Information processing device and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus and program that, even when update of a function in an image forming apparatus is stopped, can make the function available after the update in the image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus performs control of synchronizing setting information set to an image forming apparatus and setting information of an object indicating a virtual image forming apparatus that can simulate processing executed by the image forming apparatus (122), acquires setting information set to the object when update of a function in the image forming apparatus is stopped and function related information related to a function in another image forming apparatus in which update of the function is executed (120), and based on the acquired setting information of the object and function related information, performs control of deriving function update information related to the function after update when the update of the function is executed for the image forming apparatus in which the update of the function is stopped, so that the information becomes information on the function after the update in the image forming apparatus in which the function is updated (126).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a maintenance planning system that creates a maintenance plan for an image forming apparatus which forms an image and exchanges information with an external device. This maintenance planning system includes: a usage record acquisition unit that acquires usage record information of the image forming apparatus and usage record information of a consumable; a failure probability distribution estimation unit that estimates a failure probability distribution of the consumable based on a history of the usage record information of the consumable; a counter progress acquisition unit that acquires a counter progress which is a counter value per day based on a history of the usage record information of the image forming apparatus; and a maintenance planning unit that presents a next replacement time and a consumable to be replaced based on the failure probability distribution for each consumable and the counter progress. The usage record information of the image forming apparatus includes a counter value corresponding to the number of image formations and an acquisition date of the counter value, and the usage record information of the consumable includes the counter value at the time of replacement of the consumable and life information indicating whether or not the reason for replacing the consumable is reaching the end of its life.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Incidentally, image forming machines can update the functions they can process. However, the functions that can be processed differ between image forming machines where function updates have been stopped and image forming machines where functions have been updated. Image forming machines where function updates have been stopped may not be able to use the updated functions of image forming machines where functions have been updated. Therefore, if function updates are stopped, it may lead to a situation where the use of the image forming machine is hindered.

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an information processing device and an information processing program that can make the updated functions of an image forming apparatus available even if the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus is stopped. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the first aspect is: Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to synchronize the setting information set in an image forming apparatus having the function of executing predetermined processes with the setting information set in an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating the processes in the image forming apparatus. When the update of the function in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the setting information set for the object and the function-related information related to the function in another image forming apparatus in which the function update was performed are obtained. Based on the acquired object setting information and the function-related information, control is performed to derive function update information regarding the updated function in an image forming apparatus where the function update has been stopped, so that the information relates to the updated function in the image forming apparatus where the function has been updated. It is an information processing device.

[0007] The second aspect is an information processing device according to the first aspect, The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes usage information indicating the usage status of consumables in the image forming apparatus, The aforementioned processor, Using the acquired setting information, including the usage status information, control is performed to derive fault-related information related to the failure of consumables of the image forming apparatus as the function update information for the image forming apparatus.

[0008] The third aspect is an information processing apparatus according to the second aspect, The usage information includes the number of times the consumables are used and the usage time. The aforementioned processor, The system performs control to derive the lifespan of the consumable as fault-related information, using the number of uses and the usage time of the consumable.

[0009] The fourth aspect is an information processing apparatus according to the second aspect, The usage information includes the number of times the consumables are used and the usage time. The aforementioned processor, Using the number of times the consumable is used and the usage time, control is performed to derive information indicating a failure of the consumable as fault-related information.

[0010] The fifth aspect is an information processing apparatus according to the second aspect, The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes the unique information of the image forming apparatus that was used to derive the fault-related information before the update of the function in the image forming apparatus was stopped, and that is not used when deriving the fault-related information when the update of the function in the image forming apparatus was stopped. The aforementioned processor, Using the acquired setting information including the unique information, control is performed to derive fault-related information related to the failure of consumables of the image forming apparatus as the function update information for the image forming apparatus.

[0011] The sixth aspect is an information processing device relating to the first aspect, The aforementioned processor, The system performs control to derive information indicating whether the evaluation value determined by the object's setting information and the function-related information conforms to or does not conform to predetermined conditions, as function update information.

[0012] The seventh aspect is an information processing apparatus according to the sixth aspect, The above conditions include a predetermined threshold for determining the evaluation value. The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to store the object setting information, the function-related information, and the function update information in association with multiple different image forming apparatuses. Control is performed to update the threshold using a value that determines the evaluation value derived using the stored object setting information, function-related information, and function update information.

[0013] The eighth aspect is an information processing device relating to the sixth aspect, The setting information for the image forming apparatus includes usage information indicating the usage status of consumables for the image forming apparatus.

[0014] The ninth aspect is, It is an information processing program, In the processor, Control is performed to synchronize the setting information set in an image forming apparatus having the function of executing predetermined processes with the setting information set in an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating the processes in the image forming apparatus. When the update of the function in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the setting information set for the object and the function-related information related to the function in another image forming apparatus in which the function update was performed are obtained. Based on the acquired object setting information and the function-related information, control is performed to derive function update information regarding the updated function in an image forming apparatus where the function update has been stopped, so that the information relates to the updated function in the image forming apparatus where the function has been updated. An information processing program that causes said processing to be performed. Effects of the Invention

[0015] According to the first aspect and the ninth aspect, there is achieved an effect that even when function update in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the updated function in the image forming apparatus can be made available. According to the second aspect, there is achieved an effect that information relating to a consumable failure that causes function update in the image forming apparatus to be stopped can be derived, compared to a case where information relating to consumables is not taken into consideration. According to the third aspect, there is achieved an effect that a user can check the service life of a consumable, compared to a case where the image forming apparatus is used without taking the service life of the consumable into consideration. According to the fourth aspect, there is achieved an effect that a user can check a failure of a consumable, compared to a case where the image forming apparatus is used without taking the failure of the consumable into consideration. According to the fifth aspect, there is achieved an effect that failure-related information based on information that is difficult to utilize when function update in the image forming apparatus is stopped can be derived, compared to a case where only information acquired when function update in the image forming apparatus is stopped is used. According to the sixth aspect, there is achieved an effect that function update information can be derived with high accuracy, compared to a case where a prediction condition is not used. According to the seventh aspect, there is achieved an effect that function update information can be derived with high accuracy, compared to a case where a value for determining an evaluation value is not updated. According to the eighth aspect, there is achieved an effect that information relating to a consumable failure that causes function update in the image forming apparatus to be stopped can be derived, compared to a case where information relating to consumables is not taken into consideration. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] [Figure 1] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram illustrating an example of an electrical schematic configuration of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 3]This figure shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of a hypothetical image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of information in an image forming apparatus where the updating of the function according to the embodiment has been stopped. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of information acquired by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow by the server program according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow by the information processing program according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment for carrying out the technology of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components and processes that perform the same operation, action, or function are given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and redundant explanations may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is only a schematic representation to the extent that the technology of this disclosure can be fully understood. Therefore, the technology of this disclosure is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, explanations of configurations not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0018] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment for implementing the technology of this disclosure.

[0019] The information processing system shown in Figure 1 includes an information processing device 1, an image forming apparatus 2, an image forming apparatus 2A, a cloud network 3, a server 4, and a terminal device 5. The information processing device 1, server 4, and terminal device 5 can be general-purpose computer devices such as a server computer or a personal computer (PC).

[0020] The information processing device 1 is configured to be connectable to the image forming apparatus 2, the image forming apparatus 2A, and the cloud network 3 via network N. The information processing device 1 is also connectable to terminal devices (not shown) via network N. Examples of network N include the internet, public communication lines such as telephone lines, LANs (Local Area Networks), and WANs (Wide Area Networks). Network N can be at least one of wired and wireless communication lines. The information processing device 1 may also be formed on the cloud network 3, similar to the virtual image forming apparatus 2A, which will be described in detail later.

[0021] In this embodiment, the information processing device 1 predicts information such as component failures and consumable lifespans by analyzing, for example, the setting information 25E set in the image forming apparatus 2 obtained from a virtual image forming apparatus 2A, in order to perform planned maintenance regardless of whether or not the functions of the image forming apparatus 2 are updated. When performing this prediction, the information processing device 1 also collects information from the server 4 (details will be described later).

[0022] Image forming apparatus 2 is a device installed in a real environment and is a multifunction device having several functions from among several functions such as copying, printing, scanning, facsimile, and OCR (optical character recognition). For example, when image forming apparatus 2 receives a print job from a terminal device (not shown), such as a PC, it performs printing processing based on the print job. Also, for example, image forming apparatus 2 has a function to scan a document and transmit the scanned data to a terminal device (not shown).

[0023] Cloud Network 3 is a network on the cloud where a virtual image forming apparatus 2A exists, which is synchronized with at least the image forming apparatus 2 and stores the settings of the image forming apparatus 2. The virtual image forming apparatus 2A stores the settings of the image forming apparatus 2 in synchronization with the image forming apparatus 2. In this way, there is a one-to-one correspondence between the image forming apparatus 2 installed in the actual environment and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A existing in Cloud Network 3.

[0024] The virtual image forming apparatus 2A does not exist as a physical image forming apparatus in real space, but rather as an information object that stores the settings of the image forming apparatus 2 and functions as a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating and executing processing equivalent to that of the image forming apparatus 2 based on those settings. The object includes functions to execute various processes that operate in the image forming apparatus 2 based on the settings. Therefore, it is possible to reproduce the processes executed in the image forming apparatus 2 and verify the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 using the object. The functions of the image forming apparatus 2 are updateable.

[0025] The virtual image forming apparatus 2A is an object that functions as a virtualized device, at least in part. The virtual image forming apparatus 2A can be built on the cloud network 3. For example, the virtual image forming apparatus 2A can be built on a server or the like. Therefore, the virtual image forming apparatus 2A can be built on network N using cloud computing technology and can be used in equivalent terms to virtual hardware resources similar to those of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0026] The virtual image forming apparatus 2A described above is not limited to an object that functions as the image forming apparatus 2. For example, the virtual image forming apparatus 2A may be formed as an object that only stores the settings of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0027] Server 4 is a server computer that operates as a management device for managing the functions of one or more image forming apparatuses. Server 4 supports planned maintenance work on the image forming apparatus 2 in accordance with the information predicted by the information processing device 1. Server 4 manages the functions of the image forming apparatus 2 by managing information indicating processes such as deletion, updating, and adding of at least part of the hardware and software provided by the image forming apparatus 2. In this embodiment, as an example of the functions of the image forming apparatus 2 managed by Server 4, a case in which a management function related to the maintenance of the image forming apparatus 2 is applied is described. It should be noted that this disclosure is not limited to a management function related to the maintenance of the image forming apparatus 2, and it is of course possible to manage any function of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0028] Terminal device 5 is a terminal that receives instructions, executes maintenance-related processes, and requests instructions from external devices such as server 4 by transmitting instruction information to external devices. Examples of maintenance-related processes include planning visits for the replacement of consumables as instructed, and processing the shipment of consumables as instructed. As mentioned above, terminal device 5 can be a general-purpose computer device, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0029] Incidentally, the image forming apparatus 2 is maintained in order to improve or maintain its functionality. This maintenance is an example of updating the functionality of the image forming apparatus 2 and includes processes such as removing (or detaching) at least some parts, replacing parts, updating existing parts to the latest parts, and adding new parts for at least one of the hardware resources and software resources. For example, part replacement and part updating include replacing and repairing the equipment that makes up the parts for hardware resources, and upgrading the software version for software resources. Part addition includes adding new parts and replacing and removing related parts associated with the addition of new parts for hardware resources, and adding programs that indicate new functions and updating existing modules by adding programs for software resources. Note that maintenance may be performed on hardware resources or software resources alone, or on both hardware resources and software resources.

[0030] However, since maintenance for the image forming apparatus 2 is performed individually for each image forming apparatus, there may be image forming apparatuses that have not received maintenance. In this embodiment, an image forming apparatus that has not received maintenance is referred to as an image forming apparatus whose functional updates have been stopped. For example, an image forming apparatus whose functional updates have been stopped is one in which, with respect to at least one of the hardware resources and software resources, at least some parts have not been deleted, replaced, updated, or added compared to the latest image forming apparatus. In other words, depending on whether or not maintenance is performed, there will be an image forming apparatus that is in the latest state with updated functions and an older image forming apparatus whose functional updates have been stopped. For example, if a maintenance deadline is set in advance for maintenance management by the server 4, the image forming apparatus will be maintained in the latest state within the maintenance deadline, but after the maintenance deadline has passed, functional updates will be stopped and it will become an older image forming apparatus.

[0031] Therefore, in this embodiment, information regarding the updated functions of an image forming apparatus whose function updates have been stopped is derived. This makes it possible to predict information such as failures and the lifespan of an image forming apparatus whose function updates have been stopped, i.e., an image forming apparatus that is not being maintained or has been stopped.

[0032] Specifically, the information processing device 1 performs control to synchronize the setting information set in an image forming apparatus having the function to execute predetermined processing with the setting information set in an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating the processing in the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, if the updating of the functions in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the information processing device 1 acquires the setting information set in the object and function-related information related to the functions of the image forming apparatus when the functions of the image forming apparatus are updated. Then, based on the setting information and function-related information of the object, the information processing device 1 performs control to derive function update information related to the updated functions of the image forming apparatus whose functions have been updated, so that the information update information relates to the updated functions of the image forming apparatus whose functions have been updated.

[0033] The configuration information is information related to the image forming process set in the image forming apparatus 2, and includes configuration data applied to the functions executed in the image forming apparatus 2, and function data indicating equipment information such as the types of functions that can be executed in the image forming apparatus 2. By using the configuration information, which includes configuration data and function data, it is possible to reproduce an apparatus equivalent to the image forming apparatus 2. Function-related information is information related to the functions of the image forming apparatus 2 after its functions have been updated. In other words, function-related information is information that can be obtained in an image forming apparatus with updated functions, and is difficult to obtain in an image forming apparatus where function updates have been stopped. To put it another way, it is information that can only be obtained when the functions of the image forming apparatus 2 are updated. Function update information is information about the updated functions when a function update is performed on an image forming apparatus whose function updates have been stopped. This function update information is derived from the setting information of the image forming apparatus whose function updates have been stopped and the function-related information of the image forming apparatus whose functions have been updated (another image forming apparatus), so that it becomes information about the updated functions in the image forming apparatus whose function updates have been stopped. In other words, function update information is information that is difficult to derive from the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped, and is information that is expected to be obtained after a function update for the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped.

[0034] The above configuration information may include usage status information indicating the usage status of consumables of the image forming apparatus. The information processing device 1 can use the configuration information including the usage status information to perform control to derive fault-related information related to failures of consumables of the image forming apparatus 2 as function update information. Usage information indicates the usage status of consumables, while failure-related information indicates failures of consumables, such as malfunctions and the end of their lifespan.

[0035] Furthermore, the above configuration information may include unique information of the image forming apparatus 2 that was used to derive fault-related information before the functional updates of the image forming apparatus 2 were stopped. Unique information is information that is no longer used when deriving fault-related information when the functional updates of the image forming apparatus 2 are stopped. The information processing device 1 can use the configuration information including unique information to derive fault-related information related to failures of consumables of the image forming apparatus 2 as functional update information for the image forming apparatus 2.

[0036] Next, an example of the configuration of the information processing device 1 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic electrical configuration of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 1 can be, for example, a server computer or a general-purpose computer device such as a PC.

[0037] Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the information processing device 1 includes a computer main unit 11. The computer main unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 12, RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, ROM (Read-Only Memory) 14, a storage unit 15, and input / output ports (I / O) 16. The CPU 12, RAM 13, ROM 14, storage unit 15, and I / O 16 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0038] Furthermore, I / O16 is connected to various functional units, including a communication unit 17 that enables communication with external devices, an operation input unit 18 that enables user operation input, and a display unit 19 that enables image display. These functional units are able to communicate with the CPU 12 via I / O16.

[0039] The computer body 11 may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls the operation of a part of the information processing device 1, or as part of the main control unit that controls the operation of the entire information processing device 1. Some or all of the blocks of the computer body 11 may use integrated circuits such as LSIs (Large Scale Integration) or ICs (Integrated Circuit) chipsets. Individual circuits may be used for each of the above blocks, or circuits that integrate some or all of them may be used. The above blocks may be provided as a single unit, or some blocks may be provided separately. Furthermore, parts of each of the above blocks may be provided separately. For the integration of the computer body 11, dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors may be used, not just LSIs.

[0040] As the storage unit 15, an auxiliary storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory may be used. The storage unit 15 stores an information processing program 15P that causes the information processing device 1 to function as the information processing device of this disclosure. The CPU 12 reads the information processing program 15P from the storage unit 15, loads it into the RAM 13, and executes the processing. As a result, the information processing device 1 that has executed the information processing program 15P operates as the information processing device of this disclosure. The specific processing of the information processing device 1 will be described later.

[0041] The information processing program 15P may be stored in the ROM 14. Alternatively, the information processing program 15P may be pre-installed on the information processing device 1, for example. The information processing program 15P may also be implemented by storing it on a non-volatile storage medium, or by appropriately installing program information distributed via the network N onto the information processing device 1. Examples of non-volatile storage mediums include CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), magneto-optical disk, HDD, DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), flash memory, and memory cards.

[0042] The storage unit 15 also stores a database 15D containing various types of information usable by the information processing device 1. The information stored in the database 15D is not limited to being pre-stored in the storage unit 15. For example, it may be stored in an external device (not shown) and retrieved from that external device via a communication line.

[0043] Database 15D stores a prediction program 15S, which predicts failures of an image forming apparatus by deriving function update information, as an example of an analysis algorithm for analyzing failures of the image forming apparatus. The CPU 12 of the information processing device 1 reads the prediction program 15S, loads it into memory such as RAM 13, and executes the processing, so that the information processing device 1 can predict failures of, for example, an image forming apparatus 2 whose maintenance period has expired and whose function updates have been stopped.

[0044] The database 15D also stores prediction-related data 15X used to predict malfunctions of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0045] The communication unit 17 is connected to the network N and configured to enable communication between the information processing device 1 and external devices. In this embodiment, a server 4 and a virtual image forming apparatus 2A are used as external devices capable of communication.

[0046] The operation input unit 18 is equipped with, for example, a device for operation input such as a keyboard or mouse.

[0047] The display unit 19 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display. The display unit 19 may also be a touch panel having the functions of the operation input unit 18. The operation input unit 18 and the display unit 19 receive various instructions from the user of the information processing device 1. The display unit 19 displays various information such as the results of processing performed in response to the instructions received from the user, and notifications regarding the processing.

[0048] Next, an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 2 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 2 according to this embodiment.

[0049] The image forming apparatus 2 includes a computer unit 21. The computer unit 21 includes a CPU 22, RAM 23, ROM 24, storage unit 25, and I / O 26. The CPU 22, RAM 23, ROM 24, storage unit 25, and I / O 26 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0050] I / O26 is connected to various functional units, including a communication unit 27 that enables communication with external devices, an operation input unit 28 that enables user operation input, and a display unit 29 that enables image display. These functional units can communicate with the CPU 22 via I / O26.

[0051] Furthermore, I / O26 is connected to a processing unit 20 that physically executes various functions related to image formation, such as the copying function described above. The processing unit 20 performs the actual image formation process.

[0052] The memory unit 25 stores an image forming program 25P for operating the image forming apparatus 2. The CPU 22 reads the image forming program 25P from the memory unit 25, loads it into the RAM 23, and executes the image forming process. As a result, the image forming apparatus 2, having executed the image forming program 25P, becomes capable of performing various image forming processes.

[0053] The memory unit 25 also stores a database 25D containing various information usable by the image forming apparatus 2. The database 25D also stores setting information 25E related to image forming processing in the image forming apparatus 2. The setting information 25E includes setting data 25F and function data 25G. The setting data 25F indicates the setting values ​​applied to the functions executed by the image forming apparatus 2. The function data 25G indicates the setting values ​​related to the equipment, such as the types of functions that can be executed by the image forming apparatus 2. By reflecting the setting data 25F in other image forming apparatuses, the functions corresponding to the setting data 25F of the image forming apparatus 2 can be simulated in other image forming apparatuses. Furthermore, by reflecting the configuration of the function data 25G in other image forming apparatuses, the functions of the function data 25G equipped in the image forming apparatus 2 can be simulated.

[0054] Furthermore, the setting information 25E can also be used as a single data without distinguishing between the setting data 25F and the function data 25G. For example, function data 25G, which indicates the presence or absence of a specific function, can be included in the setting data 25F and used as setting information 25E. In the image forming apparatus 2, the CPU 22 executes the image forming program 25P using the setting information 25E, and the processing unit 20 performs the image forming process.

[0055] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 2 has a device-specific analysis algorithm using a derivation program 25S that derives information (for example, information such as component failures and consumable lifespans by analyzing the setting information 25E) that enables planned maintenance using the setting information 25E set for the machine. The device-specific analysis algorithm using the derivation program 25S is, for example, up-to-date within the maintenance period managed by the server 4, but after the maintenance period expires, it becomes difficult to collect information from the server 4, so the function updates stop and it becomes outdated.

[0056] The communication unit 27 is connected to the network N and is configured to communicate with external devices. The operation input unit 28 receives various instructions from the user of the image forming apparatus 2, and the display unit 29 displays the results of the processing performed in accordance with the instructions received from the user, as well as various information such as notifications regarding the processing.

[0057] Next, an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 2A will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic electrical configuration of a virtual image forming apparatus 2A located on a cloud network.

[0058] Image forming apparatus 2A, like image forming apparatus 2, includes a computer main unit 210, which comprises a CPU 220, RAM 230, ROM 240, storage unit 250, and I / O 260, all connected to each other via a bus. A communication unit 270, an operation input unit 280, and a display unit 290 are connected to the I / O 260.

[0059] The memory unit 250 stores an image forming program 250P similar to the image forming program 25P.

[0060] Furthermore, the memory unit 250 stores a database 250D, similar to the image forming apparatus 2. The database 250D stores setting information 250E, which includes setting data 250F and function data 250G.

[0061] Since the image forming apparatus 2A is an object built on the cloud network 3, it is not equipped with the processing unit 20 shown in Figure 3. Instead of the processing unit 20, the image forming apparatus 2A stores an image function program 200P in the storage unit 250. The image function program 200P can be pre-stored in the information processing device 1 or the server 4 and retrieved and stored from the information processing device 1. In the image forming apparatus 2A, when the CPU 220 executes the image forming program 250P using the configuration information 250E, it executes the image function program 200P, thereby simulating the processing unit 20 and enabling image forming processing.

[0062] Furthermore, the virtual image forming apparatus 2A has a derivation program 250S similar to the derivation program 25S, due to synchronization with the image forming apparatus 2.

[0063] Next, an example of the configuration of Server 4 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic electrical configuration of Server 4 according to this embodiment. Server 4 can be, for example, a server computer or a general-purpose computer device such as a PC.

[0064] As described above, the server 4 is capable of managing the image forming apparatus 2 and includes a computer unit 41. The computer unit 41 includes a CPU 42, RAM 43, ROM 44, storage unit 45, and I / O 46, which are connected to each other via a bus. A communication unit 47, an operation input unit 48, and a display unit 49 are connected to the I / O 46.

[0065] The storage unit 251 stores the server program 45P and the database 45D. The database 45D stores data including the optimization program 45S and function-related data 45X.

[0066] The CPU 42 of server 4 reads the server program 45P from the storage unit 45, loads it into the RAM 43, and executes server processing. After executing the server program 45P, server 4 becomes capable of performing processing to support planned maintenance work on the image forming apparatus 2.

[0067] Furthermore, the CPU 42 of server 4 reads the optimization program 45S from the storage unit 45, loads it into the RAM 43, and executes the optimization process. The optimization process is a process that optimizes an analysis algorithm that derives information related to consumable failures (i.e., failure-related information) indicating the failure and lifespan of consumables when performing a process that supports planned maintenance work on the image forming apparatus 2. In optimizing the analysis algorithm, as an example of information related to consumable failures, information indicating whether or not a consumable is faulty is used, and the process includes updating the threshold for determining whether or not a consumable is faulty with a value derived using the setting information of one or more image forming apparatuses.

[0068] Function-related data 45X is an example of function-related information, and is information related to the function of the image forming apparatus 2 when its function is updated, that is, information related to the function available in the updated image forming apparatus compared to the image forming apparatus 2 for which function updates have been stopped.

[0069] Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 1 will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0070] The information processing device 1 includes an acquisition unit 120, a synchronization unit 122, a simulation unit 124, and a prediction unit 126. The CPU 12 of the information processing device 1 executes the information processing program 15P, which enables the acquisition unit 120, synchronization unit 122, simulation unit 124, and prediction unit 126 to function.

[0071] The acquisition unit 120 is a functional unit that acquires the configuration information 25E of the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped, and information related to the functions of other image forming apparatuses whose function updates have been performed (function-related information). Specifically, the acquisition unit 120 acquires the configuration information 250E of a virtual image forming apparatus 2A synchronized with the image forming apparatus 2 as the configuration information 25E of the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped. The acquisition unit 120 also acquires from the server 4 information that is included in the configuration information of other image forming apparatuses whose function updates have been performed, and that is available to the image forming apparatuses whose function updates have been performed (function-related information).

[0072] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 120 acquires a prediction program and data for predicting failures in the image forming apparatus, which are used as an analysis algorithm for analyzing failures in the image forming apparatus, in order to derive function update information. This data can then be stored in the database 15D as the prediction program 15S and the prediction-related data 15X.

[0073] The synchronization unit 122 is a functional unit that controls the synchronization of setting information between an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus 2A and the image forming apparatus 2. In other words, the synchronization unit 122 controls the synchronization of setting information 25E and 250E between the actual image forming apparatus 2 and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A.

[0074] The simulation unit 124 is a functional unit that uses an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus 2A to perform control that simulates the processing performed by the image forming apparatus. Specifically, the simulation unit 124 instructs the virtual image forming apparatus 2A to perform control that simulates the processing performed by the actual image forming apparatus 2. In this embodiment, since control that simulates the processing performed by the image forming apparatus is not necessarily required, the simulation unit 124 can be omitted.

[0075] The prediction unit 126 is a function unit that predicts function update information regarding the updated functions of the image forming apparatus 2 after the function update has been stopped. For example, it predicts failures in the image forming apparatus 2 after the maintenance period has expired and the function update has been stopped. Specifically, the prediction unit 126 uses the stored prediction program 15S and prediction-related data 15X to predict failures in the image forming apparatus 2 after the function update has been stopped. The prediction unit 126 can transmit the prediction results to the server 4.

[0076] Next, the functional configuration of server 4 will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of server 4 according to this embodiment.

[0077] Server 4 includes an acquisition unit 420, an optimization unit 422, and a notification unit 424. Server 4 functions as the acquisition unit 420, optimization unit 422, and notification unit 424 when the CPU 42 of Server 4 executes the server program 45P.

[0078] The acquisition unit 420 is a functional unit that controls the acquisition of setting information 25E of the image forming apparatus 2. Specifically, the acquisition unit 420 acquires at least maintenance-related information (setting information including usage status information) from the setting information 25E of the image forming apparatus 2 whose functions have been updated. In this embodiment, the acquisition unit 420 (server 4) cannot acquire information from the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped.

[0079] Furthermore, as will be described in more detail later, the acquisition unit 420 can acquire function update information as maintenance-related information from the information processing device 1.

[0080] The optimization unit 422 is a functional unit that controls the optimization of the analysis algorithm described above, that is, the analysis algorithm that performs analysis on failures in the updated image forming apparatus 2. As will be described in detail later, the optimization unit 422 derives coefficients and constants of the prediction formula for deriving function update information using data from the updated image forming apparatus 2.

[0081] The notification unit 424 is a functional unit that controls the notification of information to external devices. The external devices include the information processing device 1, the image forming apparatus 2, the image forming apparatus 2A, and the terminal device 5. For example, the notification unit 424 can notify the information processing device 1 of the aforementioned function-related information. Furthermore, the notification unit 424 can notify the terminal device 5 of maintenance-related information, such as the delivery of consumables.

[0082] Figure 8 shows an example of the prediction results regarding equipment information as setting information for the image forming apparatus 2, where the function update has been stopped, and information regarding malfunctions of the image forming apparatus 2, as determined by the analysis algorithm.

[0083] Equipment information is an example of usage information. In the example shown in Figure 8, the equipment information includes information for each of three types of items: (a), (b-0), and (c). Item (a) shows the number of times a consumable has been used, with the information value indicating the content being M times. Item (b-0) shows the failure threshold of the consumable, with the information value indicating the content being n times. Item (c) shows the elapsed time (usage time) after the consumable has been installed, with the information value indicating the content being t seconds. Note that item (b-0) is the initial value. This initial value is either a predetermined threshold that the image forming apparatus 2 uniformly maintains, or a threshold set at the time of initial installation of the image forming apparatus 2. For example, if the function update is stopped, item (b-0) will be set to a value that the image forming apparatus 2 uniformly maintains.

[0084] Furthermore, the prediction results include an analysis algorithm applicable to the image forming apparatus and the analysis results of that algorithm. In the example shown in Figure 8, the first analysis algorithm is given as the prediction formula (a>=b), and the content of the analysis result is given as False. The information value of item (a) is substituted into a in the prediction formula, and the information value of item (b-0) is substituted into b. If the prediction formula is correct, it becomes True; otherwise, it becomes False. The prediction formula in the example shown in Figure 8 is either a formula that the image forming apparatus 2 uniformly maintains, or a formula that was predetermined at the time of the initial installation of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0085] Figure 9 shows an example of prediction results regarding equipment information as configuration information acquired by the information processing device 1, and information regarding malfunctions of the image forming apparatus 2, based on the analysis algorithm.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 9, the equipment information includes six types of items: (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), and (f). Item (a) shows the number of times a consumable has been used, with the information value indicating the content being M times. Item (b) shows the failure threshold of a consumable in the updated image forming apparatus, with the information value indicating the content being N times. Item (c) shows the elapsed time since the consumable was installed, with the information value indicating the content being Ta seconds. This Ta seconds is the same as t seconds shown in Figure 8. Item (d) shows the failure threshold of a consumable due to aging in the updated image forming apparatus, with the information value indicating the content being Tb seconds. Item (e) shows the average temperature of a consumable in the updated image forming apparatus, with the information value indicating the content being Qb degrees. Item (f) shows the failure threshold of a consumable due to temperature, with the information value indicating the content being Ta seconds.

[0087] Items (a) and (c) described above are obtained from the configuration information of the image forming apparatus 2, i.e., a virtual image forming apparatus 2A synchronized with the image forming apparatus 2. Items (b), (d), and (f) are obtained from the server 4. Item (e) is obtained from the configuration information of the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped, i.e., a virtual image forming apparatus 2A synchronized with the image forming apparatus 2. The image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped has stopped exchanging information with the server 4, but its configuration information is synchronized with the virtual image forming apparatus 2A, so it can be obtained by the information processing device 1.

[0088] In Figure 9, items (a) and (c) are examples of usage status information. Items (b), (d), and (f) are examples of function-related information. Item (e) is an example of unique information.

[0089] Furthermore, Figure 9 shows four types of correspondences between analysis algorithms applicable to image forming apparatuses and the content of the analysis results of those algorithms. In the example shown in Figure 9, the first analysis algorithm is given the first prediction formula (a>=b), similar to the example shown in Figure 8, and the content of the analysis result is False. The second analysis algorithm is given the second prediction formula ((c / (60x60))>=d), and the content of the analysis result is False. The third analysis algorithm is given the third prediction formula (e>=f1 or e<=f2), and the content of the analysis result is False. The fourth analysis algorithm is given the fourth prediction formula (((a / b)+((c / (60x60)) / d))>=K), and the content of the analysis result is False.

[0090] In each prediction formula, the result is True if the prediction formula is correct, and False if it is not correct. In the first prediction formula, the information value of item (a) is substituted into a, and the information value of item (b) is substituted into b. In the second prediction formula, the information value of item (c) is substituted into c, and the information value of item (d) is substituted into d. In the third prediction formula, the information value of item (f) is substituted into f, and the information value of item (e) is substituted into e. In the third prediction formula, the high-temperature side temperature f1 and the lower temperature f2 obtained from server 4 are applied. In the fourth prediction formula, the information value of item (a) is substituted into a, the information value of item (b) is substituted into b, the information value of item (c) is substituted into c, and the information value of item (d) is substituted into d. K is substituted into a constant, which is an information value obtained from server 4.

[0091] The above prediction formula is an example of information indicating whether or not predetermined conditions are met, and the information showing the prediction result is an example of an evaluation value determined by the setting information and function-related information of a virtual image forming apparatus (object).

[0092] By using the information processing device 1 and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A having the above-described configuration, even if the image forming apparatus 2 has stopped updating its functions, it is possible to derive information about updated functions, such as maintenance information, as if the functions had been updated.

[0093] Next, the operation of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the case in which the function update in the image forming apparatus 2 is stopped will be described.

[0094] Here, we will explain the processes executed by the server 4 prior to the processes executed by the information processing device 1. The server 4 manages the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus 2. In this embodiment, we will explain the case in which the server 4 performs maintenance management for the image forming apparatus 2. Specifically, the server 4 controls the updating of functions, i.e., the updating of the analysis algorithm related to maintenance, so that the functions of the image forming apparatus are kept in the latest state within the maintenance period for image forming apparatuses for which a maintenance period is predetermined. On the other hand, image forming apparatuses that have exceeded the maintenance period will have their function updates stopped and will be maintained using the old analysis algorithm.

[0095] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow by the server program 45P executed on server 4. During the processing of server program 45P, the optimization program 45S can be executed.

[0096] When server 4 is instructed to start server program 45P, CPU 42 executes the following steps:

[0097] In step S102, information about the image forming apparatus 2 is obtained from the image forming apparatus 2, which is within its maintenance period. Here, setting information including the usage information of the image forming apparatus 2 described above is obtained. Specifically, at least the number of times consumables have been used, as shown in item (a), and the elapsed time since the consumables were installed, as shown in item (c), are obtained. In addition, the average temperature of the consumables in the image forming apparatus, as shown in item (e), is also obtained. In step S102, it is also possible to obtain setting information of a virtual image forming apparatus 2A synchronized with the image forming apparatus 2, and equipment information in the information processing device 1 (Figure 9).

[0098] In step S104, an analysis algorithm is optimized to enable planned maintenance management for the image forming apparatus 2, which is within its maintenance period. Here, the server 4 optimizes the four types of analysis algorithms (Figure 9) described above. Specifically, it uses equipment information (setting information) from multiple image forming apparatuses to optimize the coefficients and constants that serve as the judgment criteria in the prediction formula described above. This optimization process will be described later.

[0099] In step S106, information regarding the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus is sent to the image forming apparatus that is within its maintenance period, and the process ends.

[0100] Therefore, for image forming machines within their maintenance period, the above-mentioned optimized analysis algorithm, i.e., the prediction formula, makes it possible to predict the failure and lifespan of consumables. On the other hand, for image forming machines that have exceeded their maintenance period, functional updates are stopped, so the above-mentioned optimized analysis algorithm (prediction formula) is no longer used, and the failure and lifespan of consumables are predicted using the older prediction formula from before the functional updates. For this reason, the prediction accuracy of image forming machines that have exceeded their maintenance period is lower than that of image forming machines within their maintenance period.

[0101] Therefore, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 derives information regarding the updated functions of the image forming apparatus whose function update has been stopped.

[0102] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow by the information processing program 15P executed in the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0103] First, when the information processing device 1 is instructed to start the information processing program 15P, the CPU 12 executes the following steps. The information processing program 15P is started as if it has been instructed to start by periodic execution instructions or by receiving a notification from a virtual image forming apparatus 2A synchronized with the image forming apparatus 2. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the program is started when a notification is received from the virtual image forming apparatus 2A that the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus 2 has stopped, that is, when the image forming apparatus 2 has exceeded its maintenance period, or when a predetermined time has elapsed after the image forming apparatus 2 has exceeded its maintenance period.

[0104] In step S110, the CPU 12 of the information processing device 1 acquires configuration information from the image forming apparatus whose function updates have been stopped, in this case, a virtual image forming apparatus 2A. The actual image forming apparatus 2 and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A are synchronized, that is, the configuration information 25E and configuration information 250E are synchronized. Specifically, the information from items (a) and (c) of the configuration information 250E, which are related to maintenance, and the information from item (e) are acquired (Figure 9). The information from item (e) (unique information) is information that is difficult for the server to acquire when the image forming apparatus 2 exceeds its maintenance period.

[0105] Next, in step S112, the CPU 12 acquires from the server 4 function-related information, which is information that can be obtained by the updated image forming apparatus. Specifically, information for each of items (b), (d), and (f) is acquired from the server 4 (Figure 9).

[0106] In the next step, S114, the CPU 12 obtains prediction formulas to derive information about the updated functions of the updated image forming apparatus. Specifically, four types of prediction formulas are obtained for analysis algorithms that can be used in the updated image forming apparatus (Figure 9). As a result, the information processing device 1 acquires the setting information of the image forming apparatus 2, whose function updates have been stopped, and the information that can be obtained by the image forming apparatus whose functions have been updated.

[0107] Next, in step S116, the CPU 12 predicts information indicating the updated function (information regarding maintenance) by deriving function update information regarding the updated function using a prediction formula. In step S116, the prediction formula is used to predict the state of the image forming apparatus with the updated function when the function is updated, in an image forming apparatus where function updates have been stopped. Specifically, the information obtained in steps S110 and S112 is substituted into the prediction formula (four types of prediction formulas in this case) obtained in step S114, and the content represented by the prediction formula is taken as the prediction result.

[0108] Information indicating the updated functionality (maintenance information) is derived from the information values ​​of True (true) for each prediction formula and False (false) for those that do not match. In this embodiment, if the equipment information (Figure 9) shows True (true) for at least one of the first to fourth prediction formulas described above, it is predicted that there is a risk of a consumable failure. A consumable failure here refers to a failure occurring in a consumable within a predetermined period. Another example is when a consumable reaches the end of its lifespan within a predetermined period.

[0109] The first prediction formula shows the correlation between (a) the number of times a consumable is used and (b) the failure threshold of the consumable based on the average number of uses. It is True when information value a is greater than or equal to information value b, indicating that the prediction formula is suitable. The failure threshold of a consumable based on the average number of uses can be the average number of times a consumable is used before the consumable or the image forming apparatus fails.

[0110] The second prediction formula shows the correlation between (c) the elapsed time (seconds) after the consumable is installed and (d) the failure threshold of the consumable due to aging. It returns True if the time-converted value of information value c (the value obtained by dividing by (60 x 60)) is greater than or equal to information value d, indicating that the prediction formula is met. (d) The failure threshold of the consumable due to aging is a predetermined time at which the consumable will fail due to aging. This information (d) is obtained from server 4. Furthermore, if information value c and information value d are the same time value (e.g., seconds), the calculation of the time-converted value is unnecessary.

[0111] The third prediction formula shows the correlation between (e) the average temperature of the consumable (e.g., toner) and (f) the failure threshold of the consumable based on temperature. The failure threshold of the consumable based on temperature is predetermined to have a high temperature f1 and a low temperature f2. The third prediction formula is True if the average temperature of the consumable is greater than or equal to the high temperature f1, or less than or equal to the low temperature f2.

[0112] The fourth prediction formula shows the correlation between (a) the number of times a consumable is used, (b) the failure threshold of the consumable based on the average number of uses, (c) the elapsed time (seconds) after the consumable is installed, and (d) the failure threshold of the consumable due to aging. In the fourth prediction formula, if the correlation is greater than or equal to a predetermined constant K, it indicates that the prediction formula is met. The constant K is an example of a value used to determine the evaluation value in this disclosure.

[0113] This embodiment describes a case in which it is predicted that a failure may occur if the acquired information matches at least one of the first to fourth prediction formulas, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, it may be predicted that a failure may occur if the prediction results of two or more of the first to fourth prediction formulas are True.

[0114] In the next step S118, the CPU 12 transmits information based on the prediction results. Step S118 provides information indicating the corresponding processing for the prediction results for the image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped. The information based on the prediction results, which supports this corresponding processing, includes, for example, information instructing maintenance processing and information for optimizing the prediction formula on the server 4. The information instructing maintenance processing includes information requesting maintenance of consumables, and is transmitted to the terminal device 5 with an identification number such as the model number of the relevant consumable. The terminal device 5 receives instructions from the information processing device 1 and executes maintenance processing. As described above, the terminal device 5 can then plan a visit for replacement of the instructed consumable and process the shipment of the instructed consumable.

[0115] The information used to optimize the prediction formula in Server 4 is the information used in the prediction formula described above, that is, the information from item (a) to item (f) acquired by the information processing device 1, and is applied and sent to Server 4. Server 4 receives the information from the information processing device 1 and optimizes the prediction formula as described above. Through this optimization, for example, the constant K described above is optimized.

[0116] In other words, as an optimization process, Server 4 optimizes the analysis logic based on the prediction results and equipment information received from Information Processing Device 1. Specifically, for image forming machines within their maintenance period, the analysis logic is optimized based on the ratio (hereinafter referred to as the failure ratio) of the number of image forming machines (or consumables) that actually failed out of the predicted image forming machines to the total number of image forming machines predicted by the third prediction formula to experience a failure of consumables within a predetermined period. In this optimization, Server 4 only needs to obtain feedback on the number of image forming machines (or consumables) that actually failed as information. More specifically, the optimization is performed by deriving the constant K to increase as the failure ratio exceeds a predetermined ratio (for example, 1 / 10). On the other hand, if the failure ratio is less than or equal to the predetermined ratio, the optimization is performed by deriving the constant K to decrease as the failure ratio decreases. This makes it possible to optimize the prediction formula using the setting information of image forming machines that are actually in operation.

[0117] Furthermore, Server 4 is capable of controlling the storage of object setting information, function-related information, and function update information for multiple different image forming apparatuses, associating them with each other. In addition, Server 4 can control the updating of thresholds such as the constant K, which are values ​​used to determine the evaluation value derived by the optimization process using the stored object setting information, function-related information, and function update information.

[0118] As described above, this embodiment uses a virtual image forming apparatus that is synchronized with the actual image forming apparatus. Furthermore, if the function update is stopped in the actual image forming apparatus, the setting information of the virtual image forming apparatus and the information of the image forming apparatus whose functions have been updated (function-related information) are used to derive information about the updated functions in the image forming apparatus whose function update has been stopped (function update information). This function update information uses a predictive formula that is available in the image forming apparatus whose functions have been updated. This makes it possible to predict information such as failures and the lifespan of the image forming apparatus in an image forming apparatus whose function update has been stopped, that is, an image forming apparatus that is not being maintained or whose maintenance has been stopped.

[0119] [Other embodiments] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the information processing device 1 and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A are configured independently was explained, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the information processing device 1 may be formed within the cloud network 3, and the virtual information processing device 1 and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A may be formed within the cloud network 3, so that the virtual information processing device 1 and the virtual image forming apparatus 2A are formed as a single unit. In this case, the virtual image forming apparatus 2A may be configured to operate as the information processing device 1 described above, or the virtual image forming apparatus 2A may be configured to operate within the information processing device 1.

[0120] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment explained a case in which maintenance is performed on an image forming apparatus 2 whose function updates have been stopped, using both the actual image forming apparatus 2 and a virtual image forming apparatus 2A. The virtual image forming apparatus 2A is not limited to one; the virtual image forming apparatus 2A may be duplicated into multiple virtual image forming apparatuses and processed in parallel. This distributes the processing load on the y side, and makes it possible to shorten the time required for prediction compared to the case in which only the image forming apparatus 2A is used for verification.

[0121] The above describes an information processing device based on an embodiment. The embodiment may take the form of a program that causes a computer to execute the functions of each part of the information processing device. The embodiment may also take the form of a storage medium that is readable by a computer and stores this program.

[0122] Furthermore, the configuration of the information processing device described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and may be modified as needed without departing from the main purpose.

[0123] Furthermore, the program processing flow described in the above embodiment is just one example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps added, or the processing order rearranged, as long as it does not deviate from the main purpose.

[0124] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes a case in which the process according to the embodiment is realized by a software configuration using a computer by executing a program, the embodiment is not limited to this. The embodiment may also be realized by a hardware configuration or a combination of a hardware configuration and a software configuration.

[0125] The above embodiments include the following technologies.

[0126] (((1))) Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to synchronize the setting information set in an image forming apparatus having an updatable function for executing processing with the setting information set in an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating the processing in the image forming apparatus. When the update of the function in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the setting information set for the object and the function-related information related to the function in another image forming apparatus in which the function update was performed are obtained. Based on the acquired object setting information and the function-related information, control is performed to derive function update information regarding the updated function in an image forming apparatus where the function update has been stopped, so that the information relates to the updated function in the image forming apparatus where the function has been updated. Information processing device.

[0127] (((2))) The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes usage information indicating the usage status of consumables in the image forming apparatus, The aforementioned processor, Using the acquired setting information, including the usage information, control is performed to derive fault-related information related to the failure of consumables in the image forming apparatus as the function update information for the image forming apparatus. The information processing device described in (((1))).

[0128] (((3))) The usage information includes the number of times the consumables are used and the usage time. The aforementioned processor, The control is performed to derive the lifespan of the consumable as fault-related information using the number of uses and the usage time of the consumable. The information processing device described in (((2))).

[0129] (((4))) The usage information includes the number of times the consumables are used and the usage time. The aforementioned processor, The control system derives information indicating a failure of the consumable as fault-related information, using the number of times the consumable has been used and the usage time of the consumable. The information processing device described in (((2))).

[0130] (((5))) The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes the unique information of the image forming apparatus that was used to derive the fault-related information before the update of the function in the image forming apparatus was stopped, and that is not used when deriving the fault-related information when the update of the function in the image forming apparatus was stopped. The aforementioned processor, Using the acquired setting information including the unique information, control is performed to derive fault-related information related to the failure of consumables of the image forming apparatus as the function update information for the image forming apparatus. An information processing device described in any one of (((2))) to (((4))).

[0131] (((6))) The aforementioned processor, The control system derives information indicating whether the evaluation value determined by the object's setting information and the function-related information conforms to or does not conform to predetermined conditions, as function update information. An information processing device described in any one of (((1))) to (((5))).

[0132] (((7))) The above conditions include a predetermined threshold for determining the evaluation value. The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to store the object setting information, the function-related information, and the function update information in association with multiple different image forming apparatuses. The threshold is updated using a value that determines the evaluation value derived using the stored object setting information, function-related information, and function update information. The information processing device described in (((6))).

[0133] (((8))) The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes usage information indicating the usage status of consumables in the image forming apparatus. The information processing device described in (((6))).

[0134] According to (((1))), even if the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus is stopped, it has the effect of making the updated functions of the image forming apparatus available. According to (((2))), compared to not considering information about consumables, it has the effect of being able to derive information about consumable failures that cause the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus to stop. According to (((3))), compared to using an image forming apparatus without considering the lifespan of consumables, this has the effect of allowing the user to check the lifespan of consumables. According to (((4))), this has the effect of allowing the user to check for consumable failures, compared to using an image forming apparatus without considering the failure of consumables. According to (((5))), compared to using only information when the update of functions in the image forming apparatus is stopped, this method has the effect of being able to derive fault-related information from information that is difficult to use when the update of functions in the image forming apparatus is stopped. According to (((6))), this method has the effect of being able to derive function update information with higher accuracy compared to not using prediction conditions. According to (((7))), this has the effect of being able to derive function update information with higher accuracy compared to not updating the value used to determine the evaluation value. According to (((8))), compared to not considering information about consumables, it has the effect of being able to derive information about consumable failures that would cause the updating of functions in the image forming apparatus to stop. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0135] 1. Information Processing Device 2, 2A Image forming device 3. Cloud Network 4 servers 5 Terminal devices 11. Computer main unit 12 CPU 13 RAM 14 ROM 15 Storage section 15D Database 15P Information Processing Program 17 Communications Department 18. Operation Input Section 19 Display section 20 Processing Units 21 Computer main unit 25 Memory section 25D Database 25E Configuration Information 25F Configuration Data 25G Functional Data 25P Image Forming Program 27 Communications Department 28 Operation Input Section 29 Display section 120 Acquisition Department 122 Classmates 124 Simulation Department 126 Prediction Section

Claims

1. Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to synchronize the setting information set in an image forming apparatus having an updatable function for executing processing with the setting information set in an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating the processing in the image forming apparatus. When the update of the function in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the setting information set for the object and the function-related information related to the function in another image forming apparatus in which the function update was performed are obtained. Based on the acquired object setting information and the function-related information, control is performed to derive function update information regarding the updated function in an image forming apparatus where the function update has been stopped, so that the information relates to the updated function in the image forming apparatus where the function has been updated. Information processing device.

2. The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes usage information indicating the usage status of consumables in the image forming apparatus, The aforementioned processor, Using the acquired setting information, including the usage information, control is performed to derive fault-related information related to the failure of consumables in the image forming apparatus as the function update information for the image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The usage information includes the number of times the consumables are used and the usage time. The aforementioned processor, The control is performed to derive the lifespan of the consumable as fault-related information using the number of uses and the usage time of the consumable. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The usage information includes the number of times the consumables are used and the usage time. The aforementioned processor, The control system derives information indicating a failure of the consumable as fault-related information, using the number of times the consumable has been used and the usage time of the consumable. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes the unique information of the image forming apparatus that was used to derive the fault-related information before the update of the function in the image forming apparatus was stopped, and that is not used when deriving the fault-related information when the update of the function in the image forming apparatus was stopped. The aforementioned processor, Using the acquired setting information including the unique information, control is performed to derive fault-related information related to the failure of consumables of the image forming apparatus as the function update information for the image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

6. The aforementioned processor, The control system derives information indicating whether the evaluation value determined by the object's setting information and the function-related information conforms to or does not conform to predetermined conditions, as function update information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The above conditions include a predetermined threshold for determining the evaluation value. The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to store the object setting information, the function-related information, and the function update information in association with multiple different image forming apparatuses. The threshold is updated using a value that determines the evaluation value derived using the stored object setting information, function-related information, and function update information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The setting information in the image forming apparatus includes usage information indicating the usage status of consumables in the image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

9. It is an information processing program, In the processor, Control is performed to synchronize the setting information set in an image forming apparatus having the function of executing predetermined processes with the setting information set in an object representing a virtual image forming apparatus capable of simulating the processes in the image forming apparatus. When the update of the function in the image forming apparatus is stopped, the setting information set for the object and the function-related information related to the function in another image forming apparatus in which the function update was performed are obtained. Based on the acquired object setting information and the function-related information, control is performed to derive function update information regarding the updated function in an image forming apparatus where the function update has been stopped, so that the information relates to the updated function in the image forming apparatus where the function has been updated. An information processing program that handles tasks.

Images