JP2004072446A - Approval device and approval system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an approval system which electronically performs approval processing of a document which has been made by sealing the document on a paper surface, secures reliability in the aspect of security, reduces the burden to maintenance and management and is superior in convenience. <P>SOLUTION: The approval system 100 is provided with an approval indicator 2 having a paper surface, an imprint image output device for outputting imprint image data when depressing the approval indicator 2, and a document editor 4 for adding the imprint image data outputted from the imprint image output device 3 to a document file and allows a user to electronically approve the document by easy operation of depressing the approval indicator 2. Since the imprint image data is preferably stored in the imprint image output device 3 together with a seal ID, wrong approval is prevented by properly preserving/managing the approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3. Further, maintenance and management are facilitated because it is unnecessary to acquire the imprint image data and the seal ID from an external server device or the like. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an approval apparatus for electronically executing a document approval process performed by stamping a paper document by adding an imprint image to document data, and an approval system including the approval apparatus. About.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, various documents have been processed as digital data. However, in a procedure such as a decision on business or a contract, a document on paper is often stamped. However, recently, a system for digitizing a document approval process has been developed.
[0003]
Since the approval process by the above system has the same effect as the stamping on a paper document, the reliability in security is particularly emphasized. For this reason, conventionally, a system has been proposed in which a client device and a server device are connected via a network, and a user who uses the client device performs authentication processing by the server device, or performs fingerprint authentication or the like. .
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when a system that executes authentication processing by a server device for a user who uses a client device is constructed, various information for performing authentication, such as a password and a user ID, are stored in the server device. That is, for security, the server device itself must be firmly protected. In addition, it is necessary to ensure the robustness of the entire network, and there is a problem that the cost required for operation and maintenance is enormous.
In addition, when performing authentication based on specific information such as a password, if such information is disclosed to another person, there is a problem that an improper act called impersonation may cause a very large effect. there were. In other words, not only users whose passwords have been known are affected, but it is not possible to judge whether or not documents that the users approve are impersonating, which may affect the entire system. there were.
[0005]
Further, when the configuration of the network is changed, there is a problem that convenience is impaired in order to secure reliability in security, for example, it is necessary to reconfigure the authentication processing in the server device.
[0006]
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to enable electronic execution of a document approval process that has been performed by stamping a document on paper, and to secure security reliability. An object of the present invention is to provide a more convenient approval system with a lighter management burden.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention has the following features in order to solve such a problem. In the following description, a configuration corresponding to the embodiment is shown by parentheses as an example. Reference numerals and the like are reference numerals and the like in the drawings described later.
[0008]
An approval device (1) according to the first aspect of the present invention includes an approval indicator (2) that is pressed and an imprint image output device (3) that outputs an imprint image in response to a press operation of the approval indicator. It is characterized by having.
[0009]
The approval device (1) of the invention according to claim 2 is:
Press detection means (for example, the pressure detection unit 23 shown in FIG. 3) for detecting a press operation, and transmission means (for example, shown in FIG. 3) for transmitting a press detection signal when the press operation is detected by the press detection means An approval indicator (2) including a wireless communication unit 24);
Storage means for storing the imprint image (for example, the memory 32 shown in FIG. 4);
Receiving means (for example, a wireless communication unit 34 shown in FIG. 4) for receiving a pressing detection signal transmitted from the approval indicator;
An imprint image output device including output means (for example, an external device I / F 33 shown in FIG. 4) for outputting an imprint image stored in the storage means when a press detection signal is received by the receiving means. It is characterized by being done.
[0010]
According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the approval device according to the second aspect,
The transmitting means of the approval indicator wirelessly transmits the pressing detection signal,
The receiving means of the imprint image output device receives a pressing detection signal wirelessly transmitted by the transmitting means of the approval indicator.
[0011]
The invention according to claim 4 is the approval device according to claim 2 or 3,
The storage means of the imprint image output device stores identification information unique to the approval indicator,
The output means outputs the identification information stored in the storage means.
[0012]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the approval device according to any one of the second to fourth aspects,
The approval indicator further includes position information generating means (for example, a CPU 71, a light emitting unit 74, and a light receiving unit 75 shown in FIG. 15) for detecting the position of the approval indicator when pressed and generating position information. Prepare,
The transmitting means transmits the position information generated by the position information generating means,
The receiving device of the imprint image output device receives the position information transmitted from the approval indicator,
The output means outputs the position information received by the receiving means.
[0013]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the approval device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects,
The approval indicator has a stamp surface (201).
[0014]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the approval device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects,
The approval indicator is mounted on a seal (51) having a stamp surface.
[0015]
According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an approval system including the approval apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, and a document editing apparatus (4) for editing and processing document data.
The document editing device includes an imprint image adding unit (for example, a CPU 41 that performs a process shown in step S16 of FIG. 6) that adds an imprint image output from an imprint image output device of the approval device to the document data. It is characterized by.
[0016]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the approval system according to the eighth aspect,
When the identification information unique to the approval indicator is output from the seal image output device, the document editing device embeds the identification information in the document data (for example, step S17 in FIG. 6). (CPU 41) for performing the processing shown in FIG.
[0017]
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the approval system according to the eighth or ninth aspect,
The document editing device, when position information indicating the position of the approval indicator when the approval indicator is pressed from the seal image output device is output, the seal image is based on the position information A position determining unit (for example, the CPU 41 that performs the process shown in step S67 of FIG. 16) for determining a position to be added;
The imprint image adding unit adds an imprint image to the document data at a position determined by the position determining unit.
[0018]
According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the approval system according to the eighth or ninth aspect,
The document editing apparatus includes: a position detection unit (for example, a CPU 41 that performs a process shown in step S45 of FIG. 13) that detects a position of the approval indicator when the approval indicator is pressed.
Position determining means (for example, CPU 41 for performing the processing shown in step S48 of FIG. 13) for determining a position to which the imprint image is to be added based on the position detected by the position detecting means;
The imprint image adding unit adds an imprint image to the document data at a position determined by the position determining unit.
[0019]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an approval system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
The approval system 100 according to the first embodiment is a system that digitizes a document approval procedure conventionally performed by stamping a document on paper, and executes the process by adding imprint image data to a document file. is there. The document file to which the imprint image data is added is handled in the same manner as a stamped paper document.
[0020]
As shown in FIG. 1, the approval system 100 includes an approval device 1 and a document editing device 4 connected to each other. The approval device 1 includes an approval indicator 2 and an imprint image output device 3, and outputs imprint image data from the imprint image output device 3 according to the operation of the approval indicator 2. Further, the document editing device 4 is a so-called personal computer, and has a function of editing and saving a document file.
[0021]
FIG. 2 is an external view showing the configuration of the approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 of the approval device 1.
As shown in FIG. 2, the approval indicator 2 is a seal having a stamp surface 201 formed at the tip, and has a rod-shaped shaft 202. The user holds the shaft 202 of the approval indicator 2 and performs a pressing operation of pressing the stamp surface 201 against a surface that does not easily move, such as a top surface of a desk or a monitor screen of a computer. In addition, the approval indicator 2 includes a control circuit 20 (FIG. 3) described later inside the shaft 202.
[0022]
The stamp surface 201 of the approval indicator 2 may be formed by engraving a stamp material such as animal horn, wood, ore, metal, resin, or the like, or may be a stamp surface of an ink penetration mark. Is also good.
[0023]
The imprint image output device 3 includes a case 301 that accommodates the approval indicator 2, a case cover 302 that is openably and closably attached to the case 301, and a connector 303 that is provided in the case 301. The imprint image output device 3 incorporates a control circuit 30 (FIG. 4) described later, and a connector 303 is used to electrically connect the control circuit 30 to the control circuit 40 (FIG. 5) of the document editing device 4. Connector.
[0024]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the control circuit 20 built in the approval indicator 2.
The control circuit 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, a memory 22, a pressing detection unit 23, and a wireless communication unit 24, and these units are connected by a bus 25.
[0025]
The CPU 21 controls each part of the control circuit 20 according to a control program stored in the memory 22. Then, when the pressing detection unit 23 detects that the approval indicator 2 has been pressed by the pressing detection unit 23, the CPU 21 generates a pressing detection signal and wirelessly transmits the signal by the wireless communication unit 24.
[0026]
The memory 22 stores a control program executed by the CPU 21.
The press detection unit 23 includes a pressure sensor and the like, and detects a press force applied to the stamp surface 201 (FIG. 2) when the approval indicator 2 is pressed under the control of the CPU 21.
[0027]
The wireless communication unit 24 includes an antenna (not shown), and executes a predetermined wireless communication protocol with a wireless communication unit 34 (FIG. 4) included in the control circuit 30 so that the pressing detection signal generated by the CPU 21 is detected. Transmit wirelessly.
[0028]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the control circuit 30 built in the imprint image output device 3.
The control circuit 30 includes a CPU 31, a memory 32, an external device I / F 33, and a wireless communication unit 34, and these units are connected by a bus 35.
[0029]
The CPU 31 controls each unit of the control circuit 30 according to a control program stored in the memory 32. When the CPU 31 receives the press detection signal wirelessly transmitted from the control circuit 20 by the wireless communication unit 34, the CPU 31 reads the seal image data and the seal ID stored in the memory 32, and the external device I / F 33 uses the external device I / F 33 to execute the document editing device. Output to 4.
[0030]
The memory 32 stores a control program executed by the CPU 31, the seal imprint image data, and the seal ID.
The imprint image data is image data of an imprint in which the seal surface 201 of the approval indicator 2 is stamped on paper or the like. The seal ID is identification information given to the approval indicator 2 and is unique to each approval indicator 2.
[0031]
The external device I / F 33 is connected to a connector 303 (FIG. 2), and is electrically connected via the connector 303 to an external device I / F 47 provided in a control circuit 40 of the document editing device 4 described later. The external device I / F 33 executes a predetermined communication protocol with the external device I / F 47 to execute a connection confirmation process between the control circuit 30 and the control circuit 40, and inputs and outputs various data.
Then, the external device I / F 33 outputs the imprint image data and the seal ID to the external device I / F 47 under the control of the CPU 31.
[0032]
The wireless communication unit 34 includes an antenna (not shown) and executes a predetermined wireless communication protocol with the wireless communication unit 24 (FIG. 3) included in the control circuit 20 to wirelessly transmit the wireless communication from the wireless communication unit 24. It receives the pressure detection signal and outputs it to the CPU 31.
[0033]
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the control circuit 40 built in the document editing device 4.
The control circuit 40 includes a CPU 41, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 42, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43, a storage unit 44, an input unit 45, a display unit 46, and an external device I / F 47. Are connected by a bus 48.
[0034]
The CPU 41 controls each part of the control circuit 40 by reading out the basic control program stored in the ROM 42, developing it in the work area of the RAM 43, and executing it. Further, the CPU 41 reads the application program and data stored in the storage unit 44 in accordance with an instruction input from the input unit 45, develops the work program in the work area of the RAM 43, and executes the read application program and data, thereby implementing a document file editing function. I do.
[0035]
Specifically, when an instruction to edit a document file is issued, the CPU 41 expands the designated document file and shifts to a state where editing is possible. Here, when an approval process is instructed by an input operation on the input unit 45, the CPU 41 acquires the seal image data and the seal ID input from the seal image output device 3 via the external device I / F 47, and edits the seal image data. A process for adding the seal image data to the document file in the middle is executed, and a process for embedding the seal ID in the document file is executed. Thereafter, the CPU 41 sets an attribute for restricting modification of the document file being edited, and saves the document file.
Further, the CPU 41 generates display information for displaying a screen relating to the process being executed, such as a document file editing screen, and outputs the display information to the display unit 46.
[0036]
The document file edited by the document editing device 4 refers to a data file including text data indicating characters and symbols, and in addition to the text data, data relating to format and page settings, and permission for reading and altering. The data may include various data such as data indicating / non-permission, data indicating creation date / time and creator, data indicating update date / time and update history.
[0037]
The ROM 42 is a nonvolatile storage device and stores a basic control program executed by the CPU 41.
The RAM 43 forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs executed by the CPU 41 and data relating to these programs.
[0038]
The storage unit 44 has a storage medium (not shown) including a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and stores an application program and data executed by the CPU 41 in the storage medium (not shown). Store. The program or data stored in the storage medium (not shown) may be partially or wholly received from another device via a communication line or the like and stored. (Not shown) may be a storage medium of another device constructed on a network (not shown) such as the Internet.
[0039]
The input unit 45 includes a keyboard having numeric keys, character keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse and a tablet, and has an operation signal corresponding to a key operated on the keyboard, or a pointing device. An operation signal including position information accompanying the operation is output to the CPU 41.
[0040]
The display unit 46 has a display screen such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays a screen related to a process being executed by the CPU 41, such as a document file being edited, for example. Display on the screen.
[0041]
The external device I / F 47 has a connector (not shown) that can be connected to the connector 303 (FIG. 2) of the imprint image output device 3, and is electrically connected to the external device I / F 33 of the control circuit 30 via the connector. Connected. The external device I / F 47 executes a predetermined communication protocol with the external device I / F 33, executes a connection confirmation process between the control circuit 40 and the control circuit 30, and inputs and outputs various data.
Then, the external device I / F 47 obtains the seal image data and the seal ID input from the external device I / F 33 and outputs them to the CPU 41.
[0042]
The connector 303 included in the imprint image output device 3, the external device I / F 33 included in the control circuit 30, and the external device I / F 47 included in the document editing device 4 exchange data between the control circuit 30 and the control circuit 40. As long as data can be transmitted and received, the format and specific electrical and physical specifications of data to be transmitted and received are arbitrary, and various standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) and IEEE 1394 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1394) are used. It is good also as what conforms to. The wireless communication unit 24 included in the control circuit 20 and the wireless communication unit 34 included in the control circuit 30 may also be configured to transmit and receive wireless signals to each other as long as they can transmit and receive wireless signals. The specifications are arbitrary, and for example, a wireless tag provided with a wireless communication IC and an antenna may be used, or those conforming to various standards such as Bluetooth, IEEE802.11 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 802.11as), and the like. It is good.
[0043]
Subsequently, the operation in the first embodiment will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the document editing apparatus 4 according to the first embodiment.
[0044]
When the document editing is instructed by the instruction input in the input unit 45, the CPU 41 reads out and expands the designated document file from the storage unit 44 in step S1 in FIG. 6, and starts editing the document file.
[0045]
Subsequently, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S12, accepts an input from the input unit 45, and determines whether or not an approval process for adding an imprint to the document file has been instructed. Here, if the approval process has not been instructed, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S13 to execute a normal editing process, and ends this process.
Here, the normal editing processing refers to, for example, processing such as addition of new comment data without modification / deletion of original text data (data relating to text, figures, charts, and the like in the document) included in the document file. Including.
[0046]
On the other hand, when the approval process is instructed in step S12, the CPU 41 shifts to step S14 and waits for an input from the imprint image output device 3 connected via the external device I / F 47.
Here, when the approval indicator 2 is pressed and the imprint image data and the seal ID output from the imprint image output device 3 are input to the external device I / F 47, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S15 and receives the input. The stamp image data and the seal ID are acquired.
[0047]
Subsequently, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S16 to execute processing for adding the obtained imprint image data to the document file being edited, and further proceeds to step S17 to execute processing for embedding the seal ID in the document file. I do.
[0048]
Further, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S18, and sets an attribute for restricting modification of the contents of the document file being edited.
The attribute set here is an attribute that is referred to when the document file is edited by the document editing apparatus 4 and another apparatus that edits the document file by the same processing as the document editing apparatus 4. This is a preset attribute in an application program for editing a file. If this attribute is set, a warning message is displayed when modifying or updating the document file in the document editing device 4 or another device that edits the document file by the same processing as the document editing device 4. In addition, it is possible to technically limit the falsification of the original text data, or to execute processing such as deleting the imprint image data added to the document file when the original text data is intentionally falsified. .
[0049]
Thereafter, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S19, saves the document file being edited, and ends this processing.
[0050]
As described above, according to the approval system 100 in the first embodiment of the present invention, the stamp image data is added to the document file being edited in the document editing device 4 by pressing the approval indicator 2. The seal ID can be embedded in the document file. The approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 are detachable from the document editing device 4 and are portable.
[0051]
This makes it possible to securely execute processing using simple operations when electronically executing document approval processing, which was conventionally performed by stamping a document on paper, by adding imprint image data to a document file. Can be done.
[0052]
The seal image data and the seal ID are stored in the memory 32 provided in the seal image output device 3 and are output to the document editing device 4 only when the approval indicator 2 is pressed. Therefore, without the approval indicator 2 and the seal image output device 3, it is impossible to add seal image data to a document file and embed a seal ID. Thus, if the approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 are managed so as not to be used by others, an unauthorized person who does not have the authority to operate the approval indicator 2 may use the document editing device 4 to illegally use the imprint image data. Since it is impossible to handle the password, it is possible to further ensure the reliability in security as compared with the case where the identity is ensured only by information such as a password. Furthermore, compared with the case of using special hardware such as fingerprint authentication and retinal pattern collation, there is an advantage that the operation is simpler and it can be realized at low cost.
[0053]
In the approval system 100, the seal image data and the seal ID depend on the approval indicator 2 and the seal image output device 3. That is, when there are a plurality of document editing apparatuses 4, it is not necessary to always use the same document editing apparatus 4 in the process of performing approval, and thus the user has the approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output apparatus 3. Any document editing device 4 may be used. For this reason, the restriction on the use of the system imposed on the user can be reduced, so that a more convenient approval system 100 can be provided.
[0054]
Further, the approval indicator 2 is a seal having a stamp surface 201, and in operation, a pressing operation similar to the operation of stamping on a paper surface may be performed. That is, since the approval system 100 can be operated with the same feeling as stamping in order to approve a paper document, the user can use it without feeling uncomfortable.
[0055]
In the process of acquiring the seal image data and the seal ID by the document editing apparatus 4, access to a server or the like connected to the network is unnecessary, and only the approval indicator 2, the seal image output apparatus 3, and the document editing apparatus 4 are required. Thus, it is possible to add the seal image data to the document file and embed the seal ID.
Therefore, if the approval system 100 is used, imprint image data and various data related to authentication such as a password are stored in a server installed on the network, and authentication processing is performed by this server. Since it is not necessary to provide a server in which the above-described measures are taken, it is possible to significantly reduce costs.
[0056]
Therefore, in an electronic approval system that conventionally executes the document approval process, which was conventionally performed by stamping a document on paper, by adding imprint image data to the document file, reliability in security is ensured. In addition, by simplifying the device configuration, the cost for constructing the system can be significantly reduced.
[0057]
Then, according to the approval system 100, the seal image data output from the seal image output device 3 is added to the document file, and the seal ID is embedded. It is possible to find out. For this reason, when the approval indicator 2 is lost, the seal ID of the lost approval indicator 2 can be disabled, and the approval indicator 2 can be created again with a new seal ID. An approved system 100 that is reduced and can be easily applied can be provided.
[0058]
Furthermore, in the approval system 100, if the approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 are legitimate, approval can be performed without performing personal authentication processing or the like. Therefore, a requestee who is requested to approve the document file on behalf of the user who owns the approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 can perform the approval on behalf of the user. That is, since it can be handled in the same manner as a conventional seal, it can be easily applied without causing the user to feel uncomfortable.
[0059]
The approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 are connected by the wireless communication unit 24 and the wireless communication unit 34, and the approval indicator 2 wirelessly transmits the press detection signal from the approval indicator 2 to the imprint image output device 3. 2 can be operated by holding it with a hand without being limited to the mounting position of the imprint image output device 3, that is, the mounting position of the document editing device 4. This makes it possible to further improve convenience. In particular, when the approval indicator 2 has the seal surface 201, the use as a normal seal is not limited to the position of the seal image output device 3, so that the convenience is not impaired.
[0060]
In the approval system 100, it is also possible to perform a process of managing the authority to approve a document using the seal ID output from the seal image output device 3 to the document editing device 4. That is, by adding information indicating the seal ID of the approval indicator 2 used by a person having the authority to approve the document to the document file, only the corresponding approval indicator 2 performs approval. can do.
Hereinafter, the operation of the document editing apparatus 4 in this case will be described with reference to FIG.
[0061]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the operation of the document editing apparatus 4. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the document file edited by the document editing apparatus 4 has added thereto information indicating the seal ID of the approval indicator 2 permitted to perform approval.
[0062]
When a document edit is instructed by an input operation on the input unit 45 in step S21, the CPU 41 reads out the designated document file from the storage unit 44, expands the document file, and starts editing the document file. Subsequently, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S22, receives an instruction input from the input unit 45, and determines whether or not an approval process for adding a seal imprint to the document file has been instructed. Here, if the approval process has not been instructed, the CPU 41 shifts to step S23 to execute a normal editing process, and ends this process.
[0063]
On the other hand, when the approval process is instructed in step S22, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S24, and the seal of the approval indicator 2 capable of approving the document from the information added to the expanded document file. Get the ID. In the case of a document requiring approval by a plurality of approvers, a number of seal IDs corresponding to the number of approvers are acquired.
[0064]
Then, the CPU 41 shifts to step S25 and waits for an input from the imprint image output device 3 connected via the external device I / F 47.
Here, when the approval indicator 2 is pressed and the imprint image data and the seal ID output from the imprint image output device 3 are input to the external device I / F 47, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S26 and receives the input. The stamp image data and the seal ID are acquired.
[0065]
Subsequently, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S27, and determines whether or not the seal ID acquired in step S26 matches the seal ID acquired in step S24. Determine whether or not.
Then, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S28 if the seal ID acquired in step S26 matches the seal ID acquired in step S24, and otherwise ends this processing as it is.
[0066]
In step S27, the CPU 41 executes a process of adding the imprint image data acquired in step S26 to the document file being edited, and further proceeds to step S29 to execute a process of embedding the seal ID in the document file.
[0067]
Further, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S30, and sets an attribute for restricting modification of the contents of the document file being edited. Thereafter, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S31, saves the document file being edited, and ends this processing.
[0068]
In the example shown in FIG. 7, when the document file includes information indicating the seal ID of the approval indicator 2 having the authority to approve the document file, the authentication of the approval indicator 2 is performed based on this information. Therefore, only the approval indicator 2 that can properly approve the document file can perform the approval, and it is possible to prevent unauthorized approval by a person without authority. Furthermore, by adding predetermined information to the document file, it is possible to give the authority to approve only a specific person, and it is possible to provide an even more reliable approval system 100.
[0069]
In the first embodiment, the approval indicator 2 has the control circuit 20 built in the main body in which the stamp surface 201 and the shaft 202 are integrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, for example, the function as the approval indicator 2 can be provided according to a mode of being attached to an existing seal.
[0070]
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of an approval indicator 50 as an example of an approval indicator using an existing seal.
As shown in the figure, the approval indicator 50 includes a seal 51, which is a normal seal, and an indicator unit 52.
The seal 51 is a normal seal formed by engraving a seal material such as animal horn, wood, ore, metal, resin, or the like to form a seal surface, or an ink-penetrated seal.
The indicator unit 52 is a cylindrical device in which a receiving hole 52a for fitting the seal 51 is formed. The inner diameter of the receiving hole 52a is matched with the outer diameter of the seal 51, and the seal 51 is fitted and held in the receiving hole 52a.
Since the indicator unit 52 includes a control circuit similar to the control circuit 20 (FIG. 3), the approval indicator 50 can be used in place of the approval indicator 2 in the above embodiment.
[0071]
That is, when an operation of pressing the approval indicator 50 in which the seal stamp 51 is fitted into the indicator unit 52 to a flat surface or the like is performed, the control circuit built in the indicator unit 52 detects the pressure on the imprint image output device 3. A signal is transmitted. As a result, the imprint image data and the seal ID can be output from the imprint image output device 3 to the document editing device 4, and the document approval process can be performed.
When the approval indicator 50 is used instead of the approval indicator 2, it is preferable that the seal image data stored in the memory 32 of the seal image output device 3 be the seal image data of the seal 51.
[0072]
Also, if the inner diameter of the receiving hole 52a is adjusted to a general size of 6 mm (millimeter), 9 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 13.5 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, etc. as the diameter of the seal, almost all of the already used seals are used. Can be used for the approval indicator 50. Further, if a resin piece or the like is sandwiched between the inner surface of the receiving hole 52a and the seal 51, the seal 51 can be securely held even when the inner diameter of the receiving hole 52a is larger than the outer diameter of the seal 51. Therefore, various seals can be used by fitting them into the indicator unit 52.
[0073]
Further, in the first embodiment, the approval indicator 2 has the stamp face 201 as a name stamp engraved with kanji, but various stamps other than the name stamp, for example, stamps such as officers and employees, company stamps, etc. Can also be used.
FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams showing an approval indicator 53 as an example of an approval indicator having a stamp surface other than a name stamp. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing the configuration of the approval indicator 53, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the imprint 54 of 53.
[0074]
The approval indicator 53 shown in FIG. 9A has a stamp surface 531 as an English-language stamp, and a shaft 532 that is gripped when the approval indicator 53 is pressed.
As shown in FIG. 9B, the seal imprint when the stamp surface 531 is stamped on paper is an imprint 54 imitating a sign of an alphabetic character.
[0075]
The approval indicator 53 incorporates a control circuit similar to the control circuit 20 (FIG. 3), and can be used instead of the approval indicator 2 in the above embodiment. That is, when an operation of pressing the approval indicator 53 on a flat surface or the like is performed, a press detection signal is transmitted from the built-in control circuit to the imprint image output device 3. As a result, the imprint image data and the seal ID can be output from the imprint image output device 3 to the document editing device 4, and the document approval process can be performed. When the approval indicator 53 is used, the seal image data stored in the memory 32 of the seal image output device 3 is preferably the image data of the seal 54.
[0076]
As described above, not only the name stamp but also various stamps that are already generally used can be applied to the approval system 100 in the above embodiment. That is, the approval system 100 is a highly versatile system that can digitize the approval process that has been conventionally performed by stamping a paper document without exception.
[0077]
Further, in the approval system 100, as shown in FIG. 10, it is possible to use an approval indicator having no stamped surface.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an approval indicator 55 as an example of an approval indicator without a stamp. The approval indicator 55 has a flat pressing surface 551 formed at its tip, and is operated by pressing the pressing surface 551 against a flat surface or the like. The approval indicator 55 has a built-in control circuit similar to the control circuit 20 (FIG. 3). When an operation of pressing the pressing surface 551 is performed, the built-in control circuit sends a signal to the imprint image output device 3. The press detection signal is transmitted, and the seal image data and the seal ID are output from the seal image output device 3 to the document editing device 4. When using the approval indicator 55, the imprint image data stored in the memory 32 of the imprint image output device 3 may be imprint image data prepared for approval in advance.
[0078]
As described above, when the approval indicator used in the approval system 100 does not require the function as the conventional seal, the approval indicator 55 having no stamp face is used, thereby reducing the cost of the approval indicator. Can be planned.
[0079]
[Second embodiment]
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the approval system 110 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
The approval system 110 includes an approval indicator 2, an imprint image output device 3, and a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) 6. The approval indicator 2 and the imprint image output device 3 according to the second embodiment have the same configurations as those of the first embodiment.
[0080]
The PDA 6 is a portable size device, has various components such as a display screen 602 and a switch 603 on the front of the main body 601, and has various functions such as a schedule management function, a memo storage function, and a document editing function.
On the surface of the display screen 602, a transparent touch panel as an input device is mounted in an overlapping manner.
[0081]
The user who operates the approval system 110 instructs the PDA 6 to approve the document file being edited by pressing the stamp 201 of the approval indicator 2 against the display screen 602 of the PDA 6.
[0082]
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the control circuit 60 of the PDA 6.
As shown in FIG. 12, the control circuit 60 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 63, a storage unit 64, an input unit 65, a display unit 67, and an external device I / F 68. It is connected.
Further, a touch panel 66 is connected to the input unit 65. The touch panel 66 is a touch panel mounted on the surface of the display screen 602 (FIG. 11).
[0083]
The CPU 61 controls each part of the control circuit 60 by reading the basic control program stored in the ROM 62, developing it in the work area of the RAM 63, and executing it. The CPU 61 reads application programs and data stored in the storage unit 64 in accordance with an input operation on the input unit 65, develops the application programs and data in the work area of the RAM 63, and executes the read application programs and data. Various functions such as a file editing function are realized.
[0084]
Specifically, when an instruction to edit a document file is issued, the CPU 61 expands the specified document file and shifts to a state where editing is possible. Here, when an approval process is instructed by an input instruction in the input unit 65, the CPU 61 acquires a position where the approval indicator 2 is pressed on the display screen 602 (FIG. 11), and outputs the position from the imprint image output device 3. The seal image data and the seal ID which are input via the external device I / F 68 are acquired, the process of adding the seal image data to a predetermined position of the document file being edited is executed, and the seal ID data is further added to the document file. Execute the process of embedding. Thereafter, the CPU 61 sets an attribute for restricting modification of the document file being edited and saves the document file.
[0085]
Further, the CPU 61 generates display information for displaying a screen relating to the process being executed, such as a document file editing screen, and outputs the display information to the display unit 67. Further, when a signal indicating an operation position on the touch panel 66 is input from the input unit 65, the CPU 61 determines an operation content on the touch panel 66 based on the input signal and display information being output to the display unit 67. I do.
[0086]
Note that the document file edited in the PDA 6 refers to a data file including text data indicating characters and symbols. In addition to the text data, data related to format and page settings, and permission / non-permission of reading and alteration. , Data indicating a creation date and time, a creator, update date and time, and data indicating an update history.
[0087]
The ROM 62 is a nonvolatile storage device and stores a basic control program executed by the CPU 61.
The RAM 63 forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs executed by the CPU 61 and data relating to these programs.
[0088]
The storage unit 64 has a storage medium (not shown) including a magnetic recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and stores an application program and data executed by the CPU 61 in the storage medium (not shown). The program or data stored in the storage medium (not shown) may be partially or wholly received from another device via a communication line or the like and stored. (Not shown) may be a storage medium of another device constructed on a network (not shown) such as the Internet.
[0089]
The input unit 65 is connected to a touch panel 66 mounted on the surface of the display screen 602, and when the touch panel 66 detects a pressing operation on the surface of the display screen 602, an operation signal indicating the pressing operation, and a pressing operation The position information indicating the performed position is generated and output to the CPU 61.
[0090]
The display unit 67 is connected to a display screen 602 configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like, and displays a screen related to a process being executed by the CPU 61, such as a document file being edited, on the display screen 602.
[0091]
The external device I / F 68 has a connector (not shown) that can be connected to the connector 303 (FIG. 2) of the imprint image output device 3, and is electrically connected to the external device I / F 33 of the control circuit 30 via the connector. Connected. The external device I / F 68 executes a predetermined communication protocol with the external device I / F 33, executes a connection confirmation process between the control circuit 60 and the control circuit 30, and inputs and outputs various data.
Then, the external device I / F 68 acquires the imprint image data and the seal stamp ID input from the external device I / F 33 and outputs them to the CPU 61.
Note that the specific form of the external device I / F 68 conforms to the external device I / F 47 of the document editing apparatus 4 according to the first embodiment.
[0092]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the PDA 6 according to the second embodiment.
When a document edit is instructed by an input operation on the touch panel 66 in step S41, the CPU 61 reads out the specified document file from the storage unit 64, expands the document file, and starts editing the document file. Subsequently, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S42, receives an input operation on the touch panel 66, and determines whether or not an approval process for adding a seal image to the document file has been instructed. Here, if the approval process has not been instructed, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S43 to execute a normal editing process, and ends this process.
[0093]
On the other hand, when the approval process is instructed in step S42, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S44 and waits for a pressing operation on the touch panel 66.
Here, when the pressing operation on the touch panel 66 is performed, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S45, acquires the position pressed on the touch panel 66 based on the position information input from the input unit 65, and proceeds to step S46. Move to.
[0094]
In step S46, the CPU 61 waits for an input from the imprint image output device 3 connected via the external device I / F 68, and when the imprint image data and the seal ID are input from the imprint image output device 3, the CPU 61 The process proceeds to step S47 to acquire the input seal image data and the seal ID.
[0095]
Subsequently, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S48, and executes processing for adding the imprint image data acquired in step S47 to the document file being edited. In the process of step S48, the CPU 61 adds the imprint image data to the position corresponding to the position obtained in step S45 in the document file being edited.
Next, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S49 to execute processing for embedding the seal ID in the document file.
[0096]
Further, the CPU 61 proceeds to step S50, and sets an attribute for restricting modification of the contents of the document file being edited. Thereafter, the CPU 61 shifts to step S51, saves the document file being edited, and ends this processing.
[0097]
As described above, according to the approval system 110 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the operation of pressing the approval indicator 2 on the display screen 602 of the PDA 6 corresponds to the position where the approval indicator 2 is pressed. Since imprint image data is added to the document file at the position, it is possible to add the imprint image data to a position desired by the user.
[0098]
Therefore, for example, when a plurality of positions to which imprint image data is to be added are prepared in a document file, the approval indicator 2 can be appropriately set without performing an operation of selecting and specifying a position to which imprint image data is to be added. The imprint image data can be added to a desired position only by an operation of pressing the imprint image data at a desired position.
As a result, document files in extremely various formats can be processed, so that approval processing can be digitized for a large number of documents that have been conventionally approved by stamping on paper. In addition, since various types of document files can be processed, when processing is performed by the approval system 110, the document format conventionally printed on paper can be used as it is, and the approval system 110 can be constructed easily and at low cost. can do.
[0099]
[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the approval system 120 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
The approval system 120 shown in FIG. 14 includes a seal image output device 3, a document editing device 4, an approval indicator 7, and a position detection pad 121. That is, the approval system 120 is provided with the approval indicator 7 instead of the approval indicator 2 in the approval system 100 in the first embodiment, and the imprint image output device 3 and the document editing device 4 are Since the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given here and the description is omitted.
[0100]
The approval indicator 7 has a main body 701 shaped like a seal, and incorporates a control circuit 70 described later in the main body 701. The tip of the main body 701 is formed in a plane, and the light emitting section 74 and the light receiving section 75 are arranged on the plane.
The light emitting section 74 has a built-in light source (not shown) such as a built-in LED (light emitting diode), and blinks the light source under the control of a CPU 71 described later. The light receiving unit 75 has a built-in optical sensor (not shown) for detecting the amount of received light, and outputs a signal indicating a detection state of the optical sensor to a CPU 71 described later.
[0101]
The position detection pad 121 is a flat pad to which the tip surface of the approval indicator 7 is pressed when the approval indicator 7 is operated, and is made of a material such as resin, for example. On the surface of the position detection pad 121, a geometric pattern composed of two or more colors (including colorless) having different lightness is arranged.
[0102]
FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the control circuit 70 built in the approval indicator 7.
As illustrated in FIG. 15, the control circuit 70 includes a CPU 71, a memory 72, a pressing detection unit 73, and a wireless communication unit 76, and the respective units are connected by a bus 77. The light emitting section 74 and the light receiving section 75 provided in the main body 701 are connected to the control circuit 70.
[0103]
The CPU 71 controls each unit of the control circuit 70 according to a control program stored in the memory 72.
The CPU 71 controls the light emitting unit 74 to blink the light source of the light emitting unit 74 while the approval indicator 7 faces the position detection pad 121, and detects the light detected by the optical sensor of the light receiving unit 75. To get. Then, the CPU 71 obtains the moving direction and the amount of movement of the approval indicator 7 on the position detection pad 121 based on the detection state of the light receiving unit 75, and thereby determines the position of the approval indicator 7 on the position detection pad 121. To get.
When the CPU 71 detects that the approval indicator has been pressed by the pressure detection unit 73, the CPU 71 generates a pressure detection signal, and compares the pressure detection signal with the position of the approval indicator 7 on the position detection pad 121. Is wirelessly transmitted by the wireless communication unit 76.
[0104]
The memory 72 stores a control program executed by the CPU 71.
Under the control of the CPU 71, the press detection unit 73 detects that the approval indicator 7 has been pressed and a pressing force has been applied to the distal end surface of the main body 701.
[0105]
The wireless communication unit 76 includes an antenna (not shown), and executes a predetermined wireless communication protocol with the wireless communication unit 34 (FIG. 4) included in the control circuit 30 of the imprint image output device 3 to generate the wireless communication unit 76 by the CPU 71. The transmitted pressure detection signal and position detection signal are wirelessly transmitted.
The specific form of the wireless communication unit 76 conforms to the wireless communication unit 24 included in the approval indicator 2 in the first embodiment.
[0106]
Then, in the approval system 120, when receiving the pressure detection signal and the position detection signal wirelessly transmitted from the approval indicator 7, the seal image output device 3 receives the seal detection image data and the seal ID stored in the memory 32. The position detection signal is output from the external device I / F 33 to the document editing device 4.
In the third embodiment, the seal image data stored in the memory 32 of the seal image output device 3 may be seal image data prepared in advance for approval.
[0107]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the document editing device 4 according to the third embodiment.
When a document editing is instructed by an input operation on the input unit 45 in step S61, the CPU 41 reads out the specified document file from the storage unit 44, expands the document file, and starts editing the document file. Subsequently, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S62, receives an instruction input from the input unit 45, and determines whether or not an approval process for adding an imprint to the document file has been instructed. Here, if the approval process has not been instructed, the CPU 41 shifts to step S63, executes a normal editing process, and ends this process.
[0108]
On the other hand, if the approval processing is instructed in step S62, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S64, and the CPU 41 waits for an input from the imprint image output device 3 connected via the external device I / F 47. Here, when the seal image data and the seal ID are input from the seal image output device 3, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S65, and acquires the input seal image data and the seal ID.
[0109]
Further, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S66, acquires and analyzes the position detection signal input together with the seal image data and the seal ID from the seal image output device 3, and analyzes the approval indicator 7 on the position detection pad 121. Get the position of.
[0110]
Subsequently, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S67, and executes a process of adding the imprint image data acquired in step S65 to the document file being edited. In the process of step S67, the CPU 41 adds the imprint image data to the position corresponding to the position obtained in step S66 in the document file being edited.
Next, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S68 to execute processing for embedding the seal ID in the document file.
[0111]
Further, the CPU 41 proceeds to step S69, and sets an attribute for restricting modification of the contents of the document file being edited. Thereafter, the CPU 41 shifts to step S70, saves the document file being edited, and ends this processing.
[0112]
As described above, according to the approval system 120 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, by performing the operation of pressing the approval indicator 7 against the position detection pad 121, the approval indicator 7 on the position detection pad 121 is operated. Since the imprint image data is added to the document file at the position reflecting the position, the imprint image data can be added to the position desired by the user.
[0113]
Therefore, when a plurality of positions to which imprint image data is to be added are prepared in the document file, the approval indicator 7 can be set to an appropriate position without performing an operation for selecting and specifying a position to which imprint image data is to be added. Imprint image data can be added to a desired position only by pressing the position. As a result, document files in extremely various formats can be processed, so that approval processing can be digitized for a large number of documents that have been conventionally approved by stamping on paper. Further, in performing the processing in the approval system 120, it is not necessary to change the format of the document printed on the paper, so that the approval system 120 can be applied simply and at low cost.
[0114]
Further, the technology of detecting the position on the position detection pad 121 using the light emitting unit 74 and the light receiving unit 75 in the approval indicator 7 is a technology that has already been put into practical use in the field of computer input devices as an optical mouse or the like. is there. By using this technique, the approval system 120 is a highly operable approval system that can easily indicate the position where the imprint image data should be added in the document, and can be constructed at low cost. As described above, the approval system 120 achieves a special effect by using the position detection technology practically used as the optical mouse or the like for the approval indicator 7.
[0115]
The present invention is not limited to the first to third embodiments, and it goes without saying that various changes can be made within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims. For example, the document editing device 4 and the PDA 6 in the above embodiment may have various functions such as a network connection function in addition to the document editing function. For example, in the case of having a function of transmitting and receiving an e-mail with a document file attached thereto, the approval system of the present invention executes an approval process on the received document file, attaches the processed document file to an e-mail and sends it to the sender. It is also possible to send back or forward to the next approver. Also, the specific shape of the approval indicators 2, 7, 50, 53, 55 is not particularly limited, and the specific detailed configuration in the first to third embodiments is arbitrary. Configurable.
[0116]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the approval device and the approval system of the present invention, the approval process of a document, which has been conventionally performed by stamping a document on paper, can be performed electronically by adding a seal image to the document data. When the system is executed dynamically, the process can be executed with a simple operation. In addition, the reliability of security is ensured, and the maintenance is simplified by simplifying the device configuration. As a result, the cost for constructing the system can be significantly reduced.
[0117]
That is, since the imprint image and the identification information depend on the approval indicator and the imprint image output device, if the approval indicator and the imprint image output device are managed so as not to be used by others, the unauthorized approval is performed. It is possible to secure the reliability in terms of security. Furthermore, compared with the case of using special hardware such as fingerprint authentication and retinal pattern collation, there is an advantage that the operation is simpler and it can be realized at low cost. In addition, when there are a plurality of document editing devices, it is not necessary to always use the same document editing device in the process of performing approval, so that restrictions on system use imposed on the user are reduced, and more convenience is provided. Improvement can be achieved.
In addition, there is no need to access a server or the like connected to the network to obtain imprint images or identification information, and there is no need to provide a server with various security measures. The cost can be reduced and cost can be reduced.
[0118]
In addition, when the approval indicator has a stamped surface, or when the approval indicator is attached to a seal having a stamped surface, when the approval indicator is operated, a pressing operation exactly the same as the operation of stamping on the paper surface may be performed. In other words, the user can operate with the same feeling as stamping in order to approve a document on paper, so that the user can use it without feeling uncomfortable.
[0119]
Further, when the transmitting means of the approval indicator wirelessly transmits the pressing detection signal, there is no need to wire-connect the approval indicator and the imprint image output device, so the approval indicator is placed at the mounting position of the imprint image output device. It can be held and operated without restriction. This makes it possible to further improve convenience. In particular, when the approval indicator has a seal surface or when the approval indicator is attached to a seal having a seal surface, the use as a normal seal is not limited to the position of the seal image output device, so that further convenience is provided. Improvement can be achieved.
[0120]
Then, the imprint image output from the imprint image output device is added to the document data, and the identification information is embedded. Therefore, it is possible to check whether or not genuine approval has been performed based on the identification information. For this reason, if the approval indicator is lost, the identification information of the lost approval indicator can no longer be used, and the approval indicator can be re-created with new identification information. it can.
[0121]
Furthermore, if the approval indicator and the imprint image output device are legitimate, approval can be performed without performing personal authentication processing, etc., for example, as a proxy from a user who owns the approval indicator and the imprint image output device. An agent requested to approve the document can do so on behalf of the user.
[0122]
Further, in the document data, since the imprint image is added to a position corresponding to the position of the approval indicator when the approval indicator is operated, it is not necessary to particularly perform an operation of selecting and specifying a position to which the imprint image is to be added. By simply operating the approval indicator at an appropriate position, the imprint image can be added to a desired position. As a result, it is possible to process document data in an extremely wide variety of formats, and for a large number of documents that were conventionally approved by stamping on paper, the format of the document printed on paper can be used as is. The approval process can be digitized.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an approval system 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an external view showing a configuration of an approval indicator 2 and an imprint image output device 3 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control circuit 20 built in the approval indicator 2 of FIG.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control circuit 30 incorporated in the imprint image output device 3 of FIG.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control circuit 40 built in the document editing device 4 of FIG.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the document editing device 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the operation of the document editing device 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of an approval indicator 50 as an example of an approval indicator using an existing seal in the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an approval indicator 53 as an example of an approval indicator having a stamp face other than a name stamp in the first embodiment of the present invention, and (a) shows a configuration of the approval indicator 53; FIG. 14B is a diagram showing a seal imprint 54 of the approval indicator 53.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an approval indicator 55 as an example of an approval indicator without a stamp face in the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of an approval system 110 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control circuit 60 built in the PDA 6 shown in FIG.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the PDA 6 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an approval system 120 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
15 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control circuit 70 built in the approval indicator 7 shown in FIG.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the document editing device 4 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
100, 110, 120 approval system
1 Approval device
2,50,53,55,7 Approval indicator
20, 30, 40, 60, 70 control circuit
3 Imprint image output device
4 Document editing device
6 PDAs

Claims (11)

An approval device, comprising: an approval indicator that is pressed, and an imprint image output device that outputs an imprint image in response to a press operation of the approval indicator. Pressing detection means for detecting a pressing operation;
An approval indicator including transmission means for transmitting a pressing detection signal when a pressing operation is detected by the pressing detecting means,
Storage means for storing the imprint image;
Receiving means for receiving a press detection signal transmitted from the approval indicator,
And an output device for outputting an imprint image stored in the storage device when a press detection signal is received by the receiving device. The transmitting means of the approval indicator wirelessly transmits the pressing detection signal,
3. The approval apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the reception means included in the imprint image output apparatus receives a pressing detection signal wirelessly transmitted by a transmission means included in the approval indicator. The storage means of the imprint image output device stores identification information unique to the approval indicator,
The approval device according to claim 2, wherein the output unit outputs the identification information stored in the storage unit. The approval indicator further includes a position information generating unit that detects a position of the approval indicator when pressed and generates position information,
The transmitting means transmits the position information generated by the position information generating means,
The receiving device of the imprint image output device receives the position information transmitted from the approval indicator,
The approval device according to claim 2, wherein the output unit outputs the position information received by the receiving unit. The approval device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the approval indicator has a stamp surface. The approval device according to claim 1, wherein the approval indicator is mounted on a seal having a seal surface. An approval system comprising: the approval device according to claim 1; and a document editing device that edits document data.
An approval system, wherein the document editing device includes an imprint image adding unit that adds an imprint image output from an imprint image output device included in the approval device to the document data. The document editing device includes an identification information embedding unit that embeds the identification information in the document data when the identification information unique to the approval indicator is output from the imprint image output device. An approval system according to claim 8. The document editing device, when position information indicating the position of the approval indicator when the approval indicator is pressed from the imprint image output device, the imprint image based on the position information Position determining means for determining a position to add
10. The approval system according to claim 8, wherein the imprint image adding means adds an imprint image to the document data at a position determined by the position determining means. The document editing device, a position detection unit that detects the position of the approval indicator when the approval indicator is pressed,
Position determining means for determining a position to which the imprint image is to be added, based on the position detected by the position detecting means,
10. The approval system according to claim 8, wherein the imprint image adding means adds an imprint image to the document data at a position determined by the position determining means.

Images