Information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, information processing system, and control method for information processing apparatus

Abstract

It simplifies the management of configuration information for multiple devices. [Solution] An information processing device comprising a control unit and a communication unit capable of communicating with a plurality of devices, including a first device and a second device. The control unit compares the model of the first device and the model of the second device with each other, and if the first device and the second device are of different models, it determines whether there are common setting items that are included in both the setting information of the first device and the setting information of the second device, and based on the result of the determination, outputs information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the first device as setting information of the second device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and the like.

Background Art

[0002] An administrator who manages multiple devices such as MFPs may sometimes want to copy the setting information applied to a certain device and apply it to other devices.

[0003] Regarding the copying of device setting information, Patent Document 1 discloses that based on setting rule information in which setting rules for performing device settings are defined, the setting values of setting items corresponding to the model of the device to be set are determined and set for the device to be set.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Conventionally, the copying of device setting information has basically been executable only when the devices of the copy source and the copy destination are of the same model, and has not been executable when they are of different models.

[0006] The problem to be solved by this disclosure is to facilitate the management of setting information of multiple devices.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] This disclosure provides an information processing device comprising a control unit and a communication unit capable of communicating with a plurality of devices, including a first device and a second device, wherein the control unit compares the model of the first device and the model of the second device with each other, and if the first device and the second device are of different models, determines whether there are common setting items that are included in both the setting information of the first device and the setting information of the second device, and outputs information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the first device as setting information of the second device based on the result of the determination.

[0008] Furthermore, this disclosure provides an image forming apparatus comprising a control unit and a communication unit capable of communicating with another image forming apparatus, wherein the control unit compares the model of the self-image forming apparatus with the model of the other image forming apparatus, and if the self-image forming apparatus and the other image forming apparatus are of different models, it determines whether there are common setting items that are included in both the setting information of the self-image forming apparatus and the setting information of the other image forming apparatus, and based on the result of the determination, outputs information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the self-image forming apparatus as setting information of the other image forming apparatus.

[0009] Furthermore, this disclosure provides an information processing system comprising a client terminal, a server, and a plurality of image forming apparatuses, including a first image forming apparatus and a second image forming apparatus, all connected to each other via a network for communication. The server compares the model of the first image forming apparatus with the model of the second image forming apparatus, and if the first and second image forming apparatuses are of different models, it determines whether there are common setting items included in both the setting information of the first image forming apparatus and the setting information of the second image forming apparatus. Based on the result of the determination, the server outputs information to the client terminal relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the first image forming apparatus as setting information of the second image forming apparatus.

[0010] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a control method for an information processing device that compares the model of a first device capable of communication with the model of a second device capable of communication, determines whether there are common setting items included in both the setting information of the first device and the setting information of the second device if the first and second devices are different models, and outputs information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the first device as the setting information of the second device based on the result of the determination. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] This disclosure makes it possible to easily manage the configuration information of multiple devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the system according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of the server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a diagram illustrating the software configuration of the control unit of the server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the software configuration of the storage unit of the server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating part of the operation of the server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating other aspects of the operation of the server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the data processing involved when copying configuration information between MFPs of the same model. [Figure 8] In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model, and is an example of a screen for selecting a source device and a target device. [Figure 9]In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model, and is an example of a screen displayed while comparing the device information of the source device and the target device. [Figure 10] In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model. The screen notifies the user that the model and firmware version of the source device and target device match, and asks the user whether or not to perform the copy. [Figure 11] In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model, which notifies the user that the firmware versions of the source device and the target device do not match, and asks the user whether or not to proceed with the copy. [Figure 12] This is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the copying of configuration information between different models of MFPs. [Figure 13] This is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating data processing when copying configuration information between different types of MFPs. [Figure 14] In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different types of MFPs, and is an example of a screen displayed when selecting a source device and a target device. [Figure 15] In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different MFP models, and is an example of a screen displayed when comparing the model and firmware version of the source device and target device. [Figure 16] In the first embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different MFP models. Because there is a target device of a different model from the source device, this is an example of a screen that notifies the user that the configuration information of both devices will be searched and compared. [Figure 17] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying the setting information of MFPs of different models in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and it is an example of a screen showing the comparison result of the models and firmware versions between the source device and the target device. [Figure 18] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying the setting information of MFPs of different models in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and it is an example of a screen notifying the user of the setting items that are not copied among the setting items of the setting information. [Figure 19] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying the setting information of MFPs of different models in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and it is an example of a state where the target device is selected. [Figure 20] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying the setting information of MFPs of different models in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and it is an example of a screen notifying the user that the selected target device includes a device that is not fully compatible with the source device. [Figure 21] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying the setting information of MFPs of different models in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and it is an example of a screen notifying the user that the copying of the setting information has been completed. [Figure 22] This is a conceptual schematic diagram for explaining the failure of copying the setting information. [Figure 23] This is a conceptual schematic diagram for explaining the data processing when copying the setting information between MFPs of different models and further confirming the success or failure of copying the setting information. [Figure 24] This is a flowchart for explaining a part of the operation of the server according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] This is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the control unit of the server according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] This is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the storage unit of the server according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27]This is a flowchart illustrating some of the server's operation according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 28] This is a flowchart illustrating other aspects of the server operation according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 29] In the third embodiment of this disclosure, this is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal, and is an example of a screen for selecting a source device. [Figure 30] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal in the third embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen displayed when comparing the device information of the source device with the device information of each MFP in the target table. [Figure 31] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal in the third embodiment of this disclosure, which notifies the user that the candidate target devices include some that are not fully compatible with the source device. [Figure 32] This is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal in the third embodiment of this disclosure, which notifies the user that the candidate target devices include some that are not fully compatible with the source device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] [1. First Embodiment] [1.1 System Overview] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of System 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. System 1 comprises a server 3, a client terminal 5, and MFPs (Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral, multifunction devices) 7, 9, and 11, which are connected via a network NW to enable data communication.

[0014] [1.2 Hardware Configuration] Server 3 is an information processing device equipped with a data communication interface. Client terminal 5 is also an information processing device equipped with a data communication interface, and specifically includes, for example, a desktop computer, laptop computer, workstation, tablet, smartphone, etc.

[0015] MFP7, 9, and 11 are all multifunction devices, typically equipped with copy, image scanner, fax, and printer functions. MFP7, 9, and 11 may also have other functions, such as email sending and receiving functions and file server functions. Different models of MFP7, 9, and 11 exist. As shown in Figure 1, MFP7 and 9 are the same model, while MFP11 is a different model from MFP7 and 9.

[0016] Networks (NW) include, for example, LANs (Local Area Networks), WANs (Wide Area Networks), and the Internet. Networks (NW) may also include mobile communication networks.

[0017] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of server 3 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. Server 3 comprises a control unit 31, an operation unit 33, a display unit 35, a communication unit 37, and a storage unit 39. The storage unit 39 comprises a ROM (Read Only Memory) 41, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43, and storage 45.

[0018] The control unit 31 controls the entire image forming apparatus. The control unit 31 is composed of one or more control devices and one or more control circuits, and is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or SoC (System on a Chip), which are processors that perform various calculation processes. Furthermore, the control unit 31 can realize each function by loading programs stored in the storage 45 of the memory unit 39 into the RAM 43 and executing them.

[0019] The operation unit 33 accepts user input. For example, the operation unit 33 is composed of hardware keys and / or software keys. The operation unit 33 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 35. When the operation unit 33 is configured as a touch panel, it can detect user touch, tap, swipe operations on objects displayed via the display unit 35 and acquire coordinate position and pressure information of the touch panel. In this case, common input methods such as resistive touch, infrared touch, electromagnetic induction touch, and capacitive touch can be used as the input method for the touch panel.

[0020] The display unit 35 displays images and text. For example, it is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel. The display unit 35 may be a standalone display device or it may include an externally connected display device.

[0021] The communication unit 37 connects to a network NW. For example, it is configured with an interface that can connect to a wired LAN (Local Area Network), wireless LAN, or LTE (Long Term Evolution) network. By connecting the communication unit 37 to the network NW, it becomes connected to other devices and external networks. In addition, the communication unit 37 may also have an interface that performs short-range wireless communication, such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0022] The memory unit 39 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the server 3. The ROM 41 is a read-only, non-writeable memory device. The RAM 43 is the area used for program execution (main memory area) and is a recording device capable of temporary storage, such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). The storage 45 is the area for saving programs and data (auxiliary storage area) and is a non-temporary recording device. The storage 45 is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive) composed of semiconductor memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) composed of magnetic disks. The memory unit 39 may also have areas for other uses, such as an area used for caching.

[0023] [1.3 Software Configuration] [1.3.1 Configuration of the Control Unit] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the software configuration of the control unit 31 of the server 3 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. The control unit 31 functions as a reception unit 61, a device information acquisition unit 63, a model comparison unit 65, a firmware (FW) version comparison unit 67, a setting information transmission unit 69, a setting information comparison unit 73, a setting information generation unit 75, and a message transmission unit 71.

[0024] The reception unit 61 receives instructions from the client terminal 5 via the network NW and the communication unit 37.

[0025] The device information acquisition unit 63 receives device information from each of the MFPs 7, 9, and 11 via the network NW and the communication unit 37. The device information includes identification information to identify the MFP, model information indicating the model number of the MFP, firmware version information (hereinafter referred to as FW version) of the MFP, and configuration information of the MFP. In the device information, this identification information, model information, FW version information, and configuration information are related to each other. The device information acquisition unit 63 stores the acquired device information in the device information storage unit 91 (described later) corresponding to that device.

[0026] Configuration information refers to a set of values ​​for setting items that the MFP (Multifunction Printer) references when performing various functions. Configuration information includes, for example, setting items that indicate the format in which print data will be printed. Setting items include, for example, color printing, black and white printing, single-sided printing, double-sided printing, stapling after printing, punching, and paper folding, and each of these setting items can be set to a value of "enable" (1) or "disable" (0). In addition, some setting items include a numerical value that is referenced when "enable" is selected, in addition to "enable" or "disable". For example, the setting item "Page Consolidation (Number of pages to print on one sheet of paper)" may include a numerical value indicating the number of pages to print on one sheet of paper, in addition to "enable" or "disable".

[0027] The model comparison unit 65 determines whether the models (model numbers) of the two MFPs are the same based on the model information. Note that two MFPs being the same model can mean either the two MFPs have the same model name, or the two MFPs have different model names but the combination of setting items in their setting information is the same. Hereafter, two MFPs in the latter relationship will be described as belonging to the same series. The model information includes identification information to identify the series to which the MFP belongs. The FW version comparison unit determines whether the firmware versions of the two identical MFPs are the same based on the FW version information. The setting information transmission unit 69 transmits the setting information to one of the MFPs 7, 9, or 11 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW. The message transmission unit 71 transmits a message to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW. The setting information comparison unit 73 compares the setting items contained in the setting information of each of the two MFPs and extracts the setting items common to these two sets of setting information. The setting information generation unit 75 generates setting information based on the output of the setting information comparison unit 73.

[0028] [1.3.2 Memory Unit Configuration] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the software configuration of the storage unit 39 of the server 3 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. The storage unit 39 includes a first device information storage unit 91a, a second device information storage unit 91b, and a third device information storage unit 91c. The first device information storage unit 91a, the second device information storage unit 91b, and the third device information storage unit 91c are collectively referred to as the device information storage unit 91.

[0029] The first device information storage unit 91a, the second device information storage unit 91b, and the third device information storage unit 91c are areas that store device information for MFP7, 9, and 11, respectively. For this reason, the first device information storage unit 91a stores the identification information, model information, FW version, and configuration information of MFP7. The same applies to the second device information storage unit 91b and the third device information storage unit 91c.

[0030] The storage unit 39 may have device information storage units in proportion to the number of MFPs provided by system 1. In the first embodiment, since system 1 is equipped with three MFPs 7, 9, and 11, the storage unit 39 has three system information storage units.

[0031] [1.4 Operation] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating part of the operation of the server 3 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating another part of the operation of the server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. While it is preferable that the following processes be performed by any of the configurations described in Figure 3, for the sake of explanation, these processes will be described as being performed by the control unit 31.

[0032] Prior to the operation shown in Figure 5, the control unit 31 communicates with MFPs 7, 9, and 11 via the network NW using the communication unit 37 to obtain device information for each and store it in the storage unit 39. The device information includes the model number information, FW version information, and configuration information of the MFP. The model number information indicates the model number of the MFP. The FW version information indicates the current firmware version of the MFP. The configuration information is a summary of the setting values ​​for various setting items of the MFP. The configuration information may be written in a markup language such as XML (Extensible Markup Language) or HTML (Hyper-Text Markup Language), or a data description language such as JSON (JavaScript Object Notation).

[0033] The communication unit 37 receives a request from client terminal 5 via the network NW to copy configuration information (Step 1). Hereinafter, the device (MFP) corresponding to the source configuration information will be referred to as the source device, and the device (MFP) corresponding to the destination configuration information will be referred to as the target device. The source device may also be referred to as the first device, and the target device as the second device. The request to copy configuration information includes the identification information of the source device and the identification information of the target device.

[0034] The control unit 31 obtains the model number information of the source device and the target device from the storage unit 39 and compares them to determine whether the source device and the target device are the same model (step 3). The source device is one of MFP7, 9, or 11, and the target device is one of MFP7, 9, or 11 other than the source device.

[0035] The control unit 31 determines whether the source device and the target device are of the same model (step 3). The control unit 31 may request device information from the MFPs designated as the source device and target device via the communication unit 37 and the network NW, and determine whether they are of the same model based on the model information of the received device information. Alternatively, prior to step 1, the control unit 31 may request device information from each MFP in the system 1 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW, and store the received device information of each MFP in the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to that MFP. In that case, the control unit 31 may read the respective device information from the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to the source device and the target device and determine whether they are of the same model.

[0036] If the source device and the target device are the same model (Step 3, Yes), the control unit 31 obtains the respective FW version information of the source device and the target device from the storage unit 39 and compares them to determine whether the firmware versions of the source device and the target device are the same (Step 5).

[0037] If the firmware versions of the source device and the target device are the same (Step 5, Yes), the control unit 31 reads the source device's configuration information from the storage unit 39 and transmits the source device's configuration information to the target device via the network NW using the communication unit 37. At the same time, it sends a control signal to the target device requesting that it update its own configuration information with the transmitted configuration information (Step 7). Upon receiving this, the target device overwrites its own configuration information with the configuration information received from the server 3 (i.e., the source device's configuration information) according to the control signal.

[0038] If step 5 determines that the firmware versions are different (step 5, no), the control unit 31 sends a message to the client terminal 5 prompting it to update the firmware of either the source device or the target device (step 9). Upon receiving this message, the client terminal 5 displays it on its screen. After seeing this, the user may, for example, update the firmware of the MFP with the older firmware version among the MFPs designated as the source device and the target device, and then use the client terminal 5 to make the request in step 1 again.

[0039] Here, the source device configuration information is denoted as configuration information Ss, and the target device configuration information is denoted as configuration information St. If it is determined in step 3 that the devices are not the same model (step 3, no), the control unit 31 compares the configuration items included in configuration information Ss with the configuration items included in configuration information St and classifies the configuration items included in configuration information Ss into two types: common configuration items and non-common configuration items. Common configuration items are configuration items that are included in both the source device configuration information and the target device configuration information. Non-common configuration items are configuration items that are included only in the source device configuration information and not in the target device configuration information. The control unit 31 extracts the common configuration items from configuration information Ss (step 21).

[0040] If common settings exist (step 23, yes), the control unit 31 extracts the common settings and their setting values ​​from the setting information Ss. The control unit 31 generates new setting information Su consisting of the extracted common settings and their setting values ​​(step 25). The setting information Su is a subset of the setting information Ss of the source device.

[0041] Next, the control unit 31 uses the communication unit 37 to notify the client terminal 5 of the non-common setting items via the network NW, and also sends a control signal to the client terminal 5 requesting that the notified non-common setting items be displayed on the display device of the client terminal 5 (step 27).

[0042] Next, the control unit 31 transmits the configuration information Su to the target device via the network NW using the communication unit 37, and also transmits a control signal to the target device requesting it to update its own configuration information with the transmitted configuration information Su (step 7).

[0043] In step 23, if there are no common settings (step 23, no), the control unit 31 sends a message to the client terminal 5 via the network NW using the communication unit 37 indicating that there are no settings in the source device's settings information Ss that can be copied to the target device. At this time, the control unit 31 may store in the storage unit 39 as copy restriction information that the target device is not subject to copying of the source device's settings information Ss. In this case, when executing step 1 thereafter, the control unit 31 may determine, based on the copy restriction information, whether the settings information of the source device that received the request is subject to copying to the target device's settings information. If it is determined that it is not subject to copying, the control unit 31 may interrupt the process by sending a message to the client terminal 5 via the network NW using the communication unit 37 indicating that it cannot be copied.

[0044] [1.5 Example of Operation] [1.5.1 Example of operation when the source device and target device are the same model] Figure 7 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating data processing when copying configuration information between MFPs of the same model. Here, the configuration information of MFP7 is copied and updated as the configuration information for MFP9, which is the same model as MFP7.

[0045] When client terminal 5 requests server 3 to overwrite the target device's configuration information using a copy of the source device's configuration information, specifying MFP7 as the source device and MFP9 as the target device (arrow 121), the control unit 31 of server 3 determines whether the source device and target device are the same model based on the model information stored in the device information storage unit 91. If they are the same model, it further determines whether the firmware versions of the source device and target device are the same based on the FW version information stored in the device information storage unit 91 (arrow 123).

[0046] If the firmware versions of the source device and the target device are different, the control unit 31 sends a message to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW prompting the client to update the firmware version (arrow 125).

[0047] If the source device and target device are the same model and have the same firmware version, the control unit 31 copies the configuration information of the source device (MFP7) stored in the device information storage unit 91 and sends it to the target device (MFP9) along with a control signal instructing it to update the configuration information (arrow 127).

[0048] [1.5.2 Example screen when the source device and target device are the same model] Screen 130 in Figure 8 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen for selecting a source device and a target device.

[0049] Source table 131 is a table that displays candidate source devices. Source table 131 has a Model Name column to store the model name of the MFP and a Custom Name column to store the custom name of the MFP. Each row in source table 131 has radio buttons 137a and 137b to indicate that the MFP in that row has been selected as the source device.

[0050] The target table 133 is a table that displays candidate target devices. Like the source table 131, the target table 133 has a Model Name column and a Custom Name column. Each row in the target table 133 has a checkbox, such as checkbox 139, to indicate that the MFP in that row has been selected as the target device.

[0051] The execute button 135 is used to copy configuration information based on selections in the source table 131 and the target table 133. Depending on the operation of the execute button 135, the screen transitions from screen 130 to screen 140, which will be described later. In the screen shown in Figure 8, when the execute button 135 is operated, the MFP with Model Name MX-6170FV and Custom Name Office1, indicated by radio button 137b, is selected as the source device, and the MFP with Model Name MX-6170FV and Custom Name Office2, indicated by checkbox 139, is selected as the target device.

[0052] Screen 140 in Figure 9 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen for selecting a source device and a target device. Screen 140 has a source table 131, a target table 133, and an execution button 135, respectively, with a source table 141 and a target table 143.

[0053] Source table 141 has radio buttons 147a, 147b, and 147c, and the MFP corresponding to radio button 147c is selected as the source device. Target table 143 has checkboxes, and the MFP corresponding to checkbox 149 is selected as the target device.

[0054] Screen 140 further includes a dialog 151 and a cancel button 153. Dialog 151 displays a message informing the user that a comparison of device information between the source device and the target device is in progress. The cancel button 153 is used to cancel the ongoing comparison of device information.

[0055] Screen 160 in Figure 10 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model in the first embodiment of this disclosure. Screen 160 is displayed when, as a result of comparing the device information of the source device and the target device, both the model and FW version match.

[0056] Screen 160 is a modified version of Screen 140, with Dialog 151 replaced by Dialog 161. Dialog 161 displays a message informing the user that the source device and target device models and firmware versions match, and asking whether or not to proceed with the copy.

[0057] Screen 160 further includes a "Start Now" button 163 and a "Cancel" button 165. The "Start Now" button 163 is used to instruct the control unit 31 to immediately begin copying the configuration information. The "Cancel" button 165 is used to cancel the copying of the configuration information.

[0058] Screen 170 in Figure 11 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of an MFP of the same model in the first embodiment of this disclosure. Screen 170 is displayed when, as a result of comparing the device information of the source device and the target device, the models match, but the FW versions do not match.

[0059] Screen 170 is a modified version of Screen 160, with Dialog 161 replaced by Dialog 171. Dialog 171 displays a message informing the user that the firmware versions of the source and target devices do not match, and asking whether or not to proceed with the copy.

[0060] Screen 170 further includes a Start button 173 and a Cancel button 175. The Start button 173 is used to instruct the control unit 31 to immediately begin copying the configuration information (even though the firmware versions do not match). The Cancel button 175 is used to cancel the copying of the configuration information.

[0061] [1.5.3 Example of operation when the source device and target device are different models] Figure 12 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the copying of configuration information between different MFP models. MFP191, 193, and 195 are the same model. MFP197 and 199 are also the same model. However, MFP191, 193, and 195 are different models from MFP197 and 199. Generally, when the models are different, the content of the configuration information is different, so as shown in Figure 12, for example, the configuration information of MFP191 cannot be copied as the configuration information of MFP197. However, in this disclosure, as described below, it is possible to copy configuration information between different models under certain conditions.

[0062] Figure 13 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating data processing when copying configuration information between different types of MFPs. MFP7 and MFP11 are different types of devices. Client terminal 5 requests server 3 to copy the configuration information of source device MFP7 as the source device and MFP11 as the target device (arrow 201, corresponding to step 1 in Figure 5). When server 3 receives the request via the network NW and communication unit 37, control unit 31 determines whether the source device and target device are the same type of device based on the model information stored in device information storage unit 91 (arrow 203, corresponding to step 3 in Figure 5). In this case, the source device (MFP7) and target device (MFP11) are different types of devices. At this time, control unit 31 obtains configuration information 7a from the source device (arrow 205) and configuration information 11a from the target device (arrow 207). The control unit 31 extracts the setting items and their values ​​from the setting information 7a of the source device and the setting information 11a of the target device, and generates new setting information 11b that includes the extracted setting items and values ​​(arrow 209, corresponding to step 25 in Figure 6). The control unit 31 sends the setting information 11b and an instruction to update the setting information to the target device via the communication unit 37 and the network NW (arrow 211). The MFP 11, which is the target device that receives this instruction and the setting information 11b, updates its own setting information from setting information 11a to setting information 11b. The control unit 31 also sends a message regarding the copy result to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW (arrow 217).

[0063] Generally, MFP configuration information includes the setting values ​​for each setting item. If two MFPs are the same model, the setting items included in the configuration information will be the same. Therefore, the configuration information of one MFP can be copied and used as the configuration information for another MFP of the same model.

[0064] On the other hand, if two MFPs are of different models, the settings included in their configuration information will differ. Therefore, as a general rule, it is not possible to copy the configuration information of one MFP and use it directly as the configuration information for that MFP and another MFP of a different model. However, even between different models of MFPs, some of the settings included in their configuration information may be common.

[0065] For example, suppose a manufacturer produces MFP(A) and MFP(B) as a variation of MFP(A) with added functionality. In this case, the configuration information for MFP(B) may include configuration items related to the added functionality, in addition to the configuration items included in the configuration information for MFP(A). In such a case, MFP(A) and MFP(B) can copy some of their configuration information. The setting values ​​of the configuration items included in the configuration information for MFP(A) can be copied directly as the setting values ​​of the corresponding configuration items for MFP(B). Conversely, the setting values ​​of the configuration items included in the configuration information for MFP(B) can be copied as the setting values ​​of the corresponding configuration items for MFP(A), excluding the setting values ​​of the configuration items related to the functionality added in MFP(B).

[0066] [1.5.4 Screen example when source device and target device are different models] Screen 250 in Figure 14 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different types of MFPs in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen displayed when selecting a source device and a target device.

[0067] Screen 250 has a source table 251, a target table 253, and an execute button 255. The source table 251 has radio buttons 257a, 257b, and 257c. The target table 253 has checkboxes 259 and 261. For details on the source table 251, target table 253, execute button 255, radio buttons 257a, 257b, and 257c, and checkboxes 259 and 261, please refer to the explanation of the source table 131, target table 133, execute button 135, radio buttons 137a, 137b, and checkbox 139 in Figure 8 above.

[0068] Screen 270 in Figure 15 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different types of MFPs in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen displayed when comparing the models and firmware versions of the source device and target device. In addition to the configuration of screen 250, screen 270 has a dialog 271 and a cancel button 273. Dialog 271 displays a message indicating that the device information comparison is in progress. The cancel button 273 is a button for interrupting the device information comparison.

[0069] In screen 270, the model name of the MFP selected as the source device in source table 251 is MX-6170FV. In target table 253, three MFPs are selected as target devices, with model names MX-6170FV, ​​MX-3050N, and MX-305N. Of the three target MFPs, one has a matching model name, while the other two do not.

[0070] Screen 280 in Figure 16 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different MFP models in the first embodiment of this disclosure. Because there is a target device of a different model from the source device, this is an example of a screen that notifies the user that the configuration information of both devices will be searched and compared.

[0071] Screen 280 is displayed after Screen 270. Screen 280 replaces dialog 271 of Screen 270 with dialog 281. Dialog 281 includes a cancel button 283. Dialog 281 displays a message indicating that the target devices include an MFP of a different model than the source device. The cancel button 283 is used to interrupt the device information comparison.

[0072] The screen 290 in Figure 17 is an example of a screen displayed on the client terminal 5 when copying configuration information of different MFP models in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen showing the results of a comparison between the models and firmware versions of the source device and the target device.

[0073] Screen 290 is displayed after Screen 280. Screen 290 replaces Dialog 281 of Screen 280 with Dialog 291. Dialog 291 includes a Comparison Results Table 292, a Continue button 293, and a Cancel button 295. The Comparison Results Table 292 is a table summarizing the comparison results between the source device configuration information and the target device configuration information. Each row in the Comparison Results Table 292 has a checkbox, Model Name, Custom Name, Compare Result, and a Details button.

[0074] Checkboxes 303, 305, and 307 indicate that a copy based on the source device's detailed information will be performed on the MFP in the row where the checkbox is checked. The comparison result "Compatible" for the row with checkbox 303 indicates that the target device (model name MX-6170FV) in that row is the same model as the source device (model name MX-6170FV) and that the MFP is capable of copying the source device's (model name MX-6170FV) detailed information. Note that devices are determined to be the same model (same series) not only when the model names are the same, but also when the combination of setting items included in the setting information is the same. To perform this determination, it is preferable that each MFP listed in the source table 251 and target table 292 store identification information to identify its own model series in a storage device. The comparison result "Not Compatible" for checkbox 305 indicates that the target device (model name MX-3050N) for that row is a different model from the source device (model name MX-6170FV), and that it is an MFP that can copy some of the source device's configuration information. The comparison result "Cannot Copy" for checkbox 307 indicates that the target device (model name MX-305N) for that row is a different model from the source device (model name MX-6170FV), and that it is an MFP that cannot copy even some of the source device's configuration information.

[0075] The detail buttons 297, 299, and 301 are used to display detailed information about the comparison result for that row. The screen displayed when these detail buttons are clicked will be described later, referring to Figure 18.

[0076] The "Continue" button 293 is used to transition from screen 340 to the next screen when one of the checkboxes 303, 305, or 307 is checked. The "Cancel" button 295 is used to cancel the copying of the settings information.

[0077] The screen 310 in Figure 18 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different MFP models in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen that notifies the user of the configuration items that will not be copied among the configuration items of the configuration information.

[0078] Screen 310 is displayed when the details button 299 is operated on screen 290. Screen 310 is an overlay of dialog 311 on top of dialog 291 on screen 290. Dialog 311 displays a detailed explanation of the comparison result "Not Compatible" for model name MX-3050N and custom name near, which corresponds to the details button 299.

[0079] In a comparison result of "Not Compatible," some of the settings from the source device's configuration information are copied to the target device's configuration information. In other words, some of the settings from the source device's configuration information are not copied to the target device's configuration information. The detailed explanation in dialog 311 displays the names of the settings from the source device's configuration information that are not copied to the target device's configuration information, under the name "Setting Item Name."

[0080] Dialog 311 includes a close button 313. The close button 313 is used to close dialog 311. When the close button 313 is pressed, the user returns to screen 290.

[0081] By viewing dialog 311, the user can check which settings will not be copied when copying the source device's configuration information to a target device (MX-3050N) of a different model than the source device (MX-6170FV) before executing the copy.

[0082] The screen 320 in Figure 19 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of a different type of MFP in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a state in which a target device has been selected.

[0083] Screen 320 shows the state after selecting the target device in Screen 290. Here, checkbox 303 is checked to indicate that an MFP with the same model name as the source device (custom name Office1) but with the custom name Office2 has been selected as the copy target. Also, checkbox 305 is checked to indicate that an MFP with a different model name than the source device, but with the custom name MX-3050N, has been selected as the copy target.

[0084] Screen 340 in Figure 20 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of different types of MFPs in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen that notifies the user that the selected target devices include some that are not fully compatible with the source device.

[0085] Screen 340 is displayed after the user has pressed the Continue button 293 on Screen 320. Screen 340 replaces dialog 291 on Screen 320 with dialog 341. Dialog 341 informs the user that the target device includes an MFP of a different model than the source device and asks for confirmation whether to proceed with the copy. The Continue button 343 is for executing the copy, and the Cancel button 345 is for interrupting the copy.

[0086] The screen 350 in Figure 21 is an example of a screen displayed on a client terminal when copying configuration information of a different type of MFP in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen that notifies the user that the copying of configuration information is complete.

[0087] Screen 350 is displayed after the setting information copy is performed by operating the continue button 343 on screen 340. Screen 350 replaces dialog 341 of screen 340 with dialog 351. Dialog 351 has a copy result table 352, a continue button 353, and a cancel button 355.

[0088] The copy result table 352 is a table that displays the copy results for each target device on which the copy was performed. The copy result table 352 has a model name, custom name, result column, and detail buttons 357 and 359. The display "Complete" in the result column indicates that the copy of the configuration information has been completed. If the copy was not completed for any reason, for example, "Failure" will be displayed. The detail buttons 357 and 359 are buttons for displaying detailed information about the copy results to the corresponding target device. For example, when the detail buttons 357 and 359 are operated, a list of the names of the copied configuration items from the source device's configuration information may be displayed.

[0089] [1.6 Effects] According to the first embodiment, the configuration information of the source device can be copied as the configuration information of the target device not only when the target device is the same model as the source device, but also when it is a different model.

[0090] In particular, when the source device and target device are different models, the configuration items in the source device's configuration information and the target device's configuration information can be compared, common configuration items can be extracted, new configuration information consisting of these common configuration items can be generated, and this new information can be copied as the target device's configuration information.

[0091] Furthermore, if the source device and target device are different models, the client terminal 5 can display the non-common settings (settings other than common settings) included in the source device's configuration information, thereby informing the user of the settings that were not copied.

[0092] [2. Second Embodiment] A second embodiment will now be described. In the second embodiment, after the server 3 sends a copy of the configuration information to the target device, the server 3 requests the target device to send the updated configuration information. The server 3 compares the configuration information it sent from itself to the target device with the configuration information it received from the target device to determine whether the configuration information on the target device has been successfully updated. The following description will focus only on the differences in configuration and processing from the first embodiment.

[0093] [2.1 Copy Failure] Figure 22 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the failure of copying configuration information. MFP101-109 are MFPs of the same model. MFP101-107 have had their firmware updated due to running changes, etc., and as a result, new configuration items have been added to their configuration information. MFP109 has not had its firmware updated and is still using the old firmware. Therefore, no new configuration items have been added to MFP109.

[0094] In this case, let's assume that we are copying configuration information with MFP101 as the source device and MFP103-109 as the target devices. When such a copy is performed according to the first embodiment, MFP103-107 will operate normally after the copy. However, MFP109 will not operate normally after the copy because the configuration items added to the configuration information of MFP101 due to the firmware update are not included in the configuration information of MFP109.

[0095] Furthermore, regardless of whether the source device and target device are the same model or different models, communication failures or other issues may occur when sending the configuration information copied from server 3 to the target device, resulting in the configuration information not being sent completely, and consequently, the target device may not function properly after the copy is made.

[0096] In the second embodiment, in order to prevent such abnormal operation of the target device after copying, the server 3 sends a copy of the configuration information to the target device, and then receives the updated configuration information from the target device to confirm whether the configuration information update was performed successfully.

[0097] [2.2 Operation] Figure 23 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the data processing involved in copying configuration information between different MFP models and verifying the success or failure of that copy. Here, we will explain the differences from Figure 13.

[0098] Server 3 sends configuration information 11b to the target device, MFP 11 (arrow 211). MFP 11 updates its own configuration information using the received configuration information 11b and sends the updated configuration information 11c to Server 3 (arrow 213). Server 3 performs a comparison between the configuration information 11b sent from itself to MFP 11 and the configuration information 11c received from MFP 11 (comparison 215). Server 3 sends the comparison result to the client terminal 5 (arrow 217).

[0099] Figure 24 is a flowchart illustrating part of the operation of the server according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. The operation of the first embodiment was illustrated in the flowcharts of Figures 5 and 6, while the operation of the second embodiment is illustrated in the flowchart of Figure 24, which replaces Figure 5, and in the flowchart of Figure 6. The flowchart of Figure 24 differs from the flowchart of Figure 5 in that it has steps 41 to 49.

[0100] In step 7, when sending configuration information and an instruction to update the configuration information to the target device, the control unit 31 stores the transmitted configuration information in the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to the target device. After transmission, the control unit 31 requests the target device to send the updated configuration information via the communication unit 37 and the network NW (this request is also referred to as a configuration information transmission request), and receives the configuration information in response (step 41). The control unit 31 compares the configuration information stored in the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to the target device with the configuration information received in step 41 to determine if there is a difference (step 43).

[0101] If there is a difference (step 45, yes), the control unit 31 generates an error message indicating that the setting items in the setting information received in step 41 whose setting values ​​differ from the setting items stored in the device information storage unit 91 are setting items that failed to copy. The control unit 31 sends the error message to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW, and the client terminal 5 displays the error message to the user (step 47).

[0102] If there is no difference in step 43 (step 45, no), the control unit 31 sends a message to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW indicating that the copy of the configuration information was successful, and the client terminal 5 displays this message to the user (step 49).

[0103] [2.3 Effects] According to the second embodiment, the copying of configuration information can be performed more reliably. In addition, if the copy fails, the user can find out which configuration items failed to copy.

[0104] [3. Third Embodiment] A third embodiment will now be described. In the first embodiment, the user designated an MFP as a target device, and the configuration information was copied to the designated MFP. However, as explained in the first embodiment, for example, an MFP of a different model from the source device MFP, and when compared with the configuration information of the source device MFP, an MFP that does not have common configuration items in its configuration information cannot be targeted for copying of its configuration information. In the third embodiment, before specifying a target device from the MFP, it is determined whether all MFPs in the system 1 are targets for copying, a device list consisting of MFPs that can be copied is generated, sent to the client terminal 5, and displayed to the user. The following description will focus only on the differences in configuration and processing from the first embodiment.

[0105] [3.1 Control Unit 31a] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the control unit 31a of a server according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. In the third embodiment, the control unit 31a is used instead of the control unit 31 used in the first embodiment. In addition to the components of the control unit 31, the control unit 31a has a device list generation unit 401, a setting information difference extraction unit 403, a device list generation unit 405, and a device list transmission unit 407.

[0106] The device list generation unit 401 generates a list of MFPs included in system 1. The configuration information difference extraction unit 403 extracts the difference between the configuration information of the source device and the configuration information of the target device. The copyable device list generation unit 405 generates a list of MFPs included in system 1 that can copy some or all of the configuration information of the MFP designated as the source device (copyable device list). The copyable device list transmission unit 407 transmits the copyable device list to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW.

[0107] [3.2 Storage section 39a] Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the storage unit 39a of the server 3 according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. In the third embodiment, the storage unit 39a is used instead of the storage unit 39 used in the first embodiment. In addition to the configuration of the storage unit 39, the storage unit 39a has a device list storage unit 411. The device list storage unit 411 stores the device list generated by the device list generation unit 401. The copyable device list generation unit 405 generates a copyable device list by updating the device list in the storage unit 39a.

[0108] [3.3 Operation] Figure 27 is a flowchart illustrating part of the operation of the server 3 according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 28 is a flowchart illustrating another part of the operation of the server according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. The following processes are preferably performed by any of the configurations described in Figure 25, but for the sake of explanation, they will be described as being performed by the control unit 31.

[0109] The user requests a copy of configuration information from the server 3 via the network NW from the client terminal 5. At that time, the user specifies the MFP to be used as the source device from system 1. Upon receiving the request via the network NW and communication unit 37 (step 71), the control unit 31 obtains the configuration information SF1 of the MFP designated as the source device (step 73). At this time, the control unit 31 may request and receive configuration information from the MFP designated via the communication unit 37 and network NW. Alternatively, before executing the operations of the flowchart in Figure 27, the control unit 31 may request configuration information from each MFP in system 1, store the received configuration information in the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to each MFP, and then read the configuration information from the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to the MFP designated as the source device in step 73.

[0110] Next, the control unit 31 obtains the device list and stores it in the device list storage unit 411 (step 75). The control unit 31 may generate the device list by requesting its own identification information from all MFPs in the network NW via the communication unit 37 and the network NW. Alternatively, before executing step 71, the control unit 31 may request device information from each MFP in the system 1, store the received device information in the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to each MFP, and then generate the device list by reading the identification information contained in the device information of the MFP from the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to MFPs other than the MFP designated as the source device in step 73.

[0111] Next, the control unit 31 selects one device from the device list in the device list storage unit 411 (step 77). Hereinafter, the device selected here will be referred to as device X. The control unit 31 determines whether device X is the same model as the MFP specified as the source device in step 71 (step 79). The determination in step 79 is performed in the same manner as in step 3 described above.

[0112] If device X is the same model as the source device (step 79, yes), the control unit 31 determines whether the firmware versions of the source device and device X match based on the respective FW version information of the source device and device X read from the device information storage unit 91 (step 81).

[0113] If the firmware versions match (step 81, yes), the control unit 31 leaves the MFP currently selected as device X in the device list of the device list storage unit 411 (step 83). If the firmware versions do not match (step 81, no), the control unit 31 removes the MFP currently selected as device X from the device list of the device list storage unit 411 (step 85).

[0114] The control unit 31 determines whether the processing between steps 77 and 87 has been performed for all MFPs in the device list (step 87). If the processing between steps 77 and 87 has been performed for all MFPs (step 87, yes), the control unit 31 transmits the device list from the device list storage unit 411 to the client terminal 5 via the communication unit 37 and the network NW (step 89). The client terminal 5 displays the received device list on a display device (not shown) of the client terminal 5.

[0115] In step 87, if there is an MFP that has not yet performed the processing between step 77 and step 87 (step 87, no), the control unit 31 returns to step 77, selects an MFP other than the source device in system 1 that has not yet been selected as device X as device X, and then executes steps 79 and onward.

[0116] If, in step 79, device X is of a different model from the source device (step 79, no), the control unit 31 obtains the configuration information of device X (hereinafter referred to as configuration information SFX) (step 101). The control unit 31 may obtain the configuration information SFX by requesting the MFP currently selected as device X to transmit the configuration information via the communication unit 37 and the network NW. Alternatively, before executing step 71, the control unit 31 may request device information from each MFP in the system 1, store the received device information in the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to each MFP, and then obtain the configuration information SFX by reading the configuration information contained in the MFP's device information from the device information storage unit 91 corresponding to MFPs other than the MFP designated as the source device in step 73.

[0117] The control unit 31 compares the setting items of the setting information SF1 and the setting information SFX (step 103). More specifically, the control unit 31 compares the setting items included in the setting information SF1 with the setting items included in the setting information SFX and classifies the setting items included in the setting information SF1 into two types: common setting items and non-common setting items. Common setting items are setting items that are included in both the setting information SF1 of the source device and the setting information SFX of the target device. Non-common setting items are setting items that are included only in the setting information SF1 of the source device and not in the setting information SFX of the target device. The control unit 31 extracts the common setting items from the setting information SF1.

[0118] If common settings exist (step 105, yes), the control unit 31 leaves device X in the device list of the device list storage unit 411 (step 107). If common settings do not exist (step 105, no), the control unit 31 removes device X from the device list of the device list storage unit 411 (step 109).

[0119] [3.4 Example of Operation] Screen 430 in Figure 29 is an example of a screen displayed on the client terminal 5 in the third embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen for selecting a source device. Screen 430 has a source table 431, a target table 433, a compatible device extraction button 435, and an execute button 437.

[0120] Source table 431 is a table that displays candidate MFPs from System 1 that can be used as source devices. Source table 431 has radio buttons 439a, 439b, and 439c, and the MFP to be used as a source device is specified by turning these radio buttons on or off. In this figure, the MFP with model name MX-6170FV and custom name Office1 is selected as the source device.

[0121] Target Table 433 is a table that displays candidate MFPs from System 1 that can serve as target devices. Each row in Target Table 433 has a checkbox, a model name, and a custom name.

[0122] When the compatible device extraction button 435 is operated with an MFP specified as the source device, the control unit 31 extracts MFPs from the target table 433 that are the same model as the MFP specified as the source device (same model name, or different model names but the same series, i.e., models with different model names but the same combination of setting items included in the setting information), and generates the comparison result table 492 described later. More specifically, the operation described above is started with the MFPs in the target table 433, referring to the flowcharts in Figures 27 and 28. When the compatible device extraction button 435 is operated in the state shown in Figure 29, the control unit 31 executes the above operation with the MFP with model name MX-6170FV and custom name Office1 as the source device. In addition to the same model as the MFP specified as the source device, the control unit 31 may also extract MFPs with different model names and series but with some overlapping setting items included in the setting information, and generate the comparison result table 492.

[0123] The execute button 437 is used to start the execution of copying configuration information, using the MFP specified in source table 431 as the source device and the MFP specified in target table 433 as the target device.

[0124] The screen 450 in Figure 30 is an example of a screen displayed on the client terminal 5 in the third embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen displayed when comparing the device information of the source device with the device information of each MFP in the target table.

[0125] Screen 450 is displayed in response to the operation of the compatible device extraction button 435 on Screen 430. Screen 450 is Screen 430 with a dialog 471 added. Dialog 471 displays a message to inform the user of client terminal 5 that device information comparison is in progress. Dialog 471 has a cancel button 473. The cancel button 473 is a button to interrupt the device information comparison.

[0126] Screen 480 in Figure 31 is an example of a screen displayed on the client terminal 5 in the third embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen that notifies the user that the candidate target devices include some that are not fully compatible with the source device.

[0127] Screen 480 is displayed after Screen 450 is displayed and the comparison of device information has progressed. Screen 480 includes a dialog box 481. When the control unit 31 detects a different model of MFP from the MFPs in the target table 453 that is specified as the source device in the source table 431, it displays dialog box 481 instead of dialog box 471. Dialog box 481 displays a message indicating that a different model from the source device has been detected in the target table 453. Dialog box 481 also displays a message indicating that the configuration information of the source device and the target device is being compared to determine whether or not there are common configuration items. Dialog box 481 includes a cancel button 483. The cancel button 483 is a button for interrupting the comparison of device information.

[0128] The screen 490 in Figure 32 is an example of a screen displayed on the client terminal 5 in the third embodiment of this disclosure, and is an example of a screen that notifies the user that the candidate target devices include some that are not fully compatible with the source device.

[0129] Screen 490 is displayed after Screen 480 is displayed and the comparison of the setting information of the source device and the target device is complete. Once the comparison of the setting information of the source device and the target device is complete, the control unit 31 displays dialog 491 instead of dialog 481. Dialog 491 has a comparison result table 492, a continue button 493, and a cancel button 495.

[0130] The comparison results table 492 is a table that stores MFPs from the target table 453 that are the same model as the source device MFP, and MFPs that are different models but have compatible configuration information. Each row in the comparison results table 492 has a checkbox, a model name, a custom name, and a comparison result. The checkbox is used to specify the target device on which to copy the configuration information. The continue button 493 is a button that starts copying the configuration information using the MFP in the row with the checkbox checked in the comparison results table 492 as the target device. The cancel button 495 is a button that terminates the process without copying the configuration information.

[0131] The meaning of the "Compare result" value in comparison result table 492 is the same as in Figure 17. Although "MX-6170FV", "MX-3050N", and "MX-5170FV" have different "Model Names", their configuration information is identical, and therefore they are determined to be the same model (compatible) as "MX-6170FV" indicated by radio button 459c in source table 431.

[0132] In the case of Figure 32, pressing the Continue button 493 will execute a copy of the configuration information using the following MFP as the source device and target device. Source device: MFP with model name MX-617FV, custom name Office1, corresponding to row 459c of source table 431, radio button. Target devices: MFPs with model name MX-6170FV and custom name Office2, and MFPs with model name MX-3050N and custom name near, as shown in comparison results table 492.

[0133] [3.5 Effects] According to the third embodiment, by specifying an MFP to be the source device, a list of MFPs from which the configuration information of that MFP can be copied can be displayed.

[0134] [4. Variant] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and variations described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified without departing from the gist of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0135] In the above embodiment, the server 3 was described as a separate device from the MFP, but the MFP may also have the server 3 built in and operate as the server 3. In this case, the MFP comprises a control unit and a communication unit capable of communicating with other MFPs. The control unit compares the model of its own MFP with the model of the other MFP, and if the MFP and the other MFP are different models, it determines whether there are common setting items that are included in both the setting information of its own MFP and the setting information of the other MFP. Based on the result of the determination, it outputs information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of its own MFP as the setting information of the other MFP.

[0136] In the embodiments, the programs that run in each device are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in storage devices such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0137] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory cards, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc), etc.), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). Furthermore, in addition to realizing the functions of the embodiments described above by executing the loaded program, the functions of this disclosure may also be realized by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs, etc., based on the instructions of the program.

[0138] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable storage medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is, of course, also included in this disclosure. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0139] 1 System 3 servers 5. Client terminals 7, 9, 11, 101, 103, 105, 107, 109, 191, 193, 195, 197, 199 MFP (Multi-Function Printer) 7a, 11a, 11b, 231, 235 configuration information 31, 31a Control Unit 33 Operation section 35 Display section 37 Communications Department 39, 39a Storage section 41 ROM (Read Only Memory) 43 RAM (Random Access Memory) 45 storage 61 Reception Department 63 Device Information Acquisition Unit 65 Model Comparison Section 67 Firmware (FW) Version Comparison Section 69 Configuration Information Transmission Unit 71 Message Sending Section 73 Setting information comparison section 75 Configuration Information Generation Unit 91a First device information storage unit 91b Second device information storage unit 91c Third device information storage unit 121, 123, 125, 127, 201, 203, 205, 207, 209, 211, 213, 217 Arrows 130, 140, 160, 170, 250, 270, 280, 290, 310, 320, 340, 350, 430, 450, 480, 490 screen Source tables 131, 141, 251, 431 Target tables 133, 143, 253, 433, 453 135, 145, 255, 437 Execute button 137a, 137b, 147a, 147b, 147c Radio buttons 139, 149, 259, 261, 303, 305, 307 checkboxes Dialogues 151, 161, 171, 271, 281, 291, 311, 341, 351, 471, 481, 491 153, 165, 175, 273, 283, 295, 345, 355, 473, 483, 495 Cancel button 163, 173 Start Now button 215 comparison 231a, 231b, 231c, 235a, 235c Setting items group 235b blank 292 Comparison Results Table 293, 343, 353, 493 Continue button 297, 299, 301, 357, 359 Details button 313 Close button 352 Copy Result Table 401 Device List Generation Unit 403 Configuration Information Difference Extraction Unit 405 Device List Generation Unit 407 Device List Transmission Unit 411 Device List Storage Unit 435 Extract compatible devices button 492 Comparison Results Table

Claims

1. Control unit and It comprises a communication unit capable of communicating with a plurality of devices, including a first device and a second device, The control unit, The model of the first device and the model of the second device are compared with each other. If the first device and the second device are of different models, determine whether there are common setting items included in both the setting information of the first device and the setting information of the second device. Based on the result of the above determination, information relating to copying part or all of the configuration information of the first device as the configuration information of the second device is output. Information processing device.

2. The control unit further, The setting values ​​for the common setting items are extracted from the setting information of the first device. The extracted settings are copied as the setting information for the second device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit further, If the first device and the second device are of the same model, compare their firmware versions. If the firmware versions of both devices are the same, the entire configuration information of the first device is copied as the configuration information of the second device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The control unit further, After sending the configuration information of the second device to be copied to the second device, a configuration information transmission request is sent to the second device requesting the transmission of configuration information. In response to the aforementioned request for transmission of configuration information, the system receives the configuration information transmitted from the second device. The success or failure of the copy is determined based on the comparison result between the configuration information of the first device and the configuration information received from the second device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. Each of the aforementioned multiple devices is treated as the second device, and the presence or absence of the common setting item is determined. Based on the result of the determination, a device list is generated consisting of devices from among the plurality of devices that can copy some or all of the configuration information of the first device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the display device of another information processing apparatus connected via the communication unit to display a screen relating to the result of the determination.

7. The control unit, The selection of the first device is accepted. The second device corresponding to the selected first device is displayed on the display device of another information processing device connected via the communication unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the second device, extracted according to the comparison result with the selected first device, to be displayed on the display device of another information processing apparatus connected via the communication unit.

9. Control unit and In an image forming apparatus equipped with a communication unit capable of communicating with other image forming apparatuses, The control unit, The model of the self-portrait forming apparatus is compared with the model of the other image forming apparatus. If the self-portrait forming apparatus and the other image forming apparatus are of different models, it is determined whether there are any common setting items included in both the setting information of the self-portrait forming apparatus and the setting information of the other image forming apparatus. Based on the result of the above determination, information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the self-image forming apparatus as setting information of the other image forming apparatus is output. Image forming apparatus.

10. The system comprises client terminals, a server, and a plurality of image forming apparatuses, including a first image forming apparatus and a second image forming apparatus, all of which are interconnected and able to communicate with each other via a network. The aforementioned server, The first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus are compared with each other. If the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus are of different models, it is determined whether there are common setting items included in both the setting information of the first image forming apparatus and the setting information of the second image forming apparatus. Based on the result of the determination, information relating to copying part or all of the setting information of the first image forming apparatus as setting information of the second image forming apparatus is output to the client terminal. Information processing system.

11. The model of the first device capable of communication and the model of the second device capable of communication are compared with each other. If the first device and the second device are of different models, determine whether there are common setting items included in both the setting information of the first device and the setting information of the second device. Based on the result of the above determination, information relating to copying part or all of the configuration information of the first device as the configuration information of the second device is output. A method for controlling an information processing device.

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