Printer management method, computer device, storage medium and program product

Abstract

Disclosed in the embodiments of the present application are a printer management method, a computer device, a storage medium and a program product. The method comprises: in response to a printer search request for a target address network segment, sending a probe data packet to a network address comprised in the target address network segment; acquiring a message response to the probe data packet, and on the basis of the message response, determining a printer address; on the basis of the printer address, establishing a network connection with a target printer corresponding to the target address network segment, wherein printers comprise the target printer; and on the basis of the network connection, sending a model file to the target printer. By using the present application, the convenience of printer deployment can be improved.

Description

Printer management methods, computer equipment, storage media and software products

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2024115613261, filed on November 4, 2024, entitled "Printer Management Method, Computer Equipment, Storage Medium and Program Product", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of computer technology, and in particular to a printer management method, computer equipment, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0003] With the rapid advancement of 3D printing technology, especially the significant increase in printing speed, a new production model represented by 3D printing farms has emerged. These farms are rapidly expanding in scale, and the number of printers they employ is also increasing, making printer management extremely important. Currently, printers are typically connected to a server, which is responsible for collecting printer status information, storing and managing model files, and managing print history. A client provides a graphical interface for user operation, allowing the client to access the server to obtain display information or send operation commands. The server needs to establish a communication link with the printer based on Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to receive status information reported by the printer and send control commands to it.

[0004] However, as the number of printers increases, obtaining the printer's IP address becomes time-consuming and resource-intensive. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a printer management method, computer device, storage medium, and program product, which can improve the convenience of printer deployment.

[0006] This application provides a printer management method, which can be executed by a computer device, and the method includes:

[0007] In response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, a probe data packet is sent to the network addresses included in the target address network segment;

[0008] Obtain the message response to the probe data packet, and determine the printer address based on the message response; the printer address corresponds one-to-one with the printer.

[0009] A network connection is established between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer.

[0010] The model file is sent to the target printer via a network connection, so that the target printer can print the model file. Printing the model file can be understood as the printer executing the code file in the model file and then creating the object.

[0011] One embodiment of this application provides a printer management device, which includes:

[0012] The data sending module is used to respond to printer lookup requests for a target address network segment and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment;

[0013] The address determination module is used to obtain the message response to the probe data packet and determine the printer address based on the message response; the printer address corresponds one-to-one with the printer.

[0014] The printer connection module is used to establish a network connection between the printer and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment, based on the printer address; the printer includes the target printer;

[0015] The file sending module is used to send model files to the target printer via a network connection.

[0016] The target address network segment includes P subnet segments; P is a positive integer.

[0017] This data sending module can be used for:

[0018] In response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, retrieve the network addresses of the P subnets within the target address network segment.

[0019] Send probe packets to the network addresses included in each subnet segment.

[0020] The printer management device also includes:

[0021] The print configuration module is used to obtain N available address segments, each of which is associated with a first lookup component; N is a positive integer, and the N address segments include the target address segment; each first lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the address segment associated with that first lookup component.

[0022] The printer management device also includes:

[0023] The print configuration module is also used to display a network segment input area, which is associated with a second lookup component. The network segment input area is used to obtain the target address network segment, and the second lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment obtained from the network segment input area.

[0024] The printer management device also includes:

[0025] The print configuration module is also used to display a network segment selection component, which is associated with a third lookup component;

[0026] This data sending module can be used for:

[0027] In response to a trigger operation on the network segment selection component, display N available address network segments; N is a positive integer;

[0028] In response to the selection operation of the target address network segment among N address network segments and the triggering operation of the third lookup component, probe data packets are sent to the network addresses included in the target address network segment; the selection operation of the target address network segment among N address network segments and the triggering operation of the third lookup component are used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment.

[0029] The address determination module can be used for:

[0030] Obtain the message reply to the probe packet, retrieve the printer message format, and determine the network address of the message reply that conforms to the printer message format as the printer address; or,

[0031] Obtain the message reply to the probe packet, and determine the network address that sent the message reply as the printer address; the probe packet is a message requesting a reply from the printer.

[0032] The printer lookup request for the target address network segment includes a printer lookup request for the first range; the first range refers to the range that belongs to the same subnet network segment as the computer device; the target address network segment is the subnet network segment to which the computer device's device address belongs.

[0033] The file sending module can be used for:

[0034] Obtain the number of first printers in the target printer list; the first printer refers to the printer that is in the heated bed state;

[0035] If the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer via network connection so that the target printer can print the model file; the synchronous heating quantity threshold is used to represent the upper limit of the number of printers with synchronously heated beds;

[0036] If the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the sending of model files to the target printer will be temporarily stopped until the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, at which point the model files will be sent to the target printer based on the network connection.

[0037] The printer management device also includes:

[0038] The threshold determination module is used to obtain the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold of the scene where the target printer is deployed, obtain the number of target printers, and determine the synchronous heating quantity threshold from the number of printers based on the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold. The heated bed heating power consumption threshold is used to represent the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in heated bed heating state; the normal operation power consumption threshold is used to represent the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in normal operation state, which refers to the state where it is in operation and not heated bed heating.

[0039] The printer management device also includes:

[0040] The threshold determination module is also used to display the heated bed configuration page and obtain the threshold number of synchronous heating uploaded by the heated bed configuration page.

[0041] Wherein, the first printer is a printer of the first printer model among the target printers and is in a heated bed state; the target printers include printers of at least two models; when obtaining the number of first printers among the target printers, the file sending module can be used for:

[0042] Based on the first printer model corresponding to the model file, obtain the number of first printers belonging to the same model from the target printers.

[0043] The file sending module can be used for:

[0044] Display the second printer model;

[0045] In response to the selection operation for the target printer model in the second printer model, the second printer corresponding to the target printer model is determined from the target printers, and the model file is sent to the second printer based on the network connection.

[0046] The printer management device also includes:

[0047] The printer model acquisition module is used to acquire model files and then retrieve the second printer model from those files.

[0048] Specifically, when responding to a selection operation for a target printer model among the second printer models, and determining the second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers, the file sending module can be used to:

[0049] In response to a selection operation for a target printer model in the second printer model, retrieve the candidate printers corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers;

[0050] Obtain the model consumables corresponding to the model file, obtain the remaining consumables of the candidate printers, and identify the candidate printers with more remaining consumables than the model consumables as the second printer.

[0051] One embodiment of this application provides a computer device, including a processor, a memory, and an input / output interface;

[0052] The processor is connected to a memory and an input / output interface, respectively. The input / output interface is used to receive and output data, the memory is used to store computer programs, and the processor is used to call the computer programs so that the computer device containing the processor executes the printer management method in one aspect of the embodiments of this application.

[0053] One aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program adapted to be loaded and executed by a processor, so that a computer device having the processor performs the printer management method of one aspect of this application.

[0054] One aspect of this application provides a computer program product or computer program, which includes computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor of a computer device reads the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer instructions, causing the computer device to perform the methods provided in various optional embodiments of this application. In other words, when the computer instructions are executed by the processor, they implement the methods provided in various optional embodiments of this application.

[0055] Implementing the embodiments of this application will have the following beneficial effects:

[0056] In this embodiment, a computer device can respond to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment by sending a probe data packet to the network address included in the target address network segment; obtaining a message reply to the probe data packet and determining the printer address based on the message reply; a one-to-one correspondence between the printer address and the printer; establishing a network connection between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer; and sending a model file to the target printer based on the network connection so that the target printer can print the model file. In other words, the computer device can actively send probe data packets to the address network segment. If it receives a correct message reply (i.e., a standard message reply), it can obtain the network address of the printer that sent the standard message reply. Unlike methods that require establishing a communication link between the server and the printer before the server receives information uploaded by the printer, this application enables active printer lookup. Moreover, this method uses address network segments to look up printers, and the format and content of the address network segments are relatively simple. Even ordinary users can easily look up printers based on address network segments, improving the convenience of printer connection. Furthermore, by sending probe data packets to the address network segment, the network addresses of printers deployed in different address network segments can be obtained. This enables cross-network segment lookup and connection to printers even if they are distributed in different subnets, improving the convenience and reliability of printer management. Attached Figure Description

[0057] Figure 1 is a network interaction architecture diagram of printer management provided by an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a printer management scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 3 is a flowchart of a printer management method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a printer heated bed limitation method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a printer heated bed limitation scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a printer model processing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a model matching scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a printer processing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a printer management device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a computer device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0072] The use of user data in this application will comply with relevant laws and regulations, meaning that this application will use user data within a reasonable and legal scope.

[0073] In this embodiment of the application, please refer to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a network interaction architecture diagram for printer management provided in this embodiment of the application. As shown in Figure 1, computer device 101 can be connected to printer 102. Computer device 101 can send control commands to printer 102 and obtain status information sent by printer 102. Computer device 101 can be a device integrating server and client, or it can be either client 1011 or server 1012; no limitation is made here. The number of printers 102 is at least two, such as printers 102a, 102b, 102c, ... and 102f shown in Figure 1. That is, this application is used for a scenario of managing at least two printers. The printer in this application can be considered a 3D printer, a rapid prototyping process device. Computer device 101 can establish a network connection with the printer based on its network address and send control commands, such as model files, to the printer through this network connection. The model file is an executable file for the printer, such as a Gcode file, a 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF) file containing a Gcode file, a Stereolithography (STL) file, or a Wavefront OBJ (OBJ) file. The Gcode file is a set of instructions used to control automated equipment such as CNC machine tools or 3D printers, containing detailed instructions required for the equipment to perform specific tasks. The 3MF file describes the 3D model, including but not limited to its geometric information, internal information, color, and materials. The STL file is a standard triangulation language used to store information about the 3D model. The OBJ file is a general-purpose 3D model file format used to describe the surface geometry of a 3D object. When the printer receives the model file, it can execute the code file within the model file and then manufacture the object.

[0074] Specifically, please refer to Figure 2, which is a schematic diagram of a printer management scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the computer device can respond to a printer lookup request 201 for a target address network segment by sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment. The target address network segment is an address network segment, which can be considered an IP range used to indicate a subnet. It may include one or at least two subnet segments. A subnet segment consists of multiple network addresses, each of which can be considered an IP address. The network addresses included in an address network segment may include unused network addresses, network addresses used by printers, and network addresses used by business devices other than printers. At this time, the computer device can obtain a message reply to the probe data packet and determine the printer address based on the message reply. Specifically, the network address that sent the standard message reply can be determined as the printer address. For example, the target address network segment includes network address 1, network address 2, and network address 3, etc. Network address 1 is used by printer 202a, network address 2 is used by printer 202b, network address 3 is used by service device 202c, etc. The computer device can obtain the message reply to the probe data packet and determine the network address that sent the standard message reply as the printer address, as shown in Figure 2. The network address that sent the standard message reply includes network address 1 and network address 2, etc. The computer device can determine network address 1 and network address 2, etc. as the printer address and establish a network connection between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment, as shown in Figure 2. The target printer includes printer 202a and printer 202b, etc. The computer device can establish a network connection between network address 1 and printer 202a, and a network connection between network address 2 and printer 202b, etc. By actively sending probe packets to the network addresses included in the target address segment and receiving message replies through the probe packets, it is known that a standard message reply is received when a network address used by the printer exists within the target address segment. The network address that sent the standard message reply is the network address used by the printer. In this way, the network address used by the printer within the target address segment can be obtained and recorded as the printer address. This allows users to obtain the network address corresponding to the printer simply by providing the target address segment. Furthermore, obtaining the printer's network address does not require consideration of cross-subnet transmission between printers. Based on different compositions of the target address segment, such as including at least two subnet segments, printers deployed in subnets under at least two subnet segments can be found, thereby improving the convenience of printer connection.

[0075] It is understood that the computer equipment mentioned in the embodiments of this application includes, but is not limited to, terminal devices or servers. In other words, the computer equipment can be a server or a terminal device, or a system composed of a server and a terminal device. The terminal device mentioned above can be an electronic device, including but not limited to mobile phones, tablets, desktop computers, laptops, handheld computers, in-vehicle devices, augmented reality / virtual reality (AR / VR) devices, head-mounted displays, smart TVs, wearable devices, smart speakers, digital cameras, webcams, and other mobile internet devices (MIDs) with network access capabilities, or terminal devices in scenarios such as trains, ships, and flights. The server mentioned above can be an independent physical server, a server cluster or distributed system composed of multiple physical servers, or a cloud server providing basic cloud computing services such as cloud services, cloud databases, cloud computing, cloud functions, cloud storage, network services, cloud communication, middleware services, domain name services, security services, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, content delivery networks (CDNs), and big data and artificial intelligence platforms.

[0076] Optionally, the data involved in the embodiments of this application may be stored in a computer device, or may be stored based on cloud storage technology or a blockchain network, without limitation.

[0077] Further, please refer to Figure 3, which is a flowchart of a printer management method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, the printer management process includes the following steps:

[0078] Step S301: In response to the printer lookup request for the target address network segment, send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment.

[0079] In this embodiment, a computer device can respond to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment by sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment. This target address network segment is provided by a service object (i.e., a user). The computer device can obtain the network addresses included in the target address network segment and send probe data packets to these network addresses to detect all network addresses included in the target address network segment. These network addresses may include those used by printers, those used by other service devices, or unused network addresses. For example, if the target address network segment is "192.168.3.0-192.168.3.255", then this target address network segment includes 256 network addresses, such as network addresses "192.168.3.0", "192.168.3.1", "192.168.3.2", ... and "192.168.3.255", etc. Optionally, the computer equipment can deploy group control software to obtain the target address network segment, respond to print lookup requests for the target address network segment, and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment. Optionally, the number of target address network segments can be one or at least two, or the target address network segment can include one or at least two subnet segments, with one subnet segment corresponding to one subnet.

[0080] Specifically, the target address network segment can be an address network segment input by the business object, or an address network segment selected by the business object, etc. Specifically, the computer device can obtain N available address network segments, each of which is associated with a first lookup component. Here, N is a positive integer, and the N address network segments include the target address network segment. Each first lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the address network segment associated with it. That is, the computer device can respond to a printer lookup request for the target address network segment among the N address network segments by sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment. Specifically, when the target organization's organizational objects (such as administrators or network administrators) deploy group control software, they can configure the address network segment associated with the target organization in the group control software, and the computer device can store this address network segment; or, when the organizational object configures the network for the target organization, the computer device can store the configured address network segment, etc. Here, the target organization refers to the organization deploying the printer, such as an enterprise or other organization. In other words, the computer device can obtain the configuration information of the group control software and retrieve the N address network segments associated with the target organization from this configuration information; alternatively, the computer device can obtain the network configuration data of the target organization and retrieve the N address network segments associated with the target organization from the network configuration data, etc., without limitation. Simply put, after configuring the address network segments, the target organization can store the organizational information associated with it. When the computer device responds to a printer configuration request, it can retrieve the N address network segments associated with the target organization from the organizational information associated with the target organization. This organizational information can be the aforementioned configuration information or network configuration data, etc., without limitation. In this way, address network segments can be configured once, and subsequent users (i.e., business objects) can directly use this configuration to query address network segments, thereby simplifying the search and connection of printers. Even ordinary personnel without 3D knowledge or skills can easily perform this address network segment query operation, thus improving the convenience of printer connection. Moreover, when address network segments need to be updated, the computer device can obtain the updated address network segments and update the organizational information based on the updated address network segments.

[0081] For example, referring to Figure 4, which is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the computer device can output N address network segments and respond to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment among the N address network segments by sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment. Optionally, in one network segment processing method ①, the computer device can display a network segment selection component 401 and associate the network segment selection component 401 with a third search component 403. That is, the network segment selection component 401 is associated with the third search component 403. Specifically, the printer search request for the target address network segment is triggered by the following steps: (1) The computer device responds to the selection operation for the network segment selection component 401 and displays N available address network segments 402, where N is a positive integer; (2) Responds to the selection operation for the target address network segment among the N address network segments 402, assuming that the target address network segment is "192.168.4.0-192.168.4.255"; (3) Responds to the triggering operation for the third search component 403 and sends probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment, as in the example in (2). The target address network segment includes 256 network addresses such as 192.168.4.b, where b is any one from 0 to 255. In other words, the computer device can respond to a selection operation for a target address segment among N address segments and a trigger operation for a third lookup component, and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address segment. The selection operation for the target address segment among N address segments and the trigger operation for the third lookup component are used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address segment.

[0082] In one network segment processing method ②, the computer device can acquire N available address network segments 404 and output N address network segments 404. Each address network segment in each of the N address network segments 404 is associated with a first lookup component 405. The printer lookup request for the target address network segment is triggered by a triggering operation for any of the first lookup components. For example, the computer device can respond to a triggering operation for a first lookup component C, determine the address network segment associated with the first lookup component C as the target address network segment, and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment. The first lookup component C can be any of the first lookup components.

[0083] The above are just a few possible processing steps for N address network segments; other display methods can also be used. For example, a computer device can display N address network segments, respond to selection operations for target address network segments among the N address network segments, as well as network segment confirmation operations, and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment, etc.

[0084] Alternatively, the computer device can display a network segment input area, which is associated with a second lookup component. The network segment input area is used to obtain the target address network segment, and the second lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment obtained from the network segment input area. As shown in Figure 4, in one network segment processing method ③, the computer device can display a network segment input area 406, which is associated with a second lookup component 407. The printer lookup request for the target address network segment is triggered by a triggering operation on the second lookup component. Specifically, the computer device can respond to the triggering operation on the second lookup component 407, obtain the target address network segment submitted in the network segment input area 406, and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment.

[0085] Optionally, the processing method for obtaining the target address network segment through the network segment input area can also be seen in Figure 5a or Figure 5b, etc. Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5a, the computer device can display a network segment input area 501, which is used to obtain the address network segment. The network segment input area 501 may include one or more input sub-areas, each of which is used to obtain one address network segment. The computer device can associate a network segment deletion component with each input sub-area. Optionally, the computer device may also display a range addition component 502, a search cancellation component, and a network segment determination component, etc. These components are used to process address network segments. For example, in response to a trigger operation on the first network segment deletion component, the computer device may delete the input sub-area associated with the first network segment deletion component; in response to a trigger operation on the range addition component 502, it may add an input sub-area to the network segment input area 501; in response to a trigger operation on the search cancellation component, it may cancel the display of the network segment input area 501, or directly cancel the display of the page containing the network segment input area 501, etc. In response to a trigger operation on the network segment determination component, it may determine the address network segment submitted in the network segment input area 501 as the target address network segment and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment; or, in response to a trigger operation on the network segment determination component, it may display the target address network segment 503 submitted in the network segment input area 501, with each target address network segment in the target address network segment 503 associated with a fourth search component 504, etc. Each fourth lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment associated with that fourth lookup component.

[0086] Optionally, the target address network segment can be an address network segment that spans multiple subnets. For example, referring to Figure 5b, which is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided in an embodiment of this application, the computer device can display a network segment input area 505. This network segment input area 505 can be associated with a network segment deletion component, a search cancellation component, and a network segment determination component, etc. The display method of this network segment input area 505 can also refer to the display method of the network segment input area 501 in Figure 5a, etc. The computer device can obtain the target address network segment submitted by the network segment input area 505. This target address network segment can be a cross-subnet network segment, such as "192.168.3.0-192.168.4.255" as shown in Figure 5b, including subnet segment 1 "192.168.3.0-192.168.3.255" and subnet segment 2 "192.168.4.0-192.168.4.255". The computer device can send data to the target address network segment... The system sends probe packets to the network addresses included in subnet 506 (as indicated by subnet segment 1) and subnet 507 (as indicated by subnet segment 2). Assuming subnet 506 includes printers 506a and 506b, and subnet 507 includes printers 507a and 507b, printers 506a, 506b, 507a, and 507b can receive the probe packets, enabling cross-subnet lookup of the printers. Of course, other service devices deployed in subnets 1 and 2 can also receive these probe packets.

[0087] Specifically, the target address network segment includes P subnets, where P is a positive integer. The computer device can respond to the printer lookup request for the target address network segment, obtain the network addresses included in each of the P subnets in the target address network segment, and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in each subnet segment.

[0088] Optionally, the business object can also perform tasks such as finding nearby printers. For example, a printer search request targeting a specific network segment includes a printer search request targeting a first range, where the first range refers to the range belonging to the same subnet as the computer device; the target network segment is the subnet to which the computer device's device address belongs. Specifically, the computer device can respond to a printer search request targeting the first range, obtain the computer device's device address, determine the network segment to which the device address belongs as the target network segment; the first range refers to the range belonging to the same network segment as the computer device; and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target network segment. In this way, printers deployed in the same network segment as the computer device can be found.

[0089] Optionally, the computer device can simultaneously provide multiple network segment processing methods. For example, referring to Figure 6, which is a schematic diagram of a printer configuration scenario provided in an embodiment of this application, the computer device can display a range search component 601 ("Find nearby printers" as shown in Figure 6), an input search component 602 ("Find printers by subnet segment" as shown in Figure 6), and N available address network segments 603, and a first search component 604 associated with each address network segment, etc. The computer device can respond to a trigger operation on the range search component 601 to trigger the aforementioned printer search request for the first range; it can respond to a trigger operation on the input search component 602 to execute the process shown in network segment processing method ③ in Figure 4, Figure 5a, or Figure 5b; and it can respond to a trigger operation on the first search component in the first search component 604 to execute the process shown in network segment processing method ① or network segment processing method ②, etc.

[0090] Step S302: Obtain the message reply to the probe data packet, and determine the printer address based on the message reply.

[0091] In this embodiment, each printer address corresponds one-to-one with a printer. Specifically, the computer device can obtain the message reply to the probe data packet and determine the network address that sent the standard message reply as the printer address. This standard message reply is used to indicate a message belonging to the printer. When the printer receives the probe data packet, it sends a standard message reply in response. When the computer device receives the standard message reply to the probe data packet, it can determine the network address that sent the standard message reply as the printer address, thereby obtaining the printer's IP address. This acquisition process is actively performed by the computer device, eliminating the need to consider cross-subnet issues between printers. It only requires a simple address range to find the printer's network address, making the process simple and suitable for most users. In other words, it improves the convenience and wide applicability of printer location.

[0092] Optionally, in one scenario, the printer integrates a printer message format for probe data packets. When the printer receives a probe data packet, it sends a message reply using the printer message format. Other service devices also send message replies when they receive the probe data packet. In this case, the computer device can obtain the message replies for the probe data packet, obtain the printer message format, and determine the network address that sent the message reply conforming to the printer message format as the printer address. The standard message reply is then a message reply conforming to the printer message format. The message reply conforming to the printer message format indicates that it was sent by the printer. For example, as shown in Figure 2, assuming the computer device receives message reply 1 from network address 1, message reply 2 from network address 2, and message reply 3 from network address 3, etc., where message reply 1 and message reply 2 are standard message replies conforming to the printer message format, then the network address 1 that sent message reply 1 and the network address 2 that sent message reply 2 can be determined as the printer address.

[0093] Alternatively, in one scenario, only the printer sends a response message to the probe packet it receives. In this case, the computer can obtain the response message and determine the network address from which the response message was sent as the printer address. The probe packet is a message requesting a response from the printer, and the standard response message is the response message received by the computer in response to the probe packet. As shown in Figure 2, printer 202a sends a response message to the computer when it receives the probe packet; printer 202b sends a response message to the computer when it receives the probe packet; business device 202c discards the probe packet when it receives it… In this case, the computer can receive response message 1 from network address 1 and response message 2 from network address 2, etc. The computer can directly determine response message 1 and response message 2 as the standard response message and determine network address 1 and network address 2 as the printer address.

[0094] In either case, unused network addresses cannot process probe packets, thus enabling the printer to be located. Furthermore, since probe packets are sent to all network addresses included in the target address segment, all printers deployed in the target address segment can be found, thereby improving the efficiency of printer location.

[0095] Step S303: Based on the printer address, establish a network connection between the printer and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment.

[0096] In this embodiment of the application, the printer includes the target printer. The target printer corresponding to the target address network segment is the printer that uses the printer address. That is to say, at this time, the target printer refers to the printer that has established a network connection.

[0097] Step S304: Send the model file to the target printer based on the network connection.

[0098] In this embodiment, the computer device acquires the model file and can directly send the model file to the target printer via a network connection, so that the target printer can print the model file. Printing the model file can be understood as the printer executing the code file in the model file and then creating the object.

[0099] Optionally, the number of printers simultaneously heating the heated bed can be limited based on a synchronous heating quantity threshold. Specifically, the computer device can obtain the number of first printers among the target printers, where the first printer refers to the printer in the heated bed state. If the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer via a network connection. The synchronous heating quantity threshold represents the upper limit of the number of printers synchronously heating the heated bed. If the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the sending of the model file to the target printer is temporarily stopped until the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, at which point the model file is sent to the target printer via a network connection so that the target printer can print the model file. See Figure 7 for further details.

[0100] Optionally, the number of printers executing print jobs simultaneously can be limited based on a task synchronization threshold, which represents the upper limit of the number of printers printing documents at the same time. Specifically, the computer device can obtain a model file. If the task waiting queue is empty and the number of printers printing documents is less than the task synchronization threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer via a network connection so that the target printer can print the model file. If the task waiting queue is not empty and the number of printers printing documents is less than the task synchronization threshold, the model file is added to the task waiting queue, the head file is retrieved from the task waiting queue, and the head file is sent to the target printer via a network connection so that the target printer can print the head file. Here, the head file refers to the model file located at the head of the task waiting queue. If the number of printers printing documents is greater than or equal to the task synchronization threshold, the model file is added to the task waiting queue until the number of printers printing documents is less than the task synchronization threshold. Then, the head file is retrieved from the task waiting queue and sent to the target printer via a network connection so that the target printer can print the head file.

[0101] Optionally, the computer device can display a second printer model, which can be the printer model of all target printers with established network connections; or, the second printer model can be the printer model corresponding to the model file. Optionally, when the second printer model is the printer model corresponding to the model file, the computer device can obtain the model file and retrieve the second printer model from the model file. Alternatively, the computer device can obtain the model file, obtain the printing parameters corresponding to the model file, and retrieve the second printer model that matches the printing parameters. When obtaining the printing parameters corresponding to the model file, the computer device can obtain the printing parameters submitted by the user; or, the computer device can obtain the model file and retrieve the printer parameters from the model file. Further, in response to a selection operation for a target printer model among the second printer models, the second printer corresponding to the target printer model is determined from the target printers, and the model file is sent to the second printer based on the network connection so that the second printer prints the model file. Optionally, the computer device can respond to a selection operation for a target printer model among the second printer models, obtain candidate printers corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers; obtain model consumables corresponding to the model file; obtain the remaining consumables of the candidate printers; and determine the candidate printer with more remaining consumables than the model consumables as the second printer. When the second printer model is the printer model corresponding to the model file, that is, when the second printer model is the first printer model, please refer to the relevant description in Figure 9 for details.

[0102] In this embodiment, a computer device can respond to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment by sending a probe data packet to the network address included in the target address network segment; obtaining a message reply to the probe data packet and determining the printer address based on the message reply; establishing a network connection between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer; and sending a model file to the target printer based on the network connection so that the target printer can print the model file. In other words, the computer device can actively send probe data packets to the address network segment. If it receives a correct message reply (i.e., a message reply sent by the printer), it can obtain the network address of the printer that sent the standard message reply, thus achieving active printer lookup. Moreover, this method uses address network segments to look up printers, and the format and content of the address network segments are relatively simple. Users do not need to input the specific address of the printer, or even any address, or only a simple address network segment, to obtain the printer address. This makes it easy for even ordinary users to find printers based on address network segments, improving the convenience of printer connection. Furthermore, by sending probe packets to the network address segment, the computer device can obtain the network addresses of printers deployed in different network address segments. This allows for the location and connection of printers even if they are distributed across different subnets, improving the convenience and reliability of printer management. Simply put, the computer device actively sends a probe packet to the port of each network address in the target network address segment. If the probe packet receives a correct message response (i.e., a standard message response), the computer device can detect the printer's network address.

[0103] Optionally, when the computer device sends model files to the printer, it can limit the number of printers that can simultaneously heat the heated bed. See Figure 7 for details. Figure 7 is a flowchart of a printer heated bed limitation method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, the printer heated bed limitation process includes the following steps:

[0104] Step S701: Obtain the model file and the number of first printers in the target printers.

[0105] In this embodiment, the first printer refers to a printer in a heated bed state. The printer can print a model corresponding to a model file by spraying filament through nozzles and layering it. The filament has temperature requirements on the first layer, necessitating heating of the heated bed. Since the heated bed is relatively large, the power consumption of the printer in the heated bed state differs from its normal operating state. For example, the maximum power consumption of the P1P model printer in the heated bed state is currently 1000 watts (W), while the tested power consumption in the normal operating state is less than 200W. The number of first printers in the target printer can be obtained. If the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, step S702 is executed; if the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, step S703 is executed. Here, "first printer" refers to a printer in the target printer that is in the heated bed state, representing a printer's operating state, not a specific printer. By identifying and limiting the number of printers in the heated bed state, the problem of peak power consumption aggregation is avoided.

[0106] Specifically, the computer equipment can obtain the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold for the scenario where the target printer is deployed, and obtain the number of target printers. Based on the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold, the simultaneous heating quantity threshold is determined from the number of printers. The heated bed heating power consumption threshold represents the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in heated bed heating mode, such as 1000W for the P1P model printer mentioned above. The normal operation power consumption threshold represents the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in normal operation mode, such as 200W for the P1P model printer mentioned above. Normal operation mode refers to the state where it is working but not in heated bed heating mode. The scene power consumption threshold represents the power consumption supported by the scenario where the target printer is deployed, such as the power consumption supported by a power supply system. Optionally, when determining the simultaneous heating quantity threshold, a threshold determination model can be constructed based on the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, normal operation power consumption threshold, and number of printers. The threshold determination model is then analyzed to obtain the simultaneous heating quantity threshold. For example, the threshold determination model could be "number of heated beds + number of regular operations = number of printers; number of heated beds * heated bed power consumption threshold + number of regular operations * regular operation power consumption threshold < scene power consumption threshold". For instance, if we denote the number of heated beds as x and the number of regular operations as y, then we have "x + y = number of printers; x * heated bed power consumption threshold + y * regular operation power consumption threshold < scene power consumption threshold". By analyzing the threshold determination model, we can obtain the range of values ​​for the number of heated beds, and then obtain the threshold for the number of simultaneous heating devices from the range of values ​​for the number of heated beds.

[0107] Alternatively, the computer device can display a heated bed configuration page and obtain the synchronous heating quantity threshold uploaded by the heated bed configuration page. For example, referring to Figure 8, which is a schematic diagram of a printer heated bed limitation scenario provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown in Figure 8, the computer device can display a heated bed configuration page 801, in which a heated bed synchronization configuration area 803 is displayed. Optionally, device information and a printer limitation area 802 can also be displayed on the heated bed configuration page 801, etc., without limitation. For example, the device information includes the server version, device name, device address, and port of the computer device; the printer limitation area 802 is used to obtain the task synchronization quantity threshold, which represents the upper limit of the number of printers that can execute printing tasks simultaneously. For example, if the computer device obtains the task synchronization quantity threshold submitted in the printer limitation area 802, "allow M printers to download files simultaneously and start printing gradually," where M is the task synchronization quantity threshold. The computer device can obtain the synchronous heating quantity threshold uploaded by the heated bed synchronization configuration area 803 in the heated bed configuration page 801, as shown in A in Figure 8, where A is a positive integer. Optionally, a heated bed synchronization configuration selection function can also be provided on the heated bed configuration page 801. This heated bed synchronization configuration selection function is used to provide users with the option to limit the number of printers that can heat the heated bed at the same time.

[0108] Optionally, when obtaining the number of first printers among the target printers, the computer device can obtain the working status of the target printers, identify the target printers in the heated bed state as the first printers, and obtain the number of first printers. In this case, the first printer is the printer among the target printers that is in the heated bed state. Alternatively, the first printer can be a printer among the target printers whose printer model is the first printer model and is in the heated bed state, and the target printers include printers of at least two models. Specifically, the computer device can obtain the first printer model from the model file. The first printer is the printer among the target printers whose printer model is the first printer model and is in the heated bed state. The computer device can obtain the number of first printers belonging to the same model from the target printers according to the first printer model corresponding to the model file. Here, the first printer model refers to the model of the printer that supports the model file. Further, the computer device can obtain a synchronous heating quantity threshold. Optionally, the synchronous heating quantity threshold corresponding to different printer models can also be different, and different printer models correspond to different heating power consumptions; in the same scenario, that is, under the same scenario power consumption threshold, the synchronous heating quantity thresholds corresponding to different models are different. At this point, the computer equipment can obtain the threshold number of simultaneous heating devices corresponding to the first printer model.

[0109] In step S702, if the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer.

[0110] In this embodiment of the application, if the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating number threshold, the model file is sent to the printer to be processed among the target printers so that the printer to be processed prints the model file. The printer to be processed is any printer in the target printer that is in an idle state. The idle state is used to indicate that the corresponding printer has not performed a printing task.

[0111] Step S703: If the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, then temporarily stop sending model files to the target printer until the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, and then send the model files to the target printer.

[0112] In this embodiment, if the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the sending of model files to the target printer is temporarily stopped. For example, the model files are added to the task waiting queue until the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, at which point the model files are sent to the target printer. Optionally, when the printer is working, it can report its working status to the computer. When the printer finishes heating the heated bed, it can report a heated bed heating end message to the computer. The computer can update the number of first printers based on this heated bed heating end message. When the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model files are retrieved from the task waiting queue and sent to the pending printer among the target printers so that the pending printer can print the model files.

[0113] In this embodiment, the computer device can add judgment conditions to the task scheduler or add judgment conditions before the print task matching is initiated. That is, the number of first printers is detected. When the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the transmission of the print task to the printer is suspended until the restriction is lifted and the printing operation is resumed. This process can avoid excessive power consumption peaks, or in other words, avoid excessive peak power consumption. For example, taking the P1P printer as an example, the power consumption of heating the heated bed before printing starts is about 1000W, but during normal printing, only the heated bed / nozzle temperature and extruder movement need to be maintained, and the actual power consumption is less than 200W. If the user's power grid load is 50 kilowatts (KW), the user can only run 50 printers based on the maximum power consumption calculation. However, based on the power consumption calculation during normal printing, the user can theoretically run about 250 printers. This can limit the number of printers heating the heated bed at the same time, realize the operation control of the printer, thereby saving the user's investment in power supply load equipment and improving power supply security.

[0114] Optionally, when sending model files to the printer, the computer device can directly match the printer model based on the model file. See Figure 9 for details. Figure 9 is a flowchart of a printer model processing method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 9, the printer model processing process includes the following steps:

[0115] Step S901: Obtain the model file, obtain the first printer model corresponding to the model file, and display the first printer model.

[0116] In this embodiment, the computer device can obtain a model file and a first printer model from the model file, or it can obtain printer parameters from the model file. These printer parameters may include, but are not limited to, printing temperature, model size, and heated bed information. It can also obtain a first printer model that matches the printer parameters. Furthermore, the first printer model can be displayed. Which printer models the model file is compatible with can be obtained through relevant information in the model file, such as 3mf or gcode. For example, referring to Figure 10, which is a schematic diagram of a model model matching scenario provided in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the computer device can respond to the model file upload operation and display the uploaded model file (model file 1.3mf as shown in Figure 10) on the file management page 1001, displaying file information 1002, etc. This file information 1002 includes the first printer model and printer parameters that the model file is compatible with, including but not limited to nozzle information and heated bed information. Optionally, the file management page 1001 can also display the model file's printing duration, consumable information, upload time, and task creation component 1003, etc.

[0117] Furthermore, the computer device can send the model file to a printer of the first printer model among the target printers, so that the printer prints the model file. Optionally, the number of the first printer models can be one (as exemplified in Figure 10 for the printer model corresponding to model file 1.3mf) or at least two (as exemplified in Figure 10 for the printer model corresponding to model file 2.gcode.3mf). When the number of first printer models is one, the computer device can send the model file to a printer of the first printer model among the target printers. When the number of first printer models is at least two, the computer device can send the model file to any printer of the first printer model among the target printers; or, step S902 can be executed.

[0118] For example, as shown in Figure 10, the task creation operation may include a triggering operation on the task creation component 1003. The computer device may respond to the triggering operation on the task creation component 1003 and generate a print job for the model file. Optionally, when the number of first printer models is at least two, the task creation operation may also include a selection operation on a target printer model among the first printer models, and step S902 may be executed.

[0119] Step S902: In response to the selection operation of the target printer model in the first printer model, determine the second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printer models, and send the model file to the second printer.

[0120] In this embodiment, the computer device can respond to a selection operation for a target printer model among the first printer models, determine a second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers, and send the model file to the second printer based on a network connection. Alternatively, the task creation operation may include a selection operation for a target printer model among the first printer models and a triggering operation for the task creation component. The computer device can respond to both the selection operation for the target printer model among the first printer models and the triggering operation for the task creation component, determine a second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers, and send the model file to the second printer.

[0121] When determining the second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers, a printer whose model is the target printer model and is in an idle state can be identified as the second printer. Alternatively, candidate printers corresponding to the target printer model can be obtained from the target printers; model consumables corresponding to the model file can be obtained; the remaining consumables of the candidate printers can be obtained; and the candidate printer with more remaining consumables than the model consumables can be identified as the second printer.

[0122] In this embodiment of the application, when the computer device obtains the model file, it can filter the printers used to print the model file based on the model file's model compatibility information (i.e., the relevant information of the first printer model that matches the printer parameters), so that the printer models that the user can select for the model file are all compatible with the model file. This allows for automatic matching of executable printers for the model file, thereby improving the processing efficiency and convenience of printing tasks.

[0123] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the number of printers simultaneously heating the heated bed can be limited, and printer models can be matched based on model files. Specifically, please refer to Figure 11, which is a flowchart of a printer processing method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 11, the printer management process includes the following steps:

[0124] Step S1101: In response to the printer lookup request for the target address network segment, send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment.

[0125] In the embodiments of this application, the process can be referred to the relevant description of step S301 in Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0126] Step S1102: Obtain the message reply to the probe data packet, and determine the printer address based on the message reply.

[0127] In the embodiments of this application, the process can be referred to the relevant description of step S302 in Figure 3, which will not be repeated here.

[0128] Step S1103: Based on the printer address, establish a network connection between the printer and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer.

[0129] In the embodiments of this application, the process can be referred to the relevant description of step S303 in Figure 3, which will not be repeated here.

[0130] Step S1104: Obtain the model file and determine the first printer model corresponding to the model file.

[0131] In this embodiment of the application, the computer device can obtain a model file and obtain the first printer model from the model file; or, it can obtain printer parameters in the model file and determine the first printer model corresponding to the model file based on the printer parameters. The process of obtaining the first printer model can be referred to in Figure 9, that is, the process can be referred to in the relevant description in Figure 9, and will not be repeated here.

[0132] Step S1105: Based on the number of first printers in the target printers, send the model file to the printers in the target printers whose printer model is the first printer model.

[0133] In this embodiment, the computer device can obtain the number of first printers among the target printers. If the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer (printer of the first printer model) based on the network connection. If the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the sending of model files to the target printer is temporarily stopped based on the network connection until the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, at which point the sending of model files to the target printer (printer of the first printer model) is resumed based on the network connection. Specifically, this process can be referred to the relevant description in Figure 7, which will not be repeated here.

[0134] The functions implemented in this application can be provided to customers as group control software or services for printers, and customers can install the group control software or services for printers on their own computer equipment (such as servers or other electronic devices).

[0135] In some feasible implementations, the computer device can directly limit the number of printers simultaneously heating the heated bed without performing IP network segment lookups. For example, in some small and medium-sized farms, the number of printers on the network segment is limited, and the scene's power consumption threshold is restricted. In this case, the computer device can directly execute the embodiment described in conjunction with Figure 7 to print in batches. Optionally, in some feasible implementations, the computer device can directly filter by printer model. That is, for farms with multiple printer models, model files can be received based on different printer models without performing IP network segment lookups. In this case, the computer device can directly execute the embodiment described in conjunction with Figure 9.

[0136] Please refer to Figure 12, which is a schematic diagram of a printer management device provided in an embodiment of this application. The printer management device can be a computer program (including program code, etc.) running on a computer device; for example, the printer management device can be an application software. The printer management device can be used to execute the corresponding steps in the method provided in the embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 12, the printer management device 1200 can be used in the computer device in the embodiment corresponding to Figure 3. Specifically, the printer management device 1200 may include: a data sending module 11, an address determination module 12, a print connection module 13, and a file sending module 14.

[0137] Data sending module 11 is used to respond to printer lookup requests for target address network segments and send probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment;

[0138] Address determination module 12 is used to obtain the message reply to the probe data packet and determine the printer address based on the message reply; the printer address corresponds one-to-one with the printer.

[0139] Printer connection module 13 is used to establish a network connection between a printer and a target printer corresponding to a target address network segment, based on the printer address; the printer includes the target printer;

[0140] File sending module 14 is used to send model files to the target printer based on a network connection.

[0141] The target address network segment includes P subnet segments; P is a positive integer.

[0142] The data transmission module 11 can be used for:

[0143] In response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, retrieve the network addresses of the P subnets within the target address network segment.

[0144] Send probe packets to the network addresses included in each subnet segment.

[0145] The printer management device 1200 also includes:

[0146] The print configuration module 15 is used to obtain N available address segments, each of which is associated with a first lookup component; N is a positive integer, and the N address segments include the target address segment; each first lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the address segment associated with that first lookup component.

[0147] The printer management device 1200 also includes:

[0148] The print configuration module 15 is also used to display a network segment input area, which is associated with a second lookup component. The network segment input area is used to obtain the target address network segment, and the second lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment obtained from the network segment input area.

[0149] The printer management device 1200 also includes:

[0150] The print configuration module 15 is also used to display a network segment selection component, which is associated with a third lookup component;

[0151] The data transmission module 11 can be used for:

[0152] In response to a trigger operation on the network segment selection component, display N available address network segments; N is a positive integer;

[0153] In response to the selection operation of the target address network segment among N address network segments and the triggering operation of the third lookup component, probe data packets are sent to the network addresses included in the target address network segment; the selection operation of the target address network segment among N address network segments and the triggering operation of the third lookup component are used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment.

[0154] The address determination module 12 can be used for:

[0155] Obtain the message reply to the probe packet, retrieve the printer message format, and determine the network address of the message reply that conforms to the printer message format as the printer address; or,

[0156] Obtain the message reply to the probe packet, and determine the network address that sent the message reply as the printer address; the probe packet is a message requesting a reply from the printer.

[0157] The printer lookup request for the target address network segment includes a printer lookup request for the first range; the first range refers to the range that belongs to the same subnet network segment as the computer device; the target address network segment is the subnet network segment to which the computer device's device address belongs.

[0158] The file sending module 14 can be used for:

[0159] Obtain the number of first printers in the target printer list; the first printer refers to the printer that is in the heated bed state;

[0160] If the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer via network connection; the synchronous heating quantity threshold is used to represent the upper limit of the number of printers with synchronously heated beds;

[0161] If the number of first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the sending of model files to the target printer will be temporarily stopped until the number of first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, at which point the model files will be sent to the target printer based on the network connection.

[0162] The printer management device 1200 also includes:

[0163] The threshold determination module 16 is used to obtain the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold of the scene where the target printer is deployed, obtain the number of printers of the target printer, and determine the synchronous heating quantity threshold from the number of printers based on the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold. The heated bed heating power consumption threshold is used to represent the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in heated bed heating state. The normal operation power consumption threshold is used to represent the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in normal operation state, which refers to the state where it is in operation and not heated bed heating.

[0164] The printer management device 1200 also includes:

[0165] The threshold determination module 16 is also used to display the heated bed configuration page and obtain the threshold of the number of synchronous heating uploaded by the heated bed configuration page.

[0166] Wherein, the first printer is a printer of the first printer model among the target printers and is in a heated bed state; the target printers include printers of at least two models; when obtaining the number of first printers among the target printers, the file sending module 14 can be used to:

[0167] Based on the first printer model corresponding to the model file, obtain the number of first printers belonging to the same model from the target printers.

[0168] The file sending module 14 can be used for:

[0169] Display the second printer model;

[0170] In response to the selection operation for the target printer model in the second printer model, the second printer corresponding to the target printer model is determined from the target printers, and the model file is sent to the second printer based on the network connection.

[0171] The printer management device 1200 also includes:

[0172] The model acquisition module 17 is used to acquire the model file and obtain the second printer model from the model file.

[0173] Specifically, when responding to a selection operation for a target printer model among the second printer models, and determining the second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers, the file sending module 14 can be used to:

[0174] In response to a selection operation for a target printer model in the second printer model, retrieve the candidate printers corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers;

[0175] Obtain the model consumables corresponding to the model file, obtain the remaining consumables of the candidate printers, and identify the candidate printers with more remaining consumables than the model consumables as the second printer.

[0176] This application provides a printer management device that can respond to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment by sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment; determining the network address corresponding to the standard message reply received in response to the probe data packet as the printer address; the standard message reply is used to indicate a message belonging to a printer; establishing a network connection between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer; the network connection is used to send a model file to the target printer so that the target printer can print the model file. In other words, a computer device can actively send probe data packets to an address network segment, and if it receives a correct message reply (i.e., a standard message reply), it can obtain the network address of the printer that sent the standard message reply, thus achieving active printer lookup. Moreover, this method uses address network segments to look up printers, and the format and content of address network segments are relatively simple, making it easy for even ordinary users to find printers based on address network segments, improving the convenience of printer connection. Furthermore, by sending probe data packets from computer devices to the address network segment, the network addresses of printers deployed in different address network segments can be obtained. This allows printers to be located and connected even if they are distributed in different subnets, improving the convenience and reliability of printer management.

[0177] Referring to Figure 13, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a computer device provided in an embodiment of this application, the computer device in this embodiment may include one or more processors 1301, a memory 1302, and an input / output interface 1303. The processor 1301, memory 1302, and input / output interface 1303 are connected via a bus 1304. The memory 1302 stores a computer program, which includes program instructions. The input / output interface 1303 receives and outputs data, such as for data interaction between the computer device and a printer. The processor 1301 executes the program instructions stored in the memory 1302.

[0178] The processor 1301 can perform the following operations:

[0179] In response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, a probe data packet is sent to the network addresses included in the target address network segment;

[0180] Obtain the message response to the probe data packet, and determine the printer address based on the message response; the printer address corresponds one-to-one with the printer.

[0181] A network connection is established between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer.

[0182] The model file is sent to the target printer via a network connection.

[0183] In some feasible implementations, the processor 1301 may be a central processing unit (CPU), but it can also be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0184] The memory 1302 may include read-only memory and random access memory, and provides instructions and data to the processor 1301 and input / output interface 1303. A portion of the memory 1302 may also include non-volatile random access memory. For example, the memory 1302 may also store device type information.

[0185] In practice, the computer device can execute the implementation methods provided by each step in Figure 3 through its built-in functional modules. For details, please refer to the implementation methods provided by each step in Figure 3, which will not be repeated here.

[0186] This application embodiment provides a computer device including a processor, an input / output interface, and a memory. The processor retrieves a computer program from the memory and executes the steps of the method shown in Figure 3 to perform printer management operations. This application embodiment implements the following: responding to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, sending a probe data packet to the network address included in the target address network segment; obtaining a message reply to the probe data packet and determining the printer address based on the message reply; a one-to-one correspondence between the printer address and the printer; establishing a network connection between the printer address and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer; and sending a model file to the target printer based on the network connection so that the target printer can print the model file. In other words, the computer device can actively send probe data packets to the address network segment. If it receives a correct message reply (i.e., a standard message reply), it can obtain the network address of the printer that sent the standard message reply, thus achieving active printer lookup. Moreover, this method uses address network segments to look up printers, and the format and content of the address network segments are relatively simple, making it easy for even ordinary users to find printers based on address network segments, improving the convenience of printer connection. Furthermore, by sending probe data packets from computer devices to the address network segment, the network addresses of printers deployed in different address network segments can be obtained. This allows printers to be located and connected even if they are distributed in different subnets, improving the convenience and reliability of printer management.

[0187] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program adapted to be loaded by a processor and execute the printer management method provided in the various steps of FIG3. Specific implementations of the various steps in FIG3 are described below. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of using the same method are also not described in detail here. For technical details not disclosed in the embodiments of the computer-readable storage medium involved in this application, please refer to the description of the method embodiments of this application. As an example, the computer program can be deployed to execute on a single computer device, or on multiple computer devices located in one location, or on multiple computer devices distributed across multiple locations and interconnected via a communication network.

[0188] The computer-readable storage medium can be the printer management device provided in any of the foregoing embodiments or the internal storage unit of the computer device, such as the hard disk or memory of the computer device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the computer device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., provided on the computer device. Furthermore, the computer-readable storage medium can include both internal storage units and external storage devices of the computer device. The computer-readable storage medium is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the computer device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0189] This application embodiment also provides a computer program product or computer program, which includes computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. The processor of a computer device reads the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer instructions, causing the computer device to perform the methods provided in the various optional modes shown in FIG3. This achieves the active search for printers by sending probe data packets to an address network segment. If a correct message reply (i.e., a standard message reply) is received, the network address of the printer that sent the standard message reply can be obtained. Furthermore, this method searches for printers based on address network segments, and the format and content of the address network segments are relatively simple, making it easy for ordinary users to find printers based on address network segments, improving the convenience of printer connection. In addition, by sending probe data packets to the address network segment, the network addresses of printers deployed in different address network segments can be obtained, enabling the search and connection of each printer even if they are distributed in different subnets, improving the convenience and reliability of printer management.

[0190] The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the term "comprising," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, apparatus, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or modules, but may optionally include steps or modules not listed, or may optionally include other step units inherent to these processes, methods, apparatuses, products, or devices.

[0191] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of each example have been generally described in terms of functionality. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0192] The methods and related apparatus provided in this application are described with reference to the method flowcharts and / or structural diagrams provided in this application. Specifically, each block of the method flowcharts and / or structural diagrams, as well as combinations of blocks in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable printer management device to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable printer management device, create means for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks of the flowcharts and / or one or more blocks of the structural diagrams. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium capable of directing a computer or other programmable printer management device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement the functions specified in one or more blocks of the flowcharts and / or one or more blocks of the structural diagrams. These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable printer management device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable device, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more processes in the flowchart and / or one or more blocks in the structural diagram.

[0193] The steps in the method of this application embodiment can be adjusted, combined, or deleted according to actual needs.

[0194] The modules in the device of this application embodiment can be merged, divided, and deleted according to actual needs.

[0195] The above-disclosed embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of this application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. Therefore, any equivalent variations made in accordance with the claims of this application shall still fall within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A printer management method characterized by comprising: The method includes: In response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, a probe data packet is sent to the network addresses included in the target address network segment; Obtain the message response to the probe data packet, and determine the printer address based on the message response; the printer address corresponds one-to-one with the printer. Based on the printer address, a network connection is established between the printer and the target printer corresponding to the target address network segment; the printer includes the target printer. The model file is sent to the target printer based on the network connection.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The target address network segment includes P subnet segments; P is a positive integer; The response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment includes sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment, comprising: In response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment, obtain the network addresses included in each of the P subnet segments within the target address network segment; Send probe packets to the network addresses included in each subnet segment.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: Obtain N available address segments, each of which is associated with a first lookup component; N is a positive integer, and the N address segments include the target address segment; each first lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the address segment associated with that first lookup component.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: Display the network segment input area, which is associated with the second lookup component; The network segment input area is used to obtain the target address network segment, and the second lookup component is used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment obtained by the network segment input area.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: Display network segment selection component, which is associated with a third search component; The response to a printer lookup request for a target address network segment includes sending probe data packets to the network addresses included in the target address network segment, comprising: In response to a trigger operation on the network segment selection component, N available address network segments are displayed; N is a positive integer. In response to the selection operation for the target address network segment among the N address network segments and the triggering operation for the third lookup component, a probe data packet is sent to the network address included in the target address network segment; the selection operation for the target address network segment among the N address network segments and the triggering operation for the third lookup component are used to trigger a printer lookup request for the target address network segment.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The step of obtaining the message response to the probe data packet and determining the printer address based on the message response includes: Obtain the message response to the probe data packet, obtain the printer message format, and determine the network address of the message response that conforms to the printer message format as the printer address; or, Obtain a message reply to the probe data packet, and determine the network address that sent the message reply as the printer address; the probe data packet is a message requesting a reply from the printer.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method is executed by a computer device, and the printer lookup request for the target address network segment includes a printer lookup request for a first range; the first range refers to the range that belongs to the same subnet network segment as the computer device; the target address network segment is the subnet network segment to which the device address of the computer device belongs.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: Obtain the number of first printers among the target printers; the first printer refers to a printer in a heated bed state; If the number of the first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the model file is sent to the target printer based on the network connection; the synchronous heating quantity threshold is used to represent the upper limit of the number of printers with synchronously heated heated beds; If the number of the first printers is greater than or equal to the synchronous heating quantity threshold, the sending of the model file to the target printer is temporarily stopped until the number of the first printers is less than the synchronous heating quantity threshold, at which point the model file is sent to the target printer based on the network connection.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The method further includes: The system obtains the scene power consumption threshold, heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and normal operation power consumption threshold for the scenario in which the target printer is deployed. It also obtains the number of printers in the target printer's configuration. Based on the scene power consumption threshold, the heated bed heating power consumption threshold, and the normal operation power consumption threshold, it determines the synchronous heating quantity threshold. The heated bed heating power consumption threshold represents the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in the heated bed heating state. The normal operation power consumption threshold represents the maximum power consumption of the target printer when it is in the normal operation state, where the normal operation state refers to the state where the printer is in operation but not in heated bed heating mode.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein, The method further includes: Display the heated bed configuration page and obtain the threshold number of synchronous heating elements uploaded by the heated bed configuration page.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein, The first printer is the target printer that is the first printer model and is in a heated bed state; The target printers include printers of at least two different models; The step of obtaining the number of first printers among the target printers includes: According to the first printer model corresponding to the model file, obtain the number of first printers belonging to the same model from the target printers.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein, Sending the model file to the target printer based on the network connection includes: Display the second printer model; In response to the selection operation for the target printer model among the second printer models, the second printer corresponding to the target printer model is determined from the target printers, and the model file is sent to the second printer based on the network connection.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the model file, and then obtain the second printer model from the model file.

14. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The response to the selection operation of the target printer model in the second printer model includes determining the second printer corresponding to the target printer model from the target printers, including: In response to a selection operation for a target printer model among the second printer models, a candidate printer corresponding to the target printer model is obtained from the target printers; Obtain the model consumables corresponding to the model file, obtain the remaining consumables of the candidate printer, and determine the candidate printer with the remaining consumables being greater than the model consumables as the second printer.

15. A computer device, characterized in that, Includes processor, memory, and input / output interfaces; The processor is connected to the memory and the input / output interface respectively, wherein the input / output interface is used to receive data and output data, the memory is used to store computer programs, and the processor is used to call the computer programs so that the computer device executes the method according to any one of claims 1-14.

16. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program adapted to be loaded and executed by a processor to cause a computer device having the processor to perform the method of any one of claims 1-14.

17. A computer program product comprising computer instructions, characterized in that, When the computer instructions are executed by the processor, they implement the method described in any one of claims 1-14.

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