Information processing device and explanatory information processing system

Abstract

To provide an information processing device by which an operation load of a user of an information processing device can be reduced while easily realizing operation for calling desired explanation information, and quickly browsing the explanation information with easy operation even in a terminal which is held by the user and is not registered.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises: a display part; a storage part that stores device setting information that is unique information capable of identifying the information processing device, and containing model information on the information processing device; an event detection part that detects an event generated in the case of executing a predetermined function; a generation event determination part that determines a content of an event detected and acquires the event detection information; a browsing destination information generation part that generates browsing destination information for acquiring the explanation information corresponding to at least the event that is generated by using the device setting information and the event detection information; and a browsing destination display part that displays the generated browsing destination information on the display part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and an explanatory information processing system, and more particularly to an information processing apparatus and an explanatory information processing system having a function of providing a user's manual or the like of the information processing apparatus to a user.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an image forming apparatus (also called a multifunction peripheral) having a number of functions such as a printing function, a document reading function, a function of transmitting read image data, a FAX transmission / reception function, a function of acquiring image data, and a character recognition function has been used. In such an image forming apparatus, when it is necessary to replace consumables such as a toner cartridge or when a problem such as a conveyance trouble of printing paper occurs, it is necessary to perform a replacement operation of the consumables or an operation to solve the problem.

[0003] When performing a replacement operation of consumables or a trouble-solving operation, before performing the operation, an operator may perform a predetermined input operation to display a user's manual of the image forming apparatus, search for a page on which the content of the replacement operation or the like to be confirmed is described, and confirm the content of the replacement operation or the like. In addition, in some cases, a user of the image forming apparatus may display a user's manual and confirm the operation content for executing the function to be used.

[0004] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 describes an information processing system in which, when a client device to which a printer is connected detects a malfunction in the printer based on an error code notified by the printer, the client device obtains a manual request code and a print setting information code corresponding to the error code from a database on the client device and sends them to a server device. The server device then obtains operation manual information (physical data) corresponding to the received manual request code and print setting information code from the operation manual database and sends the obtained operation manual information (physical data) to the client device. The client device then displays the received operation manual information (physical data) and presents the user with filtered operation manual information. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-169504 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the instruction manuals for today's multi-function image forming machines (combination machines) contain a vast amount of information, making it time-consuming for operators to search for and refer to the details of replacement procedures or the operations that users want to check. This has resulted in a significant burden on operators and others in finding the desired information. Furthermore, as mentioned above, checking the instruction manual is a very tedious task, so workers often call the inquiry desk without checking the manual first. This leads to congestion at the inquiry desk, preventing workers from quickly obtaining the necessary information and increasing the inquiry desk's response costs.

[0007] Furthermore, if a malfunction occurs and operation manual information corresponding to the manual request code and print setting information code for that malfunction is to be displayed on the client device, the client devices that can connect to the server device may be limited to specific ones. Therefore, it is necessary to register the connection information of the client devices to be displayed on the server device in advance, and operation manual information cannot be sent to any client device other than those registered, making it impossible to check the operation manual information on any arbitrary client device.

[0008] For example, if the client device is a mobile terminal, the connection information of that mobile terminal must be registered in the server device in advance. If the worker does not have the registered mobile terminal or only brings an unregistered mobile terminal, the operation manual information cannot be displayed, and quick work cannot be performed.

[0009] Furthermore, if the client device displaying the operation manual information is a personal computer located far from the image forming machine, it is necessary to check the operation manual information on the computer, understand the work content and operation methods for the image forming machine, and then go to the image forming machine to perform the work, making it difficult to perform tasks quickly.

[0010] Furthermore, while it is possible to display operation manual information on the display screen of the image forming apparatus, in this case, if only the operation manual information is displayed on the display screen, it is necessary to switch the display of the operation manual information to the designated operation screen in order to perform the necessary operation, making it impossible to operate while referring to the operation manual information.

[0011] Furthermore, if both the operation manual information and the designated operation screen are displayed separately on the image forming apparatus's display screen, even if it is possible to operate while referring to the operation manual information, the amount of information displayed in the operation manual may be limited, making it time-consuming to confirm the desired operation, which can place a heavy burden on the operator.

[0012] Therefore, this invention was made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to make it easy to retrieve desired explanatory information from a vast amount of information such as instruction manuals, and to enable users to quickly view the desired explanatory information with simple operation even on terminals that are not pre-registered as connectable terminals, thereby reducing the operational burden on users of information processing devices who wish to view instruction manuals, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] This invention provides an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, comprising: a display unit; a storage unit that stores device setting information, which is unique information that can identify the information processing device and includes model information of the information processing device; an event detection unit that detects events that occur when the predetermined function is being performed; an event occurrence determination unit that determines the content of the detected event and acquires event detection information that identifies the content of the event; a browsing destination information generation unit that uses the device setting information and the event detection information to generate browsing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the occurred event; and a browsing destination information display unit that displays the generated browsing destination information on the display unit.

[0014] Furthermore, the browsing destination information display unit is characterized by displaying a two-dimensional code, which is a symbol representing the browsing destination information, on the display unit.

[0015] Furthermore, the device setting information is characterized in that it further includes information on the language used in the information processing device, information on the region where the information processing device is installed, and model number information of the software used in the information processing device.

[0016] Furthermore, the event detection unit includes an operation detection unit that detects the operation of the information processing device and malfunctions occurring in the information processing device, and an operation detection unit that detects operations and tasks performed on the information processing device, and the descriptive information is characterized in that it includes at least information that supports the execution, maintenance, and input operations of the functions of the information processing device.

[0017] Furthermore, the access destination information is characterized by including connection destination information for connecting to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored, the event detection information, and the device setting information.

[0018] Furthermore, the access destination information is characterized by being generated as a URL that includes information for connecting to the document management device and information that allows it to identify the storage area of ​​the document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored.

[0019] Furthermore, this invention provides an information browsing device characterized by comprising: a shooting unit that photographs a two-dimensional code of browsing destination information displayed on the display unit of the information processing device described above; a browsing destination information acquisition unit that acquires the browsing destination information from the photographed two-dimensional code; an explanation content request unit that transmits a content request including the acquired browsing destination information to a document management device where explanation information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored; a second display unit; and an explanation content display unit that displays the explanation content information transmitted from the document management device, which corresponds to the event that occurred, on the second display unit.

[0020] Furthermore, this invention provides a document management device comprising: a second storage unit that stores explanatory content information consisting of a plurality of explanatory pieces of information associated with events that may occur in the information processing device; an explanatory content request receiving unit that receives the content request from the information viewing device described above; an explanatory content selection unit that uses the viewing destination information included in the content request to select selected content information from among the explanatory content information stored in the second storage unit that is associated with an event that occurred in the information processing device identified by the viewing destination information; and an explanatory content transmission unit that transmits the selected selected content information to the information viewing device.

[0021] Furthermore, the information processing device described above may be an image forming apparatus having multiple functions. Furthermore, the information viewing device described above may be a portable terminal owned by the user utilizing the information processing device.

[0022] Furthermore, this invention relates to an explanatory information processing system in which an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, a document management device that stores explanatory information relating to the information processing device, and an information viewing device that displays explanatory information relating to the information processing device are connected via a network, wherein the information processing device comprises a first display unit, a first storage unit that stores device setting information including model information of the information processing device, which is unique information that can identify the information processing device, an event detection unit that detects events that occur when the predetermined function is being performed, an event occurrence determination unit that determines the content of the detected event and acquires event detection information that identifies the content of the event, a viewing destination information generation unit that generates viewing destination information for acquiring explanatory information corresponding to at least the occurred event using the device setting information and the event detection information, and a viewing destination information display unit that displays a two-dimensional code that symbolizes the generated viewing destination information on the first display unit, wherein the information viewing device comprises a shooting unit that photographs the two-dimensional code of the viewing destination information displayed on the first display unit of the information processing device, and from the photographed two-dimensional code, the viewing destination information The present invention provides an explanatory information processing system comprising: a viewing destination information acquisition unit that acquires information; an explanatory content request unit that transmits a content request including the acquired viewing destination information to a document management device that stores explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred; a second storage unit that stores explanatory content information consisting of a plurality of explanatory pieces of information associated with events that may occur in the information processing device; an explanatory content request receiving unit that receives the content request from the information viewing device; an explanatory content selection unit that uses the viewing destination information included in the content request to select selected content information from the explanatory content information stored in the second storage unit that is associated with an event that occurred in the information processing device identified by the viewing destination information; and an explanatory content transmission unit that transmits the selected selected content information to the information viewing device; and the information viewing device further comprises a second display unit and an explanatory content display unit that displays the selected content information transmitted from the document management device, which is explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred, on the second display unit.

[0023] Further, the present invention is an explanatory information processing method for an information processing apparatus, comprising: a storage step in which a control unit provided in the information processing apparatus stores device setting information that is unique information capable of identifying the information processing apparatus and includes model information of the information processing apparatus; an event detection step of detecting an event that occurs when a predetermined function of the information processing apparatus is being executed; an event occurrence determination step of determining the content of the detected event and obtaining event detection information for specifying the content of the event; a browsing destination information generation step of generating browsing destination information for obtaining at least explanatory information corresponding to the occurred event by using the device setting information and the event detection information; and a browsing destination information display step of displaying the generated browsing destination information. The present invention provides an explanatory information processing method for an information processing apparatus, characterized by executing the above steps.

[0024] Furthermore, this invention relates to an explanatory information processing method for an explanatory information processing system in which an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, a document management device that stores explanatory information relating to the information processing device, and an information viewing device that displays explanatory information relating to the information processing device are connected via a network, wherein a first control unit provided in the information processing device performs a first storage step of storing device setting information which is unique information that can identify the information processing device and includes model information of the information processing device; an event detection step of detecting an event that occurs when the predetermined function is being performed; an event occurrence determination step of determining the content of the detected event and obtaining event detection information that identifies the content of the event; a viewing destination information generation step of generating viewing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the occurred event using the device setting information and the event detection information; and a viewing destination information display step of displaying a two-dimensional code that symbolizes the generated viewing destination information on the display screen of the information processing device, and a second control unit provided in the information viewing device performs the viewing destination information displayed on the display screen of the information processing device. The process involves: a shooting step of photographing a two-dimensional code of a report; a viewing destination information acquisition step of acquiring the viewing destination information from the photographed two-dimensional code; and an explanation content request step of sending a content request including the acquired viewing destination information to a document management device where explanation information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. The process involves: a third control unit provided in the document management device storing explanation content information consisting of a plurality of explanation pieces associated with events that may occur in the information processing device; an explanation content request reception step of receiving the content request from the information viewing device; an explanation content selection step of using the viewing destination information included in the content request to select selected content information from the explanation content information stored in the second storage step that is associated with an event that occurred in the information processing device identified by the viewing destination information; and an explanation content transmission step of sending the selected selected content information to the information viewing device. The process involves: a shooting step of photographing a two-dimensional code of a report; a viewing destination information acquisition step of acquiring the viewing destination information from the photographed two-dimensional code; and an explanation content request step of sending a content request including the acquired viewing destination information to a document management device where explanation information corresponding to the event that occurred.An explanatory information processing method for an explanatory information processing system is provided, which includes an explanatory content display step of displaying selection content information transmitted from the document management device on a display screen of the information browsing device.

Effect of the Invention

[0025] According to this invention, by using device setting information, which is unique information for identifying an information processing device and includes model information of the information processing device, and event detection information for identifying the content of an event that occurred when a predetermined function was executed, browsing destination information for obtaining at least explanatory information corresponding to the occurred event is generated, and the generated browsing destination information is displayed on a display unit of the information processing device. Therefore, a user of the information processing device can easily perform an operation of obtaining desired explanatory information corresponding to the occurred event from a huge amount of explanatory information by using the browsing destination information displayed on the display unit. For example, on a portable terminal owned by the user, the user can quickly browse the desired explanatory information with an easy operation, and the operation burden on users of the information processing device who want to browse explanatory information such as an instruction manual can be reduced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] It is a schematic configuration block diagram of an embodiment of the explanatory information processing system of this invention. [Figure 2] It is a configuration block diagram of an embodiment of the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 3] It is a configuration block diagram of an embodiment of the document management device of this invention. [Figure 4] It is a configuration block diagram of an embodiment of the information browsing device of this invention. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram of an embodiment of information stored in a storage unit of the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram of an embodiment of information stored in a storage unit of the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 7]This is an explanatory diagram illustrating one embodiment of the information stored in the memory unit of the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating one embodiment of the information stored in the storage unit of the document management device of this invention. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating one embodiment of the information stored in the storage unit of the document management device of this invention. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating one embodiment of the information stored in the storage unit of the document management device of this invention. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart of one embodiment of the process for acquiring explanatory information in the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart of one embodiment of the process for acquiring explanatory information in the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart of one embodiment of the process for acquiring explanatory information in the image forming apparatus of this invention. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the process for acquiring and displaying explanatory information in the information viewing device of this invention. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart of one embodiment of the process for transmitting explanatory information in the document management device of this invention. [Figure 16] This invention provides a communication sequence for one embodiment of the process of acquiring and displaying explanatory information using the displayed browsing destination information. [Figure 17] This is an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of a display screen for confirming explanatory content in an image forming apparatus of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of a display screen for confirming explanatory content in an image forming apparatus of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of a display screen for checking explanatory content in the information viewing device of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the invention is not limited by the following descriptions of embodiments.

[0028] <Configuration of the explanatory information processing system> This invention's explanatory information processing system acquires explanatory information regarding functions performed by information processing devices such as image forming apparatuses, as well as explanatory information regarding maintenance work to resolve malfunctions in the information processing devices, from a predetermined document management device, and provides the acquired explanatory information to users and operators of the information processing devices. Furthermore, the explanatory information processing system is a system in which an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, a document management device that stores explanatory information related to the information processing device, and an information viewing device that displays explanatory information related to the information processing device are connected via a network.

[0029] The explanatory information shall include, at a minimum, information that supports the execution, maintenance, and input operations of the information processing device. In the following embodiments, an explanatory information processing system including an image forming apparatus, which corresponds to an information processing apparatus, will be described. However, the information processing device is not limited to an image forming apparatus with multiple functions; it can be any electronic device that needs to provide explanatory information regarding operation and maintenance when the user performs a desired function, such as a personal computer, scanner, display device, mobile phone, or automobile equipped with a digital display device.

[0030] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of the explanatory information processing system of this invention. The information processing system described in Figure 1 mainly uses wide-area communication networks (WANs) such as the Internet and It consists of an image forming apparatus 1 connected to a network 4 such as a local area network (LAN), a document management apparatus 2, and an information viewing apparatus 3.

[0031] Image forming apparatus 1 (MFP: Multifunction Peripheral) is a device that processes image data, performing tasks such as input, formation, output, storage, and transfer of image data. The image forming apparatus 1 is also called a multifunction printer, or simply an MFP. In the image forming apparatus 1, a user who wishes to perform a predetermined function will perform that predetermined function by using an operation key or the like provided on the image forming apparatus 1 to perform an input operation. The image forming apparatus 1 is connected to the document management device 2 and the information viewing device 3 via the network 4, and there may be more than one of these devices.

[0032] In this image forming apparatus 1 of the present invention, in order to obtain explanatory information regarding desired functions and maintenance work, it generates browsing destination information that includes information related to those functions and maintenance work. The access location information is used to identify the location (storage area) in the document management device 2 where explanatory information regarding maintenance work, etc., is stored, and to retrieve that explanatory information. Furthermore, in particular, browsing destination information is generated to obtain explanatory information corresponding to events that occur when a predetermined function is being performed in the image forming apparatus. As will be described later, the viewing destination information is included in the content request sent to the document management device 2.

[0033] Furthermore, the browsing information is generated based on input operations to execute the desired function, input operations to obtain explanatory information, information on malfunctions that occurred in the image forming apparatus, the operating status of the image forming apparatus, maintenance work on the image forming apparatus, mobile phones, automobiles equipped with digital display devices, etc. The input operations, bug information, and operating status used to generate browsing destination information are called events, and the information that identifies these events is called event information. Furthermore, the content of the explanatory information may differ depending on the model of the image forming apparatus, and may include information specific to the region where it is installed. Therefore, when displaying explanatory information, it is preferable to display it in a language that the user of the image forming apparatus can understand. Therefore, as will be described later, the browsing information includes event information, model information of the image forming machine, and information about language and region.

[0034] The document management device 2 is a device that stores information about one or more information processing devices under its management, such as the image forming apparatus 1, and is also called a management server, or simply an SV. For example, the device name, connection information (IP address, domain name, etc.), owned functions, installation location, administrator information, and user information (username, user ID, password, etc.) of each image forming apparatus are stored.

[0035] Furthermore, the document management device 2 of this invention has pre-stored explanatory content information consisting of multiple pieces of explanatory information associated with events that may occur in the image forming apparatus 1. For example, explanatory information (instruction manual) regarding the numerous functions of the image forming apparatus 1, explanatory information regarding maintenance work to resolve malfunctions in the image forming apparatus, and explanatory information regarding troubleshooting for ICT equipment used by the user are stored in advance. Such explanatory information is also called explanatory guidance information, explanatory content information, or simply explanatory content. The document management device 2 primarily has the function of receiving content requests transmitted from the image forming apparatus 1 or the information viewing device 3, selecting explanatory content corresponding to the viewing destination information included in the content request from the explanatory information pre-stored in the document management device, and transmitting the selected explanatory content to the device that sent the content request.

[0036] As described above, the information viewing device 3 is a device that displays explanatory information regarding functions and operations in a viewable format. It is a portable terminal carried by users of the image forming apparatus 1, or by operators such as managers who perform maintenance work on the image forming apparatus, and is also called a user terminal or simply a PC. The information viewing device 3 is preferably a device (portable terminal) that is small and light enough to be carried at all times so that workers can view explanatory information near the image forming apparatus. For example, mobile phones, smartphones, smartwatches, tablet devices, laptop computers, and automobiles equipped with digital display screens can be used as information viewing devices 3.

[0037] The information viewing device 3 acquires viewing destination information corresponding to the desired function or maintenance work, transmits a content request including the viewing destination information to the document management device 2, and displays the explanatory content transmitted from the document management device 2. The information viewing device 3 is connected to the image forming apparatus 1 and the document management device 2 via the network 4, and may consist of more than one unit.

[0038] <Configuration of an image forming apparatus> Figure 3 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. Image forming apparatus 1 is an electronic device equipped with functions for processing image data, such as copying, printing, scanning, editing, saving, sending (fax, scanner, Internet fax), and communication functions. In the following embodiments, the image forming apparatus 1 of this invention will be described in particular as having a printing function and a document reading function, but it may also have other functions.

[0039] In Figure 3, the image forming apparatus (MFP) 1 of this invention mainly comprises a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, a display unit 13, an image processing unit 14, a communication unit 15, an event detection unit 21, an event occurrence determination unit 24, a viewing destination information generation unit 25, a viewing processing unit 26, an explanation content request unit 30, an explanation content reception unit 31, and a storage unit 40. Here, the image processing unit 14, as will be described later, mainly consists of an image input unit, an image forming unit, and an image output unit. The event detection unit 21 consists of an action detection unit 22 and an operation detection unit 23. Furthermore, the browsing processing unit 26 shall consist of a browsing destination information transmission unit 27, a browsing destination information display unit 28, and an explanatory content display unit 29.

[0040] The control unit 11 controls the operation of each component, such as the display unit 13 and the image processing unit 14, and is mainly implemented by a microcomputer consisting of a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O controller, timer, etc. The CPU operates various hardware components organically based on control programs pre-stored in non-volatile memory such as ROM, thereby executing the image formation function, browsing destination information display function, and other functions of this invention.

[0041] Furthermore, among the above-mentioned components, the event occurrence determination unit 24 and the browsing destination information generation unit 25 are functional blocks in which the CPU performs its respective processing based on a predetermined program.

[0042] The operation unit 12 is an input device for the user of the image forming apparatus (MFP) to perform predetermined input operations. For example, it is the part for inputting information such as characters or selecting functions, and a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel can be used. User-operated keys include the start key, function selection key, and settings key. For example, users can initiate document scanning by pressing a touch panel or a key to start the scanning operation, or initiate the transmission of information such as image data to a designated destination by pressing a transmission start key.

[0043] The display unit 13 is the part that displays information, and it displays information necessary for the execution of each function, as well as the results of the execution of the function, in order to inform the user. For example, if an LCD or organic EL display is used and a touch panel is used as the operation unit 12, the display unit 13 and the touch panel are arranged to overlap each other. The display unit 13 displays information such as settings for printing on the image forming apparatus, information necessary for executing functions such as document scanning, and operation screens for selected functions, using characters, symbols, figures, images, icons, animations, videos, etc.

[0044] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus MFP of this invention, as described later, the display unit 13 displays a display screen (confirmation request screen) for confirming explanatory information (explanatory guide information) stored in the image forming apparatus, and a display screen (viewing request screen) for requesting viewing of explanatory information (explanatory content) stored in the document management device (management server).

[0045] The image processing unit 14 is the part that performs the image forming function, which is the main function of the MFP image forming apparatus, and mainly consists of an image input unit, an image forming unit, and an image output unit. Primarily, the image input unit is responsible for inputting predetermined image data, the image forming unit is responsible for converting the input image data into information that can be printed, etc., and the image output unit is responsible for outputting the formed print information, etc., onto printing paper, etc.

[0046] The image input section is where image data of a document containing images, text, graphics, etc., such as print data intended for printing, is input. For example, it is the section that reads a document placed on a document glass or the like. For image input, a scanner (reading device) that reads documents containing information is used. An image forming apparatus (MFP) includes a document tray on which the document is placed and a document cover to hold the document in place, in order to scan the document. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus (MFP) may be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF) that can hold multiple documents and automatically transport and scan them one by one.

[0047] There are various methods for inputting image information, but for example, a document containing images can be scanned, and the image data of the document (hereinafter referred to as input image data) can be stored in the storage unit 40.

[0048] Furthermore, an interface for connecting external storage media, such as a USB memory stick, corresponds to the image input section. Electronic data files, such as image information to be input, may be saved on an external storage medium such as a USB memory stick. By connecting the USB memory stick to an input interface such as a USB terminal and performing a predetermined input operation on the operation unit 12, the desired electronic data files saved on the USB memory stick can be read and stored in the storage unit 40 as input image data.

[0049] For example, when printing print data onto a recording medium, the image forming unit generally performs the following steps in sequence: charging, exposure, development, transfer, cleaning, static discharge, and fixing, to form the print data on the recording medium. In the development process, toner is supplied from the toner cartridge to the developing device, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the charged photoreceptor drum is developed, forming a toner image corresponding to the electrostatic latent image. The toner image formed on the surface of the photoreceptor drum is transferred onto the recording medium by a transfer device, and then fixed onto the recording medium by heating by a fixing device. The image forming unit also converts the input image data into information in a format that can be transferred and displayed.

[0050] The image output unit is the part that outputs the formed input image data, and is equivalent to, for example, a printer. However, the output of input image data is not limited to printing; it also includes storing input image data of scanned documents and sending input image data of scanned documents via fax. For example, storing scanned document input image data on an external storage medium such as a USB memory stick, transmitting input image data to other information processing devices or servers via a network such as the internet, and classifying and saving them in a specific save folder also constitute image output.

[0051] The communication unit 15 is the part that communicates data with other communication devices via the network 4. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the image forming apparatus (MFP) 1 is connected to the document management device (SV) 2 via the network 4, and data communication takes place between the two devices. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus (MFP) 1 may be connected via the network 4 to other image forming apparatus MFPs or to information viewing devices (PCs) 3 owned by users, etc.

[0052] The image forming apparatus MFP, via its communication unit 15, transmits a content request to, for example, a document management device SV, and receives explanatory content, etc., transferred from the document management device SV. Network 4 can utilize any communication network, such as a LAN, a WAN like the Internet, a dedicated communication line, or a telephone line. Any existing connection method can be used to connect to Network 4, and either wired or wireless communication can be used for communication.

[0053] The event detection unit 21 is the part that detects events that occur when the image forming apparatus is performing a predetermined function. Events occurring in an image forming apparatus primarily refer to changes in the operating state of the image forming apparatus, and include, for example, operations or tasks performed on the image forming apparatus, the operation of the image forming apparatus, and the occurrence of malfunctions (troubles). As described above, the event detection unit 21 consists of an action detection unit 22 and an operation detection unit 23. The information about the detected events is used to generate browsing information to obtain explanatory information corresponding to those events, as will be described later.

[0054] The motion detection unit 22 is the part that detects events that occur in the image forming apparatus, such as the operation of the image forming apparatus and malfunctions (troubles) that occur in the image forming apparatus. The operation of an image forming apparatus refers to operations such as replenishing toner and transporting printing paper. Detecting these operations includes detecting when the toner runs out (need to replace the toner cartridge), when the paper tray is empty (need to replenish the paper), and when it's time to replace consumable parts such as the photoreceptor drum (need to replace parts).

[0055] The need to replace a toner cartridge can be detected, for example, by receiving a signal from the toner cartridge indicating that the toner has run out, which is output from a toner level sensor attached to the cartridge. The need to replenish printing paper can be detected by checking signals from sensors or switches located in the paper tray that indicate the presence or absence of paper. The need to replace parts can be detected, for example, by measuring the operating time and cumulative rotations of the photoreceptor drum and checking whether these values ​​exceed predetermined thresholds.

[0056] A malfunction (trouble) refers to a situation where an image forming apparatus is unable to continue performing a predetermined function and the function stops. For example, this could include problems with the paper transport (paper jam), problems with the paper transport (paper jam), blurring or misalignment in printing, or malfunctions in mobile phones or automobiles equipped with digital display devices. Paper jams or other problems with the transport of manuscript or printing paper can be detected, for example, by checking the signals output from paper detection sensors placed along the paper transport path.

[0057] The operation detection unit 23 is the part that detects operations and tasks performed on the image forming apparatus among the events that occur in the image forming apparatus. Operations and tasks related to the image forming apparatus include, for example, reading frequently asked questions (FAQs) and instruction manuals, searching for desired information, initiating scheduled maintenance, opening and closing the front panel of the image forming apparatus, removing the paper tray, replacing toner cartridges, and performing periodic replacements of parts such as drum cartridges and fuser units. These operations and tasks can be detected by monitoring predetermined key inputs on the control unit 12, as well as signals from sensors and switches attached to the front panel, paper tray, toner cartridge storage location, etc.

[0058] The event occurrence determination unit 24 determines the content of the event detected by the event detection unit 21, which consists of the motion detection unit 22 and the operation detection unit 23 described above, and acquires information that identifies the content of that event (referred to as event detection information). In the following embodiment, event information (also called an event ID) corresponding to the content of the detected event is obtained as event detection information using event response information 44 as shown in Figure 6, which will be described later.

[0059] For example, if a signal output from a paper detection sensor located in the paper transport path indicates that the paper being transported from the paper tray has stopped midway through transport, the event detected by the motion detection unit 22 is determined to be a "paper transport trouble (paper jam)," and EV01 is obtained as event information (event ID) from the event response information 44 in Figure 6, which will be described later. Event information is used to generate reference information for accessing explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred.

[0060] The browsing destination information generation unit 25 is the part that generates browsing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the event that occurred. The viewing destination information is generated, for example, using the device configuration information and event detection information described later. The viewing destination information includes connection destination information (server connection destination information) for connecting to the document management device SV where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored, as well as device configuration information and event detection information.

[0061] Alternatively, it is preferable that the viewing destination information includes information that allows connection to at least the document management device SV and identifies the storage area where the file containing explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. In particular, the viewing destination information may be generated as a URL that includes information for connecting to the document management device SV and information that allows it to identify the storage area of ​​the document management device SV where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored.

[0062] For example, to connect to a document management device SV, the IP address and domain information of the document management device SV are used as connection destination information. To identify the storage area where the file containing the desired explanatory information is stored, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) containing domain information is used. Furthermore, while a URL can be used to identify a storage area such as a folder where the file containing the desired explanatory information is stored, as will be described later, the URL may also include information that is pre-associated with the file containing the desired explanatory information (such as event information, image forming apparatus model information, language information, regional information, model number information, etc.). The generated destination information is, for example, the destination information (URLDT) 46 shown in Figure 6.

[0063] The browsing processing unit 26 is the part that processes information to view explanatory data corresponding to an event that has occurred. The browsing processing unit 26 includes the following: a browsing destination information transmission unit 27, a browsing destination information display unit 28, and an explanatory content display unit 29.

[0064] The browsing destination information transmission unit 27 is the part that transmits the generated browsing destination information to the information browsing device PC (user terminal). For example, as described later, if the information viewing device PC (user terminal) is set and stored in the explanation display destination setting information 48, which is pre-configured to display explanatory information, the viewing destination information is sent to the information viewing device PC (user terminal). Upon receiving the viewing destination information, the information viewing device PC sends a content request containing the viewing destination information to the document management device SV. This allows the PC to retrieve explanatory content from the document management device SV and view the explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred on its display screen.

[0065] The browsing destination information display unit 28 is the part that displays the generated browsing destination information on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP. The display of viewing destination information is done so that users and workers who possess an information viewing device PC (user terminal) can view explanatory information corresponding to the event that has occurred. If the browsing information consists of a URL, the URL itself, which is a string of characters, may be displayed on the display unit 13. Alternatively, code information including destination information, such as a two-dimensional code (also called a destination code) that encodes the destination information according to a predetermined rule, may be displayed on the display unit 13.

[0066] When a destination code is displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP, the camera on the information viewing device PC (user terminal) captures the destination code, and the information viewing device PC analyzes the destination code to obtain the destination information. The information viewing device PC can use this acquired viewing destination information to display explanatory information on the PC's screen. In this case, the information viewing device PC does not have to be a device that has been pre-registered with the document management device SV. A user possessing the information viewing device PC can quickly and easily access the desired explanatory information by taking a picture of the viewing destination code displayed on the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0067] The explanatory content display unit 29 is the part that displays explanatory content acquired from the document management device SV on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP. For example, as will be described later, if an image forming apparatus is set and stored in the explanation display destination setting information 48, a content request including viewing destination information is sent to the document management device SV, and the explanation content obtained from the document management device SV is displayed on the display unit 13. Alternatively, if explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred exists in the explanatory guide information 43 stored in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP, that explanatory information may be displayed on the display unit 13. In this case, users and operators of the image forming apparatus will view explanatory information on the display screen of the image forming apparatus MFP (Multi-Function Programmable Processor) without using an information viewing device PC.

[0068] The explanatory content request unit 30 is the part that requests the document management device SV to transmit explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred to the image forming apparatus MFP. For example, a content request including viewing location information is sent to the document management device SV. When a document management device SV receives a content request, it uses event detection information such as the viewing destination information included in the content request to find the explanatory content information 93 stored in the storage unit 90 of the document management device SV that corresponds to the event that occurred.

[0069] The explanatory content receiving unit 31 is the part that receives explanatory content transmitted from the document management device SV in response to the content request described above. When explanatory content is received, the explanatory content display unit 29 displays that explanatory content on the display unit 13, as described above.

[0070] The memory unit 40 is the part that stores information and programs necessary to perform each function of the image processing apparatus MFP of this invention, and uses semiconductor memory elements such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory, storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs, and other storage media. The memory unit 40 stores, for example, device setting information 41, server information 42, explanation guide information 43, event response information 44, event detection information 45, browsing destination information 46, browsing destination code 47, explanation display destination setting information 48, content request 49, and received explanation content information 50. Figures 5, 6, and 7 illustrate one embodiment of the information stored in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus (MFP).

[0071] The device setting information 41 is information that stores unique information about the image forming apparatus MFP, and is set and stored in advance. The device setting information 41 includes unique information that can identify the image forming apparatus MFP, and information for connecting to the image forming apparatus MFP. Furthermore, the device setting information 41 shall include information used to obtain explanatory information from the document management device SV, such as the model information of the image forming apparatus. The device configuration information 41 in Figure 5 shows the following: MFP device name (MFPNA), MFP connection destination information (MFPIPAD), model information (KID), language information (GID), region information (TID), and model number information (VID).

[0072] The MFP device name (MFPNA) is a name that identifies the MFP image forming apparatus, such as "MFP01". Any name that identifies the MFP image forming apparatus is acceptable; in addition to the name, the product name, ID number, or serial number may also be used. The MFP connection information (MFPIPAD) is information (IP101) for connecting to the image forming apparatus MFP via the network, and for example, the IP address assigned to the image forming apparatus MFP is used.

[0073] The model information (KID) is the model name of the image forming apparatus (MFP), such as "MX101". Since the content of the explanatory information used may differ depending on the model of the MFP (Multi-Function Processor), the model information (KID) is used to identify the explanatory information (explanatory content) to be viewed. In the document management device SV described later, by utilizing the model information (KID), it is possible to select explanatory information (explanatory content) that can be applied to the model identified by the model information (KID) from among the large amount of explanatory content information stored in the document management device SV.

[0074] Language information (GID) refers to the language used in the multifunction printer (MFP), and may also be country information. For example, information such as "Japanese." The language of the explanatory information being viewed should ideally match the language used in the multifunction printer (MFP), and language information (GID) is used to identify the language of the explanatory information (explanatory content) being viewed. If the document management device SV stores a large amount of explanatory content information written in multiple languages, the document management device SV can use language information (GID) to select the explanatory information (explanatory content) written in the language identified by that language information (GID).

[0075] Regional information (TID) is information about the region where the MFP (Multi-Function Image Forming) device is installed, such as "Tokyo". The specifications and optional equipment of the image forming apparatus (MFP) may differ depending on the region where it is installed, and the information used to describe these specifications may also vary. Therefore, regional information (TID) is used to identify the explanatory information (explanatory content) to be viewed. For example, if there are parts designed for cold climates, additional explanations of those parts may be included.

[0076] The Model Number (VID) is the version information of the software currently used in the MFP (Multi-Function Printing System), and may be in the format "VER101". The software may have been updated to a newer version, and the version currently in use may differ from the version used when the MFP (Multi-Function Forming System) was installed. Since the content of the user manual may differ depending on the software version, the model number information (VID) is used to identify the instructional information (instructional content) to be viewed.

[0077] If the explanatory content information stored in the document management device SV contains different information depending on the software version, the document management device SV can use the model number information (VID) to select the explanatory information (explanatory content) that can be applied to the software version identified by that model number information (VID).

[0078] However, the contents of the device setting information 41 are not limited to the model information and other information mentioned above; other information may also be added. For example, information about the environment where the MFP (Multi-Functional Processor) is installed (environmental information) may be added. Environmental information includes the temperature and humidity of the location where the MFP (Multi-Functional Processor) is installed. For example, it sets the temperature conditions of the MFP installation location (e.g., use at temperatures between 0°C and 30°C, or installation in a location without condensation).

[0079] If, among the numerous explanatory content pieces stored in the document management device SV, there is information regarding the temperature and humidity of the MFP's installation location (for example, a description regarding condensation prevention), the document management device SV can use the environmental information to select the explanatory content pieces that contain descriptions related to that environmental information from among the numerous explanatory content pieces.

[0080] The explanatory content information 93, described later, stored in the document management device SV, is also stored in association with model information (KID), language information (GID), regional information (TID), model number information (VID), etc., similar to the device setting information 41.

[0081] Server information 42 is information for identifying the document management device SV and for connecting to the document management device SV. As shown in Figure 5, the server information 42 includes, for example, the server name (SVNA) that identifies the document management device SV, and the server connection destination information (SVIPAD). Furthermore, in order to perform connection authentication, the server information 42 may also include the connection ID (SVID) and connection password (SVPW).

[0082] The server name (SVNA) is a name that identifies the document management device SV, such as "SV900". Any name that identifies the document management device SV is acceptable; in addition to the name, the product name, ID number, serial number, etc., are also acceptable. The server connection information (SVIPAD) is information (SVIP900) for connecting to the document management device SV via the network. For example, it may include the IP address, domain information, or URL assigned to the document management device SV.

[0083] The connection ID (SVID) and connection password (SVPW) are pieces of information used in general authentication processes. In Figure 5, for example, "SVID01" is stored as the connection ID (SVID) and "SVPW01" is stored as the connection password (SVPW). When a URL is used as server connection information (SVIPAD), it is stored in a format such as https: / / www.abc.def.co.jp / .

[0084] Explanation guide information 43 is explanation information (explanatory content) that is pre-stored in the image forming apparatus MFP. In the explanatory guide information 43 of Figure 5, the event information (EVID), the description name (GDNA), and the description content file (GDFL) are shown in association. Event information (EVID) is information that identifies the event, the description name (GDNA) corresponds to the name of the description information that should be viewed when that event occurs, and the description content file (GDFL) is the actual data of the description information that should be viewed.

[0085] For example, in the explanatory guide information 43 of Figure 5, the explanatory information associated with "EV01" has an explanatory name (GDNA) of "Paper Jam Retrieval Operation," and indicates that information explaining the operation to remove paper jammed in the transport path (Paper Jam Retrieval Operation) is stored in an explanatory content file named "GD001." "Paper jam removal" refers to the process of removing paper that has stopped midway through its transport path after being removed from the paper tray. Information explaining this process (text, symbols, diagrams, still images, and videos) is included in the explanation file "GD001". The explanatory guide information 43 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 5; if multiple events are defined, corresponding explanatory guide information 43 may be saved for each event.

[0086] Here, it is assumed that the explanatory content file (GDFL) is saved in association with events, and when a predetermined event occurs, the explanatory guide information 43 associated with that event is, in principle, displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP. However, in this invention, considering that the display of explanatory guide information 43 on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus may prevent the selection of functions of the image forming apparatus, it is preferable that the explanatory guide information 43 be displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP only when the display of the explanatory guide information 43 is permitted by the user of the image forming apparatus.

[0087] Furthermore, if explanatory guide information 43 associated with an event has been pre-stored in the image forming apparatus MFP, and if "MFP display screen" is set in the explanatory display destination setting information 48, the explanatory guide information 43 may also be displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0088] Alternatively, even if explanatory guide information 43 associated with an event has been pre-stored in the image forming apparatus MFP, if "user terminal display screen" is set in the explanatory display destination setting information 48, the explanatory guide information 43 will not be displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP. In this case, it is preferable to display a viewing request screen, as shown in Figure 18 described later, on the display unit 13.

[0089] In an embodiment where all explanatory information corresponding to an event is stored in the document management device SV and not in the image forming apparatus MFP, the explanatory guide information 43 is not stored.

[0090] The event response information 44 is pre-set and stored information used to determine which event information (EVID) corresponds to the event detected by the event detection unit 21. The event correspondence information 44 in Figure 6 shows the event information (EVID), the event that occurred (EVNA), and the description storage location (STR) associated and stored.

[0091] Event information (EVID) is information that identifies an event, occurrence event (EVNA) is information that identifies the detected occurrence event, and description location (STR) is information that indicates where the actual description information corresponding to the event information (EVID) is stored. If all explanatory information is saved in advance in the document management device SV and the explanatory information is not saved in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP, then the explanatory information storage location (STR) may not be necessary.

[0092] In the event response information 44 of Figure 6, for example, the event (EVNA) corresponding to the event information (EVID) "EV01" is "paper jam," and the location where the explanatory information (explanatory guide information) for resolving the "paper jam" is stored is an image forming apparatus MFP named MFP101.

[0093] Furthermore, the event information (EVID) for "EV02" corresponds to the event (EVNA) of "Fuser paper jam," and the location where the explanatory information (explanatory guide information) for resolving this "Fuser paper jam" is stored is the document management device SV, which has the server name SV900. "Fuser jam" refers to a condition (event) where the printing paper stops in the paper transport path near the fuser unit of an image forming apparatus.

[0094] However, the event response information 44 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 6. For example, information detected by the motion detection unit 22 (detection signal) or the content of operations or tasks detected by the operation detection unit 23 (key input, door opening, etc.) may be stored in association with the event information (EVID). Furthermore, the event determination unit 24 described above identifies an event based on the information detected by the motion detection unit 22 and the operation detection unit 23, and uses the event correspondence information 44 to obtain event information (EVID) corresponding to that event.

[0095] The event detection information 45 is a detection event (KEV) corresponding to an event that occurred, identified based on the information detected by the motion detection unit 22 and the operation detection unit 23 described above, and corresponds to the event information (EVID) acquired by the event determination unit 24. The event detection information 45 (KEV) in Figure 6 is "EV02," which means that the paper transport sensor located near the transport path in the vicinity of the fuser unit detected that the print paper had stopped (fuser paper jam).

[0096] The browsing destination information 46 is information generated by the browsing destination information generation unit 25. As previously explained, the access information 46 (URLDT) includes information for connecting to the document management device SV (connection information) and information that allows for the identification of the storage area where the explanatory information file corresponding to the event that occurred is stored (explanatory content identification information).

[0097] The URLDT information in Figure 6 consists of MFP connection information (MFPIPAD), server connection information (SVIPAD), event detection information (KEV), model information (KID), language information (GID), region information (TID), and model number information (VID). The MFP connection destination information (MFPIPAD), model information (KID), language information (GID), region information (TID), and model number information (VID) are the same information as those already described in the device configuration information 41, the server connection destination information (SVIPAD) is the same information as those already described in the server information 42, and the event detection information (KEV) corresponds to the event detection information 45 already described. In other words, the destination information 46 (URLDT) in Figure 6 is generated using the device configuration information 41, the server information 42, and the event detection information 45.

[0098] Figure 6 shows two types of destination information 46 (URLDT): URL111 and URL222. For example, the URL 111 of the browsing information has the following information: MFP connection information (MFPIPAD) is "IP101", server connection information (SVIPAD) is "SVIP900", event detection information (KEV) is "EV02", model information (KID) is "MX101", language information (GID) is "Japanese", region information (TID) is "Tokyo", and model number information (VID) is "VER101".

[0099] This URL 111 indicates that the device requesting access is an MFP with the identifier "IP101", the destination is a server with the identifier "SVIP900", and the file containing the explanatory information identified by five pieces of information—event detection information "EV02", model information "MX101", language information "Japanese", region information "Tokyo", and model number information "VER101"—is the information being requested for viewing.

[0100] The browsing destination information 46 mainly consists of information as shown in Figure 6, but as mentioned above, if a URL is used as the server connection destination information (SVIPAD), the browsing destination information 46 may be generated in a format that includes the information below the event detection information in addition to this URL. For example, the browsing destination information 46 may be generated in the following URL format. https: / / www.abc.def.co.jp / downloads / event=EV02&KID=MX101&GID=JP&TID=Tokyo&VID=VER101

[0101] The viewing destination information 46 is included in the content request and sent to the document management device SV. The URL information 46 (URLDT) in Figure 6 is information included in the content request sent from the image forming apparatus (MFP) to the document management device (SV). However, if the MFP connection destination information (MFPIPAD) portion of the viewing destination information 46 is defined as the destination information for the explanatory content sent from the document management device SV, then, as described later, when sending a content request including the viewing destination information 46 from the information viewing device PC to the document management device SV, it is preferable to replace the MFP connection destination information (MFPIPAD) portion of the viewing destination information 46 with PC connection destination information (for example, the IP address of the PC).

[0102] Furthermore, the generated browsing information 46 is not limited to the browsing information 46 (URLDT) shown in Figure 6, but only needs to include connection information and information equivalent to explanatory content identification information. For example, the explanatory content identification information may include at least event information and model information, and if it is clear that it will be used only in Japan and there are no regional differences, language information and regional information may be omitted.

[0103] As described above, the destination code 47 is code information that includes the destination information 46, and is, for example, a two-dimensional code that encodes the destination information 46, which is generated in the form of a URL, according to a predetermined rule. The destination code 47 is a two-dimensional code that includes destination information 46, for example, as shown in Figure 6.

[0104] The explanation display destination setting information 48 is information that specifies the device on which the explanation information will be displayed. As shown in Figure 7, for example, the administrator of the image forming apparatus MFP can pre-set and store in the explanation display destination setting information 48 a setting value indicating the display destination of the explanation information. In the explanatory display destination setting information 48 in Figure 7, the setting value "0" is set when the explanatory information is to be displayed on the "display screen of the image forming apparatus MFP," and the setting value "1" is set when the explanatory information is to be displayed on the "display screen of the user terminal PC."

[0105] If the setting value "0" is set in the explanation display destination setting information 48, the explanation information acquisition process, etc., will be executed so that the explanation information (explanation content) corresponding to the event that occurred will be displayed on the "Display screen of the image forming apparatus MFP". On the other hand, if the setting value "1" is set in the explanation display destination setting information 48, the explanation information acquisition process, etc., will be executed so that the explanation information (explanation content) corresponding to the event that occurred will be displayed on the "user terminal PC display screen".

[0106] However, if the explanatory information is not displayed on the display screen of the image forming apparatus MFP, and is always displayed on the display screen of the information viewing device PC, then the explanatory display destination setting information 48 is not necessary.

[0107] Content request 49 is information transmitted from the image forming apparatus (MFP) to the document management device (SV), and is generated when requesting the transmission of explanatory information (explanatory content) corresponding to an event that has occurred. As shown in Figure 7, the content request 49 preferably includes destination information (URLDT), and further includes destination information (SVIPAD) and source information (MFPIPAD). In content request 49 in Figure 7, for example, the destination information (SVIPAD) is set to server connection information (SVIP900), the source information (MFPIPAD) is set to MFP connection information (IP101), and the destination information (URLDT) is set to the destination information URL 111 shown in Figure 6. Upon receiving content request 49, the document management device SV sends the selected explanatory information (explanatory content) to the destination, using the information set in the source information (MFPIPAD).

[0108] The received explanatory content information 50 is the received explanatory information (explanatory content), which is information transmitted from the document management device SV as a response to the content request 49. The received explanation content information 50 in Figure 7 consists of event information (EVID), explanation name (CNNA), and explanation content file (CNFL). In the received explanation content information 50 shown in Figure 7, the event information is "EV02", the explanation name is "Fuser paper jam operation", and the explanation content file is "CNF201". "Fuser paper jam removal" refers to the process of removing jammed printing paper when it stops in the transport path near the fuser unit. Furthermore, as will be described later, the received explanatory content information 50 corresponds to the selected content information 96, which is selected from the explanatory content information 93 of the document management device SV.

[0109] <Document management system (management server) configuration> Figure 3 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of the document management device (management server) of this invention. In Figure 3, the document management device (SV) 2 of this invention mainly comprises a control unit 71, an operation unit 72, a display unit 73, a communication unit 74, an explanation content request receiving unit 75, an explanation content selection unit 76, an explanation content transmission unit 77, and a storage unit 90.

[0110] The control unit 71 is the part that controls the operation of each component, such as the operation unit 72 and the display unit 73, and is mainly implemented by a microcomputer consisting of a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O controller, timer, etc. The CPU operates various hardware components organically based on control programs pre-stored in non-volatile memory such as ROM, executing functions such as the explanation content transmission function in the document management device SV.

[0111] The operation unit 72 is an input device for the administrator of the document management device SV to perform predetermined input operations. For example, it is the part for inputting information such as text or selecting functions, and a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel can be used. Keys operated by the administrator include the start key, function selection key, and setting key.

[0112] The display unit 73 is the part that displays information, and it displays information necessary for the execution of each function, as well as the results of the execution of the function, in order to inform the administrator. For example, if an LCD or organic EL display is used and a touch panel is used as the operation unit 72, the display unit 73 and the touch panel are arranged to overlap each other. The display unit 73 displays, for example, setting information related to functions performed by the document management device SV, and viewing destination information obtained from the image forming apparatus MFP, using characters, symbols, figures, images, icons, animations, videos, etc.

[0113] The communication unit 74 is the part that communicates data with the image forming apparatus MFP and the information viewing device PC via the network 4. For example, it receives content requests transmitted from an image forming apparatus (MFP) or an information viewing device (PC). Furthermore, in response to a content request, the system sends selected content information corresponding to the event that occurred to the image forming apparatus MFP or information viewing device PC that sent the content request.

[0114] As mentioned above, any existing communication network can be used for Network 4, and either wired or wireless communication can be used as the communication method.

[0115] Furthermore, while only one MFP (Multi-Function Processor) may be connectable to the document management device SV, multiple MFPs can be connected to a single document management device SV, and one document management device SV may manage explanatory information related to multiple MFPs.

[0116] The explanatory content request receiving unit 75 is the part that receives content requests transmitted from the image forming apparatus MFP or the information viewing device PC.

[0117] The explanatory content selection unit 76 is the part that selects the explanatory information requested by the received content request. Since the received content request includes viewing location information, this viewing location information is used to select explanatory information (explanatory content) from the explanatory content information 93 stored in the storage unit 90 of the document management device SV that is associated with the event that occurred in the image forming apparatus identified by the viewing location information. The selected descriptive information (descriptive content) is called selected content information 96. If the destination information included in the content request is set as part of the URL, the system checks the portion of the URL corresponding to that destination information to find the explanatory information (explanatory content) that corresponds to the event that occurred.

[0118] The selected content information 96 includes at least a description file corresponding to the event that occurred. For example, if the event that occurred was "toner depletion," then an explanatory file containing instructions on how to replace the toner cartridge, which is explanatory information for resolving the "toner depletion" issue, will be selected as the selected content information 96.

[0119] However, since the shape and size of the toner cartridge, its storage location, and the replacement procedure may vary depending on the model of the image forming apparatus (MFP), the instruction file for toner cartridge replacement that corresponds to the model information included in the viewing location information will be selected. Furthermore, if the document management device SV's storage unit 90 stores instruction files regarding toner cartridge replacement in multiple languages, the instruction file written in the language of the language information included in the viewing location information will be selected.

[0120] Furthermore, the usage and operation of the software may differ depending on the version information of the software currently used in the MFP (Multi-Function Processing) system, and the content described in the instruction file may also differ. If the storage unit 90 of the document management device SV has corresponding explanatory files stored for each software version, the explanatory file corresponding to the model number information included in the viewing destination information will be selected.

[0121] As shown in Figure 9 later, if the explanatory content information 93 stored in the memory unit 90 of the document management device SV consists of a large number of explanatory content files associated with event information, model information, etc., then from among the large number of explanatory content files, an explanatory content file associated with event information, model information, etc. that matches the event information, model information, etc. of the viewing destination information included in the received content request is selected as the selected content information 96.

[0122] The explanatory content transmission unit 77 is the part that transmits the selected content information 96 selected by the explanatory content selection unit 76 to the information viewing device PC or the image forming device MFP. If a content request is received from an image forming apparatus MFP, the selected content information 96 is sent to that image forming apparatus MFP. On the other hand, if a content request is sent from an information viewing device PC, the selected content information 96 is sent to that information viewing device PC.

[0123] The memory unit 90 is the part that stores the information and programs necessary to perform each function of the document management device SV of this invention, and uses semiconductor memory elements such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory, storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs, and other storage media. The memory unit 90 stores, for example, server information 91, MFP information 92, explanatory content information 93, received content request 94, received viewing destination information 95, selected content information 96, and so on. Figures 8, 9, and 10 illustrate an example of the information stored in the storage unit 90 of the document management device SV.

[0124] Server information 91 is data that stores unique information about the document management device SV, and is pre-configured and stored. As shown in Figure 8, the server information 91 includes the server name (SVNA) that identifies the document management device SV, and the server connection destination information (SVIPAD). The server name (SVNA) and server connection information (SVIPAD) are the same information as that included in server information 42 shown in Figure 5. For example, the server name (SVNA) is the name information "SV900" that identifies the document management device SV, and the server connection destination information (SVIPAD) is the information "SVIP900" for connecting to the document management device SV via the network.

[0125] MFP information 92 is data that stores unique information about an image forming apparatus (MFP) that can be connected to a document management device (SV), and is pre-set and stored. The MFP information 92 includes information for identifying and connecting to the image forming apparatus (MFP), and further includes authentication information for connecting to the document management device (SV).

[0126] Figure 8 shows MFP information 92, which consists of the MFP device name (MFPNA), MFP connection destination information (MFPIPAD), connection ID (SVID), and connection password (SVPW). The MFP device name (MFPNA) is the name information that identifies the image forming apparatus MFP, and may be an ID number or serial number, while the MFP connection destination information (MFPIPAD) is the information for connecting to the image forming apparatus MFP via a network, and for example, an IP address is used. The Connection ID (SVID) and Connection Password (SVPW) are pieces of information used in general authentication processes.

[0127] Figure 8's MFP information 92 shows information for two image forming machines (MFP101, MFP201) that can be connected to the document management device SV. For example, the MFP connection information for the image forming machine named MFP101 is "IP101," the connection ID when connecting from this image forming machine MFP101 to the document management device SV is SVID01, and the connection password is SVPW01.

[0128] The explanatory content information 93 is an explanatory content consisting of multiple explanatory pieces of information associated with events that may occur in an image forming apparatus (MFP). Furthermore, it is a large number of explanatory pieces of information (explanatory content) that classify explanatory content files containing explanatory information by the model of the image forming apparatus (MFP), the language used in the image forming apparatus, and the model number information (version information) of the software. In other words, the explanatory content information 93 is information that is pre-stored in association with event information, model information, etc., and is classified by information such as event information and model information, and contains multiple explanatory content files that contain predetermined explanatory information.

[0129] Figure 9 shows an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of the explanatory content information 93. Figure 9 shows four pieces of explanatory content information, with each piece consisting of an explanatory identification number (CNNO), explanatory name (CNNA), event information (EVID), model information (KID), language information (GID), regional information (TID), model number information (VID), and explanatory content file (CNFL).

[0130] The Description Identifier (CNNO) is information that identifies the description information (description content), and the Description Name (CNNA) is information that provides a summary of the description information, and in this case, it indicates the name of the action to be taken in response to the event that occurred.

[0131] In the explanatory content information 93 of Figure 9, the event information (EVID) corresponds to the event detection information (KEV) shown in Figure 6, and the model information (KID), language information (GID), regional information (TID), and model number information (VID) correspond to the model information (KID), language information (GID), regional information (TID), and model number information (VID) included in the browsing destination information 46 of Figure 6, respectively. The Description File (CNFL) is the content of the description information provided to the user (the actual data of the description), and includes information such as text, symbols, figures, still images, and videos.

[0132] For example, among the explanatory content information 93 in Figure 9, the information with explanatory identification number (CNNO) "CN001" is information about the procedure for clearing a paper jam when the fed printing paper jams, and consists of an explanatory name (CNNA) "Paper Jam Procedure", event information (EVID) "EV01", model information (KID) two models (MX001, MX500), language information (GID) "Japanese", region information (TID) "Tokyo", model number information (VID) "VER101", and the name of the explanatory content file (CNFL) "CNF101".

[0133] Similarly, the information with the description identification number (CNNO) "CN002" has the description name (CNNA) "Paper jam operation," but the model information (KID) includes three models (MX001, MX500, MX700), meaning that the description information is applicable to all three models. Furthermore, the information with the Description Identification Number (CNNO) "CN002" means that the Language Information (GID) is "Japanese, English," so it is written in Japanese and English; the Regional Information (TID) is "Tokyo, London," so it contains information specific to Tokyo and London; and the Model Number Information (VID) is "VER102," which means that it contains information corresponding to the software version of the image forming apparatus MFP "VER102."

[0134] However, the content of explanatory content information 93 is not limited to this information, and other information may be added. Furthermore, in addition to event information (EVID), model information (KID), and description file (CNFL), any other information may be omitted.

[0135] The descriptive content information 93 is used to select descriptive information corresponding to the event that occurred. By comparing it with the received viewing destination information included in the received content request, information within the descriptive content information 93 that can match the received viewing destination information is selected as the selected content information 96, which will be described later.

[0136] The received content request 94 is a received content request, and for example, as shown in Figure 9, it consists of destination information (SVIPAD), source information (MFPIPAD), and viewing information (URLDT). The received content request 94 corresponds to the content request 49 shown in Figure 7. The received viewing destination information 95 is information included in the received content request, such as the information shown in Figure 10, and corresponds to the viewing destination information 46 shown in Figure 6.

[0137] As described above, the selected content information 96 is information selected by the explanatory content selection unit 76, and is, for example, the information shown in Figure 10. The selected content information 96 shown in Figure 10 is information selected from the explanatory content information 93 in Figure 9, and its explanatory identification number (CNNO) is "CN101". The selected content information 96 shown in Figure 10 also includes the description identification number and model information, but the selected content information 96 may also include only, for example, the description name (CNNA), event information (EVID), and description content file (CNFL).

[0138] The selection of selected content information 96 is performed, for example, as follows: If the destination information (URLDT) included in the received content request is "URL111" as shown in Figure 6, then the system searches for explanatory content information 93 as shown in Figure 9 and finds explanatory content information that matches the information from event detection information to model number information included in this destination information URL111. In this case, for example, the event detection information for the viewed URL 111 is "EV02," so the explanatory content information 93 that has event information that can match this event detection information "EV02" is the information with an explanatory identification number (CNNO) of "CN101."

[0139] In the explanatory content information 93 of Figure 9, the explanatory content information that contains information ranging from event information to model number information that can match the viewing destination information URL 111 of Figure 6 is the information with the explanatory identification number (CNNO) "CN101". Therefore, the information with the explanatory identification number (CNNO) "CN101" is selected as the selected content information 96.

[0140] Furthermore, for example, if the event detection information for the URL 111 included in the received content request is "EV01", then in the explanatory content information 93 of Figure 9, two pieces of information can be selected as having event information (EVID) that matches this event detection information "EV01", with the explanatory name "Paper jam operation" and explanatory identification numbers "CN001" and "CN002". However, if the model number information for the URL 111 is "VER101", the information with the same model number but a description identification number of "CN001" will be selected as the selected content information 96. In other words, the descriptive content information associated with the model number information (version information) of the software used in the image forming apparatus MFP is selected as the selected content information 96.

[0141] The selected content information 96 is transmitted by the explanatory content transmission unit 77 described above to the image forming apparatus MFP or information viewing device PC that sent the content request.

[0142] <Configuration of information viewing device (user terminal)> Figure 4 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of the information viewing device (user terminal) of this invention. In Figure 4, the information viewing device (PC) 3 of this invention mainly comprises a control unit 101, an operation unit 102, a display unit 103, a communication unit 104, a shooting unit 105, a viewing destination information acquisition unit 106, an explanation content request unit 107, an explanation content receiving unit 108, an explanation content display unit 109, and a storage unit 120.

[0143] The control unit 101 controls the operation of each component, such as the operation unit 102 and the display unit 103, and is mainly implemented by a microcomputer consisting of a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O controller, timer, etc. The CPU operates various hardware components organically based on control programs pre-stored in non-volatile memory such as ROM, executing functions such as acquiring browsing information and displaying explanatory content on the information browsing device PC.

[0144] The operation unit 102 is an input device for users who possess the information viewing device PC to perform predetermined input operations. For example, it is the part used for inputting information such as text or selecting functions, and a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel can be used. User-operated keys include the start key, function selection key, and settings key.

[0145] The display unit 103 is the part that displays information, and it displays information necessary for the execution of each function, as well as the results of the execution of the function, in order to inform the user. For example, if an LCD or organic EL display is used and a touch panel is used as the operation unit 102, the display unit 103 and the touch panel are arranged to overlap each other. The display unit 103 displays, for example, explanatory information (explanatory content) obtained from the document management device SV, and server connection request screens, using characters, symbols, graphics, images, icons, animations, videos, etc.

[0146] The communication unit 104 is the part that communicates data with the image forming apparatus MFP and the document management device SV via the network 4. For example, a content request is sent to a document management device SV, and explanatory information (explanatory content) is received from the document management device SV.

[0147] As mentioned above, any existing communication network can be used for Network 4, and either wired or wireless communication can be used as the communication method.

[0148] The camera unit 105 corresponds to the camera installed in the information viewing device PC. For example, the imaging unit 105 captures a two-dimensional code of the viewing destination information displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP. The QR code for the viewing destination information corresponds to viewing destination code 47. When a user possessing an information viewing device PC takes a photograph of the viewing destination code 47 displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP, image data of the viewing destination code 47 is acquired and stored in the storage unit 120 as captured image data 121.

[0149] The browsing destination information acquisition unit 106 is the part that acquires browsing destination information from the captured two-dimensional code (browsing destination code). If the destination code 47 is a two-dimensional code, the two-dimensional code is decoded from the stored captured image data 121, the destination information 122 contained in the two-dimensional code is obtained, and stored in the storage unit 120. If the browsing destination information is in the form of a URL, the browsing destination information 122 in URL format is obtained, and from that browsing destination information 122 in URL format, event detection information such as that shown in Figure 6 can be obtained.

[0150] The explanatory content request unit 107 is the part that requests the document management device SV to send explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred to the information viewing device PC. A content request 123 containing the acquired viewing destination information 122 is generated, and the generated content request 123 is sent to the document management device SV where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. The explanatory content request unit 107 corresponds to the explanatory content request unit 30 of the image forming apparatus MFP, and the content request 123 is the information corresponding to the content request 49 in Figure 7 described above. However, the source information of content requests sent from the information viewing device PC includes the connection destination information of the information viewing device PC (for example, the PC's IP address).

[0151] The content request 123 includes, for example, the viewing destination information shown in Figure 6. However, if the document management device SV is capable of decoding the two-dimensional code, the content request 123 may also include the captured image data 121 of the viewing destination code itself.

[0152] The explanatory content receiving unit 108 is the part that receives selected content information transmitted from the document management device SV as a response to a content request, and corresponds to the explanatory content receiving unit 31 of the image forming apparatus MFP. The received selected content information is stored in the storage unit 120 as received explanatory content information 124.

[0153] The explanatory content display unit 109 is the part that displays explanatory content information corresponding to an event that has occurred, specifically the explanatory content information transmitted from the document management device SV, i.e., the received explanatory content information 124, on the display unit 103 of the information viewing device PC. For example, if the selected content information received corresponds to the event "paper jam," information regarding the operation to remove the paper that stopped during transport will be displayed on the display unit 103 using text, graphics, photographs, videos, etc.

[0154] Alternatively, if the received selected content information is explanatory information corresponding to the event "toner depletion," and that explanatory information already contains information about where to order toner cartridges, then in addition to displaying information about the toner cartridge replacement procedure and information about the toner cartridge supplier, a screen for ordering toner cartridges via the network may also be displayed.

[0155] The information viewing device PC displays explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred, so a user with the information viewing device PC can come near the image forming machine MFP and, for example, check the explanatory content corresponding to "paper jam removal" displayed on the information viewing device PC's screen, and then perform the task of removing the paper jam from the image forming machine MFP.

[0156] Furthermore, since the details of the "paper jam clearing procedure" are displayed on the display screen of the information viewing device PC (103) rather than on the display unit (13) of the image forming apparatus MFP, users can view the explanation of the "paper jam clearing procedure," check other information displayed on the display unit (13) of the image forming apparatus MFP, and select the appropriate item, thereby reducing the user's operational burden and enabling the "paper jam clearing procedure" to be performed more quickly.

[0157] The memory unit 120 is the part that stores the information and programs necessary to perform each function of the information viewing device PC of this invention, and uses semiconductor memory elements such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory, storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs, and other storage media. The memory unit 120 stores, for example, captured image data 121, viewing destination information 122, content request 123, and received explanation content information 124.

[0158] As described above, the captured image data 121 is image data captured by the imaging unit 105. As described above, the browsing destination information 122 is information obtained from the captured image data 121, and corresponds to, for example, the browsing destination information 46 shown in Figure 6.

[0159] As described above, content request 123 is information generated by the explanatory content request unit 107. The received explanatory content information 124 is, as described above, selected content information transmitted from the document management device SV as a response to the content request.

[0160] <Explanatory information acquisition process in image forming apparatus> This section describes the process of detecting events (operations, controls, malfunctions, etc.) that occur in an image forming apparatus (MFP) and obtaining explanatory information corresponding to the detected events. Furthermore, if explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is already stored in the image forming apparatus MFP, that explanatory information shall be displayed on the display screen of the image forming apparatus. On the other hand, if explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is not stored in the image forming apparatus MFP, the explanatory information is either obtained from the document management device SV, or information for obtaining the explanatory information from the document management device SV (viewing location information, viewing location code) is displayed on the display screen of the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0161] In particular, in the following Embodiment 1, the display screen of the image forming apparatus MFP displays information (viewing destination information, viewing destination code) for obtaining explanatory information from the document management device SV, the viewing destination code is photographed by the camera of the information viewing device PC, and the explanatory information itself is displayed on a display screen of the information viewing device PC that is different from that of the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0162] Furthermore, in Example 2, the image forming apparatus MFP transmits viewing destination information, which is information for obtaining explanatory information from the document management device SV, to the information viewing device PC, and the information viewing device PC uses the received viewing destination information to obtain explanatory information from the document management device SV and displays it on the display screen of the information viewing device PC.

[0163] (Example 1 of the explanatory information acquisition process) Figures 11 and 12 show flowcharts of one embodiment of the process for acquiring explanatory information in an image forming apparatus. In step S1 of Figure 11, the event detection unit 21 checks whether a predetermined event has occurred in the image forming apparatus MFP. For example, the motion detection unit 22 checks whether the toner cartridge has run out of toner or whether a paper jam has occurred in the paper transport path. Furthermore, the operation detection unit 23 checks whether or not an operation to start the toner cartridge replacement process has been performed. If an event is detected in step S2, proceed to step S3; otherwise, return to step S1.

[0164] In step S3, the event determination unit 24 uses the event response information 44 to determine which event has occurred and obtains event information (event ID: EVID) corresponding to the event that has occurred. For example, if the fed printing paper jams in the transport path, event information (event ID) EV01, which corresponds to the occurrence event (EVNA) of "paper jam" in the paper feed, is obtained from the event response information 44 in Figure 6 and stored in the storage unit 40 as event detection information 45.

[0165] In step S4, check the source of the explanatory content. For example, if event response information 44 as shown in Figure 6 is already stored, the description storage location (STR) corresponding to the acquired event ID (event detection information 45) is checked. If the description storage location (STR) corresponding to the acquired event ID (event detection information 45) contains information indicating the image forming apparatus MFP, then the source of the description content is determined to be the image forming apparatus MFP. On the other hand, if the description storage location (STR) corresponding to the acquired event ID contains information indicating the document management device SV, then the source of the description content is determined to be the document management device SV.

[0166] In the event correspondence information 44 of Figure 6, if the acquired event ID is EV01, the explanation storage location (STR) corresponding to that event ID is MFP101, so it is determined that the explanation content acquisition location is the image forming apparatus MFP. In this case, it means that the explanatory content corresponding to the event "paper jam" is stored in the memory unit 40 of the image forming apparatus (MFP101).

[0167] On the other hand, in the event response information 44 in Figure 6, if the acquired event ID is EV03, the explanation storage location (STR) corresponding to that event ID is SV900, so it is determined that the explanation content acquisition location is the document management device SV. In this case, it means that the explanatory content corresponding to the "toner out" event is stored in the memory unit 90 of the document management device (SV900).

[0168] In step S5, if the source of the explanatory content is the document management device (management server) SV, proceed to step S21 in Figure 12; if it is the image forming apparatus MFP, proceed to step S6. In step S6, the explanatory content corresponding to the acquired event information ID is selected from the explanatory guide information 43 stored in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0169] In step S7, a display screen (confirmation request screen: G1) is shown to confirm the selected explanatory content. For example, display the confirmation request screen G1 as shown in Figure 17. The confirmation request screen G1 in Figure 17 is displayed when the printer is jammed. It shows whether the user wants to confirm that the printer is jammed and to review the instructions on how to remove the jammed paper. However, the confirmation request screen G1 in Figure 17 is just one example, and the content displayed is not limited to that example.

[0170] Users of the MFP (Multi-Functional Processor) view the display screen G1 to decide whether or not to view the explanatory content. If they wish to view the explanatory content, they select the "Display" area on the display screen; if they do not wish to view it, they select the "Cancel" area on the display screen.

[0171] In step S8, if a display request (the display area for "Display") is selected, the process proceeds to step S10; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S9. In step S9, if you select "Do not display" (the "Cancel" display area), the confirmation request screen G1 in Figure 17 is cleared and the process returns to step S1; otherwise, the process returns to step S8.

[0172] In step S10, the selected explanatory content is displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP. By viewing this explanatory content, users of the image forming apparatus can check explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred, for example, they can obtain information on how to remove jammed paper.

[0173] Alternatively, after step S6, the process may proceed to step S10 without displaying the confirmation request screen G1. In this case, the user of the image forming apparatus does not need to perform any special input operations, and the selected explanatory content is displayed on the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus, so there is no burden on the user to input information to display explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred.

[0174] In step S11, if an input operation indicating the end of a predetermined display is performed, the display of the explanatory content ends and the process returns to step S1; otherwise, the process returns to step S10.

[0175] Through the above process, if a person capable of responding to an event, such as the administrator of the image forming apparatus MFP, is near the image forming apparatus, they can quickly take action to respond to the event by checking the confirmation request screen G1 displayed on the image forming apparatus MFP. Furthermore, when a predetermined event occurs in the image forming apparatus, the confirmation request screen G1 is displayed. If the user wishes to view explanatory information corresponding to the event, they can simply select the display request, and the explanatory information will be displayed. This reduces the user's input burden in displaying explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred.

[0176] In step S5 described above, if the source of the explanatory content is the document management device (management server) SV, the processes from step S21 onwards shown in Figure 12 below will be executed. In step S21 of Figure 12, the device setting information 41 stored in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP is read. For example, the device setting information 41 shown in Figure 5 is read. In step S22, the server information 42 stored in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP is read. For example, the server information 42 shown in Figure 5 is read.

[0177] In step S23, the browsing destination information generation unit 25 generates browsing destination information 46. Here, the destination information 46 is generated using the event detection information 45, the read device configuration information 41, and the server information 42. For example, by using the device configuration information 41 and server information 42 in Figure 5, and the event detection information 45 in Figure 6, the URL 111 of the destination information 46 shown in Figure 6 is generated. As mentioned above, the browsing destination information 46 may be in URL format, including event detection information.

[0178] In step S24, the system checks whether the explanation display destination setting information 48 stored in the memory unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP is set to "MFP display screen" or "user terminal PC display screen". If it is set to "MFP display screen", the system proceeds to step S25; if it is set to "user terminal PC display screen", the system proceeds to step S32.

[0179] However, if the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP does not store the explanation display destination setting information 48, and the design specification is to always display the explanation information on the user terminal's display screen, then the process proceeds from step S23 to step S32.

[0180] In step S25, the explanatory content request unit 30 generates a content request 49 that includes the above-mentioned viewing destination information 46. In step S26, a content request is sent to the management server SV.

[0181] In step S27, it is checked whether or not the explanatory content sent from the management server SV is received. In step S28, if explanatory content is received from the management server SV, proceed to step S29; otherwise, return to step S27. In step S29, the received explanatory content is stored in the storage unit 40.

[0182] In step S30, the received explanatory content is displayed on the display unit 13. However, before displaying the explanatory content, you may also display the confirmation request screen shown in Figure 17, as in step S7 above.

[0183] Furthermore, when displaying explanatory content, the previously displayed screen may be cleared before displaying the explanatory content. However, if, for example, a function selection screen or a settings screen for a specific setting item was displayed immediately before, these previously displayed screens and the explanatory content screen may be displayed separately. Alternatively, the previously displayed screen and the explanatory content screen may be switched using a predetermined input operation.

[0184] In step S31, if an input operation indicating the end of a predetermined display is performed, the display of the explanatory content ends and the process returns to step S1; otherwise, the process returns to step S30.

[0185] In step S32, a destination code (two-dimensional code) corresponding to the generated destination information is generated. Here, since the explanation display destination setting information 48 is set to "User terminal PC display screen," a viewing destination code (two-dimensional code) is generated in order to connect the user terminal PC to the document management device SV and obtain the explanation content.

[0186] In step S33, the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP displays the destination code. For example, the display unit 13 displays a viewing request screen G2 containing a viewing destination code, as shown in Figure 18. This viewing request screen G2 is a display screen used to request access to explanatory information (explanatory content) stored in the document management device SV. In the viewing request screen G2 shown in Figure 18, a description of how to clear a paper jam, a viewing destination code, and a URL indicating the viewing destination information are displayed.

[0187] Users near the image forming apparatus (MFP) can view this viewing request screen G2 and, using their own information viewing device PC, scan the viewing destination code (two-dimensional code) to obtain the viewing destination information from the code and connect to the document management device SV. Alternatively, if the information viewing device PC is equipped with character recognition capabilities, the destination information can be obtained by taking a picture of the displayed URL string and performing character recognition, and then connecting it to the document management device SV. Furthermore, if the information viewing device PC does not have a function to capture QR codes, it may connect to the document management device SV by entering the displayed URL string.

[0188] As shown in Figure 16, which will be described later, by taking a picture of the viewing destination code (two-dimensional code) and connecting it to the document management device SV, a content request is sent to the document management device SV, and the selected content is sent to the information viewing device PC, so that explanatory information corresponding to the event can be viewed on the information viewing device PC.

[0189] In step S34, if an input operation indicating the end of a predetermined display is performed, the display of the browsing request screen G2 is terminated and the process returns to step S1; otherwise, the process returns to step S33.

[0190] Through the above process, anyone who is near the MFP (Multi-Function Image Forming System), such as a manager or user, and who possesses an information viewing device PC, can easily connect to the document management device SV by taking a picture of the viewing destination code (two-dimensional code) displayed on the display unit 13 of the MFP using their information viewing device PC. Furthermore, since explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred can be displayed on the user's own terminal PC, it is possible to perform event-related tasks on the MFP more quickly while holding the PC, without having to look at the MFP screen.

[0191] Furthermore, when a predetermined event occurs in the image forming apparatus, the viewing request screen G2 is automatically displayed. If a user of the image forming apparatus MFP wishes to view explanatory information corresponding to the event, they can simply scan the displayed viewing destination code (two-dimensional code), and the explanatory information will be displayed on the user's information viewing device PC. This reduces the user's input burden in displaying explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred.

[0192] (Example 2 of the explanatory information acquisition process) Figure 13 shows a flowchart of one embodiment of the process for acquiring explanatory information in an image forming apparatus. In the flowchart in Figure 12, a destination code (two-dimensional code) corresponding to the destination information was generated and that destination code was displayed. However, in Figure 13, the destination information is transmitted to the information viewing device (user terminal) PC, which is a difference. In this embodiment, it is preferable to pre-store information for connecting to the information viewing device PC in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP. For example, the device name that identifies the information viewing device PC and the IP address assigned to the information viewing device PC are pre-stored.

[0193] In the flowchart of Figure 13, the same process as steps S21 to S31 in the flowchart of Figure 12 is performed. However, in step S24 of Figure 13, if the explanation display destination setting information 48 stored in the storage unit 40 of the image forming apparatus MFP is "display screen of the user terminal PC", the process proceeds to step S40.

[0194] In step S40 of Figure 13, the generated browsing destination information is sent to the information browsing device PC, and the process returns to step S1 of Figure 11. If there are many information viewing device PCs stored in the image forming apparatus MFP, a list of the stored information viewing device PCs can be displayed on the display unit 13, and the user can be asked to select and input the terminal PC to which the viewing destination information should be sent.

[0195] On the information viewing device PC that receives the viewing destination information, for example, by performing the process of acquiring and displaying explanatory information as shown in Figure 14 below, explanatory information (explanatory content) corresponding to the occurring event can be displayed.

[0196] <Acquisition and display processing of explanatory information in information viewing devices> Figure 14 shows a flowchart of one embodiment of the process for acquiring and displaying explanatory information in an information viewing device. In step S51 of Figure 14, it is checked whether or not the viewing destination information is received. In step S52, if the viewing destination information is received, proceed to step S53; otherwise, return to step S51. In step S53, the received browsing destination information 122 is stored in the storage unit 120.

[0197] In step S54, the server connection request screen is displayed on the display unit 103 of the information viewing device PC using the browsing destination information 122. The server connection request screen is a display screen on the information viewing device PC used to check explanatory content. It displays information about the event that occurred and information for selecting whether or not to connect to the management server SV.

[0198] FIG. 19 shows an explanatory diagram of an example of a display screen (server connection request screen: G3) for checking explanatory content. On the server connection request screen G3 in FIG. 19, there are an explanatory text regarding the "method for clearing paper jams" similar to that in FIG. 18, browsing destination information 122 in URL format, a display area for "server connection" to be selected when connecting to the management server SV, and a display area for "cancel" to be selected when not connecting.

[0199] The user of the information browsing device PC views this screen G3 and selects whether to connect to the management server SV. If the user wants to connect to the management server SV, the user selects and inputs the display area for "server connection", and if not, the user selects and inputs the display area for "cancel".

[0200] In step S55, if the display area for "server connection" is selected and input, the process proceeds to step S56. If not, that is, if the display area for "cancel" is selected and input, the server connection request screen G3 is erased and the process returns to step S51. In step S56, a content request including the received browsing destination information 122 is generated. In step S57, using the server information included in the received browsing destination information 122, the management server SV is connected.

[0201] Hereinafter, the same processing as steps S26 to S31 in FIG. 12 is performed. In step S58, similar to step S26, a content request is transmitted to the management server SV.

[0202] In step S59, it is checked whether the explanatory content transmitted from the management server SV is received. In step S60, if the explanatory content from the management server SV is received, the process proceeds to step S61; otherwise, the process returns to step S59. In step S61, the received explanatory content is stored in the storage unit 120 of the PC.

[0203] In step S62, the received explanatory content is displayed on the display unit 103 of the PC. In step S63, if an input operation indicating a predetermined end of display is performed, the display of the explanatory content is ended and the process returns to step S51; otherwise, the process returns to step S62.

[0204] Through the above processing, a person who has the information browsing device PC, such as a manager or user of the image forming apparatus MFP, can, even without being near the image forming apparatus MFP, use the received browsing destination information on the information browsing device PC to confirm the screen (server connection request screen G3) displayed, and can easily know that a predetermined event such as paper jam or toner exhaustion has occurred in the printing paper, and can perform a predetermined input operation for connecting to the document management apparatus SV.

[0205] In addition, since the explanatory information corresponding to the occurred event can be displayed on the user terminal PC that the user himself / herself has, even without going to the position of the image forming apparatus MFP with the user terminal PC and without looking at the screen of the image forming apparatus MFP, in the state of having the PC, it is possible to more quickly perform an operation corresponding to the event on the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0206] <Transmission process of explanatory information in document management apparatus> FIG. 15 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of the transmission process of explanatory information in the document management apparatus. In step S71 of FIG. 15, a check for receiving a content request is performed. As described above, the content request may be transmitted from the image forming apparatus MFP or from the information browsing device PC. In step S72, if a content request is received, the process proceeds to step S73; otherwise, the process returns to step S71.

[0207] In step S73, the browsing destination information included in the received content request is acquired and stored as received browsing destination information 95. In step S74, the document management device SV selects explanatory content corresponding to the received viewing destination information 95 from the explanatory content information 93 stored in the storage unit 90 and stores it as selected content information 96. As described above, from among the multiple explanatory content stored in the explanatory content information 93, an explanatory content that matches the event detection information included in the receiving / viewing destination information 95 is searched for and stored as selected content information 96.

[0208] In step S75, the source information of the content request is used to identify the source that sent the content request. The source of the transmission is assumed to be either an image forming apparatus (MFP) or an information viewing device (PC). In step S76, if the source is an image forming apparatus (MFP), proceed to step S77; if the source is an information viewing device (PC), proceed to step S78.

[0209] In step S77, the selected content information 96 is sent to the image forming apparatus MFP that sent the content request, and the process returns to step S71. In step S78, the selected content information 96 is sent to the information viewing device PC that sent the content request, and the process returns to step S71.

[0210] As described above, the document management device SV selects explanatory information (explanatory content) corresponding to the event that occurred and sends it to the image forming apparatus MFP or information viewing device PC that sent the content request.

[0211] <Example of acquiring and displaying explanatory information using browsing destination information displayed on an image forming apparatus> Figure 16 shows a communication sequence of one embodiment of the process of acquiring and displaying explanatory information using browsing destination information displayed on an image forming apparatus MFP. The communication sequence in Figure 16 corresponds to the communication sequence of Example 1 of the explanatory information acquisition process in the image forming apparatus. A request to view explanatory information (content request) is made from the information viewing device PC to the document management device SV, and the explanatory information (explanatory content) corresponding to the event is displayed on the display unit 103 of the information viewing device PC.

[0212] The document management device SV is assumed to have explanatory content information 93 pre-stored. Assume that a user possessing an information viewing device (user terminal) PC is near an image forming apparatus (MFP).

[0213] In step A11 of the image forming apparatus MFP shown in Figure 16, the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP displays information (viewing destination code) that corresponds to the occurring event, encoded in two-dimensional code.

[0214] In step C11 of the information viewing device PC, suppose the user holding the information viewing device (user terminal) PC takes a picture of the viewing destination code displayed on the MFP using the PC's camera. In step C12, the image data of the captured destination code is stored as captured image data 121.

[0215] In step C13, the destination information corresponding to the destination code is obtained from the captured image data 121. In step C14, a content request is generated that includes the acquired browsing information. In step C15, the generated content request is sent to the document management device SV.

[0216] In step B11 of the document management device SV, a content request is received. In step B12, the browsing destination information included in the content request is obtained, and the selected content information 96 corresponding to the browsing destination information is obtained using the explanatory content information 93 stored in the storage unit 90. In step B13, the acquired selected content information 96 is sent to the information viewing device PC that sent the content request.

[0217] In step C16 of the information browsing device PC, the selected content information 96 is received. In step C17, the selected content information 96 is displayed on the display unit 103 of the information browsing device PC. In step C18, the user refers to the displayed selected content information 96 and performs an operation corresponding to the generated event on the image forming apparatus MFP.

[0218] Through the above processing, the user who holds the information browsing device PC can easily display the explanation information (selected content information) corresponding to the event occurring in the image forming apparatus on the display unit 103 of the PC just by holding the PC and going to the position of the image forming apparatus MFP and taking a picture of the browsing destination code displayed on the image forming apparatus MFP, and can reduce the operation burden of the user for browsing the explanation information corresponding to the generated event. In addition, since the explanation information (selected content information) is displayed on the display unit 103 of the PC held by the user instead of the display unit 13 of the image forming apparatus MFP, the user can more quickly perform an operation corresponding to the generated event on the image forming apparatus MFP while holding the PC without looking at the screen of the image forming apparatus MFP.

Explanation of Signs

[0219] 1 Image forming apparatus 2 Document management apparatus (management server) 3 Information browsing apparatus (user terminal) 4 Network 11 Control unit 12 Operation unit 13 Display unit 14 Image processing unit 15 Communication unit 21 Event detection unit 22 Motion detection unit 23 Operation detection unit 24 Generated event determination unit 25 Browsing destination information generation unit 26. Browsing Processing Unit, 27. Information transmission section for viewing destinations, 28. Display section for browsing information, 29 Explanation content display section, 30. Explanation content request section, 31 Explanation content receiving unit, 40 storage section, 41. Device configuration information, 42 Server information, 43. Explanation guide information, 44 Event information, 45 Event detection information, 46. ​​Information on where to view, 47 Access code, 48. Description display destination settings information, 49. Content requests, 50 Receiving explanation content information, 71 Control unit, 72 Operation section, 73 Display section, 74 Communications Department, 75 Explanation content request receiving unit, 76 Explanation content selection section, 77 Explanation content transmission unit, 90 storage section, 91 Server information, 92 MFP information, 93. Description content information, 94. Received content request, 95 Receiving and viewing information, 96 Selected Content Information, 101 Control unit, 102 Operation section, 103 Display section, 104 Communications Department, 105 Photography Department, 106 Access information acquisition unit, 107 Explanation Content Request Section, 108 Explanation content receiving unit, 109 Explanation content display section, 120 storage section, 121 Photographed image data, 122 Information on where to view, 123 Content requests, 124 Receiving Instructions Content Information

Claims

1. In an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, Display unit and A storage unit that stores device setting information including model information of the information processing device, which is unique information that can identify the information processing device, An event detection unit that detects events that occur when the predetermined function is being performed, An event detection unit determines the content of the detected event and acquires event detection information that identifies the content of the event. A browsing destination information generation unit generates browsing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the event that occurred, using the device setting information and the event detection information. The system includes a browsing destination information display unit that displays the generated browsing destination information on the display unit, The aforementioned access destination information includes connection destination information for connecting to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored, the event detection information, and the device setting information, and is generated as a URL that includes information capable of identifying the storage area of ​​the document management device where the explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. An information processing device which, upon receiving the content request, identifies a storage area where explanatory information corresponding to the event has been stored and provides it to the information viewing device. This information processing device is an information device which acquires the destination information generated by the destination information generation unit, transmits a content request including the destination information to the document management device, and upon receiving the content request, identifies a storage area where explanatory information corresponding to the event has been stored and provides it to the information viewing device.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the browsing destination information display unit displays a two-dimensional code representing the browsing destination information on the display unit.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the device setting information further includes information on the language used in the information processing apparatus, information on the region where the information processing apparatus is installed, and model number information of the software used in the information processing apparatus.

4. The event detection unit includes an operation detection unit that detects the operation of the information processing device and malfunctions occurring in the information processing device, and an operation detection unit that detects operations and tasks performed on the information processing device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the descriptive information includes at least information that supports the execution, maintenance, and input operations of the functions of the information processing apparatus.

5. A shooting unit that photographs a two-dimensional code of the browsing destination information displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus according to claim 2, A browsing destination information acquisition unit obtains the browsing destination information from the two-dimensional code that has been photographed, An explanatory content request unit transmits a content request, including the acquired viewing location information, to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. The second display unit, An information viewing device characterized by comprising: an explanatory content display unit that displays explanatory content information transmitted from the document management device to the second display unit, which corresponds to the aforementioned event that occurred.

6. A second storage unit that stores explanatory content information consisting of multiple pieces of explanatory information associated with events that may occur in the aforementioned information processing device, An explanatory content request receiving unit that receives the content request from the information viewing device described in claim 5, A description content selection unit that uses the browsing destination information included in the content request to select selected content information from the description content information stored in the second storage unit that is associated with an event that occurred in the information processing device identified by the browsing destination information, A document management device characterized by comprising an explanatory content transmission unit that transmits the selected content information to the information viewing device.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the information processing apparatus is an image forming apparatus having multiple functions.

8. The information viewing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the information viewing device is a portable terminal owned by a user who uses the information processing device.

9. An explanatory information processing system comprising an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, a document management device that stores explanatory information related to the information processing device, and an information viewing device that displays explanatory information related to the information processing device, all connected via a network, The aforementioned information processing device The first display unit and A first storage unit stores unique information that can identify the information processing device, including device setting information that includes the model information of the information processing device. An event detection unit that detects events that occur when the predetermined function is being performed, An event detection unit determines the content of the detected event and acquires event detection information that identifies the content of the event. A browsing destination information generation unit generates browsing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the event that occurred, using the device setting information and the event detection information. The system includes a browsing destination information display unit that displays a two-dimensional code, which is a symbol representing the generated browsing destination information, on the first display unit, The aforementioned information viewing device A shooting unit that photographs a two-dimensional code of the browsing destination information displayed on the first display unit of the information processing device, A browsing destination information acquisition unit obtains the browsing destination information from the two-dimensional code that has been photographed, The system includes an explanatory content request unit that transmits a content request, including the acquired viewing location information, to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. The aforementioned document management device A second storage unit that stores explanatory content information consisting of multiple pieces of explanatory information associated with events that may occur in the aforementioned information processing device, The information viewing device has an explanatory content request receiving unit that receives the content request, A description content selection unit that uses the browsing destination information included in the content request to select selected content information from the description content information stored in the second storage unit that is associated with an event that occurred in the information processing device identified by the browsing destination information, The system includes an explanatory content transmission unit that transmits the selected content information to the information viewing device, The aforementioned information viewing device further, The second display unit, The system includes an explanatory content display unit that displays explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred, and the selected content information transmitted from the document management device on the second display unit, The aforementioned viewing destination information includes connection destination information for connecting to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored, the event detection information, and the device setting information, and is generated as an explanatory information processing system that includes information capable of identifying the storage area of ​​the document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored.

10. Description of an information processing device: An information processing method, The control unit provided in the aforementioned information processing device, A storage step of storing device setting information, which includes model information of the information processing device, and which is unique information that can identify the information processing device. An event detection step for detecting an event that occurs when the information processing device is performing a predetermined function, An event determination step involves determining the content of the detected event and obtaining event detection information that identifies the content of the event. A browsing destination information generation step that uses the device setting information and the event detection information to generate browsing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the event that occurred, The process involves executing a step that displays the generated browsing information, The aforementioned access destination information includes connection destination information for connecting to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored, the event detection information, and the device setting information, and is generated as a URL that includes information capable of identifying the storage area of ​​the document management device where the explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. An information processing method for an information device, wherein an information viewing device that has acquired the generated viewing destination information transmits a content request containing the viewing destination information to the document management device, and the document management device that has received the content request identifies a storage area where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored and provides it to the information viewing device.

11. A method for processing explanatory information in an explanatory information processing system, comprising an information processing device that performs a predetermined function, a document management device that stores explanatory information related to the information processing device, and an information viewing device that displays explanatory information related to the information processing device, all connected via a network, The first control unit provided in the information processing device, A first storage step which stores device setting information including model information of the information processing device, which is unique information that can identify the information processing device, An event detection step that detects an event that occurs when the predetermined function is being performed, An event determination step involves determining the content of the detected event and obtaining event detection information that identifies the content of the event. A browsing destination information generation step that uses the device setting information and the event detection information to generate browsing destination information for obtaining explanatory information corresponding to at least the event that occurred, The process involves executing a browsing information display step, which displays the generated browsing information as a two-dimensional code on the display screen of the information processing device, The second control unit provided in the aforementioned information viewing device, A shooting step of taking a picture of a two-dimensional code of the browsing destination information displayed on the display screen of the information processing device, A step of obtaining the destination information from the two-dimensional code that has been photographed, The process involves executing an explanatory content request step, which involves sending a content request containing the acquired viewing location information to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored. The third control unit provided in the aforementioned document management device, A second storage step that stores explanatory content information consisting of multiple pieces of explanatory information associated with events that may occur in the aforementioned information processing device, The information viewing device receives the content request in the explanation content request receiving step, A description content selection step, which uses the browsing destination information included in the content request to select selected content information from the description content information stored in the second storage step that is associated with an event that occurred in the information processing device identified by the browsing destination information, The system then performs an explanatory content transmission step, which involves transmitting the selected content information to the information viewing device. The second control unit provided in the aforementioned information viewing device further, The system performs an explanatory content display step, which involves displaying explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred, and showing the selected content information transmitted from the document management device on the display screen of the information viewing device. A method for processing explanatory information for an explanatory information processing system, wherein the aforementioned viewing destination information includes connection destination information for connecting to a document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored, the event detection information, and the device setting information, and is generated as a URL that includes information capable of identifying the storage area of ​​the document management device where explanatory information corresponding to the event that occurred is stored.

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