Image forming apparatus, update method, and program

Abstract

Update the firmware of the image forming apparatus appropriately. [Solution] The image forming apparatus 2 includes an update unit 21 that updates one of a plurality of firmwares installed in the image forming apparatus 2, an acquisition unit 26 that acquires information about the firmware to be updated in the image forming apparatus 2, and a determination unit 22 that determines one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, based on the information about the firmware to be updated.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an update method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, technical development related to updates in image forming apparatuses has been active, and related inventions are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus and the like that enables changes in the F / W on the market even when there are process control changes in electrophotography or F / W defects in order to automatically introduce the latest F / W into the market. Here, F / W refers to firmware. According to the invention of Patent Document 1, when a cartridge is inserted, the image forming apparatus detects a newer F / W version in the non-volatile memory in the cartridge than the current version. Further, the image forming apparatus transfers the firmware held in the non-volatile memory in the cartridge to the main body of the image forming apparatus by detection. Further, the image forming apparatus performs firmware update after the transfer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Currently, firmware updates via the Internet from a web browser can only be performed one by one, and since a restart is required each time a firmware update is performed, it takes time.

[0005] An image forming system is composed of multiple firmwares, and there are cases where a specific firmware configuration is required to ensure that certain functions are executed without errors. For example, this might occur when a new function is added and implemented in specific versions of two firmwares. In this case, since the processing corresponding to the new function is added to both firmwares, if the configuration is not maintained, such as if the version of either firmware differs from the specific version, the process will fail. In other words, an error will occur when executing the relevant function, and the image forming apparatus will stop operating.

[0006] Furthermore, if the web browser is accidentally closed during operation, the operation cannot be resumed, and no one will be able to view or operate the firmware update results. Conventionally, there have been many problems with firmware updates for image forming apparatuses, including the invention described in Patent Document 1.

[0007] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to appropriately update the firmware of an image forming apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] (1): An update unit that updates one of the multiple firmwares installed in the image forming apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires information about the firmware to be updated in an image forming apparatus, A determination unit that determines one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, based on the information regarding the firmware to be updated, An image forming apparatus comprising: (2) The determination unit refers to the job schedule and limits the firmware to those that can be updated during the job's free time. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (3) The determination unit analyzes the print history and limits it to firmware related to functions used at a predetermined or higher frequency. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (4) The determination unit refers to the presence or absence of an option connection or a grandchild option connection, and the connection order information of the options, and limits the firmware to the option or the firmware required for the grandchild option. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (5) The determination unit checks the currently used firmware using digital signature verification and designates any firmware suspected of being fraudulent as the firmware to be updated. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (6) The determination unit determines one or more firmwares to be updated in a single restart request. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (7): The information relating to the firmware to be updated includes information on combinations of firmware to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, and information on the boot mode in which the firmware can be updated. The determination unit determines the update timing of the firmware to be updated based on the startup mode. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (8) The information relating to the firmware to be updated includes information relating to the combination of firmware to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, and information relating to the functions to be modified or added. The determination unit determines, based on the usage history data of the image forming apparatus, one or more firmwares to be updated along with the firmware to be updated. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (9) The determination unit determines the order in which firmware updates will be performed in a single restart request, based on connection information indicating an optional device connected to the image forming apparatus. (1) The image forming apparatus described above. (10): A communication unit that allows the terminal device to instruct the firmware update of the image forming apparatus, as well as the interruption and continuation of the update. The image forming apparatus according to (1), further comprising: (11): The communication unit allows the terminal device to view whether the firmware update of the image forming apparatus has been completed. (10) The image forming apparatus described above. (12): When the communication connection between the communication unit and the terminal device is disconnected, the print control unit controls the printing process of the firmware update status of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to (10), further comprising the above. (13): The update unit updates one of the multiple firmwares installed in the image forming apparatus, The acquisition unit acquires information about the firmware to be updated in the image forming apparatus, The determination unit determines, based on information regarding the firmware to be updated, one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated. How to perform the update. (14): Computer as an image forming apparatus, A procedure for updating one of the multiple firmwares installed in the aforementioned image forming apparatus, A procedure for obtaining information about firmware to be updated in an image forming apparatus. A procedure for determining one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, based on the information regarding the firmware to be updated. A program to execute. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the firmware of an image forming apparatus can be appropriately updated. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is an example of an overall configuration diagram of the image forming system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an example of a diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] It is an example of a functional configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] It is an example of an explanatory diagram of the firmware update order based on connection information. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing the update process of this embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing a first modification example of the update process. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing a second modification example of the update process. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing a third modification example of the update process. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing a fourth modification example of the update process. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing the notification process. [Figure 11] It is a hardware configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, an example of a mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the accompanying drawings, components having substantially the same function or configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0012] [Configuration] FIG. 1 is an example of an overall configuration diagram of the image forming system of this embodiment. The image forming system 100 is a system that forms an image on a recording medium. The recording medium is, for example, composed of paper. Note that the recording medium is not limited to paper. For example, the recording medium may be a sheet such as a standard long sheet or an OHP (OverHead Projector) sheet, or cloth. Also, when the recording medium is paper, it is not limited to plain paper, and it may be colored paper or embossed paper. In this embodiment, the image forming system 100 uses an electrophotographic method as the image forming method, but is not limited thereto, and for example, any method such as an inkjet method can be used.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the image forming system 100 comprises a paper feeding system option 1, an image forming apparatus 2, and a paper output system option 3. The paper feeding system option 1, the image forming apparatus 2, and the paper output system option 3 are connected to form a paper transport path. In this transport path, the paper feeding system option 1 is on the upstream side and the paper output system option 3 is on the downstream side.

[0014] Paper feeding system option 1 is a group of devices (optional devices) that supply paper to the image forming apparatus 2. Paper feeding system option 1 includes, for example, a three-stage paper feeding unit, a multi-manual feed unit, a PFU (Paper Feeder Unit) connection unit, a large-capacity long paper feed tray, a long paper feed kit, and a media sensor 4. However, paper feeding system option 1 is not limited to these. The media sensor 4 is a sensor that detects the characteristics of the paper used for printing (e.g., basis weight, type).

[0015] Image forming apparatus 2 is a device that forms images on paper. Image forming apparatus 2 is equipped with an operation panel 5 (terminal device), which is a display unit. Operation panel 5 is, for example, a touch panel display in which a touch panel is superimposed on a liquid crystal display. Operation panel 5 is an input / output interface that receives input from the user and displays predetermined information to the user.

[0016] The paper output system option 3 is a group of devices (optional devices) that supply and discharge the paper on which the image forming apparatus 2 has formed an image. The paper output system option 3 includes, for example, a decurler, an automatic quality optimization unit, an inspection unit, a trimmer, a creaser, a separator, a multi-folding machine, a perfect binding machine, a stable finisher, and a long-length paper output kit. However, the paper output system option 3 is not limited to these.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the image forming system 100, the remote service server 200, and the tablet terminal 300 are connected to each other via a network (e.g., the Internet). The remote service server 200 remotely diagnoses the image forming system 100 and functions as an automated meter reading system. For example, the image forming apparatus 2 of the image forming system 100 can notify the remote service server 200 of various information regarding the image forming system 100. This information includes, but is not limited to, errors that have occurred in the image forming system 100 and operational information indicating the operating status of the image forming system 100. The remote service server 200 can also provide service call services to the image forming system 100. The tablet terminal 300 is a terminal device of the remote service server 200. The tablet terminal 300 is used by a service technician or supervisor (a person with administrative authority over the image forming system 100). In this embodiment, the description continues assuming that the tablet terminal 300 is used by a service technician.

[0018] Figure 2 is an example of a configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus. As shown in Figure 2, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a panel operating means 201, an image forming unit 202, an image processing means 203, an image output means 204, a network connection means 205, a setting management means 206, a CPU 1001, a ROM 207, a RAM 208, a non-volatile memory 209, a print control unit 24, an acquisition unit 26, a firmware information management unit 212, and an update unit 21. The CPU 1001, print control unit 24, acquisition unit 26, and update unit 21 will be described later.

[0019] The panel operation means 201 is the operation panel 5. The image forming unit 202 forms images using an electrophotographic method. The image processing means 203 is a control unit related to image processing. The image output means 204 outputs the processing results of the image processing means 203. The network connection means 205 connects the image forming system 100 to a network. The setting management means 206 manages various settings of the image forming apparatus 2. The ROM 207 is a storage medium that stores control programs such as firmware. The RAM 208 is a storage medium that temporarily stores data. The non-volatile memory 209 is a storage medium that stores data without power supply.

[0020] Figure 3 is an example of a functional configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus 2 comprises an update unit 21, a determination unit 22, a setting unit 23, a print control unit 24, a display control unit 25, an acquisition unit 26, and a communication unit 27. The image forming apparatus 2 also stores combination information 31, startup mode information 32, connection information 33, a usage history database 34, and function information 35.

[0021] The update unit 21 updates one of several firmwares installed in the image forming apparatus. For example, the update unit 21 updates the firmware in accordance with an update request that includes the firmware to be updated. The update request can be received, for example, from a tablet terminal 300. The firmware is, for example, the control program of the image forming apparatus 2. However, it is not limited to this, and the determination unit 22 may also check the currently used firmware using digital signature verification and select firmware suspected of being fraudulent as the firmware to be updated.

[0022] The acquisition unit 26 acquires information about the firmware to be updated in the image forming apparatus 2 based on the firmware to be updated. The determination unit 22 determines which firmware should be updated along with the firmware to be updated, based on the information about the firmware to be updated acquired by the acquisition unit 26. For example, the determination unit 22 determines which firmware to update with a single reboot request.

[0023] The determination unit 22 may refer to the job schedule and limit the firmware to be updated along with the firmware to be updated to those that can be updated during the job's downtime. The determination unit 22 may analyze the print history and limit the firmware to be updated along with the firmware to be updated to firmware related to functions used at a predetermined or higher frequency. The determination unit 22 may refer to the presence or absence of option connections or grandchild option connections, and option connection order information, and limit the firmware to be updated along with the firmware to be updated to firmware required for options or grandchild options. The determination unit 22 may determine the update order of the firmware to be updated in a single restart request based on connection information indicating option devices connected to the image forming apparatus 2.

[0024] The setting unit 23 sets the startup mode when the image forming apparatus 2 is in operation. For example, when the image forming apparatus 2 is restarting, the setting unit 23 sets the startup mode for the image forming apparatus 2. The communication unit 27 communicates with the tablet terminal 300. For example, the communication unit 27 receives instructions from the tablet terminal 300 to update the firmware of the image forming apparatus 2, to interrupt the update, and to continue the update. The communication unit 27 also allows the tablet terminal 300 to view the success or failure of the firmware update for the image forming apparatus 2. The print control unit 24 controls the printing performed by the image forming apparatus 2. For example, when the communication connection between the communication unit 27 and the tablet terminal 300 is disconnected, the print control unit 24 controls the printing process resulting from the firmware update status of the image forming apparatus 2. The display control unit 25 controls the display on the operation panel 5 of the image forming apparatus 2. The display control unit 25 can also control the display on the tablet terminal 300 via the remote service server 200.

[0025] The combination information 31 is information indicating a combination of firmwares that follows a predetermined rule. Details of the rule will be described later. The combination information 31 is an example of "information regarding the firmware of the image forming apparatus 2 that is to be updated and is linked to that firmware" acquired by the acquisition unit 26. For example, the combination information 31 can be information that the image forming apparatus 2 can acquire by referring to the remote service server 200. However, the storage method of the combination information 31 is not limited to this. The startup mode information 32 is information indicating the startup mode set by the setting unit 23. The startup mode information 32 is an example of information relating to the firmware to be updated in the image forming apparatus 2. The determination unit 22 can determine the firmware update timing based on the startup mode. The connection information 33 indicates the optional devices connected to the image forming apparatus 2. Specifically, the optional devices are the components of the paper feeding system option 1 and the components of the paper output system option 3. For each optional device, the connection information 33 also includes information indicating the optional device from which it is connected. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 2 can be treated as an optional device that does not have a connected source. Function information 35 is information indicating the functions performed by the image forming apparatus 2 (e.g., paper feeding, image forming, paper ejection). Function information 35 is an example of "information regarding the firmware of the image forming apparatus 2 that is to be updated and is linked to the firmware" acquired by the acquisition unit 26. The usage history database 34 stores a history (usage history data) showing the usage status of the image forming apparatus 2. The determination unit 22 can determine which units are subject to firmware update based on the usage history data.

[0026] (Firmware update details) The image forming apparatus 2 is equipped with dozens of different types of firmware. For example, there is overall control firmware, firmware for the inspection unit, firmware for the automatic document feeder, firmware for the scanner unit, firmware for image processing, and firmware for network control.

[0027] Typically, multiple firmware updates for the image forming apparatus 2 are performed at once. Furthermore, the firmware update is completed by restarting the image forming apparatus 2. In addition, a restart is required after each firmware update, regardless of whether the update is successful or not. Previously, when multiple firmware updates were required, it was necessary to select the firmware to be updated and restart the apparatus multiple times, which resulted in a significant amount of time being spent.

[0028] Furthermore, in order to prevent the image forming apparatus 2 from ceasing to function when performing a specific function, there may be predetermined combinations of firmware installed in the image forming apparatus 2. For example, when performing the image inspection function, there may be predetermined combinations of two types of firmware: the overall control firmware (version 3.0) and the inspection unit firmware (version 3.0). In this case, in order to perform the image inspection function in the new inspection mode (version 3.1), it is necessary to update both the overall control firmware and the inspection unit firmware to maintain the configuration between the firmwares. If one of the overall control firmware or the inspection unit firmware is updated while the other is still an older version, the configuration between the firmwares will break down. As a result, the processing of the image forming apparatus 2 will fail, and the image forming apparatus 2 will cease to function.

[0029] The combination information 31 can be prepared, for example, as information that associates identifiers that identify two or more different types of firmware with identifiers that can be executed without causing a shutdown. For firmware, the firmware version can also be associated. For example, combination information 31 can be prepared that combines two or more different types of firmware with different version numbers.

[0030] Suppose a firmware update request is received for the image forming apparatus 2. The update request can be sent to the image forming apparatus 2, for example, by a service technician operating a tablet terminal 300. The update request may include, but is not limited to, the identifiers of one or more firmwares to be updated, the storage location of the firmware to be updated in the image forming apparatus 2 (e.g., a path rooted to the initial site directory on the cloud), and the storage location for the difference in the control program before and after the update related to the firmware to be updated (e.g., a path rooted to the initial site directory on the cloud). Furthermore, the tablet terminal 300 and the operation panel 5 of the image forming apparatus 2 can display the contents of the update request as appropriate. Therefore, the location where the firmware is stored can be viewed.

[0031] When a firmware update request is received, the determination unit 22 refers to the combination information 31. The determination unit 22 compares, for example, the identifier of the first firmware included in the update request with the firmware combination indicated in the combination information 31. The determination unit 22 can identify the second firmware that constitutes the combination with the first firmware. The determination unit 22 can determine whether or not the identifier of the identified second firmware is included in the update request.

[0032] If the identifier of the second firmware is included in the update request, the determination unit 22 can determine that the first firmware and the second firmware are firmware that can be updated. In other words, the first firmware and the second firmware are determined to be firmware that will not cause the image forming apparatus 2 to shut down even if updated. Furthermore, the first firmware and the second firmware are determined to be firmware that can be updated with a single restart request.

[0033] On the other hand, if the identifier of the second firmware is not included in the update request, the determination unit 22 can determine that the first firmware is firmware that cannot be updated. In other words, in this case, only the first firmware is updated and the second firmware is not, so it is determined that the image forming apparatus 2 will stop working.

[0034] The update unit 21 can update the firmware according to the determination result of the determination unit 22. For example, if the determination unit 22 determines that the first and second firmwares are firmwares that can be updated, the update unit 21 will update the first and second firmwares (at least among all the firmwares in the update request). Suppose there is one restart request for the image forming apparatus 2. The restart request can be sent to the image forming apparatus 2 by, for example, a service technician operating a tablet terminal 300. The image forming apparatus 2 can update the first firmware and complete the restart in response to the restart request, and then (automatically) update the second firmware and complete the restart. In other words, the restart (process) is performed twice, but the service technician only needs to make one restart request. Therefore, the work efficiency related to updating the firmware of the image forming apparatus 2 is improved.

[0035] On the other hand, if the determination unit 22 determines that the first firmware is firmware that should not be updated, the update unit 21 will not update the first firmware, even though it is the target of the update. In this case, for example, the print control unit 24 can print a statement indicating that the first firmware, which is the target of the update, was not updated, and the reason why it was not updated. The display control unit 25 can also display a statement indicating that the first firmware, which is the target of the update, was not updated, and the reason why it was not updated, on the tablet terminal 300 or the operation panel 5.

[0036] (This refers to the startup mode.) There are several types of startup modes that can be set by the setting unit 23. For example, there is the default normal mode, and a special mode that is set when image formation-related processes (e.g., charging, exposure, development, transfer, fixing) are performed. Of the firmware examples already given, the firmware for the automatic document feeder and the firmware for the scanner unit can only be updated by restarting if the startup mode is set to a special mode.

[0037] The determination unit 22 can determine which firmware to update in a single restart request based on the startup mode of the image forming apparatus 2. The update unit 21 can update the firmware based on the determination result of the determination unit 22. For example, if the setting unit 23 has set the startup mode to normal mode (i.e., the image forming apparatus 2 is operating in normal mode), one of the following processes [1] to [3] can be performed. Note that in [1] to [3], the image processing firmware, network control firmware, automatic document feeder firmware, and scanner unit firmware are the targets for update in the update request.

[0038] [1]: Update the firmware for image processing and the firmware for network control. Update the firmware for the automatic document feeder and the firmware for the scanner unit (even if they are subject to update in the update request) will be canceled. In this case, for example, the display control unit 25 may display a warning on the tablet terminal 300 or the operation panel 5 indicating that the update has been canceled and the reason for the cancellation. [2] Update the image processing firmware and the network control firmware. After restarting following the update, update the automatic document feeder firmware and the scanner unit firmware. [3]: After the image forming apparatus 2 receives the update request, it immediately restarts, and after restarting, updates the firmware for image processing, the firmware for network control, the firmware for the automatic document feeder, and the firmware for the scanner unit.

[0039] Furthermore, for example, if the setting unit 23 has set the startup mode to special mode (i.e., if the image forming apparatus 2 is operating in special mode), the image forming apparatus 2 will immediately update the image processing firmware, network control firmware, automatic document feeder firmware, and scanner unit firmware after receiving an update request.

[0040] (Regarding usage history) The usage history database 34 stores a variety of records (usage history) indicating the usage status of the image forming apparatus 2. The usage history includes, for example, the schedule of jobs that the image forming apparatus 2 will execute, the content of prints performed by the image forming apparatus 2, and the details of errors that occurred in the image forming apparatus 2 (including errors that generated service calls), but is not limited to these.

[0041] The determination unit 22 can determine which firmware to update with a single restart request based on the usage history of the image forming apparatus 2. The update unit 21 can update the firmware based on the determination result of the determination unit 22.

[0042] For example, the determination unit 22 can identify available time slots for jobs by accessing the usage history database 34 and referring to the job schedule. The determination unit 22 can also determine the types and number of firmware updates included in the update request that can be completed during the available time slots for jobs. The update unit 21 then updates the determined firmware.

[0043] Furthermore, the determination unit 22 can identify functions that are used more than a predetermined frequency by accessing the usage history database 34 and analyzing the contents of prints performed by the image forming apparatus 2. The determination unit 22 can determine the type and number of firmware files required to use the identified function from among the firmware files to be updated included in the update request. The update unit 21 updates the determined firmware.

[0044] Furthermore, the determination unit 22 can identify errors that occur after a firmware update by accessing the usage history database 34 and analyzing the content of errors that occurred in the image forming apparatus 2. The determination unit 22 can determine which firmware among the firmware to be updated included in the update request is the one caused by the identified error. The display control unit 25 can display a message prompting a downgrade of the determined firmware, along with the reason for the prompt, on the tablet terminal 300 or the operation panel 5. It is preferable that the determination unit 22 also refers to the combination information 31 when determining the downgrade.

[0045] (Referring to the order of updates) When the update unit 21 updates multiple types of firmware in response to a single reboot request, the update unit 21 does not perform the update process in parallel, but rather performs it one by one in sequence. In other words, there is an order to updating multiple types of firmware, and it may be done in a random order, but it is preferable to update them according to a predetermined priority order.

[0046] For example, the priority order for updating multiple types of firmware can be defined based on the connection information 33. Specifically, the priority order for updating the firmware of an optional device can be set higher than the priority order for updating the firmware of the main unit (i.e., the image forming apparatus 2). Also, the priority order for updating the firmware of a sub-sub-option device can be set higher than the priority order for updating the firmware of the optional device. Here, a sub-sub-option device refers to an optional device connected to an optional device. Furthermore, the priority order may be changed as appropriate depending on the connection status of the optional devices. The connection status of an optional device includes, but is not limited to, the degree of connection with other optional devices (series or parallel, etc.) or the presence or absence of an optional device.

[0047] Figure 4 is an example of a diagram illustrating the firmware update order based on connection information. Figure 4 shows a table with a rank column 51 and a program type column 52. The ranking column 51 shows the priority order for firmware updates. The program type column 52 shows the name of the optional device to which the priority level in the rank column 51 has been assigned.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4, it is preferable to prioritize updating the firmware of the option device at the end of the hierarchy among the optional devices that make up the image forming system 100. Furthermore, while it is preferable to update the firmware while maintaining priority when the startup mode is a special mode, it is acceptable to perform the update work more flexibly when the startup mode is normal.

[0049] (If you are no longer able to check for firmware updates) When the update unit 21 updates the firmware to be updated, the display control unit 25 can display the update status on the tablet terminal 300 or the operation panel 5. This display on the tablet terminal 300 or the operation panel 5 can be done, for example, via a browser. Therefore, service personnel can check the update status. The browser functions as a means of viewing the update status.

[0050] Service technicians may perform operations such as displaying the success or failure of an update, interrupting the update, or continuing the update for each firmware version via the tablet terminal 300 or the control panel 5. However, due to malfunctions, errors, or other circumstances, the browser may close, preventing the service technician from checking the update status. These circumstances include, for example, interrupting browser browsing or disconnecting the communication connection. In this case, problems arise such as being unable to resume operations or not knowing whether the update was successful or not. Note that the event of the browser closing can be controlled to be notified to the communication unit 27 of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0051] If the browser is closed, for example, the print control unit 24 can control the printing process of the update status results that the service technician was viewing. Specifically, the print control unit 24 can cause the image forming apparatus 2 to print the results of the firmware update (for example, whether the update was successful or not). The print control unit 24 can also cause the image forming apparatus to print instructions and error details of the next operation to be performed by the service technician. The instructions may include, for example, a restart instruction, but are not limited to this. The error details may include, for example, the type (identifier) ​​of the firmware in which the error occurred, or the error code, but are not limited to these.

[0052] [process] The firmware update process will now be described. Figure 5 is a flowchart of the update process according to this embodiment. First, the identifier of the firmware to be updated is obtained (step S1). Next, the firmware update server is accessed to obtain the latest firmware information and combination information (step S2). Next, the information of each firmware in the device is compared with the information to determine one or more firmwares to update (step S3). If there is firmware that requires a special mode for updating (Yes in step S4), and the startup mode is a special mode (Yes in step S5), the device is restarted (step S6). After that, one or more firmwares are updated (step S7). If there is no firmware that requires a special mode for updating (No in step S4), or if the startup mode is not a special mode (No in step S5), one or more firmwares are updated (step S7).

[0053] This completes the process shown in Figure 5. If the update status viewing is interrupted during the update process, the print control unit 24 can cause the image forming apparatus 2 to print the firmware update results.

[0054] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a first modified example of the update process. After step S3 in Figure 5, the job schedule is referenced, and only firmware that can be updated during the job's free time is selected (step S31). Then, the process proceeds to step S4 in Figure 5.

[0055] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a second modified version of the update process. After step S3 in Figure 5, the print history is analyzed and limited to firmware related to frequently used functions (step S32). Then, the process proceeds to step S4 in Figure 5.

[0056] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a third modified example of the update process. After step S3 in Figure 5, the system checks whether options are connected, whether grandchild options are connected, and the connection order information of the options to narrow down the firmware to the necessary firmware (step S33). Then, the system proceeds to step S4 in Figure 5.

[0057] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a fourth modified example of the update process. After step S3 in Figure 5, the currently used firmware is checked with digital signature verification (step S34). Next, the firmware suspected of being fraudulent is added to the firmware to be updated (step S35). Then, the process proceeds to step S4 in Figure 5.

[0058] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the notification process. First, the error occurrence history is referenced (step S10). Next, the firmware update server is accessed to obtain the latest firmware information and combination information (step S11). If an error occurs after the firmware update (Yes in step S12), the user is notified to downgrade the firmware (step S13). If no errors occur after the firmware update (No in step S12), the process terminates.

[0059] [effect] According to this embodiment, the firmware of the image forming apparatus can be appropriately updated. More specifically, even if there are multiple types of firmware to be updated, a single restart request is sufficient to complete the process by restarting all firmware. Therefore, the time required for firmware updates can be shortened, and the update procedure can be simplified. In addition, by using the combination information 31, it is possible to avoid stopping the operation of the image forming apparatus 2. Furthermore, by utilizing the startup mode information 32, it is possible to determine which firmware updates should be excluded from the update target firmware for which an update request has been received, and to determine the update order. Furthermore, by utilizing the usage history database 34, the update order can be determined for officially identified firmware that is subject to update. Furthermore, by utilizing connection information 33, the update order can be determined for the officially identified firmware to be updated. Furthermore, even if there is an interruption in viewing the firmware update status, an alternative means of checking the update status can be provided.

[0060] [Hardware configuration] Figure 11 is a hardware configuration diagram of the information processing device. The information processing device described above, such as the image forming apparatus 2, is realized by a computer 1000, which is shown in the hardware configuration of Figure 5, for example. The computer 1000 has a CPU 1001, RAM 1002, ROM 1003, SSD 1004, communication interface 1005, input / output interface 1006, and media interface 1007. SSD is an abbreviation for Solid State Drive. The image forming apparatus 2 is equipped with this computer 1000 and an image forming unit.

[0061] The CPU 1001 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1003 or SSD 1004, and controls each part (update unit 21, determination unit 22, setting unit 23, print control unit 24, and display control unit 25). The ROM 1003 stores boot programs executed by the CPU 1001 when the computer 1000 starts up, as well as programs that depend on the computer 1000's hardware.

[0062] SSD 1004 stores programs executed by CPU 1001 and data used by such programs. Communication interface 1005 receives data from other devices via communication network 1009 and sends it to CPU 1001, and transmits data generated by CPU 1001 to other devices via communication network 1009.

[0063] The CPU 1001 controls output devices such as displays and printers, and input devices such as keyboards and mice, via the input / output interface 1006. The CPU 1001 acquires data from input devices via the input / output interface 1006. The CPU 1001 also outputs the generated data to output devices via the input / output interface 1006.

[0064] The media interface 1007 reads a program or data stored in the storage medium 1008 and provides it to the CPU 1001 via the RAM 1002. The CPU 1001 loads the program from the storage medium 1008 onto the RAM 1002 via the media interface 1007 and executes the loaded program. The storage medium 1008 is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto Optical Disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0065] For example, when computer 1000 functions as an information processing device, the CPU 1001 of computer 1000 realizes the functions of each part by executing programs loaded onto RAM 1002. When executing programs, data stored in SSD 1004 is used. The CPU 1001 of computer 1000 reads and executes these programs from the storage medium 1008, but as another example, these programs may be obtained from other devices via a communication network 1009.

[0066] [Differentiation] (a): In this embodiment, the case in which the firmware update process is performed online has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a method in which the firmware is updated by storing the update firmware on a storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and inserting the storage medium into the image forming apparatus 2. (b) By providing the image forming apparatus 2 with a digital signature verification function, the possibility of updating firmware suspected of being fraudulent can be reduced.

[0067] (c) It is also possible to realize technologies that appropriately combine the various technologies described in this embodiment. (d): The software described in this embodiment can be implemented as hardware, and the hardware can be implemented as software. (e) Other components of the present invention may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0068] 100 Image Forming Systems 200 Remote Service Servers 300 tablet devices (terminal devices) 1. Paper feed system options 2 Image forming apparatus 3. Paper Output System Options 4 Media Sensors 5. Control Panel (Terminal Device) 21 Update section 22 Judgment section 23. Settings Section 24 Printing Control Unit 25 Display Control Unit 26 Acquisition Department 27 Communications Department 31 Combination Information 32. Startup Mode Information 33 Connection Information 34. Usage History Database 35. Functional Information

Claims

1. An update unit that updates one of the multiple firmwares installed in the image forming apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires information about the firmware to be updated in an image forming apparatus, A determination unit that determines one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, based on the information regarding the firmware to be updated, An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. The determination unit refers to the job schedule and limits the firmware to those that can be updated during the job's downtime. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The determination unit analyzes the print history and limits it to firmware related to functions used at a predetermined or higher frequency. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The determination unit refers to the presence or absence of an option connection or a grandchild option connection, and the connection order information of the options, and limits the firmware to the option or the firmware required for the grandchild option. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned determination unit checks the currently used firmware using digital signature verification and identifies any firmware suspected of being fraudulent as the firmware to be updated. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The determination unit determines one or more firmwares to be updated in a single restart request. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The information relating to the firmware to be updated includes information on combinations of firmware to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, and information on the boot mode in which the firmware can be updated. The determination unit determines the update timing of the firmware to be updated based on the startup mode. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The information regarding the firmware to be updated includes information on the combination of firmware to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, and information on the functions to be modified or added. The determination unit determines, based on the usage history data of the image forming apparatus, one or more firmwares to be updated along with the firmware to be updated. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The determination unit determines the order in which firmware updates will be performed in a single restart request, based on connection information indicating optional devices connected to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

10. A communication unit that allows a terminal device to instruct the image forming apparatus to update its firmware, interrupt the update, or continue the update. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:

11. The communication unit allows the terminal device to view whether the firmware update for the image forming apparatus has been completed. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10.

12. When the communication connection between the communication unit and the terminal device is disconnected, the print control unit controls the printing process of the firmware update status of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising:

13. The update unit performs the step of updating one of the multiple firmwares installed in the image forming apparatus, The acquisition unit acquires information about the firmware to be updated in the image forming apparatus, The determination unit determines, based on information regarding the firmware to be updated, one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated. How to perform the update.

14. Computers as image forming devices, A procedure for updating one of the multiple firmwares installed in the aforementioned image forming apparatus, A procedure for obtaining information about firmware to be updated in an image forming apparatus. A procedure for determining one or more firmwares to be updated together with the firmware to be updated, based on the information regarding the firmware to be updated. A program to execute.

Images