DE102008047431A1 - Computer system for processing image files in remote-data servers in e.g. internet, has data server connected with client computer and printer-server by secured Internet protocol data connections to transfer image files - Google Patents

Abstract

The system has a printer-server (3) evaluating image files and processing sequences. A client computer (1) has an image processor to process a temporary file. The computer is connected with a data server (2) by secured Internet protocol (IP) communication connections (4, 5) to read the image files in the data server. The computer is connected with the printer-server by IP-processing connections (6, 7) to transfer processing data from the computer to the printer-server. The data server is connected with the printer-server by secured IP data connections (8, 9) to transfer the image files. An independent claim is also included for a method of processing image files in remote-data servers.

Description

The The invention relates to a computer system and a method for editing and printing image files on remote servers. Especially, but not exclusively, the invention relates to editing of image files, where the image files of a variety of users stored on a data server and via a remote print servers are printed.

Of the Process of publication of a publication or a Printed product usually requires several steps until the printing. This includes the creation of the content as well planning and determining the appearance of the printed product. The image information to be displayed must be prepared in such a way that it is suitable for expression and on paper or another printable medium. For this Data processing uses special graphics programs, with which an image file is generated. Subsequently, will used another program (which is a component of the graphics program can be) to put the image file in a format suitable for the expression of the image information on the medium is suitable. Examples for such programs or program packages are "Adobe Page-Maker "(trade name) and" Quark Express "(trade name), which make it possible to use professional-looking documents create.

On on the other hand, the desire of customers and users is increasing individual design and personal differentiation resistant to everyday objects to. Examples are z. B. ringtones and Housing for mobile phones.

Of the However, the printing process outlined above is for users who just want to sporadically create an expression, very complex. The computer programs offer many possibilities of Processing, in the specific case, the user under circumstances are not known or not needed and thus unnecessarily complicate the operation of the program. So have to Format, inks, number of copies on paper, paper and ink for every single document will be set. These parameters can vary greatly from document to document.

It may therefore be useful to print jobs from multiple users bundle and process centrally, if necessary through Summary of different print jobs with each same pressure parameters. For this an IP network like a LAN or the Internet as the transmission medium.

In US2002 / 057454 a processing (layout) program is described, which is transmitted upon request of a client computer. The client computer executes the processing and specifies image information loading facilities that are not on the server, such as a photo collecting system, an image reading device, or an image file. The server registers processing operations made by the user and performs appropriate manipulation. The result is transmitted to the client computer.

In EP 0 878 956 A A method and system for editing images over the Internet is described. High resolution image information is stored in a remote computer. Lower resolution information is transmitted to the user and edited there. The processing information is transmitted to the remote computer, where the high-resolution image information is processed in accordance with the processing information. Editing and saving are independent.

In US 5 580 177 A will describe a network with multiple clients, a file server, and multiple printers. Upon the print request from a client machine, the server checks to see if the client has the latest printer driver. If this is not the case, the printer driver on the client is updated accordingly. The software with which the printout is made is always kept up to date.

The Bundling and sending print jobs via however, the intranet or internet is not without problems. So the data must be kept confidential, and the User must receive data when, for example, one of tell him initiated operation on a remote server protected against viruses and other malicious programs. The browser as a local frontend software with user interface for access to data on the remote server, to Loading and displaying the data on the screen of the user So, make sure that no websites are unauthorized to access files on the client machine of the user. Since the Browser navigates between different online resources and the User information and pictures presented, this is Protection difficult to ensure.

In addition, the operators of the data server do not always want to release the data on the server for processing. This means that while the user can manipulate image information in his browser to print or send it, the edited images can not be stored on the server. In this case, an image is edited directly on the server, using so-called plug-in programs in the browser, such as ActiveX controls or Java applets. For each edit command, the server is called, the image information such. For example, the position of the image is changed and the information is sent back to the client machine. However, transmission over the Internet is sometimes not fast enough to ensure ease of use.

If the user, however, the images on his computer without use wants to edit a browser, he must have a program on his machine Download. The editing of the picture in this case is very fast, but loading the program is time consuming Installation steps necessary and involves the risk of manipulation of the computer by strangers. It also becomes more valuable storage space on the hard disk of the user and u. U. the working speed of Calculator impaired.

It There is therefore a need for a quick and easy to use Graphics processing system and a corresponding processing method, with which the user is enabled, individual Make designs to data before a later printout, even without the user himself having the appropriate devices for a professional expression.

These The object is achieved by the invention Computer system for processing image files according to claim 1 or the method for editing image files according to claim 9. Preferred Embodiments of the invention are the subject of each Dependent claims.

The Invention is based on the fact that many users already partially personal data on publicly available Servers have saved them for the "customization" of theirs Want to use printed matter. These data are with passwords and other personal information secured, leaving only the one User has access to the data that has deposited them on the server. If the user wants to edit the data, he loads it or corresponding data as a temporary file via a secure IP connection from the server to its client machine and performs the desired operations with a corresponding plug-in program for its browser from the client machine. The processing steps with which the desired operations are performed stored as a processing sequence. This editing sequence can be stored on the user's computer or on the server, on which the data of the user are stored. Should the data be printed in the edited form, so will the data and transmit the processing sequence to a print server, which takes over the expression of the data.

On this type is achieved that the user neither big data still needs to upload for printing to a server special standalone program must download to his computer. Instead, existing data is used.

The appropriate computer system for editing image files remote data servers includes: a data server for storing Image files associated with a plurality of users, one Print server for evaluating the image files and related Editing sequences and for outputting graphic products on one given medium, a client machine to run an IP browser with an image buffer for caching a Temporary file and an image processor for editing the temporary file and generating a processing sequence, wherein the client computer via a secure IP communication connection with the data server connected to retrieve an image file on the data server via the browser and creating the temporary file and about an IP editing connection is connected to the print server for transmitting processing data from the client the print server, and the data server with the print server over a secure IP data connection is connected for transmission of image files.

• – die Bilddatei auf dem Daten-Server eine mindestens gleich große Bildauflösung wie die in dem Bildspeicher zwischengespeicherte Temporärdatei aufweist;
• – dem Client-Rechner für eine Sitzung eine eindeutige Kennung von dem Daten-Server zugewiesen wird, wobei die Zusammengehörigkeit der Bilddatei auf dem Daten-Server und der Bearbeitungssequenz von dem Client-Rechner über die Kennung verifiziert wird;
• – personenbezogene Daten auf dem Daten-Server gespeichert sind und öffentlich zugängliche Daten auf dem Druck-Server gespeichert sind und der Client-Rechner Ausgangsdaten aus den personenbezogenen Daten und den öffentlich zugänglichen Daten erzeugt zum Ausdrucken auf dem Druck-Server;
• – mehrere Bearbeitungssequenzen in einer Verwertungsdatenbank auf dem Druck-Server gespeichert werden, so dass die Verwertung der Bilddatei auf dem Druck-Server gemäß der Bearbeitungssequenz zeitlich unabhängig von der Erzeugung der Bearbeitungssequenz durchführbar ist und/oder Druckaufträge für unterschiedliche Artikel paketweise durchführbar sind;
• – der IP-Browser eine Plug-in-Software umfasst zum grafischen Bearbeiten der Temporärdatei;
• – die Plug-in-Software über die IP-Bearbeitungsverbindung von dem Druck-Server in den IP-Browser auf dem Client-Rechner geladen wird oder
• – die Plug-in-Software eine Flash-Player-Datei ist.

Preferred embodiments of the computer system have one or more of the following features:

• - The image file on the data server has at least the same image resolution as the temporarily stored in the image memory temporary file;
• The client computer is assigned a unique identifier from the data server for a session, the identity of the image file on the data server and the processing sequence being verified by the client computer via the identifier;
• - personal data is stored on the data server and publicly accessible data is stored on the print server and the client computer generates output data from the personal data and publicly available data for printing on the print server;
• - Several processing sequences are stored in a recovery database on the print server, allowing the recovery of the Image file on the print server according to the processing sequence can be carried out independently of time of the generation of the processing sequence and / or print jobs for different articles can be carried out in packages;
• - the IP browser includes plug-in software for graphical editing of the temporary file;
• - the plug-in software is loaded from the print server into the IP browser on the client machine via the IP edit connection or
• - The plug-in software is a Flash player file.

The appropriate method for editing image files on remote Data servers includes the steps of: storing image files that a large number of users are assigned to a data server, Evaluation of the image files and associated processing sequences and outputting graphics products on a predetermined medium through a print server, running an IP browser on a client machine having: a frame buffer for caching a temporary file and an image processor for editing the temporary file and creating a processing sequence, wherein the client computer performs the following substeps: Retrieve an image file on the data server via a secured IP communication connection with the data server and Generate the temporary file and transfer from Processing data from the client to the print server via an IP edit connection with the print server, and transfer from image files from the data server to the print server via a secured IP data connection.

• – bei dem Erzeugen der Temporärdatei die Bilddatei auf dem Daten-Server eine mindestens gleich große Bildauflösung wie die in dem Bildspeicher zwischengespeicherte Temporärdatei aufweist;
• – die Teilschritte vorgesehen sind: Zuweisen einer eindeutigen Kennung für eine Sitzung an den Client-Rechner durch den Daten-Server und Verifizieren der Zusammengehörigkeit der Bilddatei auf dem Daten-Server und der Bearbeitungssequenz von dem Client-Rechner über die Kennung;
• – mehrere Bearbeitungssequenzen in einer Datenbank auf dem Druck-Server gespeichert werden, so dass die Verwertung der Bilddatei auf dem Druck-Server gemäß der Bearbeitungssequenz zeitlich unabhängig von der Erzeugung der Bearbeitungssequenz durchführbar ist und/oder Druckaufträge für unterschiedliche Artikel paketweise durchführbar sind oder
• – der Teilschritt vorgesehen ist: Hochladen einer Plug-in-Software über die IP-Bearbeitungsverbindung von dem Druck-Server in den IP-Browser auf dem Client-Rechner.

Preferred embodiments of the method have as one or more of the following features:

• - When generating the temporary file, the image file on the data server has at least the same image resolution as the temporarily stored in the image memory temporary file;
• - The sub-steps are provided: Assigning a unique identifier for a session to the client computer by the data server and verifying the identity of the image file on the data server and the processing sequence from the client computer via the identifier;
• - Several processing sequences are stored in a database on the print server, so that the utilization of the image file on the print server according to the processing sequence temporally independent of the generation of the processing sequence is feasible and / or print jobs for different articles in a package feasible or
• - The sub-step is provided: Uploading a plug-in software via the IP editing connection from the print server to the IP browser on the client machine.

Of the Users can do this without significant additional Expense his already stored personal information very much flexible use and no special programs on his computer load. This is the system according to the invention and Procedure particularly well suited for users who only sporadically use the service of printing out by a contractor want. Furthermore, the processing and the transfer of data are only more partially dependent on the (i.a limited) transmission speed between the client and the server or servers.

Further Features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following Description of preferred embodiments in which Reference is made to the accompanying drawings.

1 shows an embodiment of the basic structure of the computer system according to the invention.

2 shows details of another embodiment of the computer system according to the invention.

3 shows details of yet another embodiment of the computer system according to the invention.

4 FIG. 12 shows a portion of one embodiment of a flowchart for a computer system. FIG 1 . 2 or 3 ,

The computer system after 1 consists of a client machine 1 which is available to the user to access data stored on remote servers in a network, in particular an IP network such as a LAN, an intranet, an Internet or other comparable structures. Such servers are, for example, a data server 2 and a print server 3 , To access data on these remote servers 2 and 3 is on the client machine 1 installed a local frontend software with a suitable user interface. This browser allows the user to access data on a remote server as well as to load and display the data on the user's screen.

When invoking files on a secured remote server 2 the user logs in with the client computer 1 initially via a secure IP communication connection 4 . 5 at the data server 2 at. This is especially the case when on the data server 2 Personal data are stored that are to be treated confidentially or are subject to secrecy. From the For this reason, the logon process already takes place via a secure channel 4 between the client machine 1 and the data server 2 , This is symbolized by a lock icon 1 indicated.

Has the user been successful with the data server 2 logged in, the requested personal data may be sent to the client 1 sent. In the embodiment according to 1 can this transfer from the server 2 over a secure channel 5 the IP communication connection. The details of this transfer of data will be discussed below 2 explained. Alternatively, after the user has successfully logged in to the data server 2 the data also over another connection or also from another (not shown) server, with the data server 2 connected to be transferred. Such an embodiment will be further discussed below 3 explained.

Generally is the security of transmission channels for the data transfer to those skilled in the art and will not be explained further here. Among the common ones Techniques include password-protected transmission, the transmission under IPSec, SSL and SHTTP, and as well can the transmission through the simultaneous transmission of a user-specific hash value, by which an input is saved is clearly identified, but on the other hand, the input not reproducing itself.

If the user is the one from the data server 2 received data on his client machine 1 edited and then want to print, preferably on a larger scale, ie in particular on a variety of copies, so it is not necessary in the system according to the invention, the entire data sets from the client computer 1 upload to the appropriate print server. Instead, it is sufficient if only the information that is absolutely necessary for the comprehension of a processing is transmitted. In other words, in the case of 1 The system shown will be those commands from the client machine 1 to the print server 3 transmitted by the user to his client machine 1 has entered a desired change in the graphical representation on his client machine 1 make. This transmission takes place via an IP processing connection 6 . 7 , where via the IP editing connection 6 First, a plug-in for the browser on the client machine 1 can be provided if the possibilities of on the client 1 installed browser is not sufficient for editing the image files. About the second IP editing connection 7 are then those of the user on his client machine 1 transferred editing commands to the print server. The image data on the client machine 1 will never be between the client machine 1 and the print server 3 transmitted. This has several advantages: Firstly, it reduces traffic in the network to an absolutely necessary minimum. Second, the changes can be made independent of the operating system, ie there are no restrictions on the operating system or graphics software on the part of one of the interconnected subscribers in the system 1 , Third, waiting times are avoided as much as possible because only the absolutely necessary data is transmitted. This is especially true for the client machine, which is available again for other tasks after a relatively short time of editing graphics files; the transfer of the actual graphic data for printing takes place in the background between the data server 2 and the print server 3 via a secure IP data connection 8th . 9 , Fourth, the communication channels need 6 . 7 the processing connection between the client machine 1 and the print server 3 not to be secure channels, simple channels suffice here.

The data used for high-quality printing is high-resolution image data. These data are transmitted over the channel 8th through the print server 3 from the data server 2 requested. About the channel 9 The data transfer then takes place from the data server 2 to the print server 3 , The communication between the data server 2 and the print server 3 can thus without any involvement of the client computer 1 what the latter releases for further tasks. In addition, for transmission between the servers 2 and 3 Connections ("backbone") are used with a bandwidth that is much higher than the (usual) bandwidth of a connection between the client computer 1 and one of the servers 2 and 3 , So can the transmission speed between the servers 2 and 3 by a factor of 20 to 100 over that between the client machine 1 and one of the servers 2 and 3 lie.

The transmission is on this system only on the channels 4 . 5 for the registration and transfer of personal data and on the channel 9 between data and print server 2 respectively. 3 protected from access by third parties in the manner indicated above. This has the advantage that the effort of the system in this regard is relatively limited and only the really relevant data are protected.

In 2 A further embodiment of the computer system according to the invention is shown with further details. In this embodiment, logs in a first step 10 the client 1 at the data server 2 and receives from this in 11 assigned a session ID for the subsequent session. The session ID will later be used to authenticate transfers between the servers and terminals involved. The session ID is in 12 from the client 1 receive. Subsequently, the client requests 1 in 13 an image file from the data server that the user wants to edit and possibly print out.

As for the representation of the image on the client machine 1 The user usually does not need the highest resolution created by the data server 2 in step 15 from the file stored on the server 14 an image file with reduced resolution, ie a web-compatible smaller copy of the original file is generated ("thumbnail"). This file is formatted as JPEG, GIF, BitMap, PNG, Tiff or the like depending on the application of the invention. The size of the image is either predetermined or by the user when submitting the request to the data server 2 specified. So the user can choose a small format and transmit the image as a so-called "thumbnail", for example in JPEG format, which has a size of approximately 1 to 2 kB. Alternatively, he may request a larger, but still web-enabled version, where a maximum magnification of, for example, 250% is still possible without a file pixel equaling more than one screen pixel. Of course, however, the user may also request a bitmap image on the same scale as the original image.

This image file with preferably reduced resolution is sent to the client 1 transmitted and from this in 16 receive. The received image file is stored as a temporary file on the computer 1 filed by the user and can be edited there independently and locally. In this way, only the absolutely necessary bandwidth of the transmission channel between the data server 2 and the client 1 busy. The transmission of the image file 14 with the full resolution is not necessary because the resolution of the display device of the client computer 1 usually much lower than the resolution for a high-quality printed product, for example, the screen resolution of the client computer 72 dpi. In contrast, a printer is assumed to have a resolution that is typically 300 dpi or more.

To the computational effort in 15 When generating the lower resolution images transmitted to the user, the in 15 Calculated images for later, new views on the server also be stored longer term. This, however, occupies additional space on the server.

To give the user the option of displaying several of his pictures on the data server 2 This procedure can be repeated until all requested images are loaded. Alternatively, all of the user on the data server at the first request 2 stored files are transferred. Furthermore, the user should be given the opportunity in this embodiment to include single or multiple images in an individual frame at the same time. This requires the user in 17 request a transition pattern as another image file. The transition pattern is from the print server 3 made available. As the blending pattern, ie, for example, a "picture frame" or a patterned or monochrome "canvas" in or on the images of the data server associated with the user 2 be arranged from the print server 3 In particular, it is made freely available, without further user identification, such as the session ID or its own booking process, and without further terms of use publicly (ie unencrypted) from the print server 3 to the client machine 1 transmitted. The subsequent procedure is analogous to that explained for the first picture: from a high-resolution transition pattern 18 on the print server 3 is in 19 creates a transition pattern that is sent to the client 1 is transmitted. In particular, the resolution of the transmitted fade pattern is less than the resolution of the source file 18 , But when it comes to the transition pattern 18 is a relatively simple graphic, it can alternatively in its full resolution to the client 1 be transmitted. The client 1 receives in 20 the transition pattern from the print server 3 and combine that first into 16 received picture with it, so that in 21 both image information are displayed simultaneously. In other words it will be in 21 both personal information that resides on the data server 2 as well as publicly available data residing on the print server 3 are combined. (Combined image data is referred to as graphics in the description and figures.) The client machine 1 generates from the personal data and the publicly available data output data for printing on the print server 3 are suitable.

The representation in 21 can the user in 22 edit with simple graphic commands. So he can take the picture out 16 within the fade pattern 20 rotate or flip, he can adjust the sizes, manipulate the relative positions, he can flip the image in the transition pattern, he can change individual parameters, such as. For example, control the brightness, red-eye retouch, select transparency levels, etc. and distort. In addition, also 3D-processing of the images in the "picture frame" or on the "canvas" conceivable. The parameters for these manipulations can be set for image and blending patterns with respect to the browser background or in relation to each other. In particular, image and blending patterns can be assigned to different layers in the graphics program and edited there independently of other layers.

Upon completion of editing the combined graphic will appear in 23 extracts the editing sequence that resulted in the desired result displayed to the user on the screen. Specifically, this means that the sequence of input commands is cleaned up by the commands that are not required for the completion of the printed product and later taken back in intermediate steps of the processing by the user. This editing sequence is in 24 together with the session ID to the print server 3 transmitted, both information in 25 receives.

According to the in 25 received information requests the print server 3 from the data server 2 the transmission of the image file with the highest resolution available and fetches from its own memory the transition pattern file used by the user. The name of the transition pattern file can be used by the print server 3 from the client machine 1 be communicated explicitly, or the print server 3 has the request from the client machine 1 cached for a certain time after the fade-over pattern and accesses this information as far as it is still available. Otherwise, in a communication (not shown), the information about the crossfade pattern used must be subsequently specified. The image or image file is in 27 from the data server 2 to the print server 3 transmitted as soon as the request 11 assigned session ID has been recognized as authentic. After receiving the picture or images in 26 is in 28 a combined graphic from the image or images and the transition pattern (typically only one is used) in the print server 3 generated as documented by the user in the editing sequence. This graphic is available in high-resolution form and is provided by the print server 3 also edited in the way as indicated by the editing sequence of the client machine 1 is predetermined, step 29 , This leads to the same result as the user on the screen of his client machine 1 was shown, only the resolution is that of the print server 3 edited graphic significantly larger. This is suitable for the print server 3 generated print file for the production of a high-quality printed product. This will be in 30 printed on an output medium, the process being performed by the print server 3 is controlled.

Together with the image information, which in 27 from the data server 2 to the print server 3 is transferred and of the latter in 26 can also receive user data to the print server 3 as far as the user has consented to this and as far as this is necessary for the execution of the print job. So it makes sense, for example, address data to the print server 3 to submit to the user the finished printed product can be delivered. Also, data concerning the payment of the print job may be transmitted, as far as the billing for the print job is not via the data server 2 is handled.

In the above described and in 2 In the embodiment of the invention shown, the low resolution images are provided to the user directly from the data server 2 transmitted. When the load of the data server 2 However, it should be kept low and therefore, if possible, only once from the server 2 should be retrieved and no complex image calculations are to be made, so the low resolution images can also be provided by the print server. This makes some fundamental changes in the course of the method according to the invention necessary, which in the following with reference to the in 3 shown embodiment of the invention will be explained.

In the embodiment according to 3 the client answers 1 in a first step 31 at the data server 2 and receives from this in 32 assigned a session ID for the subsequent session. The session ID will later be used to authenticate transfers between the servers and terminals involved. The session ID is in 33 from the client 1 receive. Then the client sends 1 in 34 the received session ID to the print server 3 on which he uses his data server 2 stored image files - after a previous editing. The session ID is taken from the print server 3 in step 35 received and cached by this for a predetermined period. The duration of the given period depends on the expected processing time by the user. If this time has expired and the user only then another request to the print server 3 If necessary, the session ID must be renewed if necessary.

In 36 is by the user 1 a picture request to the print server 3 sent. As a result, the print server submits 3 in 37 that from the client machine 1 received session ID to the data server 2 , associated with the request for About averaging the image specially requested by the user or, for example, all the images stored by the user on the data server. The data server 2 checked in 39 the session ID and compare it with the in 32 the user assigned session ID. In other words, the client machine 1 is from the data server 2 for a session a unique identifier, ie session ID assigned, and the identity of the image file 38 on the data server 2 and the request from the client machine 1 is verified by the identifier. If both session IDs match, the data server loads 2 in 38 that of the user on the server 2 deposited picture. This image file or image file will be in 39 to the print server 3 sent from the latter in 37 received and cached, so that now the personal data of the user from the server 2 also on the server 3 be available.

In 40 is taken from the image file of the user, with the maximum resolution of the data server 2 to the print server 3 has been generated, a picture file ("thumbnail") is generated with a resolution that is sufficient for a screen display. This reduced resolution image file is sent to the client 1 transmitted and from this in 41 receive. Again, the image file, as in the previously described embodiment, is a web-enabled smaller copy of the original file on the server 2 (or on the server 3 cached file) which is formatted as JPEG, GIF, BitMap, PNG, Tiff or the like depending on the application of the invention. The size of the image used by the user when submitting the request to the data server 2 is given, is about 1 to 2 kB. Alternatively, a larger web-compatible version can be transmitted.

The received image file is stored as a temporary file on the computer 1 stored by the user and can be edited there independently and locally, ie in particular combined with other image files. Therefore, the user has the option except himself on the server 2 deposited image also request a fade pattern, for example, free and freely accessible from the print server 3 is made available. In this case, the user sends in 42 Requesting one or more fade patterns to the print server 3 starting this requirement in 44 receives. The print server 3 then loads the fade pattern from its memory 43 and reduced in 44 in turn, the resolution of the fade pattern so that it is for the screen display on the client machine 1 sufficient for the user. This reduced blending pattern appears in 44 to the client machine 1 transmitted it in 45 receives.

In 46 will be in the client machine 1 a graphic is generated from the image and the transition pattern and displayed on the screen. This graphic can be edited by the user as part of the plug-in program of his browser and, for example, exchange the image or replace the transition pattern with another one. If necessary, the request and transfer steps described above must be repeated.

In 47 The graphic is processed, and the individual processing steps are documented as a processing sequence in a file. In 48 the processing sequence is extracted and "cleaned up", ie the processing commands entered by the user are optimized in their sequence. The extracted processing sequence is in 49 to the print server 3 transmitted and from this in 50 receive.

On the print server 3 Now the processing steps of the user are reconstructed with the high-resolution image files, ie in 51 For example, the output image is emulated from an image and a transition pattern with the high-resolution data sets, as previously done by the client computer 1 happened with the reduced-resolution records. Subsequently, in 52 all steps of the processing by the user are reworked by the server, as far as they were transferred in the processing sequence. In this way, the graphics are adjusted to match the result the user had on his screen before sending the editing sequence to the print server 3 has sent. The actual output on the output medium takes place in 53 ,

In the embodiments according to 2 and 3 It is assumed that the session ID used in 11 respectively. 32 is made exclusively to the client 1 is transmitted. An alternative (not shown) is that the session ID is simultaneously from the data server 2 to the client machine 1 and to the print server 3 is transmitted. This does not apply to the client machine 1 the transmission of the session ID to the print server 3 which in turn reduces the number of security-sensitive transfers to and from the client machine 1 reduced. It is assumed that the connection between the servers 2 and 3 well secured.

In 4 another, slightly modified, sequence of the method according to the invention is explained, wherein some steps are summarized for the sake of clarity.

In 54 the user logs in via his client computer 1 at the data server 2 on, on the his personal files are stored. He then requests one or more image files to combine these files into an overall graphic and edit them. The resolution of these files is lower than the resolution of the files on the data server 2 , In order to be able to edit these files, he is in 55 from the data server 2 yourself or from the print server 3 or offered by another server (not shown) a corresponding plug-in program for his browser. This can be done the same way as it is related to the above US 5 580 177 A was explained. After transmission of the plug-in program in 55 the user receives in 56 the one or more images with a resolution necessary for display on the screen of the client machine 1 sufficient to create and edit a combined graphic.

With the possibly reloaded plug-in the user can in 57 the graphic with several image components on his computer 1 to edit. The result is in 58 in the form of editing sequence and session ID to the print server 3 communicating the high resolution image (from the data server 2 ) according to processing sequence in 59 processed. Finally, in 60 the actual expression is generated.

Examples of the browser plug-ins in 55 is the flash software of Macromedia Inc., San Francisco, USA. This software is a pure graphical user interface (GUI) and allows the user to design and manipulate graphics on the screen to build a representation of a desired image.

The Commands that the user enters when editing the graphic, are preferably stored as strings or "strings". This requires only a minimum of computer resources. The strings can then be downloaded from the software on the print server be interpreted.

Of the Advantage of the invention is therefore that for the transmission Of images only a limited transmission bandwidth occupied becomes. Nevertheless, the editing and the output are edited Graphics each with the highest quality for the medium made, d. H. the display and editing on the screen done with the optimal resolution, and the expression is also done with an optimal resolution, which in usually even higher than the screen resolution. Furthermore, print jobs can be bundled, and - if necessary under Caching of the processing sequences in a utilization database on the print server - independent in time and / or independent for different items in packages (batch job).

1

Client computer

2

Data server

3

Print Server

4

registration and identification via communication link

5

Transfer of image files with reduced resolution of data server to client computers via communication link

6

download from browser plug-in to client machine from print server via processing connection

7

Transfer a processing sequence and identifier from client machine to print server via processing connection

8th

Requirement from image file through print server via data connection

9

Transfer of high resolution graphics files from data server to print server via data connection

10

registration at data server by client

11

allocation of session ID by data server

12

reception of session ID by client

13

Requirement from image by client

14

image high resolution on data server

15

reduction of image resolution by data server

16

reception from low resolution image by client

17

Requirement Crossfade Pattern by Client from Print Server

18

Fade pattern on print server

19

transmission blending patterns by print servers

20

reception of crossfade patterns by client

21

local Presentation of image and transition pattern on client

22

processing from local representation to client

23

extraction of editing sequence by client

24

transmission of session ID and processing sequence to print server by client

25

reception of session ID and processing sequence by print server

26

Requirement from image by print server

27

Verification of session ID by data server and transmission of High Resolution Image File to Print Server

28

graphic from image and blending pattern with high resolution

29

Adaptation high resolution graphics by print server

30

Expression on output medium

31

registration from client to data server

32

allocation of session ID by data server

33

reception of session ID by client

34

transmission from session ID to print server

35

reception from session ID through print server

36

Requirement from image by client to print server

37

Requirement High resolution image by print server to data server

38

image high resolution on data server

39

Verification Session ID, transmission of image from data server Print Server

40

reduction from image resolution by print server, transmission to client

41

reception from low resolution image by client

42

Requirement Crossfade Pattern by Client from Print Server

43

Fade pattern on print server

44

transmission blending patterns by print servers

45

reception of crossfade patterns by client

46

local Presentation of image and transition pattern on client

47

processing from local graphic to client

48

extraction of editing sequence by client

49

transmission from editing sequence to print server by client

50

reception of editing sequence by print server

51

graphic from image and blending pattern by print server

52

Adaptation high resolution graphics by print server

53

Expression on output medium

54

registration at data server with assignment of session ID

55

load of special plug-in for browser by client

56

reception from low resolution image by client

57

processing from low resolution image by client

58

transmission from session ID and processing sequence to print server

59

processing high resolution graphics by print server

60

Expression

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 2002/057454 [0006]
• EP 0878956 A [0007]
• US 5580177 A [0008, 0052]

Claims (13)

Computer system ( 1 . 2 . 3 ) for editing image files on remote data servers ( 2 ), comprising: a data server ( 2 ) for storing image files associated with a plurality of users, a print server ( 3 ) for evaluating the image files and associated processing sequences and for outputting graphic products on a given medium ( 30 ), a client computer ( 1 ) for executing an IP browser comprising: - an image memory for temporarily storing a temporary file, and - an image processor for editing the temporary file and generating a processing sequence, wherein the client computer ( 1 ) - via a secure IP communication connection ( 4 . 5 ) with the data server ( 2 ) is connected to retrieve an image file on the data server ( 2 ) via the browser and creating the temporary file and - via an IP editing connection ( 6 . 7 ) with the print server ( 3 ) is connected to transfer processing data from the client ( 1 ) to the print server ( 3 ), and the data server ( 2 ) with the print server ( 3 ) via a secure IP data connection ( 8th . 9 ) is connected to transfer image files. Computer system according to claim 1, wherein the image file is stored on the data server ( 2 ) has at least the same image resolution as the temporary file temporarily stored in the image memory. Computer system according to Claim 1 or 2, in which the client computer ( 1 ) for a session a unique identifier from the data server ( 2 ), whereby the identity of the image file ( 14 ) on the data server ( 2 ) and the processing sequence from the client computer ( 1 ) is verified by the identifier. Computer system according to one of the preceding claims, in which personal data is stored on the data server ( 2 ) and publicly available data on the print server ( 3 ) and the client computer ( 1 ) Output data from the personal data and the publicly accessible data generated for printing on the print server ( 3 ). Computer system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of processing sequences in a utilization database on the print server ( 3 ), so that the utilization of the image file on the print server ( 3 ) can be carried out according to the processing sequence temporally independently of the generation of the processing sequence and / or print jobs for different articles can be carried out in packages. Computer system according to one of the preceding claims, where the IP browser includes plug-in software for graphical Editing the temporary file. The computer system of claim 6, wherein the plug-in software via the IP editing connection from the print server to the IP browser is loaded on the client machine. Computer system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the Plug-in software is a flash player file. Method for processing image files on remote data servers ( 2 ), comprising the steps of: storing image files associated with a plurality of users on a data server ( 2 ), Evaluating the image files and associated processing sequences and outputting graphic products on a given medium ( 30 ) by a print server ( 3 ), Running an IP browser on a client machine ( 1 ) comprising: - an image memory for temporarily storing a temporary file, and - an image processor for processing the temporary file and generating a processing sequence, wherein the client computer ( 1 ) performs the following sub-steps: retrieving an image file on the data server via a secure IP communication connection ( 4 . 5 ) with the data server ( 2 ) and generating the temporary file and - transferring processing data from the client ( 1 ) to the print server ( 3 ) via an IP processing connection ( 6 . 7 ) with the print server, and transferring image files from the data server ( 2 ) to the print server ( 3 ) via a secure IP data connection ( 8th . 9 ). Method according to Claim 9, in which, when the temporary file is generated, the image file is stored on the data server ( 2 ) has at least the same image resolution as the temporary file temporarily stored in the image memory. Method according to Claim 9 or 10, comprising the substeps: Assigning a unique identifier for a session to the client computer ( 1 ) through the data server ( 2 ) and verifying the identity of the image file ( 14 ) on the data server ( 2 ) and the processing sequence from the client computer ( 1 ) about the identifier. Method according to one of Claims 9 to 11, in which a plurality of processing sequences are stored in a database on the print server ( 3 ), so that the utilization of the image file on the print server ( 3 ) can be carried out according to the processing sequence temporally independently of the generation of the processing sequence and / or print jobs for different articles can be carried out in packages. Method according to one of Claims 9 to 12, with the sub-step: uploading a plug-in software via the IP processing connection ( 6 . 7 ) from the print server ( 3 ) in the IP-Browser on the client computer ( 1 ).