second image forming device newly shipped to the user to the second image forming device, and the second image forming device has a means for comparing the setting data applied to the second image forming device with the setting data corresponding to the setting data and contained in backup data obtained from the management server, and for setting data that shows a difference as a result of the comparison, applying the setting data contained in the obtained backup data to the second image forming device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 100 Flat-rate service management system 101 MFP 101' MFP 102 Web Server 110 control section 110' Control section 111 CPU 111' CPU 126 Communications Department 126' Communications Department 301 CPU 304 HDD 305 Communications Department

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, a means for determining whether or not contract information for a fixed-fee service that allows a user to use the image forming apparatus for a fixed fee for a predetermined period of time is stored; a means for acquiring, when it is determined that the contract information is stored, backup data associated with the contract information from a management server for providing the flat-rate service, the backup data including setting data of other image forming apparatuses used by the user; An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising a means for comparing setting data applied to the image forming apparatus with setting data corresponding to the setting data and included in the acquired backup data, and for setting data for which there is a difference as a result of the comparison, applying the setting data included in the acquired backup data to the image forming apparatus.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the other image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus managed by the flat-rate service.

3. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the other image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus purchased by the user.

4. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the backup data includes at least address book data and network setting data as setting data of the other image forming apparatus.

5. A management server for providing a flat-rate service that allows a user to use an image forming apparatus for a fixed period of time, a means for storing backup data including the latest setting data of the first image forming apparatus used by the user in association with contract information created when the user signs a contract for the flat-rate service; a management server characterized by comprising a means for transmitting the backup data stored in correspondence with the contract information specified in a request from a second image forming device newly shipped to the user to the second image forming device in accordance with the request from the second image forming device.

6. The management server described in claim 5, characterized in that the storing means stores the backup data received from the first image forming device in a backup area corresponding to the contract information attached to the backup data, which is a backup area allocated at the time of signing the flat-rate service contract.

7. The management server described in claim 6, characterized in that when the second image forming device is an image forming device under a one-time purchase contract, after sending the backup data to the second image forming device in accordance with a request from the second image forming device, the management server deletes the backup area in which the backup data was stored.

8. A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: a step of determining whether or not contract information for a flat-rate service that allows a user to use the image forming apparatus for a fixed fee for a predetermined period of time is stored; a step of acquiring backup data associated with the contract information from a management server for providing the flat-rate service when it is determined that the contract information is stored, the backup data including setting data of other image forming devices used by the user; A control method for an image forming device, characterized by comprising a step of comparing setting data applied to the image forming device with setting data corresponding to the setting data and included in the acquired backup data, and for setting data for which there is a difference as a result of the comparison, applying the setting data included in the acquired backup data to the image forming device.

9. 1. A control method for a management server for providing a flat-rate service that allows a user to use an image forming apparatus for a fixed fee for a predetermined period of time, comprising: storing backup data including the latest setting data of the first image forming apparatus used by the user in association with contract information created when signing a contract for the flat-rate service; a step of transmitting the backup data stored in association with the contract information specified in a request from a second image forming device newly shipped to the user to the second image forming device in accordance with the request.

10. 9. A program for causing a computer to execute the method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 8.

11. A program for causing a computer to execute the method for controlling a management server according to claim 9.

12. A flat-rate service management system that provides a flat-rate service that allows a user to use an image forming apparatus for a predetermined period of time for a fixed fee, a first image forming apparatus used by the user; a means for uploading backup data including the latest setting data of the first image forming apparatus to a management server; The management server a means for storing the backup data uploaded by the first image forming apparatus in association with contract information created when signing up for the flat-rate service; a means for transmitting, in response to a request from a second image forming apparatus newly delivered to the user, the backup data stored in association with contract information designated in the request to the second image forming apparatus; the second image forming apparatus, A flat-rate service management system characterized by comprising a means for comparing the setting data applied to the second image forming device with the setting data corresponding to the setting data and contained in the backup data obtained from the management server, and for setting data for which there is a difference as a result of the comparison, applying the setting data contained in the obtained backup data to the second image forming device.

Images