Application delivery method, application delivery system, application delivery device, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an application providing method and the like that, for each application to be provided, makes an option device necessary for an operation of the application and an option device recommended for the operation clear to eliminate inconvenience for a user in acquiring the application.SOLUTION: An application providing method includes: receiving an application providing request instruction; acquiring device information on an option device mounted on a device that has output the application providing request instruction; and determining presence or absence of the option device conforming to an operation condition for the application according to the providing request instruction on the basis of the acquired device information, and controlling providing the application to the device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an application providing method and the like.

Background Art

[0002] There have been proposed providing methods and providing apparatuses for providing applications, control programs, and the like to image forming apparatuses via a network.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an automatic software distribution management system and the like that eliminates the need for a user at a software distribution destination to perform environment checks and precondition determinations, and enables automatic distribution of software from a distribution source to a distribution destination, thereby making installation operations at the distribution destination easy and convenient.

[0004] Further, Patent Document 2 discloses an image forming apparatus and the like that can display application information for determining whether an application can be installed on an operation panel.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 3 discloses an information processing apparatus and the like that prevents an application from being installed on a device that does not satisfy the operation conditions of the application.

[0006] By the way, some image forming apparatuses can expand the conventional functions of the image forming apparatus by attaching a processing apparatus (hereinafter referred to as an optional apparatus) to the apparatus main body. For example, by attaching an optional apparatus called a finisher near the paper discharge section of the image forming apparatus, it is possible to collectively perform finishing processing (post-processing) on printed matter in units of copies.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

[0008] Many applications that operate on image forming machines require the installation of optional equipment as a condition for use. However, conventional application distribution methods, in order to provide applications compatible with various models of image forming machines, may register applications that do not function properly depending on the installation status of optional equipment.

[0009] In such cases, users had to have prior knowledge of the application they wanted to use and understand the device status, such as the installation status of optional equipment, which was a significant burden for them.

[0010] This disclosure aims to provide an application provision method that eliminates any disadvantage to the user in acquiring an application by clearly defining optional devices that are suitable for the operating conditions of each application, or optional devices that are recommended for the operating conditions of that application.

[0011] Herein, in this disclosure, an optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application means an optional device that has the essential configuration for the application to operate, and if the optional device is not installed, the application will not be able to operate (hereinafter referred to as a conforming optional device). Furthermore, an optional device recommended for the operating conditions of the application means an optional device that has the configuration for realizing the additional functions provided by the application, and even if the optional device is not installed, the application can operate, but it is preferable to install it in order to realize the additional functions provided by the application (hereinafter referred to as a recommended optional device). [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] To solve the above problems, the application provision method according to this disclosure is characterized by receiving an application provision request instruction, acquiring device information of an optional device attached to the device that output the application provision request instruction, determining whether or not an optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction is attached based on the acquired device information, and controlling the provision of the application to the device.

[0013] Furthermore, the application provision system relating to this disclosure comprises a provisioning device having a receiving unit that receives application provision request instructions, an acquisition unit that acquires device information of optional devices attached to the device that output the application provision request instructions, and a control unit that controls the provision of the application that received the provision request instructions, and a device that receives the application from the provisioning device, wherein the control unit determines, based on the acquired device information, whether or not the optional devices that conform to the operating conditions of the application relating to the provision request instructions are attached, and controls the provision of the application to the device.

[0014] Furthermore, the application provisioning device according to this disclosure is characterized by comprising: a receiving unit that receives an application provision request instruction; an acquisition unit that acquires device information of an optional device attached to the device that output the application provision request instruction; and a control unit that, based on the acquired device information, determines whether or not the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction is attached, and controls the provision of the application to the device.

[0015] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus according to this disclosure is characterized by comprising: a reception unit that receives an application installation request instruction from a user via a service screen; an acquisition unit that acquires device information of installed optional devices; a control unit that determines whether or not the optional devices that conform to the operating conditions of the application related to the installation request instruction are installed based on the acquired device information, and controls the installation of the application; and an image forming unit that executes image forming processing based on the installed application. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to this disclosure, by clearly defining optional devices that are compatible with the operating conditions of each application, or optional devices recommended for the operating conditions, it is possible to provide an application provision method that eliminates any disadvantage to the user in acquiring the application. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the application provisioning system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a functional configuration diagram of the application providing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the application management table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the device management table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5]This is a diagram for explaining restriction information of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a sequence diagram for explaining the overall processing of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart for explaining conformity determination processing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a diagram for explaining an application providing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a functional configuration diagram of an application providing apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart for explaining conformity determination processing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the second embodiment. [Figure 19] This is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a sequence diagram for explaining overall processing of the third embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a diagram for explaining a modified example. [Forms for Implementing the Invention]

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0019] [1 First Embodiment] The first embodiment is a configuration in which an application provision request instruction is received, device information of optional devices attached to the device that output the application provision request instruction is acquired, and based on the acquired device information, it is determined whether or not optional devices that conform to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction are installed, and the provision of the application to the device is controlled.

[0020] [1.1 Functional Configuration] [1.1.1 Overall Structure] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating one example configuration of an application provision system 100 capable of realizing the application provision method described herein. The application provision system 100 includes an application provision device 10 and a multifunction printer 30. The application provision device 10 and the multifunction printer 30 are connected so that they can communicate with each other via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet. Although Figure 1 illustrates a configuration in which one multifunction printer 30 is connected to the application provision device 10, multiple multifunction printers 30 may be connected, and they may be connected to different networks NW.

[0021] [1.1.2 About the application provider device 10] The application provisioning device 10 is an information processing device that can provide applications in response to user requests for application provision.

[0022] Figure 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the application providing device 10. The application providing device 10 comprises a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, and a storage unit 19.

[0023] The control unit 11 controls the entire application providing device 10. The control unit 11 is composed of, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes each function by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19. Note that some or all of the functional units described below, including the control unit 11, may be composed of electronic circuits.

[0024] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user. The display unit 13 can be configured using, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, a micro-LED display, a mini-LED display, etc.

[0025] The operation input unit 15 receives information input from the user or other parties. The operation input unit 15 can be composed of, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel.

[0026] The communication unit 17 is equipped with an interface for wired / wireless communication via a network line such as a LAN, WAN, or the Internet. The communication unit 17 communicates with the multifunction printer 30 and provides applications and obtains necessary information from the multifunction printer 30 regarding the provision of said applications, such as the status of optional devices installed (whether or not optional devices are installed; hereafter referred to as optional device information).

[0027] The memory unit 19 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the application provider 10. The memory unit 19 can be configured with, for example, a storage device such as RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0028] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores the application provision program 191 and reserves an application storage area 192, a device information storage area 193, and a restriction information storage area 194.

[0029] The application provision program 191 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing the process related to the provision of an application. The application provision program 191 includes the device information acquisition program 1911, the conformity determination program 1913, and the display control program 1915.

[0030] The device information acquisition program 1911 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when acquiring option device information of the multifunction printer 30 that has output an application selection instruction or acquisition instruction (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an application provision request). After reading the device information acquisition program 1911, the control unit 11 functions as an acquisition unit by controlling the communication unit 17, etc., and uses the device management table 1931 stored in the device information storage area 193 to acquire option device information of the multifunction printer 30 that has output an application provision request.

[0031] The conformity determination program 1913 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when determining whether the optional device information (presence or absence of optional devices) for the multifunction printer 30 that output the application request conforms to the operating conditions of the application. After reading the conformity determination program 1913, the control unit 11 uses the application management table 1921 stored in the application storage area 192 to check whether the multifunction printer 30 that output the application request has a suitable optional device (or recommended optional device) installed, thereby determining the conformity of the multifunction printer 30 to the application.

[0032] The display control program 1915 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when providing an application and controlling the display of the application provision screen, which will be described later. After reading the display control program 1915, the control unit 11 can function as a reception unit by controlling the display of the application provision screen shown on the display unit 33 of the multifunction printer 30.

[0033] The application storage area 192 is a storage area that stores applications that can be provided in response to application requests from the multifunction printer 30 or other devices. The application storage area 192 stores an application management table 1921 for managing those applications.

[0034] Here, the application management table 1921 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the application management table 1921. The application management table 1921 includes the following registration items: APPID, application, vendor, version, release date and time, compatible optional equipment, and recommended optional equipment.

[0035] APPID is an identifier used to uniquely identify an application. Application represents the application name. Vendor represents the name of the vendor supplying the application. Version represents the application version name, and Release Date represents the application's release date and time. Compatible Option Devices represent option devices that meet the application's operating requirements, and Recommended Option Devices represent option devices recommended for the application's operating requirements.

[0036] For example, the application name of the application identified by APPID "APP050" is "Application AA". This "Application AA" was released by vendor "sample.com" on "2021 / 03 / 01" (release date and time), and its version name is "0.1.0".

[0037] Here, “Application AA” is, for example, an application belonging to the bookbinding application, and an example of an application that uses a saddle finisher for stapling or saddle stitching as a compatible optional device.

[0038] Furthermore, "Application AA" is an example of an application for which a high-capacity paper tray is a recommended optional device. For example, if a large number of copies of a document are to be created, the standard paper tray requires repeated refilling. Therefore, by installing the high-capacity tray as a recommended optional device, the number of refills can be reduced. Also, in environments where the user cannot work nearby, such as at night, it becomes possible to create a large number of documents without refilling paper. Note that depending on the user's usage, the standard paper tray may suffice, hence the high-capacity paper tray is recommended as an optional device.

[0039] Returning to Figure 2, the device information storage area 193 stores a device management table 1931 that manages the identification information of the multifunction printer 30, etc., so that the multifunction printer 30 can be connected via the network NW.

[0040] Here, the device management table 1931 will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the device management table 1931. The device management table 1931 includes the following registration items: device ID, model name, device type, installation location, and IP address.

[0041] The device ID is an identifier used to uniquely identify the multifunction printer 30 and other devices (e.g., fax machines, copiers, etc.). The model name represents the model name of each device. The device type represents the type of image forming apparatus (multifunction printer, fax machine, printer, copier). The location represents the installation location of each device. The IP address represents the IP address on the network NW.

[0042] For example, a device identified by device ID "ME001" has the model name "MX-747BO" and the device type is "multifunction printer". This device is installed in the "Technical Department Office" and has been assigned the IP address "192.168.100.10" on the network.

[0043] Returning to Figure 2, the restriction information storage area 194 is a storage area that stores restriction information to be displayed when a suitable option device or recommended option device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application that has been instructed to provide is not installed.

[0044] Here, the restriction information stored in the restriction information storage area 194 will be explained using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the restriction information according to the first embodiment. The restriction information according to the first embodiment includes first restriction information to be displayed when a compatible option device is not installed, and second restriction information to be displayed when a recommended option device is not installed.

[0045] If the control unit 11 decides to display the first restriction information based on the application compatibility determination result described later, it displays a display icon (for example, display color: red) indicating that restrictions are imposed on the acquisition of the application. When the user selects this display icon, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up message that says, "No optional device compatible with the operating conditions of this application is installed."

[0046] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 decides to display the second limitation information based on the application's suitability assessment result, it displays a display icon (for example, display color: yellow) indicating that some limitations are imposed on the functions provided by the application. When the user selects this display icon, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up message that reads, "The optional device recommended for the operation conditions of this application is not installed."

[0047] [1.1.3 About the 30 Multifunction Printer] The multifunction printer 30 is an image forming apparatus capable of performing various operating modes such as printing, faxing, and scanning within a single housing. In this embodiment, the multifunction printer 30 is described as one form of image forming apparatus, but other image forming apparatuses such as fax machines, printers, and copiers can also be used.

[0048] Figure 6 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 30. The multifunction device 30 comprises a control unit 31, a display unit 33, an operation input unit 35, an image forming unit 37, an image reading unit 39, a communication unit 41, and a storage unit 43.

[0049] The control unit 31 controls the entire multifunction printer 30. The control unit 31 is composed of, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU, etc.). The control unit 31 performs its functions by, for example, reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 43.

[0050] The display unit 33 displays various information to the user, etc. The display unit 33 can be configured as, for example, an LCD, an organic EL display, a micro LED display, a mini LED display, etc.

[0051] The operation input unit 35 receives information input from the user or other party. The operation input unit 35 can be configured as a touch panel display that allows input via the display unit 33. In this case, the input method to the touch panel display can be, for example, a resistive touch method, an infrared touch method, an electromagnetic induction method, a capacitive touch method, etc.

[0052] The image forming unit 37 forms an image on paper, which serves as a recording medium, based on image data. The image forming unit 37 feeds paper from a paper feeding unit (not shown), forms an image on the paper based on the image data, and then discharges the paper from a paper discharge unit (not shown). The image forming unit 37 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 37 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to the toner color (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, black, etc.).

[0053] The image reading unit 39 generates image data by scanning and reading the original document image. The image reading unit 39 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor). The configuration of the image reading unit 39 is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of generating image data by reading reflected light from the original document image with the image sensor.

[0054] The communication unit 41 is equipped with an interface for wired / wireless communication via network lines such as LAN, WAN, and the Internet. The communication unit 41 communicates with the application provider device 10 and outputs necessary information, such as optional device information, to the application provider device 10 regarding the provision of applications.

[0055] The memory unit 43 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the multifunction printer 30. The memory unit 43 can be composed of, for example, a storage device such as RAM, HDD, SSD, or ROM.

[0056] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 43 stores a job control program 431, a display processing program 433, and an application acquisition program 435, and reserves an application storage area 437 and an optional device information storage area 439.

[0057] The job control program 431 is a program read by the control unit 31 to control processing on a job-by-job basis in each operation mode such as print, fax, and scan. After reading the job control program 431, the control unit 31 can execute the job by controlling the display unit 33, operation input unit 35, image forming unit 37, image reading unit 39, communication unit 41, etc.

[0058] The display processing program 433 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when controlling the screen display in the display unit 33. The control unit 31 can display the application provision screen supplied from the application provision device 10 on the display unit 33.

[0059] The application acquisition program 435 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when acquiring an application provided by the application provisioning device 10. After reading the application acquisition program 435, the control unit 31 outputs the application provision request received via the application provisioning screen to the application provisioning device 10. In addition, in response to a request from the application provisioning device 10 to acquire device information, the control unit 31 outputs the optional device information stored in the optional device information storage area 439 to the application provisioning device 10.

[0060] The application storage area 437 is a storage area that stores applications and other data obtained from the application provider device 10.

[0061] The optional device information storage area 439 is a storage area that stores information about optional devices attached to the main unit of the device. The optional device information stored in the optional device information storage area 439 is read out as appropriate in response to an acquisition request from the application providing device 10 and output to the application providing device 10.

[0062] [1.2 Processing Flow] [1.2.1 About the overall processing] Next, the processing flow according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram illustrating the overall processing according to the first embodiment.

[0063] First, the control unit 31 of the multifunction printer 30 displays the application provision screen, accessed via application provision, on the display unit 33 (step S10). There are no particular restrictions on the means or method for displaying the application provision screen on the display unit 33, but for example, a reception button or the like that can be provided on the home screen that the control unit 31 of the multifunction printer 30 displays on the display unit 33 as the basic screen, to receive instructions to display the application provision screen.

[0064] The user selects the application they wish to obtain via the application provision screen. The user's instruction to select an application is output to the application provision device 10 as an application provision request (step S12).

[0065] Upon receiving an application provision request, the control unit 11 of the application provisioning device 10 performs an application suitability determination process with the multifunction printer 30 (step S14).

[0066] Based on the application suitability determination result, the control unit 11 of the application providing device 10 controls the display of restriction information related to the provision of the application (step S16).

[0067] Based on the results of referencing the application information and restriction information displayed on the application provision screen, if it is determined that an application should be acquired, the user enters an instruction to acquire the desired application as an application provision request via the application provision screen (step S18).

[0068] The application provider 10, having received an instruction to provide an application, provides the application to the multifunction printer 30 (step S20).

[0069] Then, the control unit 31 of the multifunction printer 30 performs the installation process of the provided application (step S22).

[0070] On the other hand, if the user decides not to obtain the application, they enter a request to terminate application provision via the application provision screen (step S24).

[0071] Upon receiving a request to terminate application provision, the application provider 10 terminates control of the display of restriction information (step S26).

[0072] Then, the control unit 31 of the multifunction printer 30 terminates the series of processes by ending the display of the application provision screen (step S28).

[0073] [1.2.2 Application compatibility determination process] Next, the application conformity determination process related to step S14 in Figure 7 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 8. The process described here is mainly performed by the control unit 11 of the application providing device 10 by reading the device information acquisition program 1911, the conformity determination program 1913, and the display control program 1915 of the application providing program 191.

[0074] The control unit 11 of the application provisioning device 10 determines whether or not it has received an application selection instruction (application provision request) from the user via the multifunction printer 30 (step S100). At this time, the control unit 11 obtains the device ID of the multifunction printer 30 (for example, "ME001": see Figure 4) along with the application selection instruction.

[0075] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received an instruction to select an application, it reads the application management table 1921 stored in the application storage area 192 (Step S100; Yes → Step S102). If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received an application selection request, it waits until it receives an instruction to select the application in question (Step S100; No).

[0076] Having read the application management table 1921, the control unit 11 determines whether an optional device is required for the operation of the application for which the selection instruction was received in step S100 (step S104). If it is determined that an optional device is required for the operation of the application, the control unit 11 refers to the device management table 1931 in Figure 4 (step S106), communicates using the device ID obtained in step S100, and obtains the optional device information of the multifunction printer 30 from the multifunction printer 30 that output the selection instruction for the application (step S108).

[0077] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a compatible option device is not installed based on the option device information obtained in step S108 and the registered value (compatible option device) in the application management table 1921 (step S110).

[0078] If the control unit 11 determines that the compatible optional device is not installed, it decides to display the first restriction information (step S100; Yes → step S112). Then, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S120 (step S112 → step S120). If the control unit 11 determines that the compatible optional device is not installed, it may restrict the display of the application itself, or it may restrict the provision of the application itself.

[0079] On the other hand, if it is determined that a suitable optional device is installed, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a recommended optional device is not installed (step S110; No → step S114).

[0080] If the control unit 11 determines that the recommended optional device is not installed, it decides to display the second limitation information (step S114; Yes → step S116). Then, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S120 (step S116 → step S120).

[0081] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the recommended optional device is installed, it decides to display the information without any restrictions (step S114; No → step S118).

[0082] Then, the control unit 11 displays an application provision screen with control over the display of restriction information (step S120).

[0083] Incidentally, even if the control unit 11 determines that the compliant option device is not installed and decides to display the first restriction information (step S110; Yes → step S112), it may also determine whether the recommended option device is not installed and execute the processing from step S114 onwards. For example, if in step S114 the recommended option device is not installed and the control unit decides to display the second restriction information, by displaying both the first and second restriction information simultaneously, the user can check information about both the compliant option device and the recommended option device at once, which can be expected to have effects such as making it easier to consider introducing the option device.

[0084] [1.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the application provision screen W10 that receives an application provision request from a user.

[0085] The application distribution screen W10 includes an application display area R10, an application switching button B10, and a button B12 that displays all applications.

[0086] The application display area R10 is the area that displays applications that can be provided via the application provision screen W10. Figure 9 is an example in which the application display area R10 is composed of four individual display areas: R101 for displaying Application AA, R102 for displaying Application BB, R103 for displaying Application CC, and R104 for displaying Application DD.

[0087] The application displayed in the application display area R10 can be switched by the user using the application switching button B10. For example, if the user selects the application switching button B10 on the right side of the diagram, the control unit 11 updates the configuration of the application display area R10 to a combination of individual display areas that display the new application. On the other hand, if the user selects the application switching button B10 on the left side of the diagram, the control unit 11 returns the configuration of the application display area R10 to the previous combination of individual display areas.

[0088] By the way, the number of applications (individual display areas) that can be displayed at once in the application display area R10 is not limited to four, and can be changed and set as appropriate via a settings screen (not shown).

[0089] The button B12, which displays all applications, accepts the user's selection of whether or not to display all applications managed in the application management table 1921. When the user selects the button B12, the control unit 11 displays all applications managed in the application management table 1921. If the button B12 is not selected, the control unit 11 restricts the display of applications whose provision via the application provision screen W10 is restricted (applications to which the display of the first restriction information, as explained in the following figure, is applied).

[0090] Figure 10 shows an example of the display configuration of the application provision screen W20, which displays an application where the compliant optional device is not installed and the first restriction information is applied, and an application where the recommended optional device is not installed and the second restriction information is applied. In Figure 10, Application AA is used as an example of an application where the compliant optional device is not installed and the first restriction information is applied, and Application DD is used as an example of an application where the recommended optional device is not installed and the second restriction information is applied.

[0091] As illustrated in Figure 10, the control unit 11 displays a red display icon I10 in the individual display area R101 related to Application AA, indicating that there are restrictions on obtaining Application AA. When the user selects the display icon I10, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up message M10 with the message, "No optional equipment suitable for the operating conditions of this application is installed."

[0092] Furthermore, the control unit 11 displays a yellow display icon I20 in the individual display area R104 related to Application DD, indicating that some restrictions are imposed on the functions provided by Application DD. When the user selects this display icon I20, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up message M20 with the message, "The optional device recommended for the operation conditions of this application is not installed."

[0093] In this way, by displaying icons with different display modes (display colors) depending on the restrictions imposed on the application, users can easily understand that there are optional devices that are suitable for the application's operating conditions, or optional devices that are recommended for those operating conditions. In addition, instead of displaying the restriction information as a pop-up message, it is also possible to output the information as audio, for example.

[0094] Figure 11 illustrates one example configuration of the application details screen W30 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to a selection operation (e.g., single tap, double tap, touch (long press), swipe, etc.) of the individual display area R101 related to Application AA, as exemplified in Figure 9. Although Figure 11 describes an example configuration of the application details screen related to Application AA, the application details screens related to other applications (Applications BB to DD) exemplified in Figure 9 can also be displayed by selecting each individual display area (R102 to R104).

[0095] The application details screen W30 includes the application information display area R20 and the install button B20.

[0096] The application information display area R20 is a display area that displays information about applications managed by the application management table 1921, as exemplified in Figure 3, as well as descriptions of those applications.

[0097] The install button B20 is a button that accepts the user's instruction to install the application. When the user selects the install button B20, the control unit 11 executes the installation process for the application (Application AA).

[0098] Figure 12 illustrates one example configuration of the application details screen W40 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to the selection operation of the individual display area R101 related to Application AA as exemplified in Figure 10. Note that the screen configuration of the application details screen W40 exemplified in Figure 12 can be the same as the screen configuration of the application details screen W30 exemplified in Figure 11, so an explanation is omitted here.

[0099] Application AA is an example of an application to which the compliant optional device is not installed and the display of the first restriction information is applied. In this case, the control unit 11 displays a display icon I10 in the application information display area R20 to indicate that there is a restriction on obtaining Application AA. When the user selects the display icon I10, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up message M12 with the content "The following optional device must be installed: Saddle finisher". Note that, as illustrated in Figure 12, measures may be taken to facilitate user understanding by illustrating the corresponding optional device (saddle finisher) in an identifiable manner (Figure (a)).

[0100] In addition, the control unit 11 restricts the acceptance of user instructions to install Application AA by making the install button B20 unselectable, for example, by graying it out.

[0101] Figure 13 illustrates one example configuration of the application details screen W50 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to the selection operation of the individual display area R103 related to the Application DD exemplified in Figure 10. Note that the screen configuration of the application details screen W50 exemplified in Figure 13 can be the same as the screen configuration of the application details screen W30 exemplified in Figure 11, so an explanation is omitted here.

[0102] In Figure 13, Application DD is an example of an application where the recommended optional device is not installed and the display of the second limitation information is applied. In this case, the control unit 11 displays a display icon I20 in the application information display area R20 indicating that some limitations are imposed on the functions provided by Application DD. When the user selects the display icon I20, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up message M22 with the content "The following optional device is recommended to be installed: Punch unit". Note that, as illustrated in Figure 13, measures may be taken to facilitate user understanding by illustrating the corresponding optional device (punch unit) in an identifiable manner (Figure (b)).

[0103] At this time, the control unit 11 does not restrict the acceptance of user instructions to install Application DD, and displays the install button B20 as selectable.

[0104] In the first embodiment, we described a configuration in which a display icon is shown when there are restrictions on acquiring the application or when some restrictions are placed on the functions provided by the application, and when the display icon is selected, a pop-up message is displayed indicating that the compatible option device or recommended option device is not installed.

[0105] As a means of notifying users when there are restrictions on acquiring an application or when some functions provided by an application are restricted, for example, as illustrated in Figure 14, it is possible to display the application with acquisition restrictions in a grayed-out individual area R101, thereby creating a different display pattern from other applications and preventing (restricting) user selection. On the other hand, applications with some restrictions on the functions they provide can also be displayed in a different display pattern (individual display area R104) from other applications and individual display area R101, allowing user selection. For the relevant individual display area, for example, the display content can be displayed by blinking, or by using different fonts and font sizes. In this case, it is preferable to make the blinking period, font, font size, etc. different for each individual display area so that each individual display area can be identified. However, when such a display pattern is adopted, it may be difficult for the user to immediately grasp that there are restrictions on the selection of an application. Therefore, it is preferable to notify the user of a message or audio output with content such as "An optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application is not installed," similar to when selecting a display icon (see Figure 10).

[0106] As described above, according to the first embodiment, by clearly defining optional devices that are suitable for the operating conditions of each application to be provided, or optional devices recommended for the operating conditions, it is possible to provide an application provision method that eliminates any disadvantage to the user in acquiring the application.

[0107] [2 Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, if the multifunction printer that output the application request does not have an optional device that meets the application's operating conditions, the system searches the network for another device that has an optional device that meets the application's operating conditions. If another device with an optional device that meets the application's operating conditions is found, the system can then suggest that other device to the user as the installation location for the application.

[0108] [2.1 Functional Configuration] [2.1.1 Overall Structure] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating one example configuration of the application provisioning system 200 according to the second embodiment. The application provisioning system 200 includes an application provisioning device 50, a multifunction printer 30a as a device, and multifunction printers 30b to 30n as other devices. The application provisioning device 50, multifunction printers 30a, and multifunction printers 30b to 30n are connected so that they can communicate with each other via a network NW such as a LAN, WAN, or the Internet. In the second embodiment, the device without optional devices that conform to the operating conditions of the application is described as multifunction printer 30a, and the other devices are described as multifunction printers 30b to 30n, but they may be simply referred to as multifunction printer 30 as needed.

[0109] [2.1.2 About the application provider device 50] Figure 16 is a functional configuration diagram of the application providing device 50. The application providing device 50 includes a storage unit 59 in place of the storage unit 19 of the application providing device 10 according to the first embodiment. Other components can be the same as those of the application providing device 10, so they are given the same reference numerals and their explanation is omitted here.

[0110] In the second embodiment, the storage unit 59 stores the application provision program 591 and reserves an application storage area 192, a device information storage area 193, and a restriction information storage area 194.

[0111] The application provision program 591 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing processing related to the provision of an application. The application provision program 591 includes a device information acquisition program 1911, a suitability determination program 1913, a display control program 1915, and an option device search program 5911.

[0112] The option device search program 5911 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when the multifunction printer 30a that output the application request does not have an option device that meets the application's operating conditions. When the control unit 11 reads the option device search program 5911 and the multifunction printer 30a that output the application request does not have an option device that meets the application's operating conditions, it searches the network NW and detects a multifunction printer 30 among the multifunction printers 30b to 30n that has an option device that meets the application's operating conditions.

[0113] [2.1.3 Regarding multifunction printers 30a and 30b~30n] The configurations of the multifunction printers 30a and 30b to 30n are identical to those of the multifunction printer 30 according to the first embodiment, with the only difference being the optional devices that are installed. Therefore, a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0114] [2.2 Processing Flow] Next, the flow of the application conformity determination process according to the second embodiment will be described. The process according to the second embodiment is the same as Figure 8 according to the first embodiment, but with Figure 17 replaced. Therefore, processes that can be the same as those in Figure 8 are given the same step numbers and their explanations are omitted. Also, in Figure 17, the process when a conformity option device is installed (step S110; No~) is the same as the process from step S114 onwards in Figure 8, so its explanation is omitted here.

[0115] The control unit 11 determines whether or not a compatible option device is not installed based on the option device information acquired in step S108 and the registered value (compatible option device) in the application management table 1921 (step S110).

[0116] If the control unit 11 determines that a compatible option device is not installed, it reads the option device search program 5911 from the application provision program 591. After reading the option device search program 5911, the control unit 11 searches for a multifunction printer 30 among the multifunction printers 30b to 30n connected to the network NW that has the compatible option device installed (step S110; Yes → step S200). At this time, the control unit 11 can refer to the device management table 1931 in Figure 4 to communicate with other multifunction printers 30b to 30n and search for a multifunction printer 30 that has the corresponding option device installed.

[0117] Then, when the control unit 11 detects a multifunction printer 30 equipped with the corresponding optional device, it displays the device information of the multifunction printer 30 on the application provision screen. At this time, along with the device information, the control unit 11 also displays an instruction button that accepts an installation instruction as the destination for installing the application on the multifunction printer 30 (Step S202; Yes → Step S204).

[0118] Furthermore, if the control unit 11 does not detect a multifunction printer 30 equipped with the relevant optional device, it terminates the process (step S202; No → Termination).

[0119] By the way, if it is determined in step S110 that a suitable optional device is installed, the control unit 11 executes the processes related to steps S114 to S120 (step S110; No → step S114 to step S120).

[0120] [2.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 18 shows an example of the display configuration of the application details screen W60, which displays device information of the multifunction printer 30 equipped with an optional device corresponding to a compatible optional device, and an instruction button that accepts an instruction to install the application.

[0121] The application details screen W60 can have the same configuration as the application details screen W40 illustrated in Figure 12, but it differs from the application details screen W40 in that it includes the device information display icon I30.

[0122] The device information display icon I30 is a display icon that the control unit 11 displays on the application details screen W60 when it detects a multifunction printer 30 equipped with an optional device that matches the criteria for a compatible optional device from among the multifunction printers 30b to 30n connected to the network NW. When the control unit 11 receives a command from the user to select the device information display icon I30, it displays a pop-up message M30 indicating that it has detected a multifunction printer 30 equipped with an optional device that matches the criteria for a compatible optional device, with the message "An MFP that meets the criteria has been found nearby," and displays the device information of the multifunction printer 30, including "Technical Department Office" (installation location), "BP-****FN" (model name), and "192.168.100.19" (IP address).

[0123] At this time, the control unit 11 displays an install button B22 along with the pop-up message M30 to accept an instruction to install an application on the detected multifunction printer 30. When an installation instruction is entered by selecting the install button B22, the control unit 11 executes the application installation process on the detected multifunction printer 30.

[0124] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, if the multifunction printer that outputs the application request does not have an optional device that matches the operating conditions of the application, it is possible to search on the network NW for other devices that have an optional device that matches the matching optional device. If another device with the matching optional device is detected, it is possible to suggest that other device to the user as the installation destination for the application.

[0125] [3 Third Embodiment] The third embodiment is an image forming apparatus having the configuration of the application providing device according to the first embodiment.

[0126] [3.1 Functional Configuration] Figure 19 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction printer 70 according to the third embodiment. The multifunction printer 70 includes a storage unit 71 in place of the storage unit 43 of the multifunction printer 30 according to the first embodiment. Other components can be the same as those of the multifunction printer 30, so they are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanation is omitted here. Similarly, for the configuration of the storage unit 71, components that are the same as those already described are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanation is omitted here.

[0127] In the third embodiment, the storage unit 71 stores a job control program 431, a display processing program 433, and an application management program 711, and reserves an application storage area 713, an optional device information storage area 439, and a restriction information storage area 194.

[0128] The application management program 711 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when comprehensively managing applications to be installed on the multifunction device 70 and applications that have been installed. The application management program 711 includes an application request program 7111, a suitability determination program 7113, and a display control program 7115.

[0129] The application request program 7111 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when requesting an application from, for example, a service server provided by a vendor. After reading the application request program 7111, the control unit 31 requests the service server to supply the application. Upon receiving the application, the control unit 31 stores the supplied application in the application storage area 713 and registers the necessary application information in the application management table 1921 described in the first embodiment. Note that the application is not limited to being supplied from a service server; for example, it may be supplied from a recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0130] The conformity determination program 7113 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when determining whether the optional device it installs conforms to the operating conditions of the application requested. After reading the conformity determination program 7113, the control unit 11 uses the application management table 1921 stored in the application storage area 192 to check the acquired optional device information to determine whether a conformity option device or a recommended option device is installed on the multifunction printer 30, thereby determining the conformity of the multifunction printer 30 to the application.

[0131] The display control program 7115 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when controlling the display of the application provision screen during application installation. The control unit 31, having read the display control program 7115, can function as a reception unit.

[0132] The application storage area 713 is a storage area that stores applications supplied from service servers, etc. The application storage area 713 stores the application management table 1921 for managing the said applications.

[0133] [3.2 Processing Flow] [3.2.1 About the overall processing] Next, the processing flow according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 20 is a sequence diagram illustrating the overall processing according to the third embodiment.

[0134] First, the control unit 31 of the multifunction printer 70 requests a service server (not shown) to supply an application. Upon receiving the application from the service server (not shown), the control unit 31 stores the supplied application in the application storage area 713 (step S30).

[0135] Next, the control unit 31 displays the application provision screen, accessed via the application provision service, on the display unit 33 (step S32). There are no particular restrictions on the means or method for displaying the application provision screen on the display unit 33, but for example, a reception button or the like that can be provided on the home screen, which the control unit 31 of the multifunction printer 70 displays on the display unit 33 as the basic screen, to receive instructions to display the application provision screen.

[0136] The user selects the application they wish to obtain via the application provision screen. The user's application selection is output to the control unit 31 as an application selection instruction (step S34).

[0137] Upon receiving an application selection instruction, the control unit 31 performs an application suitability determination process (step S36).

[0138] Based on the application compatibility determination result, the control unit 31 controls the display of restriction information related to the application installation (step S38).

[0139] Based on the application information and restriction information displayed on the application provision screen, if the user decides to install the application, they enter the installation instructions for the desired application via the application provision screen (step S40).

[0140] Upon receiving an instruction to install an application, the control unit 31 executes the application installation process (step S42).

[0141] On the other hand, if the user decides not to install the application, they enter a request to terminate application provision via the application provision screen (step S44).

[0142] Upon receiving a request to terminate application provision, the control unit 31 terminates the display control of the restriction information (step S46).

[0143] Then, the control unit 31 terminates the series of processes by ending the display of the application provision screen (step S48). At this time, the control unit 11 may delete the application stored in the application storage area 713 in step S30.

[0144] The application suitability determination process in step S36 can be carried out in accordance with the process described in the flowchart of Figure 8, so its explanation is omitted here.

[0145] As described above, according to the third embodiment, applications that may be installed on the multifunction printer can be obtained in advance, and the compatibility of the device with the obtained applications can be determined, thereby enabling the installation of applications suitable for the device without going through an application provisioning device.

[0146] [4. Variant] In the first or second embodiment, the control unit 11 of the application providing device 10 referred to the device management table 1931 and acquired option device information of the multifunction device 30 from the multifunction device 30 that output the application selection instruction.

[0147] In a modified example, as shown in the device management table 1933 illustrated in Figure 21, optional devices that are already installed on the image forming apparatus (multifunction printer, fax machine, printer, etc.) are managed in the device management table.

[0148] In the modified version, it is possible to perform application conformity determination processing using the option device information of the option devices managed in the device management table 1933 and the registered values ​​(compliant option devices and recommended option devices) in the application management table 1921. Therefore, according to the modified version, it is not necessary to obtain option device information in the application conformity determination processing, and the processing burden related to the application conformity determination processing can be reduced.

[0149] By the way, in the first to third embodiments, a configuration in which the application suitability determination process is performed using the application management table 1921 illustrated in Figure 3 was described. However, this disclosure is not limited to a configuration in which the application suitability determination process is performed using the application management table 1921, and a configuration in which the application has option device information regarding suitable option devices and recommended option devices, and the application suitability determination process is performed using said option device information, is also possible.

[0150] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified without departing from the gist of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0151] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and implemented to the extent that is technically possible.

[0152] Furthermore, in the embodiments, the programs that run on each device are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. In the embodiments, a device is assumed in which multiple programs are executed simultaneously as needed through multitasking. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in storage devices such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0153] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). Furthermore, in addition to realizing the functions of the embodiments described above by executing the loaded program, the functions of this disclosure may also be realized by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs based on the instructions of the program.

[0154] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable storage medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is, of course, also included in this disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 10, 50 Application Providers 11 Control Unit 13 Display section 15 Operation Input Section 17 Communications Department 19 Memory section 191,591 Application Delivery Programs 192 Application Storage Area 193 Device information storage area 194 Limited Information Storage Area 30, 70 multifunction device 31 Control Unit 33 Display section 35 Operation Input Section 37 Image forming unit 39 Image reading unit 41 Communications Department 43 Storage section 431 Job Control Unit 433 Display Processing Program 435 Application Acquisition Program 437,713 Application storage area 439 Optional device information storage area 711 Application Management Program

Claims

1. A method for providing an application in an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device A delivery screen is displayed that accepts user requests for the provision of the application. The application is requested via the aforementioned display screen. The device information of the optional device attached to the device that output the application request instruction is obtained. Based on the acquired device information, it is determined whether or not the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction is installed. Controlling the provision of the application to the device, If the optional device that meets the operating conditions of the application is not installed, the first restriction information regarding the provision of the application is displayed on the provision screen. If the optional device recommended for the operating conditions of the aforementioned application is not installed, the second restriction information regarding the provision of the application will be displayed on the provision screen. A method for providing an application characterized by the following features.

2. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that the operating conditions of the application are associated with information about the application and information about the optional device.

3. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that the application has information regarding the optional device as an operating condition for the application.

4. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that, on the provision screen, the first restriction information or the second restriction information is displayed upon receiving an instruction to select an icon to be displayed together with the application.

5. The application provision method according to claim 4, characterized in that the icon that receives the instruction to display the first restriction information and the icon that receives the instruction to display the second restriction information are displayed in different display modes.

6. The application provision method according to claim 4, characterized in that, upon receiving an instruction to select the aforementioned icon, an uninstalled optional device is illustrated and displayed.

7. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application is not installed, information is obtained about other devices that are equipped with the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application, and such other devices are proposed as a destination for the application.

8. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application is not installed, the display mode of the application on the provision screen is displayed in a different display mode from that of other applications.

9. The application provision method according to claim 8, characterized in that the selection of the application displayed in a different display manner from the other applications is restricted.

10. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that if the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application is not installed, the display of the application on the provision screen is restricted.

11. The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that the provision of the application is restricted if the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application is not installed.

12. The apparatus is an image forming apparatus, The application provision method according to claim 1, characterized in that the optional device is a processing device that performs processing related to image formation.

13. A method for providing an application in an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device We accept requests for application provision, The device information of the optional device attached to the device that output the application request instruction is obtained. Based on the acquired device information, it is determined whether the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction is installed, and the provision of the application to the device is controlled. If the optional device that meets the operating conditions of the application is not installed, information about other devices that are equipped with the optional device that meets the operating conditions of the application is obtained, and such other devices are proposed as a destination for the application. A method for providing an application characterized by the following features.

14. A display unit that displays a provision screen for receiving instructions from a user to provide an application, A reception unit that receives application provision requests via the aforementioned provision screen, An acquisition unit that acquires device information of an optional device attached to the device that output the application provision request instruction, A providing device having a control unit that controls the provision of the application related to the provision request instruction, A device that receives the application from the aforementioned providing device, An application delivery system equipped with, The control unit, Based on the acquired device information, it is determined whether or not the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction is installed. Controlling the provision of the application to the device, If the optional device that meets the operating conditions of the application is not installed, the first restriction information regarding the provision of the application is displayed on the provision screen. If the optional device recommended for the operating conditions of the aforementioned application is not installed, the second restriction information regarding the provision of the application will be displayed on the provision screen. An application delivery system characterized by the following features.

15. A display unit that displays a provision screen for receiving instructions from a user to provide an application, A reception unit that receives application provision requests via the aforementioned provision screen, An acquisition unit that acquires device information of an optional device attached to the device that output the application provision request instruction, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, Based on the acquired device information, it is determined whether or not the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the provision request instruction is installed. Controlling the provision of the application to the device, If the optional device that meets the operating conditions of the application is not installed, the first restriction information regarding the provision of the application is displayed on the provision screen. If the optional device recommended for the operating conditions of the aforementioned application is not installed, the second restriction information regarding the provision of the application will be displayed on the provision screen. An application-providing device characterized by the following features.

16. A display unit that displays a provision screen for receiving instructions from a user requesting the installation of an application, A reception unit that receives instructions for the installation of the application via the aforementioned display screen, An acquisition unit that acquires device information of the installed optional device, Based on the acquired device information, a control unit determines whether or not the optional device that conforms to the operating conditions of the application related to the installation request instruction is installed, and controls the installation of the application. The system includes an image forming unit that performs image formation processing based on the installed application, The control unit, If the optional device that meets the operating conditions of the application is not installed, the first restriction information regarding the installation of the application is displayed on the provision screen. If the optional device recommended for the application's operating conditions is not installed, the second restriction information regarding the application's installation will be displayed on the display screen. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following features.

Images