JP2003078671A - Server device, image processing apparatus, control method for the server device and the image processing apparatus and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a server device that totally and centrally manages power saving mode transition time information of a plurality of image processing apparatuses existing on a network, simultaneously rewrites the power saving mode transition time information of the respectively grouped image processing apparatuses and matches the power-saving environment of each image processing apparatus so as to freely build up the image processing environment with a high power-saving effect. SOLUTION: This invention is characterized in that output devices 21 to 28 are configured to execute power-saving mode according to each power-saving mode time notified by the server 12 on the basis of each power saving mode transition time information notified by the server 12 for managing the power saving mode transition time information of the output devices 21 to 28 by each group.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a server apparatus and an image processing apparatus in which a plurality of image processing apparatuses capable of transitioning to a power saving mode in which each of the image processing apparatuses saves power consumption can communicate via a predetermined communication medium. The present invention relates to a control method for an apparatus and a server apparatus, a control method for an image processing apparatus, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, it has been possible to construct a computer network (hereinafter simply referred to as a network) in which various computers and their peripheral devices are connected so that information can be bidirectionally communicated. This technology has been in the limelight because users can dramatically improve productivity and efficiency by sharing information and distributing the load of information processing.

This is because the computer has been rapidly improved in performance, miniaturized, and cost-reduced, so that it can be easily used as a high-speed and high-speed information processing means even for a computer for personal use, wired and wireless. The development of high-speed data communication technology, the penetration of distributed processing architecture, etc.

Further, output devices such as a copying machine and a printer, which were mostly used as a peripheral or a peripheral connected to one host until then, are arranged on the same network, and a plurality of output devices are arranged. The idea of sharing with users (clients) has become widespread.

It has become possible to share information stored in files, databases, etc. by connecting a mainframe, a workstation, a personal computer, an information terminal and the like using the above-mentioned computer through a network. Further, the output devices such as a copying machine, a printer, and an F
By connecting an AX or the like, the output device can also be shared, and the productivity and efficiency of the output device and the convenience of the user can be dramatically improved.

The advantage of constructing a network in this way is great, and it is permeating in various fields such as offices, factories, research laboratories, and educational institutions.

[0007]

By the way, when an output device such as a copying machine or a printer requires an image forming request from a user, each step necessary for image forming is required to satisfy the request. In order to process each of these processes, the output device controls the image reading unit, the image processing unit, the paper feeding unit, the developing unit, the transfer unit, the fixing unit, the paper discharging unit, other accessories, and the accessories in an integrated manner. It is composed of a control unit. In order to output an image, it is necessary to supply a large amount of electric power to each of these parts of the output device.

In order for the output device to quickly respond to the image output request from the user, it is necessary to continue supplying a certain amount of electric power to the respective parts inside the output device.

However, the environment in which the output device is used is such that image output requests are constantly generated at a high frequency, and the image output request from the user to the output device is greatly reduced, and most image output requests are generated. When there is no image output request to the output device for a long period of time, the power supplied to each part in the output device during that time is wasted.

Therefore, in an output device such as a copying machine or a printer, the internal control device has time measuring means such as a timer device, and the timer device is activated by a user's operation. When the time measured by the timer device also reaches the time preset by the user, the control unit of the printer device controls the power supply to each device other than the minimum required to significantly reduce power consumption. A printer device aiming to reduce the number of printers has already been proposed.

With the above configuration, the power consumption of the output device is reduced by shifting the output device to the sleep state during the time period when the image output request is greatly reduced or the time period when the image output request is hardly generated. Can be expected to do.

However, in an environment where a plurality of output devices each having a timer device as described above are used, conventionally, the user has to visit each output device and perform a setting operation for the timer device. In terms of convenience of
It wasn't always excellent.

Similarly, there is a high possibility that each user will perform different setting operations on the timer device of each output device. At this time, when looking at power consumption reduction in the entire environment in which each output device is placed, the power consumption reduction efficiency was not good.

Further, it is possible that the user forgets to set the timer device due to a mistake made by the user, and this is also a major factor that hinders the reduction of power consumption.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and a first object of the present invention is to notify from the server device which manages the power saving mode transition time information of each image processing device for each group. Based on each power saving mode transition time information according to the following, by executing the power saving mode process according to each power saving mode time notified by each image processing device,
The server device centrally manages the power saving mode transition time information of a plurality of image processing devices existing on the network, rewrites the power saving mode transition time information of each grouped image processing device all at once, and performs each image processing. To provide a server device, an image processing device, a server device control method, an image processing device control method, and a storage medium that can freely configure an image processing environment with a high power saving effect by matching the power saving environment of the device. is there.

A second object is that the image processing apparatus inquires the server apparatus that manages the power saving mode transition time information of each image processing apparatus for each group, and the inquiry is made. It is determined whether or not the power saving mode shift time information notified from the server device to the stored power saving mode shift time information is stored, and if updated, the notified power saving mode shift time information is updated. By registering and managing the time information as new power saving mode shift time information, each image processing device can take the initiative to acquire the power save mode shift time information set for each group in the server device and freely update it. A server device, an image processing device, and a server device control capable of freely constructing an image processing environment with a high power saving effect. It is to provide a control method and a storage medium of the method and the image processing apparatus.

A third object is that, when the power saving mode transition time information managed by each image processing apparatus is updated by a user operation, the updated power saving mode transition time information is stored in each image processing apparatus. Each image processing device self-manages by notifying the server device that manages the power saving mode shift time information of each group, and automatically updating the power saving mode shift time information of each group managed by the server device. A server device, an image processing device, and a server device capable of freely constructing an image processing environment having a high power saving effect by timely matching the power saving mode transition time information and the power saving mode transition time information for each group managed by the server device side. And a method of controlling an image processing apparatus and a storage medium.

A fourth object is to obtain the device information belonging to the own group from the server device when the power saving mode transition time information managed by each image processing device is updated by the user operation. The updated power saving mode shift time information is broadcast to the image processing apparatuses in the same group to collectively update the power saving mode shift time information in the group, thereby reducing the automatic update processing on the server side. A server capable of freely constructing an image processing environment with a high power saving effect by timely matching the power saving mode shift time information managed by the image processing apparatus with the power saving mode shift time information for each group managed by the server apparatus side. An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, an image processing apparatus, a server apparatus control method, an image processing apparatus control method, and a storage medium.

[0019]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of image processing apparatuses capable of shifting to a power saving mode for saving power consumption according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. A management unit (FIG. 3) that is a communicable server device that stores and manages a power saving mode transition time set for an image processing device group that is grouped from among the plurality of image processing devices. DB management unit 10 shown
5 to 107) and the update status of the power saving mode transition time for each group managed by the management means,
The power saving mode shift time information to be updated is read from the storage means and is transmitted to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group (corresponding to the server control unit 101 shown in FIG. 3).

A second aspect of the present invention is a receiving means for receiving power saving mode transition time information to be updated from a client device communicable via the predetermined communication medium (FIG. 3).
(Corresponding to the server control unit 101 shown in FIG. 3) and the updating means for updating the power saving mode transition time for each group stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information received by the receiving means (see FIG. 3). DB management unit 105 shown
To 107).

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the transmitting means provides each image processing device of the corresponding group with power saving mode transition time information to be updated in synchronization with the update timing of the power saving mode transition time for each group. It is characterized by transmitting each.

A fourth aspect of the present invention is a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of image processing apparatuses capable of shifting to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. Therefore, a management unit that stores and manages the power saving mode transition time set for the group of image processing devices grouped from the plurality of image processing devices (DB management units 105 to 105 shown in FIG. 3). (Corresponding to 107) and one of the image processing apparatuses inquiring about the power saving mode transition time, the power saving mode transition time information set in the group corresponding to the image processing apparatus is read out from the storage means and the inquiry destination is set. It is characterized by having a reply means (corresponding to the server control unit 101 shown in FIG. 3) for replying to the image processing apparatus.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, control means for controlling updating of the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information transmitted by any of the image processing apparatuses. (Corresponding to the DB management units 105 to 107 shown in FIG. 3).

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, based on an inquiry about group information requested by any of the image processing apparatuses, the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source managed by the managing means is notified. It has a notification means (corresponding to the server control unit 101 shown in FIG. 3).

A seventh invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the image processing device includes a printer device, a digital copying device, and a composite image processing device.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the management means registers device information unique to each image processing device, unique group information, and unique power saving mode information in the storage device. .

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the notifying means reads the group information retrieved by the managing means from the storage means on the basis of the group information of the image processing apparatus as the inquiry source to obtain the image of the inquiry source. It is characterized by notifying the processing device.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the transmitting means reads out the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing means from the storage means based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source, and selects the corresponding group. It is characterized in that it is transmitted to each image processing apparatus.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the reply means reads out the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the management means from the storage means based on the image processing device of the inquiry source, and outputs the inquiry destination image. It is characterized by sending a reply to the processing device.

A twelfth aspect of the present invention is a group determination means (corresponding to the server control section 101 shown in FIG. 3) for determining whether or not the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is registered in any group. If the group determining means determines that the image processing device that is the source of the inquiry is not registered in any of the groups, the illegal response means (responding to the server control unit 101 shown in FIG. Equivalent)).

A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is an image processing apparatus which is identified by a server device capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium into any of the groups, and which starts power saving obtained from the server device. Storage means for storing time information (corresponding to the data storage section 206 shown in FIG. 4) is compared with the power saving start time stored in the storage means and the current time measured by the timer, and is supplied to the main body of the image processing apparatus. Power saving control means (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) for shifting to a power saving mode state for saving power consumption.

A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a first judging means (corresponding to the controller section 201 shown in FIG. 4) for judging whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has been updated. And a first update state for displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when the first determining means determines that the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated. Display control means (Fig. 4
(Corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in 1).

A fifteenth invention according to the present invention is a first notifying means (a communication interface unit (shown in FIG. 4) for notifying the server device of an acquisition request of power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group. Communication I / F part) 2
(Corresponding to 02) and the power saving start time information acquired from the server device in accordance with the acquisition request notified by the first notification means and the power saving start time stored in the storage means are compared to each other to update the state. And a second judgment means (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) for judging that the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the second judgment means. , And a second update state display control unit (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) for displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit.

In a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the first notifying means issues a request for acquiring power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group at predetermined inquiry time intervals measured by a timer. It is characterized by notifying the server device.

The seventeenth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the user can arbitrarily set the predetermined inquiry time interval measured by the timer.

An eighteenth aspect of the present invention is a user updating means for updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on a user setting, and an updated power saving starting time updated by the user updating means. And an update notifying means for notifying the server device of the time information.

A nineteenth aspect of the present invention is a user updating unit (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) for updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit based on the user setting. Second notification means for notifying an acquisition request for device information of the same group managed by the server device when the power saving start time information stored in the storage device is updated by the user updating device ( Based on the acquisition request by the communication interface unit (communication I / F unit) 202 shown in FIG. 4) and the second notification unit, the device information of the same group transferred from the server device is acquired and updated. Transfer means for transmitting the stored power saving start time information to any of the image processing apparatuses belonging to the same group (the communication interface unit (communication I / I shown in FIG. And having a portion) corresponding to 202).

A twentieth aspect of the present invention is based on the power saving start time information transferred from another image processing apparatus capable of communicating via the communication medium, the power saving start time information stored in the storage means. And an update control unit (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) for updating

In a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, when the update control means updates the power saving start time information stored in the storage means, the update state of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display section. It is characterized by having a third update state display control means (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4).

A twenty-second aspect of the present invention is an update state determination means (controller section 201 shown in FIG. 4) for determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has been updated by the update control means. If it is determined by the update state determination means that the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has not been updated, it is updated to the image processing apparatus that is the transmission source of the broadcast communication. And an update state response means (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) that automatically responds that the update is not performed.

In a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, when the update status response means automatically responds that the update has not been made, a message indicating that there is an image processing apparatus in an unupdated status is displayed on the display unit. It has a response result display means (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4).

In a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcasted by the transfer means is monitored, and the update result of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display unit. It is characterized by having an update management unit (corresponding to the controller unit 201 shown in FIG. 4) for displaying.

In a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the update management means monitors the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer means, and the power saving start time information is It is characterized in that the updated image processing apparatus and the non-updated image processing apparatus are individually counted, and the counted result is displayed on the display unit.

A twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention relates to a server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of shifting to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. A control method, comprising a management step (not shown) for storing and managing a power saving mode transition time set for an image processing device group grouped from among the plurality of image processing devices, in the storage device. Based on the updated state of the power saving mode shift time for each group managed by the managing step, the updated power save mode shift time information is read from the storage means and sent to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group (illustration). Not)) and.

A twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention comprises a receiving step (not shown) for receiving power saving mode transition time information to be updated from a client device communicable via the predetermined communication medium, and the receiving step. An updating step (not shown) for updating the power saving mode shift time for each group stored in the storage means based on the received power saving mode shift time information.

In a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, in the transmitting step, the power saving mode transition time information to be updated in synchronization with the update timing of the power saving mode transition time for each group is transmitted to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group. It is characterized by transmitting each.

A twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention is a server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of shifting to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. A control method, which comprises a management step (not shown) for storing and managing a power saving mode transition time set for an image processing device group grouped from the plurality of image processing devices in a storage means. Based on the inquiry about the power saving mode shift time by the image processing apparatus, the power saving mode shift time information set in the group corresponding to the image processing apparatus is read from the storage unit and returned to the inquiry destination image processing apparatus. And steps (not shown).

A thirtieth aspect of the present invention is a control step for controlling updating of the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information transmitted by any of the image processing apparatuses. (Not shown).

According to a thirty-first aspect of the present invention, based on an inquiry of group information requested by any of the image processing apparatuses, the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source managed by the managing means is notified. It has a notification step (not shown) for performing.

A thirty-second aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the image processing apparatus includes a printer apparatus, a digital copying apparatus, and a composite image processing apparatus.

The thirty-third aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the management step registers device information unique to each image processing device, unique group information, and unique power saving mode information in the storage means. .

In the thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the notifying step, the group information retrieved by the managing step based on the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and the image of the inquiry source is read. It is characterized by notifying the processing device.

In the thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in the transmitting step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing step based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and the corresponding group is read. It is characterized in that it is transmitted to each image processing apparatus.

In a thirty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in the reply step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the management step based on the image processing device of the inquiry source is read from the storage means, and the image of the inquiry destination is obtained. It is characterized by sending a reply to the processing device.

A thirty-seventh aspect of the present invention is a group determination step of determining whether or not the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is registered in any group, and the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source by the group determination step. Is determined not to be registered in any of the groups, an unauthorized response step (not shown) for responding that the inquiry is unauthorized is provided.

A thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention is a control method of an image processing apparatus, which is identified by any one of the groups by a server apparatus capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium,
A power saving control step of shifting to a power saving mode state in which the power saving start time acquired from the server device and stored in the storage unit is compared with the current time measured by a timer to save power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. (Steps S101 to S106 shown in FIG. 7) are included.

In a thirty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the first determination step (step S103 shown in FIG. 7) for determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated, and A first update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined by the first determining step that the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated. (Step S105 shown in FIG. 7)).

A fortieth aspect of the present invention is based on the first notifying step of notifying the server apparatus of an acquisition request of the power saving start time information managed by the server apparatus for each group, and the first notifying step. In accordance with the notified acquisition request, the second determination step of determining the update state by comparing the power saving start time information acquired from the server device with the power saving start time stored in the storage means (FIG. 1).
If the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated in step S308) shown in FIG. 6 and the second determination step, the update state of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display unit. The second update state display control step (step S312 shown in FIG. 16) is performed.

In a forty-first aspect of the present invention, in the first notifying step, the acquisition request of the power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group is given at every predetermined inquiry time interval timed by a timer. It is characterized by notifying the server device.

A forty-second aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the user can arbitrarily set the predetermined inquiry time interval measured by the timer.

A forty-third aspect of the present invention is a user updating step (step S306 shown in FIG. 16) for updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on the user setting, and the user updating. An update notification step of notifying the server device of the updated power saving start time information updated in step (step S30 shown in FIG. 16).
9) and are included.

A forty-fourth aspect of the present invention is a user updating step (step S402 shown in FIG. 22) for updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on the user setting, and the user updating. A second notifying step of notifying an acquisition request for the device information of the same group managed by the server device when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the step (see FIG. 22). Step S401)
And, based on the acquisition request by the second notification step,
A transfer step of acquiring the device information of the same group transferred from the server device and broadcasting the updated power saving start time information to any of the image processing devices belonging to the same group (step S408 shown in FIG. 22). And having.

The forty-fifth aspect of the present invention is based on the power saving start time information transferred from another image processing apparatus capable of communicating via the communication medium, and the power saving start time information stored in the storage means. It has the update control step (step S501-S504 shown in FIG. 23) which updates.

In a forty-sixth aspect of the present invention, when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control step, the update state of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display section. It is characterized by having a third update state display control step (step S414 shown in FIG. 22).

A forty-seventh aspect of the present invention is an update state determination step (step S503 shown in FIG. 23) of determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has been updated by the update control step. When it is determined that the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit has not been updated in the update state determination step, a message indicating that the image processing apparatus of the transmission source that is performing the broadcast communication has not been updated is displayed. It is characterized by having an update status response step of automatically responding (step S506 shown in FIG. 23).

In a forty-eighth aspect of the present invention, when the update status response step automatically responds to the effect that the update has not been made, a message indicating that there is an image processing apparatus in an unupdated status is displayed on the display unit. And a response result displaying step (step S405 shown in FIG. 22).

In a forty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcasted in the transfer step is monitored, and the update result of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display unit. It is characterized by having an update management step of displaying (step S414 shown in FIG. 22).

In a fiftieth aspect of the present invention, in the update management step, the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer step is monitored, and the power saving start time information is It is characterized in that the updated image processing apparatus and the non-updated image processing apparatus are individually counted, and the counted result is displayed on the display unit.

A fifty-first invention related to the present invention is a server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of shifting to a power saving mode for saving power consumption according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. A management step (not shown) that stores and manages a power saving mode transition time set for an image processing apparatus group that is grouped from among the plurality of image processing apparatuses, and is managed by the management step. And a transmission step (not shown) for reading the updated power saving mode transition time information from the storage means and transmitting it to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group based on the update state of the power saving mode transition time for each group. It is characterized in that the program for causing the program is recorded in a computer-readable storage medium.

The fifty-second invention of the present invention comprises a receiving step (not shown) for receiving power saving mode transition time information to be updated from a client device communicable via the predetermined communication medium, and the receiving step. An updating step (not shown) for updating the power saving mode shift time for each group stored in the storage means based on the received power saving mode shift time information.

In the fifty-third aspect of the present invention, in the transmitting step, the power saving mode transition time information to be updated in synchronization with the update timing of the power saving mode transition time for each group is transmitted to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group. It is characterized by transmitting each.

A fifty-fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of shifting to a power saving mode for saving power consumption according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. A management step (not shown) for storing and managing a power saving mode transition time set for an image processing device group to be grouped from the plurality of image processing devices; Reply step (not shown) for reading out the power saving mode shift time information set in the group corresponding to the image processing apparatus from the storage means and replying to the inquiry destination image processing apparatus based on the inquiry about the power saving mode shift time by A program for executing the above is recorded in a computer-readable storage medium.

The fifty-fifth aspect of the present invention is a control step for controlling updating of the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information transmitted by any of the image processing apparatuses. (Not shown).

According to a fifty-sixth aspect of the present invention, based on an inquiry about group information requested by any of the image processing apparatuses, the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source managed by the managing means is notified. It has a notification step (not shown) for performing.

The fifty-seventh aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the image processing device includes a printer device, a digital copying device, and a composite image processing device.

The fifty-eighth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the management step, device information unique to each image processing device, unique group information, and unique power saving mode information are registered in the storage means. .

In a fifty-ninth aspect of the present invention, in the notifying step, the group information retrieved by the managing step based on the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and the image of the inquiry source is obtained. It is characterized by notifying the processing device.

In a sixtieth aspect of the present invention, in the transmitting step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing step based on the image processing apparatus as the inquiry source is read out from the storage means and the corresponding group is read. It is characterized in that it is transmitted to each image processing apparatus.

In the sixty-first aspect of the present invention, in the reply step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the management step based on the image processing device of the inquiry source is read from the storage means to obtain the image of the inquiry destination. It is characterized by sending a reply to the processing device.

A sixty-second invention according to the present invention is a group judgment step of judging whether or not the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is registered in any group, and the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source by the group judgment step. Is determined not to be registered in any of the groups, an unauthorized response step (not shown) for responding that the inquiry is unauthorized is provided.

A sixty-third aspect of the present invention is directed to an image processing apparatus which is identified by the server apparatus capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium into any of the groups, and which is acquired from the server apparatus and stored in the storage means. The power saving control step of shifting the power saving start time to the current time measured by the timer and shifting to the power saving mode state in which the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body is reduced (step S101 to FIG. 7).
The program for executing S106) is recorded in a computer-readable storage medium.

A sixty-fourth invention according to the present invention comprises: a first judgment step (step S103 shown in FIG. 7) for judging whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has been updated; A first update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined by the first determining step that the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated. (Step S105 shown in FIG. 7).

In a sixty-fifth aspect of the present invention, there are provided a first notification step of notifying the server device of an acquisition request of power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group, and the first notification step. In accordance with the notified acquisition request, the second determination step of determining the update state by comparing the power saving start time information acquired from the server device with the power saving start time stored in the storage means (FIG. 1).
If the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated in step S308) shown in FIG. 6 and the second determination step, the update state of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display unit. The second update state display control step (step S312 shown in FIG. 16) is performed.

In a sixty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in the first notifying step, the acquisition request of the power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group is given at every predetermined inquiry time interval timed by a timer. It is characterized by notifying the server device.

The sixty-seventh aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the user can arbitrarily set the predetermined inquiry time interval measured by the timer.

In a sixty-eighth aspect of the present invention, a user updating step (step S306 shown in FIG. 16) of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on the user setting, and the user updating An update notification step of notifying the server device of the updated power saving start time information updated in step (step S30 shown in FIG. 16).
9) and are included.

The sixty-ninth aspect of the present invention is directed to a user updating step (step S402 shown in FIG. 22) for updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on the user setting, and the user updating. A second notifying step of notifying an acquisition request for the device information of the same group managed by the server device when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the step (see FIG. 22). Step S401)
And, based on the acquisition request by the second notification step,
A transfer step of acquiring the device information of the same group transferred from the server device and broadcasting the updated power saving start time information to any of the image processing devices belonging to the same group (step S408 shown in FIG. 22). And having.

The seventieth aspect of the present invention is based on the power saving start time information transferred from another image processing apparatus communicable via the communication medium, based on the power saving start time information stored in the storage means. It has the update control step (step S501-S504 shown in FIG. 23) which updates.

In a seventy-first invention related to the present invention, when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control step, the update state of the power saving start time information is displayed on the display section. It is characterized by having a third update state display control step (step S414 shown in FIG. 22).

The 72nd aspect of the present invention is an update state determination step (step S503 shown in FIG. 23) for determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has been updated by the update control step. When it is determined that the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit has not been updated in the update state determination step, a message indicating that the image processing apparatus of the transmission source that is performing the broadcast communication has not been updated is displayed. It is characterized by having an update status response step of automatically responding (step S506 shown in FIG. 23).

In a seventy-third aspect of the present invention, when the update status response step automatically responds that the update has not been made, a message indicating that there is an image processing apparatus in an unupdated status is displayed on the display section. And a response result displaying step (step S405 shown in FIG. 22).

The seventy-fourth aspect of the present invention is to monitor the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred in the transfer step, and display the update result of the power saving start time information on the display unit. It is characterized by having an update management step of displaying (step S414 shown in FIG. 22).

In a seventy-fifth aspect of the present invention, in the update management step, the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer step is monitored, and the power saving start time information is It is characterized in that the updated image processing apparatus and the non-updated image processing apparatus are individually counted, and the counted result is displayed on the display unit.

[0094]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network system to which a server device and an image processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 11 denotes a network, which connects the server 12, the output devices 21 to 28, the computer and the workstations 31 to 34, and plays a role of an information transmission medium.

In this embodiment, the timer management server function and the printer group management server function are the same as those of the server 12.
It is built in as a system and provides server services in the network together with other functions.

Computers and workstations 31 to 34 are devices corresponding to client devices in the network 11. Various service requests are sent from the computer and workstations 31-34 to the server 12 and output devices 21-28.

Reference numerals 21 to 28 are output devices connected to the network. The output devices 21 to 28 receive image output requests (jobs) from the computers serving as clients and the workstations 31 to 34, and output the image data transferred via the network 11.

In the output devices 21 to 28, the output device itself has an image reading device, and the image data read by the output device itself can be output by the output device itself. Has become.

Further, each of the output devices 21 to 28 has a time measuring means such as a timer device in its internal control section. When the timer device is activated by the user's operation and the time measured by the timer device reaches the time preset by the user, the control unit of the printer device shuts off the power supply to each device other than the minimum required. It is configured to do. As a result, it is possible to significantly reduce power consumption.

In the conventional configuration, the output devices 21-28
The setting of each timer device was not efficient because the user had to go to each output device and set it.

However, in the print processing apparatus of the present invention, the power saving mode transition time information stored in the server 12 is transmitted to each of the output devices 21 to 28 via the network. The details of the configuration will be described below.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a format example of the power saving mode transition time information data managed by the server device and the image processing device according to the present invention, which are classified for each server 12 and group shown in FIG. Output devices 21-28
Corresponds to the format example of the power saving mode transition time information data built in.

In FIG. 2, 51 is a printer group I.
D and 52 are printer IDs of printers belonging to the printer group, and 53 is a record in which the power saving mode transition time information data of the printer group is stored.

A unique printer ID 52 is assigned to each of the output devices 21 to 28. Further, each printer belongs to a printer group, and as shown in the figure, a printer ID 52 is classified and recorded for each printer group ID 51 to which the printer belongs.

In the record 53, date and time information when the printer shifts to the power saving mode is recorded. Each output device 21-
In No. 28, the date and time information stored in the record 53 contained in the output device to which each printer group belongs and the clock contained in the output device to which each printer group also belongs match. In that case, the output device is configured to shift to the power saving mode.

Further, these printer group IDs 5
1, the printer ID 52, each information of the power saving mode transition time for each printer group, and the record 53 are recorded and managed by the server 12.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the internal structure of the server device according to the present invention. The same parts as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals.

In the server 12 shown in FIG. 3, reference numeral 101 denotes a server control section, which is a section for executing various services provided by the server 12 via the network. Further, output devices 21 to 2 as image processing devices
The process of transmitting the power saving mode transition time information to 8 is also performed. Reference numeral 108 is a timer device.

Reference numeral 102 denotes a printer information database, which records printer information belonging to the network. Reference numeral 103 denotes a printer group information database, which records printer grouping information in which the output devices 21 to 28 are grouped as shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 104 denotes a power saving mode shift time information database, in which the power saving mode shift time information set for each printer group is recorded. Each database is a database management unit 105-10.
7 manages information on each of the databases 102 to 104, and performs operations such as registration, deletion, merging, and sorting according to a request from the server control unit 101.

When the server control section 101 updates the power saving mode shift time information of a certain printer group recorded in the power saving mode shift time information database 104,
Output devices 21 to 21 that belong to the corresponding printer group
28 printer IDs to the printer information database 102
Processing for making an inquiry to the database management unit 105. The server control unit 101 performs a process of transmitting the power saving mode shift time information updated from the inquiry result to the output device belonging to the corresponding printer group.

FIG. 4 shows the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows the internal control structure of.

In FIG. 4, reference numeral 201 denotes a controller section, which is an apparatus for executing processing such as shifting to the power saving mode of the image forming apparatus itself at the designated time, which is a feature of the present invention, and returning to the normal mode. It is also a part that controls the entire image forming apparatus.

Reference numeral 202 is a communication interface unit for controlling communication with the network 11. Communication with the server 12, which is a feature of the present invention, is also executed via this.

Reference numeral 203 denotes an image reading control unit for executing an image reading process for reading an original image, and 204 denotes an image formation control unit for executing control of image formation on recording paper by the image forming unit.

An operation unit 205 controls the interface between the user and the image forming apparatus.

A data storage unit 206 is a device for storing data used by the controller unit 201 and the like. The data stored in the data storage unit 206 is stored even when the image forming apparatus shifts to the power saving mode or the power supply to the entire image forming apparatus is stopped. Time data at the start of power saving, which is a feature of the present invention, is also stored here.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show a server device according to the present invention,
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode shift time information data in the image processing apparatus, in which the power saving mode shift time information data classified for each printer group stored in the server 12 is output belonging to the group. It corresponds to the outline of the mechanism of transmitting to the devices 21 to 28 and updating the power saving mode transition time information data of the records 51 and 52 incorporated in the output devices 21 to 28 belonging to the group.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, the power saving mode transition time information data classified by each printer group stored in the server 12 is output devices belonging to the group connected to the network 11. 21, 23, 2
4 corresponds to the state shown in FIG.
Receives the power saving mode shift time information data from the server 12, updates the power saving mode shift time information data contained in each of the output devices 21, 23, and 24 belonging to the corresponding printer group. It corresponds to the state of responding to.

In FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the output device 26
Although not shown, the operations of the output devices 26 to 28 are the same as those of the output devices 21 to 25 described below.

First, in FIG. 5, the server 12 belongs to the printer group connected to the network 11 with the power saving mode shift time information accumulated in the power saving mode shift time information data area 40 of the printer group inside. It is transmitting to the output devices 21, 23 and 24 which are present.

Here, the output devices belonging to the printer group in the power saving mode transition time information data area 40 are the output devices 21, 23 and 24 in the figure, and the output device 2
2,25 do not belong. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 61. Further, this transmission operation is performed at the timing when the power saving mode transition time information data area 40 inside the server 12 is updated.

Next, when each of the output devices 21, 23, 24 belonging to the printer group receives the power saving mode transition time information from the server 12, each of the output devices 21, 23, 24.
24 internal power saving mode transition time information data areas 41, 4
The processing of updating the contents of 3 and 44 to the received power saving mode transition time information is performed. Details of the processing for updating the power saving mode transition time information performed by each output device 21, 23, 24 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

Next, the output devices 21, 23 and 24 belonging to the printer group, after updating the power saving mode shift time information, send a response to the server 12 to inform that the update processing has been completed. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 62.

With such a configuration, the power saving mode transition time information stored in the server 12 and the output device 21 belonging to the printer group connected to the network 11,
It can be seen that the configuration is such that it can be synchronized with the power saving mode transition time information stored in 23 and 24.

Further, even when the power saving transition time information of the printer group belonging to the output devices 22 and 25 is updated, the same processing is performed, and the power saving mode transition of the output device of the belonging printer group is performed. It is configured so that it can be synchronized with time information.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of the first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. In the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. This corresponds to the processing procedure on the output device side that belongs to the printer group when the power saving mode transition time information is sent.
Further, it is assumed that this processing is started at the timing when the power saving mode transition time information to which the output device belongs is received from the server 12, and is executed by the control unit incorporated in each of the output devices 21 to 28. Furthermore, S101 to S1
06 indicates each step.

Also, in the figure, Timer_Dat
Let a represent power saving mode transition time information.

After the start of this processing, in step S101, processing for extracting the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data from the data format received from the server 12 is called. After the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data has been extracted, in step 102, the power saving mode transition time information Timer
The process of calling the process of checking the consistency of _Data is performed.

Specifically, power saving mode transition time information Ti
Whether the date and time of mer_Data exists on the actual calendar, or whether the date and time of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is in the future based on the current time information held in the measuring device built into the output device. If it is checked and it is determined that there is consistency, the process proceeds to step S104, and if there is no consistency, the process proceeds to step S106.

Then, in step 104, processing for storing the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data in the power saving mode shift time information data area of the output device is performed.

As a result, the current time information of the measuring device built in the output device and the power saving mode transition time information Timer_
When it matches with Data, the output device performs processing for shifting to the power saving mode. Then, after the storing process is completed, the process proceeds to step 105, and the output device performing this process performs a process of notifying the server 12 that the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data has been correctly updated. The process ends.

On the other hand, in step S106, the power saving mode transition time information T checked in step S102.
This is a process performed when it is determined that there is no match in the imager_Data. The power saving mode transition time information data area built in the output device is not updated, and the server 12 is notified that it has not been updated. The process of transmitting is performed, and after the end of the response process, this process ends.

FIG. 8 shows the client device 3 shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows an example of the update setting screen of the power saving mode shift time information data displayed by 1-34, for updating the power saving mode shift time information data built into the server 12 at the client device 31-34 side. It corresponds to the display example of the clientware of. In addition, configure the software for the display as an independent utility, or
Alternatively, it is arbitrary whether the output device is configured to be subordinate to the driver software unique to the output device.

In FIG. 8, reference numeral 71 is a display box for displaying the printer group to which the power saving mode transition time information belongs. Reference numeral 72 denotes a display box for displaying the power saving mode transition time information data, which is configured so that an arbitrary printer group can be set by a user's operation. This display box 72 displays the year, month, day, hour,
It is divided into minutes and seconds, and the user can rewrite from the client device.

Reference numeral 73 denotes a registration button. When the user selects the registration button 73 on the client device, the power saving mode transition time information data belonging to the printer group displayed in the display box 71 on the client device is displayed. It is transmitted to the server 12.

When this data is received on the server 12 side, the power saving mode shift time accumulated in the power saving mode shift time information data area 40 of the printer group displayed in the display box 71 built in the server 12 is stored. The process of updating the information is performed.

When the server 12 performs a process of updating the power saving mode transition time information for each printer group, the updated power saving mode transition time information is used as a trigger for each printer group belonging to the corresponding printer group. The process of transmitting to the output device is started.

Reference numeral 74 denotes a delete button. When the user performs a process of selecting this delete button 73 from the client device, the printer group displayed in the display box 71 on the client device and also displayed on the display box 70 is displayed. Power saving mode transition time information data of server 1
Power saving mode transition time information data area built in 2
A deletion request to delete from the client device 31
˜34 performs a process of transmitting to the server 12.

On the server 12 side, when this data deletion request is received from the client devices 31 to 34, the corresponding power saving mode shift accumulated in the power saving mode shift time information data area 40 built in the server 12 is stored. Processing to delete time information is being performed.

According to the first embodiment, the output devices connected to the network in the server 12 are organized for each printer group, and the power saving mode transition time information of the output devices for each printer group is centrally managed. .

Further, the server 12 transmits the power saving mode shift time information data to the output devices belonging to each printer group via the network to synchronize the power saving mode shift time information of the output devices belonging to the printer group. It has a configuration that can be updated.

According to the above embodiment, the output devices 21 to 21 connected to the network 11 in the server 12 are connected.
The power saving mode shift time information of 28 is centrally managed, the power saving mode shift time information data is transmitted from the server 12 to each output device belonging to the group via the network, and the power saving mode shift time information of each output device is transmitted. Can be updated synchronously. Further, by setting different power saving mode shift times for each group to which each printer belongs in the server 12, it becomes possible to automatically set different power saving mode shift times for each printer group.

This eliminates the need for the user to visit each of the output devices 21 to 28 connected to the network 11 to set the power saving mode transition time information, which can be expected to improve the user's convenience.

Also, the user may perform different setting operations of the power saving mode transition time information data on the timer devices of the output devices 21 to 28, and the timer device of the output device may be changed by the user's mistake. On the other hand, it is possible to avoid a situation where the user forgets to set the power saving mode transition time information data, and improvement in power consumption can be expected.

Furthermore, by grouping the printer groups and managing them on the server side as well, it becomes possible to automatically set different power saving mode transition times for each group to which each printer the user desires. Expected to improve convenience.

Also, the server 1 can be operated by a user operation from any client device connected to the network.
It is possible to update the power saving mode transition time information for each printer group stored in No. 2. This allows
The convenience of the user can be expected to improve.

Further, at the same time that the power saving mode shift time information of a certain printer group stored in the server 12 is updated, the updated power save mode shift time information can be reflected in each output device belonging to the printer group. It will be possible.

Further, it becomes possible to inform the user near the output device that the power saving mode transition time information has been updated.

[Second Embodiment] FIGS. 9 to 12 are views for explaining the update processing state of the power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Power saving mode transition time information data 8-4 for each printer group stored in the server 12
0-a and 8-40-b are set as printers for the power saving mode transition time information areas of the records 8-41 and 8-42 contained in the output devices 21 to 28 classified for each printer group. It corresponds to the outline of the mechanism that automatically reflects the information for each group.

In FIG. 9, the output device 21 is connected to the server 12 connected to the same network 11.
Printer group G1 (Grp: 001)
10 corresponds to the state in which the acquisition request of the power saving mode shift time information 8-40-a is transmitted, and in FIG. 10, the power saving mode shift time information data of the printer group G1 is received from the server 12, The state corresponds to the state where the power saving mode transition time information data built in the output device 21 is being updated.

Similarly, FIG. 11 shows that the output device 22 sends to the server 12 a request to acquire the power saving mode transition time information 8-40-a of the printer group G2 to which the output device 21 belongs. 12 corresponds to the state shown.
Indicates that the power saving mode shift time information data of the printer group G2 is received from the server 12 and the power saving mode shift time information data built in the output device 22 is updated.

First, in FIG. 9, the output device 21 transmits to the server 12 a power saving mode transition time information acquisition request for the printer group G1 to which the output device 21 belongs. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 8-61. Further, this transmission operation is performed at a constant time interval by the measurement of the second timer inside the output device 21.

Next, referring to FIG. 10, the server 1 which has received the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request from the output device 21.
2 searches the printer group information database 103 built in the server 12 for the printer group to which the requesting output device 21 belongs. In this example, the output device 21 belongs to the printer group G1.

Next, the server 12 transmits the power saving mode transition time information of the printer group to which the request source belongs.
Since the output device 21 belongs to the printer group G1, the power saving mode transition time information 8 of the printer group G1 is set.
The server 12 transmitting -40-a transmits to the output device 21 that has issued the acquisition request. In the figure, arrow 8-62
Indicated by.

Next, when the output device 21 receives the power saving mode shift time information of the printer group G1 to which the output device 21 belongs from the server 12, the output device 21 stores the power save mode shift time information data area 8-41 in the output device 21. The contents are updated to the power saving mode transition time information received. Details of the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request process and the update process performed by the output device 21 described here will be described with reference to FIG. 13.

Similarly, in order to update the power saving mode shift time information of the output device 22, in FIG. 11, the output device 22 requests the server 12 to obtain the power saving mode shift time information of the printer group G2 to which the output device 22 belongs. Are being sent. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 8-63. Further, this transmission operation is performed at a certain time interval by the measurement of the second timer inside the output device 22.

Next, referring to FIG. 12, the server 1 that has received the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request from the output device 22.
2 retrieves the printer group to which the output device 22 of the request source belongs from the printer group information data hase 103 built in the server 12. In this example, the output device 22 belongs to the printer group G2.

Next, the server 12 transmits the power saving mode transition time information of the printer group to which the request source belongs.
The output device 22 is the printer group G2 (Grp: 00: 00).
2), the power saving mode transition time information 8-40-b of the printer group G2 is transmitted. Server 12
Transmits to the output device 22 that issued the acquisition request. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 8-64.

Next, when the output device 22 receives from the server 12 the power saving mode transition time information of the printer group G2 to which the output device 22 belongs, the output device 22 stores the power saving mode transition time information data area 8-42 in the output device 22. The contents are updated to the power saving mode transition time information received.

Although the description of the operation of the output devices 23 to 28 is omitted here, the output device 2 described above is used.
The same operation as that of Nos. 1 and 22 is performed.

As described above, each output device 21 to 28 issues a request to the server 12 to acquire power saving mode transition time information for each printer group to which the output device 21 to 28 belongs, and each output device 21 to 28 acquires the power saving mode transition time. By performing control to shift to the power saving mode by reflecting the information, it becomes possible to automate the setting of the power saving mode shift time information built in each of the output devices 21 to 28.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in which the output devices 21 to 28 send a power saving mode transition time information acquisition request to the server 12. This processing corresponds to the processing procedure on the output device side when the power saving mode transition time information of the printer group to which the output device belongs is transmitted, and this processing is started at the timing when the power of each output device 21 to 28 is turned on. . Further, this process is performed by each output device 2
It is executed by a control unit built in each of Nos. 1-28. In the figure, Timer_Data represents power saving mode transition time information. Furthermore, S201-S
211 indicates each step.

First, in step S201, a process for activating a second timer for measuring the time interval for transmitting the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request to the server 12 is called. Then, after activating the second timer, the process proceeds to step S202, and a process of comparing whether or not the measured time of the second timer has reached the timing of transmitting the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request is performed. A loop is formed until the timing at which the timer executes transmission of the acquisition request is reached. That is, it works to wait for processing until the timing comes. If the second timer has reached the timing for transmitting the acquisition request, the process proceeds to step S203.

Then, in step S203, the output device performs a process of transmitting the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request to the server 12, and after the transmission is completed, the process proceeds to step S204 and the server 12 saves power. It is determined whether a response to the mode transition time information acquisition request is received, and a loop is formed until a response to the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request is received from the server 12. That is, it functions to wait for processing until a response is received. If a response to the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request is received from the server 12, the process proceeds to step S205.

Then, in step S205, the power saving mode transition time information Tim is determined from the data format of the power saving mode transition time information of the response received from the server 12.
Call the process for extracting er_Data. Then, after the extraction of the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data ends, the process proceeds to step S206, and a process of calling a process for checking the consistency of the power save mode shift time information Timer_Data is performed.

Specifically, the power saving mote transition time information Ti
Whether the date and time of mer_Data exists on the actual calendar, or whether the date and time of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is in the future based on the current time information held in the measuring device built into the output device. After checking, and after the check ends, the process proceeds to step S207.
Proceed to.

Then, in step S207. It is determined whether or not the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data checked in step S206 is consistent, and the process is branched. If there is consistency, the process proceeds to step S209. If it is determined that there is no consistency, the process proceeds to step S208.

Then, in step S208, the processing is performed when it is determined that the received power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data checked in step S207 is inconsistent, and the power saving mode transition time incorporated in the output device is set. A process of notifying the server 12 that the information has not been updated is performed without updating the information data area, and after the transmission, the process is performed in step S211.
Proceed to.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S207 that there is consistency, in step S209 the power saving mode transition time information Timer received from the server 12
_Data is compared with the power saving mode transition time information stored inside the output device. That is, it is determined whether or not the power saving mode transition time information registered in the server 12 has been updated. If it is determined that the information has been updated, the process proceeds to step S210, and if it has not been updated. If so, the process proceeds to step S211.
Proceed to.

Then, in step S210, a process of storing the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data in the power saving mode shift time information data area of the output device is performed. As a result, the current time information of the measuring device built in the output device and the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Dat
If it matches a, the output device performs a process of shifting to the power saving mode, and after the storage process ends, the process proceeds to step S211.

Then, in step S211, a process of initializing the second timer for measuring the time interval for transmitting the power saving mode transition time information acquisition request to the server 12 is performed, and after the initialization is completed. The process is returned to step S202 to form a loop.

From this, it can be seen that when the output device is activated, the power-saving mode transition time information managed by the server 12 is always heard at regular intervals. The time interval for listening to the power saving mode transition time information can be set by the user.

According to the second embodiment described above, it is not necessary for the user to visit each output device connected to the network to set the power saving mode transition time information, and it is expected that the convenience of the user will be improved.

In addition, the user may perform different power saving mode transition time information data setting operations on the timer devices of the output devices, or the user may make a mistake to save power to the timer devices of the output devices. It is possible to avoid the situation of forgetting to set the mode transition time information data, and it can be expected that power consumption can be reduced.

Furthermore, by grouping the printer groups and managing them on the server side as well, it becomes possible to automatically set different power saving mode transition times for each group to which each printer the user desires. It is expected that the convenience will be improved, and there is no fear that the power saving mode transition time information is erroneously set for the output device not managed by the server side.

Also, it is possible to update the power saving mode transition time information stored in the server by an operation of the user from any client device connected to the network. This can be expected to improve user convenience.

Further, each output device can listen to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the server at some time intervals.

Also, the user can set the time interval for the output device to listen to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the server. This can be expected to reduce the load on the network.

Further, it becomes possible to inform the user near the output device that the power saving mode transition time information has been updated.

[Third Embodiment] In each of the above-described embodiments, the information processing apparatus 31 shown in FIG.
Although the case of setting from 34 to 34 etc. has been described, the setting may be made from the operation unit of the output devices 21 to 28.
The embodiment will be described below.

FIG. 14 is a plan view for explaining the configuration of the operation unit of the image processing apparatus showing the third embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to the operation unit of the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 14, reference numeral 70 denotes an operation unit, which serves as an interface when the user performs copy processing, image reading processing, image output processing, various setting processing, and the like on the output device.

Reference numeral 71 denotes a display unit, which plays a role of transmitting various information such as the setting status and operation status of the output device to the user. In addition, the display unit 71 has a built-in pressure detection device, and the user can switch the display content and various settings by pressing various metaphors displayed on the display unit.

Reference numeral 72 denotes a user setting key, which is pressed to make more detailed settings on the output device. It should be noted that an operation screen for issuing an update request to the server 12 for saving the power saving mode transition time information is output to the display unit 71 based on an instruction to press the user setting key 72.

73 is a ten-key pad, which is operated by the user.
It is used when the output device is set to require input of numerical information.

FIG. 15 is a view showing an example of the power saving mode timer setting screen displayed on the display unit 71 shown in FIG. 14, and is displayed based on the user's instruction to press the user setting key 72. The power saving mode timer setting screen corresponds to an operation screen for issuing a request for updating the power saving mode transition time information for each printer group to the server.

In FIG. 15, reference numeral 81 is a display box for displaying the printer group to which the output device itself performing this operation belongs. The printer group information displayed here makes an inquiry to the server 12 and, when the inquiry result is received, is displayed in the display box 81 (see FIG. 16). On the server 12 side, in response to a printer group inquiry request from the output device, an inquiry is made to the printer group information database 103, and the result is returned to the inquiry source output device as a response.

Reference numeral 82 is a display box for displaying and changing the power saving mode transition time information data.
The display box 81 is divided into years, months, days, hours, minutes, and seconds, and the user performs an input operation with the ten keys 73.

Reference numeral 83 denotes a server registration button, which the user selects from the operation unit 70 of the output device.
When the process of selecting is performed, the power saving mode transition time information data displayed in the display box 81 on the operation unit 70 is transmitted to the server 12. When this data is received, the server 12 side updates the power saving mode transition time information stored in the power saving mode transition time information data area 40 of the printer group to which the output device of the update request source built in the server 12 belongs. Processing is performed.

When the server 12 performs the processing for updating the power saving mode shift time information, the output power saving mode shift time information of the updated printer group is used as a trigger for each output device connected to the network 11. Two
The process of transmitting to 1 to 28 is started.

Reference numeral 84 is an operation button for closing the operation screen for issuing a request for updating the power saving mode transition time information to the server.

On the other hand, it is also possible to delete a specific power saving mode transition time from the server 12 from the operation screen.

For example, when the user performs this deletion process from a certain output device, the power saving mode transition time information data is stored in the server 12 and the power saving mode transition time information data area of the printer group to which the output device of the deletion request source belongs. A process of transmitting a deletion request to delete from 40 to the server 12 is performed. When the server 12 side receives this data deletion request, it is stored in the power saving mode transition time information data area 40 of the printer group to which the output device of the deletion request source, which is built in the server 12, belongs, Power saving mode transition time information is being deleted.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. In order to issue an update request to the server 12 for the power saving mode transition time information shown in FIG. This operation screen corresponds to the control procedure of the output devices 23 to 28 when the process of selecting the server registration button 83 is performed by the user's operation. Note that S301 to S313 indicate each step.

When this processing is started at the timing of displaying the operation screen for issuing the update request for the power saving mode transition time information to the server on the operation unit 70, in step S301, the output device belongs to the output device. In order to acquire the existing printer group ID information, a process of transmitting a printer group ID transmission request process to the server 12 is called. After transmitting the printer group ID transmission request, the process proceeds to step S302.

Then, in step S302, the printer group I of the printer group to which the output device belongs
It is determined whether or not there is a response from the server 12 that has transmitted the D acquisition request, and a loop is formed until the response comes. That is, it has a role of waiting for a response from the server 12. If there is a response from the server 12, the process proceeds to step S303.

Then, in step S303, it is determined whether the response from the server 12 is a normal response including the printer group ID to which the output device belongs, and the process is branched according to the response from the server 12. That is,
If it is determined that the response from the server 12 is a normal response including the printer group ID to which the output device belongs, the process proceeds to step S304, and if the server 12
The response from the output device that issued the acquisition request is the server 12
If it is determined that the error response is returned due to the fact that it does not belong to the printer group of No. 2), the process proceeds to step S305.

Then, in step S304, a process of displaying the printer group to which the output device itself belongs acquired from the server 12 is displayed in the display box 81 of the display unit 71, and after the display process is completed, the process proceeds to step S306.

On the other hand, in step S305, power saving mode transition time information Timer_Da set by the user.
Since ta is inconsistent, a process of displaying an error message on the display unit 71 of the operation unit 70 is performed in order to inform the user that the data has not been transmitted to the server 12.
After the display processing ends, this processing ends.

Then, in step S306, it is determined whether or not the operation of selecting the server registration button 83 is performed, and a loop is formed until the selection operation is performed. That is, it has a role of waiting for the processing until the user selects the server registration button 83. If the user selects the server registration button 83, the process advances to step S307 to call a process for checking the consistency of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data to which the output device belongs.

Specifically, power saving mode transition time information Ti
Whether the date and time of mer_Data exists in the actual calendar or whether the date and time of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is in the future from the current time information held in the output device built in the output device After checking, and after the check is completed, the process proceeds to step S308.
Proceed to step S307, the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Dat to which the output device checked in step S307 belongs.
The process is branched based on the determination result of whether or not there is consistency of a. Now, if you decide that they are consistent,
The process proceeds to step S309, and when it is determined that there is no consistency, the process proceeds to step S305.

Then, in step S309, a process of transmitting the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data to the server 12 is performed, and after the transmission is completed, the process proceeds to step S310, and the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data to which the output device belongs. It is determined whether or not there is a response from the server 12 that has transmitted the message, and a loop is formed until a response comes. That is, it plays the role of waiting for a response from the server 12. If there is a response from the server 12, the process proceeds to step S311.

Then, in step S311, the content of the response from the server 12 that has transmitted the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data of the printer group to which the output device belongs is determined, and the processing is branched accordingly. That is, the transmitted power saving mode transition time information Timer_D
It is determined whether or not the "ata" is registered in the server, and if the server 12 has the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Dat.
If it is determined that the response is that a is registered, the process proceeds to step S312, and if it is determined that the response is that the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is not registered in the server 12. Advances the process to step S313.

Then, in step S312, a message for notifying the user that the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data to which the output device set by the user belongs has been registered in the server 12 is displayed on the display unit 71 of the operation unit 70. Is displayed, and after the display processing is completed,
This process ends.

On the other hand, in step S313, the power saving mode transition time information T to which the output device to which the output device belongs set by the user is set.
In order to inform the user that the imager_Data has not been registered in the server 12, a process of displaying an error message on the display unit 71 of the operation unit 70 is performed, and after the display process is completed, this process ends.

With the configuration described above, from an output device connected to the network by a user operation. It is possible to update the power saving mode transition time information of the printer group to which the output device belongs to the server.

According to the third embodiment described above, it is not necessary for the user to visit every output device connected to the network to perform the setting operation of the power saving mode transition time information, which can be expected to improve the convenience of the user. .

Further, the user may perform different power saving mode transition time information data setting operations on the timer devices of the respective output devices, or the user may make a mistake to save power to the timer devices of the output devices. It is possible to avoid the situation of forgetting to set the mode transition time information data, and it can be expected that power consumption can be reduced.

Furthermore, by grouping the printer groups and managing them on the server side as well, it becomes possible to automatically set different power saving mode transition times for each group to which each printer the user desires. Expected to improve convenience.

Also, at the same time that the power saving mode shift time information for each printer group stored in the server is updated, the power save mode shift time information of the printer group can be reflected in each output device connected to the network. Becomes

Further, each output device connected to the network in the server is centrally managed as printer group information for each power saving mode shift time information, and the power saving mode shift time is set to one output device belonging to a certain printer group connected to the network. When the information is set, the set output device updates the server, and each output device requests the server to acquire the power saving mode transition time information data of the printer group to which the output device belongs. When the data acquisition request is received, the server transmits, as a response, the power saving mode transition time information of the printer group to which the output device belongs to each output device that is the transmission source. The output device receiving the response can update the information inside the device from the power saving mode transition time information.

As a result, it is not necessary for the user to go to each output device connected to the network to set the power saving mode transition time information, and it is expected that the convenience of the user will be improved.

[0215] Further, the user may make different settings for the power saving mode transition time information data for the timer device of each output device, and the user may make a mistake to save power to the timer device of the output device. It is possible to avoid the situation of forgetting to set the mode transition time information data, and it can be expected that power consumption can be reduced.

Furthermore, by grouping the printer groups and managing them on the server side as well, it becomes possible to automatically set different power saving mode transition times for each group to which each printer desired by the user belongs. Expected to improve convenience.

Further, the user can set the time interval for the output device to listen to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the server. This can be expected to reduce the load on the network.

[0218] Further, for the user who has set the power saving mode shift time information for each printer group in the output device, it is possible to confirm on the set output device whether or not the update processing to the server has been completed normally. It becomes possible and the convenience of the user is improved.

[Fourth Embodiment] In the present embodiment, the power saving mode transition time information updated by the user's operation on the output device 21 and the output devices 23 and 24 that belong to the same printer group as the output device 21. The feature is that the stored power saving mode transition time information is updated automatically and remotely. The embodiment will be described below.

17 to 20 are views for explaining the update processing state of the power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device showing the fourth embodiment according to the present invention, and are stored in the server 12. The power saving mode transition time information data 40-a, 40-b for each printer group
Output devices 2 classified by printer group
1 to 28 corresponds to the outline of the mechanism for automatically reflecting the information for each printer group in the power saving mode transition time information area of the records built in 1 to 28.

In FIG. 17, the output device 21 is connected to the server 12 connected to the same network 11, and
18 corresponds to the state in which the request for acquiring the address information of all the output devices of the printer group G1 to which the printer group G1 belongs is transmitted.
19 corresponds to a state indicating that all printer information is being received. In FIG. 19, the output device 21 shifts to the power saving mode for the output device that belongs to the same printer group as the output device 21 received from the server 12. Corresponding to the state in which the time information update request is being transmitted, FIG. 20 receives an output request for updating the power saving mode transition time information from the output device 21 and outputs an output that belongs to the same printer group as the output device 21. This corresponds to the state where the devices 23 and 24 are updating the power saving mode transition time information.

First, in FIG. 17, the output device 21 transmits to the server 12 a request for obtaining address information of all output devices of the printer group G1 to which the output device 21 belongs. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 16-61.

Specifically, all output devices output to the server 12 to which independent / unique network addresses are assigned to all output devices so that they can be distinguished on the network 11. The device 21 requests acquisition of network address information of all output devices belonging to the printer group G1 managed on the server 12 as the same printer group as the output device 21.

Further, the transmission operation of the address information acquisition request of all the output devices is performed at the timing when the registration button 83 displayed on the display section 71 on the output devices is pressed by the user's operation (see FIG. 21). ).

Next, in FIG. 18, the server 12 which has received the address information acquisition request from the output device 21 for all the output devices belonging to the same printer group, selects the printer group to which the output device 21 of the request source belongs. Printer group information database 103 built in
Search from.

Based on the search result of the printer group information database, the printer information database 102 is then searched for the network address information of the output device belonging to the corresponding printer group.

After the search of the network address information of all output devices belonging to the printer group is completed,
The server 12 transmits the network address information of all output devices belonging to the printer group to the requesting output device 21. Since the output device 21 belongs to the printer group G1, the network address information of the output devices 23 and 24 is transmitted in this embodiment.
In the figure, it is indicated by arrows 16-62.

Next, the processing for transmitting the power saving mode transition time information data set by the user to the network address information of the output device received from the server 12 is performed. This corresponds to the state shown in FIG. 19, but in the figure, arrow 1
6-63 shows the flow of the power saving mode transition time information data. The power saving mode transition time information updating operation by the user up to this point will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

Next, when the output devices 23 and 24 that belong to the same printer group as the output device 21 connected to the network 11 receive the power saving mode transition time information from the output device 21, The contents of the power saving mode shift time information data areas 43 and 44 are updated to the received power saving mode shift time information. Output device 2
Details of the update processing of the power saving mode transition time information performed in 3 and 24 will be described with reference to FIG.

Next, the output devices 23 and 24, after updating the power saving mode shift time information, send a response to the output device 21 in order to notify the output device 21 of the completion of the update processing. This corresponds to the state shown in FIG. 19, but in the figure, the flow of the response is shown by arrows 16-64.

With such a configuration, the power saving mode transition time information updated by the user's operation on the output device 21 and the power saving mode stored in the output devices 23 and 24 belonging to the same printer group as the output device 21. It can be seen that the mode transition time information can be updated automatically and remotely.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the operation screen of the output device 21 shown in FIG. 1. The same parts as those in FIG. 15 are designated by the same reference numerals. The operation screen corresponds to an operation screen for issuing an update request for the power saving mode transition time information to an output device that belongs to the same printer group as the output device on the operating side.

In FIG. 21, reference numeral 81 is a display box for displaying the printer group to which the output device performing this operation belongs. The printer group information displayed here makes an inquiry to the server 12, and when the inquiry result is received, is displayed in the display box 81. On the server 12 side, in response to a printer group inquiry request from the output device, an inquiry is made to the printer group information database 103, and the result is returned to the inquiry source output device as a response.

Reference numeral 82 is a display box for displaying and changing the power saving mode shift time information data.
The display box 81 is divided into years, months, days, hours, minutes, and seconds, and the user performs an input operation with the ten keys 73.

Reference numeral 83 denotes a registration button. When the user performs a process of selecting the registration button 83 from the operation unit 70 of the output device, the power saving mode transition time information data displayed in the display box 82 on the operation unit 70. Is transmitted to the output devices 21, 23 to 28 connected to another network.
When the other output devices 21, 23 to 28 receive this data, a process of updating the power saving mode transition time information accumulated in the power saving mode transition time information data area 40 incorporated therein is performed.

Reference numeral 84 is an operation button for closing the operation screen for issuing a request for updating the power saving mode transition time information to the server.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in which the power saving mode transition time information shown in FIG. 21 is output to another output apparatus belonging to the same printer group. This corresponds to the control procedure of the output device when the process of selecting the registration button 83 is performed by the user's operation on the operation screen for issuing the update request. Note that S401 to S41
4 indicates each step. In the figure, Time
r_Data represents power saving mode transition time information, CNT
1 represents a variable for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has been updated, and CNT2 represents a variable for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has not been updated.

This processing is performed at a timing at which an operation screen for issuing an update request for the power saving mode transition time information to the other output devices 23 and 24 belonging to the same printer group is displayed on the operation unit 70 by the operation of the user. In step S401, in step S401, an acquisition request for the printer group information of the printer group to which the output device performing this operation belongs is issued to the server 12, and when there is a response from the server 12, the output device itself A process of displaying the printer group to which it belongs in the display box 81 on the operation screen is called, and after the display process is completed, the process proceeds to step S402.

Then, in step S402, it is determined whether or not the operation of selecting the registration button 83 is performed, and a loop is formed until the selection operation is performed. That is, it has a role of waiting the process until the user selects the registration button 83. Here, if the user registers 8
When 3 is selected, the process proceeds to step S403.

Then, in step S403, processing for calling the processing for checking the consistency of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is performed. Specifically, whether or not the date and time of the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data exists on the actual calendar, or the current time information held in the measuring device built into the output device is used to determine the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data. Check if the date and time of is in the future, and after the check,
The process proceeds to step S404.

Then, in step S404, it is determined whether or not the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data of the printer group checked in step S403 is consistent, and the subsequent processing is branched based on the determination result. Here, if it is determined that there is consistency, the process proceeds to step S406, and if it is determined that there is no consistency, the process proceeds to step S405.

Next, in step S405, power saving mode transition time information Timer_Da set by the user.
Since ta was not consistent, the other output devices 21, 23
In order to inform the user that the message has not been transmitted to the message ˜28, a process of displaying an error message on the display unit 71 of the operation unit 70 is performed, and after the display process is completed, this process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S404 that there is consistency, in step S406 a variable CNT for counting the number of output devices belonging to the printer group for which the power saving mode transition time information has been updated.
1 and a process of initializing a variable CNT2 for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has not been updated, and after the initialization is completed, the process proceeds to step S40.
Proceed to 7.

Then, in step S407, the time from transmitting the power saving mode shift time information update request to another output device belonging to the same printer group until waiting for a response, the response waiting time. A process for starting a timer device for measuring is performed, and the process after the timer start is advanced to step S408.

Then, in step S408, each output device 21 connected to the network together with the update request for the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data,
23 to 28 is transmitted, and after the update request transmission is completed, the process proceeds to step S409.

Next, in step S409, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the output device belonging to the same printer group that has transmitted the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data, and a loop is formed until the response comes. . That is, it plays a role of waiting for a response from the output devices 23 and 24.

Here, if it is determined that there is a response from the output devices 23 and 24 belonging to the same printer group, the process proceeds to step S410, and the responding output device outputs the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Dat.
If it is determined that the output devices belonging to the same printer group that responded have updated the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data, that is, it is determined that the registration is OK. If so, the process proceeds to step S411. If it is determined that the output device that responded is not updated, the process proceeds to step S412.

Then, in step S411, the output device that has responded is set to the power saving mode transition time information Time.
Since r_Data has been updated, a process of incrementing the variable CNT1 for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has been updated is performed, and after the process, the process proceeds to step S413.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S410 that the registration is not OK, in step S412, the output device that responds is the power saving mode transition time information Time.
Since r_Data has not been updated, a process of incrementing a variable CNT2 for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has not been updated is performed, and after the process, the process proceeds to step S413.

Then, in step 413, it is judged whether or not the measurement time of the timer device for measuring the response waiting time has reached the response waiting time, and if the measurement time of the timer device is within the response time. If so, the process returns to step S409, waits for a response from the output devices 23, 24, and if it is determined that the time measured by the timer device has reached the response time, it is determined that a timeout has occurred and the process is performed. Proceed to S414.

Then, in step S414, the variable CNT1 for counting the number of output devices belonging to the same printer group for which the power saving mode transition time information has been updated and the output for which the power saving mode transition time information has not been updated. Variable CNT2 for counting the number of devices
Information of the number of output devices updated and the number of output devices not updated in the power saving mode transition time information update request process by the user's operation from the information of the above.
The process for displaying is called, and after the display is finished, the process is finished.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing an example of the fifth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. When the output device 21 sends power saving mode transition time information to the output devices 23 and 24. , An output device 2 belonging to the same printer group as the output device 21
It corresponds to the processing procedure on the side of 3 and 24. This processing is started at the timing when the power saving mode transition time information is received from the output device 22. Further, this processing is performed by the output device 23,
It is executed by a control unit built in 24. In addition,
S501 to S506 indicate each step.

First, in step S501, a process for extracting the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data from the data format received from the server 12 is called, and the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is called.
After the completion of the sampling, the process proceeds to step S502.

Then, in step S502, processing for calling the processing for checking the consistency of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is performed. In particular,
Whether or not the date and time of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data exists in the actual calendar, or the date and time of the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data is in the future from the current time information held in the measuring device built into the output device. It is checked whether there is any, and after the check is completed, the process proceeds to step S503.

Then, in step S503, it is determined whether or not the power saving mode transition time information Timer_Data checked in step S502 is consistent,
If it is determined that there is consistency, step S504.
If it is determined that there is no consistency, the process proceeds to step S506.

Then, in step S504, a process of storing the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data in the power saving mode shift time information data area of the output device is performed. As a result, the current time information of the measuring device built in the output devices 23 and 24 and the power saving mode transition time information Time
When it matches with r_Data, the output device performs a process of shifting to the power saving mode, and after the storing process is completed, step S5.
Go to 05.

In step S505, the power saving mode transition time information T
A process of notifying the output device 21 that the imager_Data has been correctly updated is performed, and after the response process ends, this process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the consistency of the power saving mode shift time information Timer_Data checked in step S502 is not in step S503, in step S506, the power save mode shift time information data area built in the output devices 23 and 24. Is not updated and the output device 21 is notified that the output device 21 has not been updated. After the response process is completed, this process is completed.

According to the present embodiment, the power saving mode transition time information is output from the output device in which the power saving mode transition time information updated by the user operation is updated to each of the other output devices belonging to the same printer group. Data is transmitted via the network, and the power saving mode transition time information of the output devices belonging to the same printer group can be updated synchronously.

According to the fourth embodiment described above, the power saving mode transition time information of all output devices also connected to the network is automatically updated by the user's operation from the output device connected to the network. It is possible to

This eliminates the need for the user to visit each output device connected to the network to perform the setting operation of the power saving mode transition time information, which can be expected to improve the user's convenience.

Furthermore, by grouping the printer groups and managing them on the server side as well, it becomes possible to automatically set different power saving mode transition times for each group to which each printer the user desires. Expected to improve convenience.

Further, it becomes possible to inform the user near the output device that the power saving mode transition time information has been updated.

Further, it becomes possible to inform the user who has performed the update operation on the output device that the power saving mode transition time information has been updated.

Whether the update processing of all the output devices is normally completed for the user who has performed the setting request operation of the power saving mode transition time information from the certain output device to the output devices belonging to the same printer group. Whether or not, and the number of output devices that have been updated and the number of output devices that have not been updated can be confirmed on the display unit on the output device set by the user. The convenience can be improved.

The configuration of a data processing program readable by a network system to which the server device and the image processing device according to the present invention can be applied will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a network system to which the server device and the image processing device according to the present invention can be applied.

Although not particularly shown, information for managing the program group stored in the storage medium, such as version information, creator information, etc., and information dependent on the OS and the like on the program reading side, such as the program, are stored. In some cases, an icon or the like for identification and display is also stored.

Further, data subordinate to various programs is also managed in the above directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in a computer, or a program for decompressing the program to be installed when it is compressed may be stored.

FIGS. 7 to 13 and FIG. 1 in the present embodiment.
6, the functions shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, CD-RO
The present invention can be applied even when the information group including the program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as M, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network.

As described above, the storage medium recording the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP of the system or apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by U) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, C
A D-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM, an EEPROM or the like can be used.

Moreover, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by executing the program code read by the computer, but also the OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes the case where the above) performs a part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs a part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that the processing includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

[0276]

As described above, the first aspect of the present invention
According to the seventy-fifth aspect, each power saving mode is notified to each image processing device based on each power saving mode transfer time information notified from the server device that manages the power saving mode transfer time information of each image processing device for each group. According to the mode time,
By executing the power saving mode process, the server device centrally manages the power saving mode transition time information of a plurality of image processing devices existing on the network, and the power saving mode transition time information of each image processing device to be grouped. Can be rewritten all at once to match the power saving environment of each image processing apparatus to freely construct an image processing environment having a high power saving effect.

Further, the image processing apparatus inquires the server apparatus that manages the power saving mode transition time information of each image processing apparatus for each group, and notifies the server apparatus of the inquiry about the power saving mode transition time. It is determined whether or not the power saving mode shift time information to be registered matches the stored power saving mode shift time information. If updated, the notified power save mode shift time information is updated. By registering and managing it as the power saving mode shift time information, each image processing device can take the initiative in acquiring the power saving mode shift time information set for each group in the server device and freely updating it, which has a high power saving effect. The image processing environment can be freely constructed.

Further, when the power saving mode shift time information self-managed by each image processing device is updated by a user operation, the updated power save mode shift time information is transferred to each image processing device. By notifying the time information to the server device that manages each group and automatically updating the power saving mode transition time information for each group that the server device manages, the power saving mode transition time that each image processing device self manages The information and the power saving mode transition time information for each group managed by the server device side can be matched in a timely manner to freely construct an image processing environment with a high power saving effect.

Further, when the power saving mode transition time information managed by each image processing apparatus is updated by a user operation, the apparatus information belonging to the own group is acquired from the server apparatus and updated. The power saving mode transition time information is broadcast to the image processing apparatuses in the same group to collectively update the power saving mode transition time information in the group, thereby reducing the automatic update processing on the server apparatus side and reducing each image processing apparatus. The power saving mode transition time information self-managed by the server and the power saving mode transition time information for each group managed by the server device side are matched in a timely manner, and an image processing environment with high power saving effect can be freely constructed. .

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network system to which a server device and an image processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a format example of power saving mode transition time information data managed by the server device and the image processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a server device according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an internal control configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

8 is a diagram showing an example of an update setting screen of power saving mode transition time information data displayed on the client device shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a server device showing a second embodiment according to the present invention,
It is a figure explaining the update processing state of the power saving mode transition time information data in an image processing apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of an operation unit of an image processing apparatus showing a third embodiment of the present invention.

15 is a diagram showing an example of a power saving mode timer setting screen displayed on the display section shown in FIG.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an update processing state of power saving mode transition time information data in the server device and the image processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

21 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of a fifth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a network system to which the server apparatus and the image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

[Explanation of symbols]

11 network 21-28 Output device 31-34 Client device 61,62 Data flow 71, 72 display box 73 Register button 74 Erase button

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Claims (75)

[Claims] 1. A server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of transitioning to a power saving mode for reducing power consumption according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium, the plurality of image processing devices Management means for storing and managing in the storage means the power saving mode shift times set for the image processing apparatuses grouped from within the apparatus, and updating the power saving mode shift times for each group managed by the managing means. Transmitting means for reading out the power saving mode transition time information to be updated from the storage means based on the state, and transmitting the information to the respective image processing apparatuses of the corresponding group;
A server device comprising: 2. A receiving unit for receiving power saving mode shift time information to be updated from a client device communicable via the predetermined communication medium, and the power saving mode shift time information received by the receiving unit. 2. The server device according to claim 1, further comprising: an updating unit that updates the power saving mode shift time for each group stored in the storage unit. 3. The power transmitting means transmits the power saving mode transition time information to be updated to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group in synchronization with the update timing of the power saving mode transition time for each group. The server device according to claim 1. 4. A server device capable of communicating with a plurality of image processing devices capable of transitioning to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium, the plurality of image processing devices. Management means for storing and managing in the storage means the power saving mode shift time set for the image processing device group to be grouped from within the device; A server device comprising: a power saving mode shift time information set in a group corresponding to the image processing device, the replying device reading from the storage device and returning the information to the image processing device as an inquiry destination. 5. A control means for controlling updating of the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information transmitted by any one of the image processing apparatuses. The server device according to item 1 or 4. 6. A notifying means for notifying the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source managed by the managing means based on an inquiry of group information requested by any one of the image processing apparatuses. The server device according to claim 1 or 4. 7. The server device according to claim 1, wherein the image processing device includes a printer device, a digital copying device, and a composite image processing device. 8. The management unit registers device information unique to each image processing device, unique group information, and unique power saving mode information in the storage unit.
Alternatively, the server device according to item 4. 9. The notifying unit reads out group information searched by the managing unit from the storage unit based on the group information of the image processing device as the inquiry source and notifies the image processing device as the inquiry source. The server device according to claim 6. 10. The transmitting means reads out the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing means based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source from the storing means and transmits the information to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group. The server device according to claim 1, wherein: 11. The replying means reads the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing means based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source from the storage means and returns it to the image processing apparatus of the inquiry destination. The server device according to claim 4. 12. A group judgment means for judging whether or not the image processing apparatus as the inquiry source is registered in any group, and the image processing apparatus as the inquiry source is registered in any group by the group judgment means. The server device according to claim 4, further comprising: an unauthorized response unit that responds that the inquiry is unauthorized when it is determined that the query is not valid. 13. An image processing apparatus, which is identified by a server device capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium into any of the groups, and which stores a power saving start time information acquired from the server device. A power saving control unit that compares the power saving start time stored in the storage unit with a current time measured by a timer to shift to a power saving mode state in which power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body is reduced. An image processing device characterized by: 14. A first determination unit that determines whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit has been updated, and the power saving start stored in the storage unit by the first determination unit. 14. The image processing according to claim 13, further comprising: a first update state display control means for displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined that the time information has been updated. apparatus. 15. A first notifying means for notifying the server device of an acquisition request of power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group, according to an acquisition request notified by the first notifying device,
Second determining means for comparing the power saving start time information acquired from the server device with the power saving start time stored in the storage means to determine the update state; and the storage means by the second determining means. Second update state display control means for displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined that the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit has been updated. The image processing apparatus according to claim 13. 16. The first notifying means notifies the server device of an acquisition request for power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group at a predetermined inquiry time interval measured by a timer. Claim 1
5. The image processing device according to item 5. 17. The image processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the predetermined inquiry time interval measured by the timer can be arbitrarily set by the user. 18. A user updating unit that updates the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit based on user settings, and notifies the server apparatus of the updated power saving start time information updated by the user updating unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising: 19. A user updating unit that updates the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit based on a user setting, and the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit by the user updating unit. When updated, second notification means for notifying an acquisition request for the device information of the same group managed by the server device, and transferred from the server device based on the acquisition request by the second notification device And a transfer unit that acquires the device information of the same group, and broadcasts the updated power saving start time information to any of the image processing devices belonging to the same group,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising: 20. An update control unit that updates the power saving start time information stored in the storage unit based on the power saving start time information transferred from another image processing apparatus capable of communicating via the communication medium. 14. The image processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein 21. Third update state display control means for displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising: 22. Update status determination means for determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means by the update control means is updated, and the update status determination means stores the update status determination information in the storage means. When it is determined that the power saving start time information has not been updated, an update state response unit that automatically responds to the image processing apparatus of the transmission source that is broadcasting communication is provided. The image processing device according to claim 21. 23. A response result display means for displaying a message on the display unit that there is an image processing apparatus that has not been updated, when the update status response means automatically responds that the update has not been performed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that: 24. An update management means for monitoring the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer means, and displaying the update result of the power saving start time information on the display unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that: 25. The update management unit monitors the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer unit, and updates the image processing apparatus in which the power saving start time information is updated. 25. The image processing apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the image processing apparatus not counted is individually counted, and the counted result is displayed on the display unit. 26. A method of controlling a server device capable of communicating with a plurality of image processing devices capable of transitioning to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. Management step of storing and managing in the storage means the power saving mode shift time set for the image processing apparatus group to be grouped from the other image processing apparatuses, and the power saving mode shift for each group managed by the managing step. And a transmitting step of reading out updated power saving mode transition time information from the storage means and transmitting the information to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group based on the time update state. . 27. A receiving step of receiving power saving mode shift time information to be updated from a client device communicable via the predetermined communication medium, and the power saving mode shift time information received by the receiving step, based on the power saving mode shift time information. 27. A method of controlling a server device according to claim 26, further comprising: an updating step of updating the power saving mode transition time for each group stored in the storage means. 28. The power transmitting mode transmission time information to be updated in synchronization with the update timing of the power saving mode transition time for each group is transmitted to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group in the transmitting step. Claim 2
6. The method for controlling the server device according to item 6. 29. A method of controlling a server device capable of communicating with a plurality of image processing devices capable of transitioning to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium. Management step for storing and managing the power saving mode transition time set for the group of image processing apparatuses grouped from the other image processing apparatuses, and inquiring the power saving mode transition time by any of the image processing apparatuses. And a reply step of reading the power saving mode transition time information set in the group corresponding to the image processing apparatus from the storage unit and returning the information to the image processing apparatus of the inquiry destination. Control method. 30. A control step for controlling updating of the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information transmitted by any one of the image processing apparatuses. Item 32. A server device control method according to Item 26 or 29. 31. A notification step of notifying the group information of the image processing device of the inquiry source managed by the management means based on an inquiry of the group information requested by any of the image processing devices. 30. The method for controlling a server device according to claim 26. 32. The image processing device is a printer device,
32. A method of controlling a server device according to claim 26, comprising a digital copying device and a composite image processing device. 33. The server according to claim 26, wherein the managing step registers device information unique to each image processing device, unique group information, and unique power saving mode information in the storage means. Device control method. 34. The notifying step reads out the group information retrieved by the management step from the storage means based on the group information of the inquiring image processing apparatus and notifies the inquiring image processing apparatus of the group information. The method of controlling a server device according to claim 31. 35. In the transmitting step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing step based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and transmitted to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group. 27. The method of controlling a server device according to claim 26, wherein: 36. In the reply step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the management step based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and returned to the image processing apparatus of the inquiry destination. 30. The method for controlling a server device according to claim 29. 37. A group determination step of determining whether or not the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is registered in any group, and the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is registered in any group by the group determination step. And an unauthorized response step of responding that the inquiry is unauthorized when it is determined that the inquiry is not valid.
9. The method for controlling the server device according to item 9. 38. A method of controlling an image processing device, which is identified by a server device capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium into any of the groups, the power saving being acquired from the server device and stored in a storage means. A control method for an image processing apparatus, comprising: a power saving control step of comparing a start time with a current time measured by a timer to shift to a power saving mode state in which power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body is saved. 39. A first determination step of determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated, and the power saving start stored in the storage means by the first determination step. 39. The image processing according to claim 38, further comprising a first update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined that the time information has been updated. Device control method. 40. According to a first notification step of notifying the server device of an acquisition request of power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group, the acquisition request notified by the first notification step, A second determination step of determining the update state by comparing the power saving start time information acquired from the server device with the power saving start time stored in the storage means, and the storage means by the second determination step. A second update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined that the stored power saving start time information has been updated. Item 38. A method for controlling an image processing apparatus according to Item 38. 41. The first notifying step notifies the server device of an acquisition request for power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group at predetermined inquiry time intervals measured by a timer. The method for controlling an image processing apparatus according to claim 40. 42. The method according to claim 41, wherein the predetermined inquiry time interval measured by the timer can be arbitrarily set by the user. 43. A user updating step of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on a user setting, and notifying the server device of the updated power saving start time information updated by the user updating step. 39. The method of controlling an image processing device according to claim 38, further comprising: 44. A user updating step of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on a user setting; and the power saving start time information stored in the storage means by the user updating step, When updated, the second notification step of notifying the acquisition request for the device information of the same group managed by the server device, and the transfer request from the server device based on the acquisition request by the second notification step. 39. A transfer step of acquiring device information of the same group, and transferring the updated power saving start time information to any of the image processing devices belonging to the same group by broadcast. A method for controlling an image processing apparatus. 45. An update control step of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving start time information transferred from another image processing apparatus capable of communicating via the communication medium. 39. The method for controlling an image processing device according to claim 38, wherein: 46. A third update state display control step of displaying an update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control step. 46. The method for controlling an image processing apparatus according to claim 45, further comprising: 47. An update state determination step of determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control step, and a power saving stored in the storage means by the update state determination step. When it is determined that the start time information has not been updated, an update status response step of automatically responding to the image processing apparatus of the transmission source which is broadcasting communication that the update time has not been updated is provided. The control method of the image processing apparatus according to claim 46. 48. A response result display step of displaying a message on the display unit that there is an image processing apparatus in an unupdated state when an automatic response indicating that the image has not been updated is provided in the update state response step. The method for controlling an image processing apparatus according to claim 47, wherein: 49. An update management step of monitoring the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transferring step, and displaying the update result of the power saving start time information on a display unit. The control method for an image processing apparatus according to claim 44, wherein: 50. The update management step monitors a response state from a transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer step, and updates the image processing apparatus and the image processing apparatus in which the power saving start time information is updated. 50. The method for controlling an image processing apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the image processing apparatus not counted is individually counted, and the counted result is displayed on the display unit. 51. A server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of transitioning to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium, Management step for storing and managing the power saving mode transition time set for the image processing apparatus group to be grouped from the storage means, and the update state of the power saving mode transition time for each group managed by the management step. And a transmission step of reading the updated power saving mode transition time information from the storage means and transmitting the information to the respective image processing apparatuses of the corresponding group, the storage medium being readable by a computer and having a program recorded thereon. 52. A receiving step of receiving power saving mode shift time information to be updated from a client device communicable via the predetermined communication medium, and based on the power saving mode shift time information received by the receiving step, The storage medium according to claim 51, further comprising an updating step of updating the power saving mode transition time for each group stored in the storage means. 53. The power transmitting mode transition time information to be updated in synchronization with the update timing of the power saving mode transition time for each group is transmitted to each image processing device of the corresponding group in the transmitting step. Claim 5
1. The storage medium according to 1. 54. A server device communicable with a plurality of image processing devices capable of transitioning to a power saving mode in which power consumption is reduced according to a power saving start time set via a predetermined communication medium, Management steps for storing and managing the power saving mode transition time set for the image processing apparatus group grouped from the storage means, and the image saving apparatus based on the inquiry of the power saving mode transition time by any one of the image processing apparatuses. A reply step of reading out the power saving mode transition time information set in the group corresponding to the processing device from the storage means and returning it to the image processing device of the inquiry destination is readable by a computer recording a program for executing Storage medium. 55. A control step of controlling updating of the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving mode transition time information transmitted by any one of the image processing apparatuses. Item 51. A storage medium according to item 51 or 54. 56. A notification step of notifying group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source managed by the management means based on an inquiry of group information requested by any of the image processing apparatuses. The storage medium according to claim 51 or 54. 57. The image processing device is a printer device,
57. The storage medium according to claim 51, comprising a digital copying device and a composite image processing device. 58. The storage according to claim 51 or 54, wherein said management step registers device information unique to each image processing device, unique group information, and unique power saving mode information in said storage means. Medium. 59. The notifying step reads out the group information searched by the management step based on the group information of the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source from the storage means and notifies the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source. The storage medium according to claim 56. 60. In the transmitting step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the managing step based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and transmitted to each image processing apparatus of the corresponding group. The storage medium according to claim 51, wherein the storage medium is a storage medium. 61. In the reply step, the power saving mode transition time information retrieved by the management step based on the image processing apparatus of the inquiry source is read from the storage means and returned to the image processing apparatus of the inquiry destination. The storage medium according to claim 54. 62. A group determining step of determining whether or not the inquiring image processing apparatus is registered in any group, and the inquiring image processing apparatus is registered in any group by the group determining step. And an unauthorized response step for responding that the inquiry is unauthorized when it is determined that the inquiry is not valid.
4. The storage medium according to 4. 63. A power saving start time and a timer clock, which are acquired from the server device and stored in a storage unit, in an image processing device identified by the server device capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium into any of the groups. A computer-readable storage medium recording a program for executing a power-saving control step of shifting to a power-saving mode state in which the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body is reduced by comparing the current time. 64. A first determination step of determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means has been updated; and a power saving start stored in the storage means by the first determination step. 64. The first update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined that the time information has been updated, and the storage medium according to claim 63. . 65. According to a first notification step of notifying the server device of an acquisition request of power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group, the acquisition request notified by the first notification step, A second determination step of determining the update state by comparing the power saving start time information acquired from the server device with the power saving start time stored in the storage means, and the storage means by the second determination step. A second update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when it is determined that the stored power saving start time information has been updated. Item 63. A storage medium according to Item 63. 66. The first notifying step notifies the server device of an acquisition request for power saving start time information managed by the server device for each group at predetermined inquiry time intervals measured by a timer. The storage medium according to claim 65. 67. The storage medium according to claim 66, wherein the predetermined inquiry time interval measured by the timer can be arbitrarily set by the user. 68. A user updating step of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on a user setting, and notifying the server device of the updated power saving start time information updated by the user updating step. 64. The storage medium according to claim 63, further comprising: 69. A user updating step of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on a user setting; and the power saving start time information stored in the storage means by the user updating step, When updated, the second notification step of notifying the acquisition request for the device information of the same group managed by the server device, and the transfer request from the server device based on the acquisition request by the second notification step. 64. A transfer step of acquiring device information of the same group, and transmitting the updated power saving start time information to any of the image processing devices belonging to the same group in a broadcast manner. Storage medium. 70. An update control step of updating the power saving start time information stored in the storage means based on the power saving start time information transferred from another image processing apparatus capable of communicating via the communication medium. The storage medium according to claim 63, wherein the storage medium is a storage medium. 71. A third update state display control step of displaying the update state of the power saving start time information on the display unit when the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control step. The storage medium according to claim 70, further comprising: 72. An update state determination step of determining whether or not the power saving start time information stored in the storage means is updated by the update control step, and a power saving stored in the storage means by the update state determination step. When it is determined that the start time information has not been updated, an update state response step of automatically responding to the image processing apparatus of the transmission source that is broadcasting is notified, and A storage medium according to claim 71. 73. A response result display step of displaying, by a message, on the display unit that there is an image processing apparatus in an unupdated state when an automatic response indicating that the image has not been updated is provided in the update state response step. The storage medium according to claim 71, wherein: 74. An update management step of monitoring a response state from a transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transferring step and displaying an update result of the power saving start time information on a display unit. The storage medium according to claim 69, wherein: 75. The update management step monitors the response state from the transfer destination to the power saving start time information broadcast-transferred by the transfer step, and updates the power saving start time information with the image processing apparatus. 75. The storage medium according to claim 74, wherein the image processing apparatus that has not been counted is individually counted, and the counted result is displayed on the display unit.