Metadata retrieval for multi-function devices
AssigneeMicrosoft Corporation
InventorErik Gubitz
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Systems and methods are provided for retrieving metadata relating to a multi-function device. In some embodiments, metadata is retrieved using a plurality of identifiers (e.g., hardware identifiers each identifying at least one function performed by the device) received from the device. The plurality of identifiers are arranged into a sequence, and at least one of the identifiers in the sequence is associated with metadata specifying a characteristic of the device. Using the metadata that is retrieved, a client computer may present an graphical user interface displaying information relating to the device.
Claims20
In a computer system comprising a client computer and a device operable to perform a plurality of functions, a method comprising:
- (A) receiving a plurality of identifiers from the device, each of the plurality of identifiers identifying at least one of the plurality of functions performed by the device;
- (B) arranging the plurality of identifiers into a sequence;
- (C) associating at least one identifier in the sequence with metadata specifying a characteristic of the device in addition to the at least one function identified by the identifier;
- and
- (D) causing information corresponding to the metadata to be displayed to a user of the client computer.
At least one computer-readable medium having instructions encoded thereon which, when executed in a computer system comprising a client computer and a device operable to perform a plurality of functions, perform a method comprising:
- (A) receiving, from the device, an identifier which identifies the device;
- (B) associating the identifier with metadata specifying at least one characteristic of the device other than a function performed by the device;
- and
- (C) causing information corresponding to the metadata to be displayed to a user of the client computer.
A client computer for use in a computer system comprising the client computer and a device operable to perform a plurality of functions, the client computer comprising:
- at least one processor programmed to:
- receive information from the device;
- determine whether the information comprises either a plurality of identifiers each identifying at least one of the plurality of functions performed by the device, or an identifier which identifies the device;
- and
- if it is determined that the information comprises a plurality of identifiers each identifying at least one of the plurality of functions performed by the device:
- arrange the plurality of identifiers into a sequence;
- associate at least one identifier in the sequence with metadata specifying a characteristic of the device other than the at least one function identified by the identifier;
- and
- cause information corresponding to the metadata to be displayed to a user;
- and
- if it is determined that the information comprises an identifier which identifies the device:
- associate the identifier with metadata specifying at least one characteristic of the device other than a function performed by the device;
- and
- cause information corresponding to the metadata to be displayed to a user of the client computer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.