JP2005246705A - Image output device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image output device permitting output of an image on condition that a specific image is added. <P>SOLUTION: When a decision is made that a print job is received (S11: YES), the received print job is developed (S12) and analysis of image data and confirmation of attribute information are carried out (S13, S14). Subsequently, a decision is made whether addition of an extra image such as a ground tint pattern is required or not based on the analysis results of image data (S15). If it is required (S15: YES), a decision is made whether the print job is indicating addition of extra image or not (S16). If addition is indicated (S16: YES), extra image is added and then print processing is carried out (S17, S18). If addition is not indicated (S16: NO), necessity of addition of extra image is checked for the user and then the data of print job is stored (S21). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image output apparatus capable of permitting output on condition that a specific image is added.

  As one of techniques for preventing duplication of printed matter, a technique that uses a tint block pattern as a background of a document to be prevented from being duplicated is known. The copy-forgery-inhibited pattern consists of dots (foreground dots) that remain after copying with a copier, etc., and dots that are so small that they disappear when copied (background dots). In addition, background dots are arranged around the foreground dots so that the design does not stand out. When a printed matter on which a tint block pattern is formed is copied, the background dots disappear and only the foreground dots remain, so that characters and patterns drawn with the foreground dots appear. Therefore, by embedding characters such as “copy prohibited” and “confidential document” drawn with foreground dots in advance in the tint block pattern, it is possible to give the printed matter to be created the effect of suppressing duplication.

  There are roughly two methods for preventing duplication using a tint block pattern. One is a method using a special sheet on which a background pattern is printed in advance, and the other is a method for printing the background pattern together with a document as will be described later. In the former, a printed matter having an effect of preventing duplication can be obtained by printing a document by setting a special paper with a tint block pattern on a paper feed tray of the printer apparatus. However, such a method has a problem in that the cost for printing increases because it is necessary to easily prepare the paper on which the tint block pattern is printed. In addition, since characters and designs for suppressing duplication are predetermined, it is difficult to change the tint block pattern according to the document, and there is a problem that it is not convenient.

Therefore, in recent years, a method for printing a tint block pattern on plain paper by providing a printer driver or a printer device with a function of adding a tint block pattern to an image of a document to be printed has been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1). , 2). When a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern addition function is added to the printer driver, the image data for the document and the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern pattern image data are combined in the information processing apparatus in which the printer driver is incorporated. By transmitting the print job generated based on the image data obtained in this way to the printer device, it is possible to form a document with the background pattern as the background on plain paper. The same applies to the case where a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern addition function is installed in the printer apparatus. When the addition of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern is specified by the print job, the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern is added to the image data obtained by developing the print job. By combining the image data for printing and executing the printing process based on the image data obtained by the combining, it is possible to form a document with the background pattern as the background on plain paper. In these methods, a plurality of types of tint block patterns can be prepared by using a printer driver or a printer device, so that the tint block patterns can be selectively used according to the document.
JP 2001-324898 A JP 2003-224717 A

  In an environment where a printer driver or printer equipped with a tint block pattern addition function as described above can be used, a user may add a tint block pattern when printing a highly confidential document or the like. It is desirable to set by hand. However, if the user does not know that the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern addition function is installed or knows it, if the addition of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern is not set due to inconvenience, the confidentiality of the printed matter cannot be secured sufficiently Had problems.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances. When it is determined whether or not the received image data satisfies a predetermined condition and it is determined that the condition is satisfied, an instruction received for the image data is stored in memory. For an image satisfying a predetermined condition by determining whether or not an instruction to synthesize the image data stored in the means is included and determining whether or not output processing is possible based on the determination result An object of the present invention is to provide an image output apparatus in which a condition for output is to synthesize a specific image stored in a storage means.

  An image output apparatus according to the present invention receives image data and an instruction relating to an output process of the image data, and executes an output process based on the received instruction. A storage unit that stores a plurality of image data; a first determination unit that determines whether or not the received image data satisfies a predetermined condition; and when the image data determines that the condition is satisfied, the image data Second determination means for determining whether or not the received instruction includes an instruction to synthesize the image data stored in the storage means; and whether or not output processing is possible based on the determination result of the second determination means A determination means for determining the output data, a means for combining the image data with the received image data, and an image data obtained by combining Characterized in that it comprises means for executing an output process.

  In the present invention, it is determined whether or not the received image data satisfies a predetermined condition, and when it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the received instruction for the image data is the image data stored in the storage means. Since it is determined whether or not an instruction to be combined is included and whether or not output processing is possible is determined based on the determination result, when image data satisfying a predetermined condition is received, storage means The output is permitted on the condition that the image data stored in is combined. Therefore, for example, it is possible to set conditions such that an image such as a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern pattern is always added when a printed matter with high confidentiality is output, thereby preventing duplication of the printed matter with high confidentiality.

  An image output apparatus according to the present invention includes a detection unit that detects whether or not received image data includes predetermined information, and the first determination unit satisfies the condition based on a detection result of the detection unit. It is characterized by being able to judge whether or not.

  In the present invention, when the received image data includes predetermined information, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that the image data stored in the storage unit is combined. Therefore, if the received image data includes a specific keyword and a specific mark, and it is determined that the confidentiality is high, output is permitted on the condition that the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern etc. Copy protection and confidentiality protection.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives information about a user of the received image data, and the first determination unit determines whether the condition is satisfied based on the information received by the receiving unit. It is made to judge.

  In the present invention, in the case of image data of a specific user, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that the image data stored in the storage means is synthesized. Therefore, if it is determined that the image data is from a user who handles confidential documents, output is permitted on the condition that the image of a tint block pattern or the like is synthesized, thereby preventing duplication of printed matter and protecting confidentiality. Can be planned.

  An image output apparatus according to the present invention includes data storage means for storing received image data, and detection means for detecting the state of image data stored in the data storage means, wherein the first determination means includes: It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not the condition is satisfied based on a detection result of the detection means.

  In the present invention, when the received image data is stored in a specific state, it is possible to control to permit output on condition that the image data stored in the storage means is synthesized. Become. Therefore, when it is determined that the image data stored encrypted and the image data stored with a password are stored in consideration of confidentiality, an image such as a tint block pattern is displayed. Control that permits output on condition of combining is possible. As a result, it is possible to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality.

  An image output apparatus according to the present invention includes a plurality of data storage means for storing received image data, and the first determination means determines whether or not the condition is satisfied according to a storage destination of the image data. It is characterized by having it done.

  In the present invention, when image data is stored in a specific storage destination, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that the image data stored in the storage unit is combined. . Therefore, when it is determined that the image is stored in a state where the confidentiality is taken into consideration at the storage destination, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that an image such as a tint block pattern is synthesized. As a result, it is possible to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention includes means for specifying a path of received image data, and the first determination means should determine whether the condition is satisfied according to the path of the image data. It is characterized by being.

  In the present invention, if the image data is received from a specific route, or if the image data is to be output from a specific route, the image data stored in the storage means is combined. It is possible to control such that the output is permitted. Therefore, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on the condition that an image such as a tint block pattern is synthesized according to the processing content, and as a result, it is possible to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by comprising means for informing information to that effect when the determining means determines that the output processing is not allowed.

  In the present invention, when output processing based on image data becomes impossible, a notification to that effect is made, so that it is requested to add an image such as a tint block pattern. On the other hand, it is possible to propose usage methods that are conscious of security.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention comprises means for accepting selection relating to the necessity of synthesis of the image data stored in the storage means when the decision means decides that the output processing is not allowed, and the means When a selection requiring composition is received, the image data is combined with the received image data, and then output processing is performed.

  In the present invention, even if it is determined that output is impossible, output is started when a new selection that requires composition of image data is accepted, so that a pattern such as a tint block pattern is displayed. It is possible to request that an image be added, and it is possible to propose a usage method in consideration of security to the user.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention does not accept the selection until the predetermined time elapses after starting the timing when the determining means determines that the output process is disabled. In this case, the apparatus further comprises means for invalidating the image data.

  In the present invention, the image data is invalidated when a selection requiring the synthesis of the image data is not accepted during the elapse of a predetermined time after the determination that the output process is disabled. Therefore, image data that is not output is not left in the apparatus, and data leakage can be prevented.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention comprises means for selecting image data to be combined from image data stored in the storage means in accordance with conditions satisfied by the received image data.

  In the present invention, the image data to be combined is selected according to the conditions satisfied by the received image data. Therefore, when outputting highly confidential image data, consideration is given to prevent unauthorized use. Can be output.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by comprising means for storing a history of instructions regarding accepted output processing.

  In the present invention, since the history of instructions related to output processing is stored, it is possible to check the information of the added image data after output.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that the output process is a process of forming an image on a sheet.

  Since the present invention includes a process for forming an image on a sheet as an output process, the present invention can be applied to a printer device, a digital multi-function peripheral, and the like.

  The image output apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that the output process is a process of transmitting received image data and an instruction related to the output process of the image data to the outside.

  Since the present invention includes a process for transmitting image data to the outside as an output process, it can be applied to a print server, a network scanner, a facsimile machine, and the like.

  According to the present invention, it is determined whether or not the received image data satisfies a predetermined condition, and if it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the received instruction for the image data combines the image data stored in the storage means. Since it is determined whether or not an instruction to be included is included and whether or not output processing is possible is determined based on the determination result, when image data satisfying a predetermined condition is received, The output is permitted on condition that the stored image data is synthesized. Therefore, for example, it is possible to set conditions such that a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern pattern or the like is always added when a printed matter with high confidentiality is output, and an effect of preventing duplication of the printed matter with high confidentiality is obtained.

  In the present invention, when the received image data includes predetermined information, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that the image data stored in the storage unit is combined. Therefore, if the received image data includes a specific keyword and a specific mark, and it is determined that the confidentiality is high, output is permitted on the condition that the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern etc. Copy protection and confidentiality protection.

  In the present invention, in the case of image data from a specific user, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that the image data stored in the storage means is synthesized. Therefore, if it is determined that the image data is for a user who handles confidential documents, output is permitted on the condition that images such as copy-forgery-inhibited pattern patterns are combined to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality. Can be planned.

  In the present invention, when the received image data is stored in a specific state, it is possible to control to permit output on condition that the image data stored in the storage means is synthesized. Become. Therefore, when it is determined that the image data stored encrypted and the image data stored with a password are stored in consideration of confidentiality, an image such as a tint block pattern is displayed. Control that permits output on condition of combining is possible. As a result, it is possible to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality.

  In the present invention, when image data is stored in a specific storage destination, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that the image data stored in the storage unit is combined. . Therefore, when it is determined that the image is stored in a state where the confidentiality is taken into consideration at the storage destination, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that an image such as a tint block pattern is synthesized. As a result, it is possible to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality.

  In the present invention, if the image data is received from a specific route, or if the image data is to be output from a specific route, the image data stored in the storage means is combined. It is possible to control such that the output is permitted. Therefore, it is possible to perform control such that output is permitted on condition that an image such as a tint block pattern is synthesized according to the processing content, and as a result, it is possible to prevent duplication of printed matter and protect confidentiality.

  In the present invention, when output processing based on image data becomes impossible, a notification to that effect is made, so that it is requested to add an image such as a tint block pattern. On the other hand, it is possible to propose usage methods that are conscious of security.

  In the present invention, even if it is determined that output is impossible, output is started when a new selection that requires composition of image data is accepted, so that a pattern such as a tint block pattern is displayed. It is possible to request that an image be added, and it is possible to propose a usage method in consideration of security to the user.

  In the present invention, the image data is invalidated if a selection requiring the synthesis of the image data is not accepted within a predetermined time after the determination that the output processing is disabled. Therefore, image data that is not output is not left in the apparatus, and data leakage can be prevented.

  In the present invention, the image data to be combined is selected according to the conditions satisfied by the received image data. Therefore, when outputting highly confidential image data, consideration is given to prevent unauthorized use. Can be output.

  In the present invention, since the history of instructions related to output processing is stored, the information of the added image data can be confirmed after output.

  Since the present invention includes a process for forming an image on a sheet as an output process, the present invention can be applied to a printer device, a digital multi-function peripheral, and the like.

  Since the present invention includes a process for transmitting image data to the outside as an output process, the present invention can be applied to a print server, a network scanner, a facsimile machine, and the like.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.
Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. In the figure, reference numeral 100 denotes a print function for forming an image on a sheet such as paper or an OHP film, a scanner function for reading an image of a document, a copy function for forming a read image on a sheet, and image data obtained by reading the image on the outside , 300 is connected to the multifunction device 100 via a communication network N, such as personal computers and workstations. In the information processing apparatus 300, an application program for creating a document, graphics, and the like, and a driver program (printer driver) for using the multifunction peripheral 100 via the communication network N are installed in advance. A configuration is such that a printer driver is called from an application, a print job created by the printer driver is transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 100, and a document, graphics, or the like is printed out.

  Further, user authentication devices 301, 301,..., 301 for performing user authentication are connected to the information processing devices 300, 300,. The personal authentication information (user name, department name, etc.) is added, and the information can be transmitted to the multifunction device 100.

  In the present embodiment, a document, graphics, or the like created by the user using the information processing apparatus 300, or an image acquired by the image reading unit (see FIG. 2) of the multifunction peripheral 100 is an image that satisfies a predetermined condition. In some cases, printing is permitted on condition that an image (hereinafter referred to as an additional image) prepared in advance by the multi-function device 100 is added. The MFP 100 includes a watermark indicating the nature of the document such as “secret” and “important”, a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image for prohibiting or suppressing document copying, a department code indicating the user's affiliation, and specific information. An image such as a barcode is prepared as an additional image in advance, and a watermark is added when it is determined that the image created by the user contains important information or information that should be kept secret. Or requesting the addition of a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image when it is determined that highly confidential information is included. If these images are not added, printing is not permitted, thereby restricting the use of printed materials for illegal purposes. For a print job that is not permitted to be printed, the print job is accumulated in the MFP 100 for a predetermined period, and a print process based on the print job is executed when a print request with an additional image added is received. To do.

  Note that a print server 200 is connected to the communication network N, and a print job can be transmitted via the print server 200. However, in the present embodiment, the information processing apparatus 300 transmits a multifunction device. Assume that a print job is directly transmitted to 100, and a mode in which the print job is transmitted via the print server 200 will be described in the third embodiment.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the internal configuration of the multifunction peripheral 100. The multi-function device 100 includes a CPU 101. The CPU 101 reads and executes a control program stored in the ROM 103 in advance, thereby controlling various hardware connected via the bus 102, and the present invention as a whole. The image output device is operated. The RAM 104 is constituted by a semiconductor memory, and temporarily stores data generated during execution of the control program, data input through the operation panel 105, data of various jobs received through the communication interface 109, and the like. .

  The operation panel 105 includes an operation unit including various hardware keys and a display unit including a liquid crystal display (see FIG. 4). It accepts user instructions such as various function switching operations and document reading start instructions, and displays information to be notified to the user.

  The image reading unit 106 includes a light source for irradiating light to a reading document, an image sensor such as a CCD element, an AD converter (not shown), and the like, and an image of the document set at a predetermined reading position. An image is formed on the image sensor and converted into an analog electric signal, and the converted analog signal is AD converted by an AD converter. Then, the image reading unit 106 corrects the light distribution characteristics of the light source at the time of document reading, the sensitivity unevenness of the image sensor, and the like on the digital signal obtained by AD conversion, thereby converting the digital image data. Generate.

  The image forming unit 107 is, for example, a charger that charges the photosensitive drum to a predetermined potential, or laser writing that generates an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum by emitting laser light in accordance with image data received from the outside. An apparatus, a developing device that supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum to make it visible, a transfer device that transfers the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum onto paper (not shown), etc. The image desired by the user can be formed on the paper by the electrophotographic method. In this embodiment, the image forming unit 107 is configured to perform image formation by an electrophotographic method using a laser writing device, but is configured to perform image formation by an inkjet method, a thermal transfer method, and a sublimation method. Of course, it may be.

  The image memory 108 includes a semiconductor memory, and temporarily stores image data acquired by the image reading unit 106, image data developed from a print job received through the communication interface 109, image data read from the HDD device 110, and the like. Hold on. The image data temporarily stored in the image memory 108 is transferred to a transfer destination according to the purpose of use in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 101. That is, when an image formation on a sheet is instructed, the image data is transferred to the image forming unit 107. When an image data transmission is instructed, the image data is transferred to the communication interface 109, and when image data storage is instructed. Is transferred to the HDD device 110.

  The communication interface 109 includes a line termination circuit that complies with the communication standard of the communication network N, receives print jobs from the information processing apparatuses 300, 300,... Information to be notified is transmitted to the processing devices 300, 300,. When the multifunction peripheral 100 is used as a so-called network scanner, the original image obtained by the image reading unit 106 is transmitted to the target information processing apparatus 300 through the communication interface 109. The communication interface 109 controls transmission / reception of such various data.

  The HDD device 110 is a storage device having a disk-shaped magnetic recording medium, and a part of the storage area is a print data storage area 110A for storing print job data, and a history information storage for storing received print job history. The area 110B is used as an additional image storage area 110C for storing additional images. The print job data stored in the print data storage area 110A can be read through an operation by the operation panel 105, and a print process can be executed based on the read print job data.

  The user authentication device 111 includes an information reading unit for reading the personal authentication information from a card-type recording memory such as a magnetic card or an IC card that stores the personal authentication information of the user, and the personal authentication read by the information reading unit. A determination unit that compares and determines information and personal authentication information registered in the multifunction peripheral 100 is provided, and the CPU 101 is notified of the determination result by the determination unit. Based on the notified determination result, the CPU 101 gives an execution instruction for an appropriate process to each hardware unit.

  In this embodiment, the user authentication device 111 has been described as a device that reads personal authentication information from a card type recording memory. However, the recording medium for carrying the personal authentication information is not limited to the card type memory. It is. For example, the personal authentication information may be acquired by exchanging information with a communication device such as a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or a wireless tag using wireless communication, infrared communication, Bluetooth communication, or the like. In addition, when the user authentication is performed using the numeric keypad provided on the operation panel 105, it is needless to say that the user authentication device 111 is not necessarily provided separately.

  When creating a print job to be transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 100 using a printer driver preinstalled in the information processing apparatus 300, the user can set an additional image to be added through the printer driver. . FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen generated by the printer driver. In the print setting screen 30 shown in FIG. 3, a printer selection column 31 for selecting a printer name (multifunction device name) corresponding to a transmission destination of a print job, a print range specification column 32 for specifying a print range, a print A print number designation field 33 for designating the number of copies and an additional image selection field 34 for selecting an additional image are provided. The additional image selection column 34 includes a plurality of check boxes arranged corresponding to the respective additional images. An additional image to be added can be selected by checking one or more check boxes by operating a mouse or the like not shown in the drawing. For example, when a check box arranged in the upper row is checked, a watermark representing “secret” or “important” is selected, and when a check box arranged in the middle row is checked, a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image (background print A or Background pattern B) is selected. Furthermore, a department code or a barcode can be selected as an additional image by checking a check box arranged in the lower stage.

  Also, the print setting screen 30 confirms the set contents, generates a print job, an execution button 35 for instructing the start of transmission to the multifunction peripheral 100, and the print setting screen 30 without confirming the set contents. Is provided with a cancel button 36 for returning the processing to the application that called.

  Further, when an operation panel 105 on the multifunction peripheral 100 side is operated to set a copy processing request, an additional image to be added can be selected. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the operation panel 105. The operation panel 105 includes an operation unit 105a composed of various hardware keys for accepting user instructions such as the number of prints, copy density, function switching operation, and output start instruction, and is input through the operation unit 105a. The display unit 105b displays various set values, information to be notified to the user, and the like. A part of the display unit 105b includes a touch panel type software key configured to accept various setting operations.

  When a predetermined operation instruction is received on the operation panel 105, for example, when the “special function key” arranged on the initial screen shown in FIG. 4A is pressed by the user's hand, FIG. A selection screen 11 for accepting selection of an additional image as shown in (b) is displayed on the display unit 105b. A selection button for selecting an additional image is arranged near the center of the selection screen 11. For example, when the upper selection button is pressed among the displayed selection buttons, “secret” Alternatively, when a watermark representing “important” is selected and the selection button in the lower row is pressed, a background pattern image (background pattern A or background pattern B) set in advance is selected. In addition, page switching buttons 12a and 12b are arranged on the right end side of the screen in order to display selection buttons not displayed on the display unit 105b, and by pressing these page switching buttons 12a and 12b, Other selection buttons can be displayed. In addition, a confirm button 13 and a cancel button 14 are arranged at the bottom of the screen. When the confirm button 13 is pressed, the selected additional image is confirmed, and when the cancel button 14 is pressed, the selection is made. A process for returning to the initial screen shown in FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of a print job created by the printer driver. A print job created by the printer driver is composed of print data attribute information composed of personal authentication information, destination information, additional image information, and file authentication information, and the print data itself. The personal authentication information is information input through the above-described user authentication device 301, and includes information related to the user name, department name, and the like. The destination information is information related to the destination of the printed matter created by the multifunction peripheral 100. In the present image forming system, the destination information is managed by a flag. For example, when the flag is “01”, it indicates that the print is for internal use, and when the flag is “02”, it indicates that the print is for external use. The destination information is input through the printer driver. The additional image information is information for designating the type of additional image to be added by the multifunction peripheral 100, and is managed by a flag as in the destination information. For example, when the flag is “01”, it indicates that the “secret” watermark is selected as the additional image, and when the flag is “03”, the “background pattern B” is displayed as the additional image. This indicates that the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image is selected. The same applies to other additional images. The file authentication information is information indicating the nature of the document to be printed, and is managed by a flag as described above. When the flag is “01”, it is a confidential document, and when the flag is “02”, it is a sample document. Such file authentication information is registered through a printer driver or a created application. The print data includes information necessary for executing the printing process in the multifunction peripheral 100 such as the printing range and the number of copies, and image data output by the printer driver based on the document, graphics, etc. to be printed (for example, , Bitmap data, or data described in a page description language). The print data also includes information regarding whether or not the print job needs to be encrypted. When the flag is “01”, encryption is requested, and when the flag is “02”, encryption is performed. Indicates that it is not required. Note that the print job may be encrypted by a print driver software process when the print job is transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 100, or the software when the multi-function peripheral 100 receives the print job. The configuration may be such that encryption is performed by processing according to or hardware processing.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the MFP 100 when executing the printing process. First, the CPU 101 of the multifunction peripheral 100 determines whether a print job has been accepted (step S11). The print job accepted by the multifunction device 100 includes a job generated by the multifunction device 100 itself when a request for a copy process is received by the multifunction device 100 in addition to the print job from the information processing apparatus 300 transmitted through the communication network N. Is also included. Therefore, by monitoring information input through the operation panel 105 and information received through the communication interface 109, it is possible to determine whether or not a print job has been received.

  If it is determined that the print job has been accepted (S11: YES), the accepted print job is developed (step S12), and image data and information (attribute information) relating to the print instruction for the image data are acquired. Next, the acquired image data is analyzed (step S13), and attribute information is confirmed (step S14). In the analysis of the image data, it is detected whether or not information indicating confidentiality is included in the print image. For example, it is determined whether or not there is confidentiality by detecting whether or not a predetermined symbol, such as “confidential” or “external secret”, is included by pattern matching or character recognition. On the other hand, in the confirmation of the attribute information, the personal authentication information attached to the print job, the destination information, the additional image information, the file authentication information, and the information related to the presence / absence of encryption are confirmed.

  Next, the CPU 101 of the multi-function device 100 receives the image data analysis result and determines whether or not an additional image needs to be added (step S15). The MFP 100 requests that an additional image be added when the print image includes information indicating confidentiality. When the CPU 101 determines that the addition of the additional image is necessary (S15: YES), the received print job instructs the addition of the additional image by referring to the additional image information which is one of the attribute information. It is determined whether or not (step S16). When it is determined that the print job instructs to add an additional image (S16: YES), that is, when it is determined that the flag representing the additional image information is “01” to “07”, the addition of the HDD device 110 is performed. The corresponding additional image is read from the image storage area 110C, and the read additional image is added to the image for printing (step S17). Specifically, a process of combining the data related to the additional image and the data related to the image for printing is executed to generate one combined image. Next, the print processing is executed by transferring the generated composite image data to the image forming unit 107 (step S18). If it is determined in step S15 that the addition of an additional image is not necessary (S15: NO), the print processing is executed by transferring the image data acquired by developing the print job to the image forming unit 107 ( S18).

  If it is determined in step S16 that the print job does not instruct the addition of an additional image (S16: NO), the user is confirmed whether or not an additional image needs to be added (step S19). FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen output when confirming whether or not an additional image needs to be added. If the received print job is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 300, the multifunction peripheral 100 gives an instruction to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication network N, and a notification screen as shown in FIG. 40 is displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus 300. In this case, the notification screen 40 may be created by a print driver installed in the information processing apparatus 300, or may be created by the operating system of the information processing apparatus 300. If the received print job is a job generated when a copy processing request is received, the notification screen 40 shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the display unit 105 b of the operation panel 105.

  The notification screen 40 indicates that “an additional image is not set for the data” and “additional data is necessary to execute the output” and is there an intention to add the additional image? Selection buttons 40a and 40b for confirming whether or not to the user are arranged in the lower area of the screen. When the selection button 40a is selected by the operation by the user, the screen display is switched to the selection screen 41 shown in FIG. On this selection screen 41, a selection button group 41a composed of a plurality of selection buttons for selecting an additional image to be added is arranged. When any one of the selection buttons included in the selection button group 41a is selected, the MFP 100 is notified of information about adding an additional image and information about the type of additional image to be added. On the other hand, when the selection button 40b is selected by the user's operation, the MFP 100 is notified that no additional image is added. At this time, the MFP 100 can print by adding an additional image on the operation panel 105 to the effect that “the printing process based on the received job has not been completed because no additional image has been added”. A warning e-mail including information indicating “is” is output. The output warning mail is displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus 300 or the display unit 105b of the operation panel 105 (see FIG. 7C).

  After confirming whether the additional image needs to be added through the notification screen 40 and the selection screen 41, the CPU 101 of the multifunction peripheral 100 determines whether the additional image to be added has been selected (step S20). If it is determined that the additional image to be added has been selected (S20: YES), the process proceeds to step S17, the selected additional image is added to the image for printing (S17), and the printing process is executed (S18). ). If no additional image to be added is selected (S20: NO), the print job data is stored in the print data storage area 110A in the HDD device 110 (step S21), as shown in FIG. Such a warning mail notifies the user that printing has not been completed (step S22).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that no print job has been accepted (S11: NO), the selection of the saved print job is accepted in order to output the print job saved in the print data storage area 110A. It is determined whether or not (step S23). If it is determined that the selection has not been accepted (S23: NO), the process returns to step S11. If it is determined that the selection has been accepted (S23: YES), selection of an additional image to be added is requested (step S24). At this time, the multi-function device 100 displays the notification screen 40 shown in FIG. 7A on the display unit 105b of the operation panel 105, confirms the user's intention, and then displays the additional image shown in FIG. 7B. The selection screen 41 is displayed and the selection of an additional image is requested. Then, it is determined whether or not an additional image to be added has been selected (step S25). If it is determined that no additional image has been selected (S25: NO), the process returns to step S24, and the additional image is selected. If it is determined (S25: YES), the process proceeds to step S17, the selected additional image is added to the image for printing (S17), and the printing process is executed (S18).

  In the present embodiment, the output is permitted when any additional image stored in the additional image storage area 110C is added. However, the additional image stored in the additional image storage area 110C is used. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which output is permitted when the addition of a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image is requested, and output is not permitted when the addition of another additional image is requested.

  In the present embodiment, the print data data is stored in the print data storage area 110A in the HDD 110 so that the print job data is not left in the output data waiting state in the print data storage area 110A. If there is no output instruction, the print job data is deleted. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processing executed by the multi-function device 100 when data is stored in the print data storage area 110A. First, the CPU 101 of the multi-function peripheral 100 determines whether or not print job data has been saved in the print data storage area 110A (step S31). If no print job data is stored in the print data storage area 110A (S31: NO), the process waits until it is stored.

  If it is determined that the print job data is stored in the print data storage area 110A (S31: YES), the CPU 101 activates a timer (not shown) (step S32). Next, the CPU 101 determines whether or not there is a print request based on the stored print data (step S33). If it is determined that there is a print request (S33: YES), the processing by this routine is terminated. After this, the processing after step S24 shown in FIG. 6 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S33 that there is no print request (S33: NO), it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed by referring to the output of the timer (step S34). If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (S34: NO), the process returns to step S33. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (S34: YES), the print job data is deleted from the print data storage area 110A (step S35).

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the print job data stored in the print data storage area 110A is deleted after a predetermined time has elapsed, the print job data is not left in the apparatus without being output. In addition to preventing stagnation, it is possible to prevent information from leaking through unauthorized access by a third party.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, the print data obtained by developing the received print job is analyzed to determine whether or not an additional image needs to be added. The print job includes personal authentication information, destination information, additional information, and the like. Since various types of information such as image information and file authentication information are included, it is possible to determine whether or not it is necessary to add an additional image by comprehensively determining these pieces of information.

  FIG. 9 is a chart showing criteria for determining whether or not an additional image needs to be added, and FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a determination method. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the security level (score) of the printed matter is defined for each user, for each destination of the printed matter, for each file authentication information, and for each necessity of encryption. For the additional image, a security level (score) for determining whether printing is possible is defined. When the MFP 100 accepts a print job, the security requested by the print job is based on personal authentication information, destination information, file authentication information, and information regarding necessity of encryption obtained by developing the print job. Calculate the level. If an additional image satisfying the calculated security level is added (or requesting the addition of the additional image), printing is permitted, otherwise printing is suspended and the print job Are stored in the print data storage area 110A.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 10A, an additional image having a score of 25 or more is required to permit printing. As a result of referring to FIG. 9C, only the “background pattern A” satisfies the condition. You can see that That is, in this example, the condition for permitting printing is that “background pattern A” is selected as the additional image, and control is performed so that printing is suspended when other additional images are selected. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 10B, an additional image having a score of 12 or more is required to permit printing. As a result of referring to FIG. 9C, “important”, “background pattern A”, It can be seen that the additional image of “background pattern B” satisfies the condition. That is, in this example, printing is permitted when any of “important”, “background pattern A”, or “background pattern B” is added, and printing is suspended when other additional images are added. Such control becomes possible.

  As described above, by setting whether or not printing can be performed in accordance with various types of information accompanying the printing process, it is possible to propose a flexible security environment according to the usage environment.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the first embodiment, the information processing apparatus 300 directly transmits a print job to the multifunction peripheral 100, and the multifunction peripheral 100 that has received the print job determines whether or not an additional image needs to be added, and print job. However, when the print job created by the information processing apparatus 300 is transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 100 via the print server 200, the above two determinations are performed. A configuration in which the print server 200 is configured may be used.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating the internal configuration of the print server 200. The print server 200 includes a CPU 201, and the CPU 201 reads and executes a control program stored in advance in the ROM 203, thereby controlling various hardware connected via the bus 202, and the present invention as a whole. The image output device is operated. The RAM 204 is composed of a semiconductor memory, and temporarily stores data generated during execution of the control program, data of various jobs received through the communication interface 209, and the like.

  The image memory 208 is configured by a semiconductor memory, and temporarily holds image data developed from a print job received through the communication interface 209, image data based on print data read from the HDD device 110, and the like. The image data temporarily stored in the image memory 208 is transferred to a transfer destination according to the purpose of use in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 201.

  The communication interface 209 includes a line termination circuit compliant with the communication standard of the communication network N, and receives and receives print jobs from the information processing apparatuses 300, 300,..., 300 connected to the communication network N. The print job is transmitted to the multifunction device 100. The communication interface 209 controls transmission / reception of a print job in order to relay the print job.

  The HDD device 210 is a storage device having a disk-shaped magnetic recording medium. A part of the storage area is a print data storage area 210A for storing print job data, and history information for storing a history of received print jobs. It is used as the storage area 210B. The print job data stored in the print data storage area 110 </ b> A can be read by an instruction from the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication network N, and the read print job can be transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 100. Yes.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the print server 200. The CPU 201 of the print server 200 first determines whether or not a print job has been accepted (step S41). The print job accepted by the print server 200 is a print job from the information processing apparatus 300 transmitted through the communication network N. Therefore, the CPU 201 can determine whether a print job has been received by monitoring information received through the communication interface 209.

  If it is determined that the print job has been accepted (S41: YES), the accepted print job is developed (step S42), and image data and information (attribute information) relating to the print instruction for the image data are acquired. Next, the acquired image data is analyzed (step S43), and attribute information is confirmed (step S44). In the analysis of the image data, it is detected whether or not information indicating confidentiality is included in the print image. For example, it is possible to determine whether or not there is confidentiality by detecting whether or not a predetermined symbol such as “confidential” or “external secret” is included by pattern matching or character recognition. . On the other hand, in the confirmation of the attribute information, the personal authentication information attached to the print job, the destination information, the additional image information, the file authentication information, and the information related to the presence / absence of encryption are confirmed.

  Next, the CPU 201 of the print server 200 receives the analysis result of the image data and determines whether or not an additional image needs to be added (step S45). The print server 200 requests that an additional image be added when the print image includes information indicating confidentiality. When the CPU 201 determines that the addition of the additional image is necessary (S45: YES), the received print job instructs the addition of the additional image by referring to the additional image information which is one of the attribute information. It is determined whether or not there is (step S46).

  If it is determined in step S45 that addition of an additional image is necessary, but it is determined that the addition of the additional image is not instructed by the print job (S46: NO), the addition is made to the user. Whether or not image addition is necessary is confirmed (step S47). Specifically, an instruction is given to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication network N, and the notification screen 40 as shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus 300. Then, it is determined whether an additional image to be added is selected on the subsequent selection screen 41 (step S48). If no additional image to be added is selected (S48: NO), the print job data is stored in the print data storage area 210A in the HDD device 210 (step S49), as shown in FIG. A warning mail notifies the user of the information processing apparatus 300 that printing has not been completed (step S50).

  If it is determined in step S45 that no additional image is necessary (S45: NO), if it is determined in step S46 that the print job instructs to add an additional image (S46: YES), and step S48. If it is determined that an additional image to be added is selected (S48: YES), a print job including information related to the necessity of adding the additional image is transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 100 (step S51).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S41 that no print job has been accepted (S41: NO), the selection of the saved print job is accepted to transmit the print job saved in the print data storage area 210A. It is determined whether or not (step S52). If it is determined that the selection is not accepted (S52: NO), the process returns to step S41. If it is determined that the selection is accepted (S52: YES), the selection of an additional image to be added is requested (step S53). At this time, the print server 200 displays the notification screen 40 shown in FIG. 7A on the display unit of the information processing apparatus 300, confirms the user's intention, and requests selection of an additional image. Then, it is determined whether or not an additional image to be added has been selected (step S54). If it is determined that no additional image has been selected (S54: NO), the process returns to step S53, and the additional image is selected. If it is determined that the print job has been determined (S54: YES), the print job read from the print data storage area 210A is transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 100 (S51).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the multifunction peripheral 100 that has received a print job from the print server 200. The CPU 101 of the multifunction peripheral 100 determines whether or not a print job from the print server 200 has been received by monitoring information received through the communication interface 109 (step S61). If it is determined that a print job has not been received (S61: NO), the process waits until a print job is received.

If it is determined that a print job has been received (S61: YES), the received print job is expanded (step S62), and image data and information (attribute information) relating to a print instruction for the image data are acquired. Then, it is determined whether or not the print job requests addition of an additional image with reference to the additional image information in the acquired attribute information (step S63). When it is determined that the print job requests addition of an additional image (S63: YES), the corresponding additional image is read from the additional image storage area 110C in the HDD 110, and the additional image is added to the image for printing. It is added (step S64). Specifically, a process of combining the data related to the additional image and the data related to the image for printing is executed to generate one combined image. Next, printing processing is executed by transferring the generated composite image data to the image forming unit 107 (step S65).
If it is determined that the addition of an additional image is not requested (S63: NO), the image data acquired in step S62 is transferred to the image forming unit 107, and a printing process is executed (S65).

  In this embodiment, the received print job is analyzed to determine whether an additional image is necessary. However, when a plurality of destination MFPs 100 are connected to the communication network, the print job It is also possible to determine whether an additional image is necessary according to the transmission destination. In this case, for example, when the MFP 100 set in the department to which the user belongs is set as the transmission destination, the addition of the additional image is not requested, and the composite installed in another department is requested. Control can be made to request addition of an additional image when the device 100 is the transmission destination, and a flexible security environment can be proposed according to the installation status of the multifunction device 100 and the information processing device 300. .

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming system according to an exemplary embodiment. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the multifunction machine. FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen generated by a printer driver. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of an operation panel. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the contents of a print job created by a printer driver. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the multifunction machine when executing print processing. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the screen output when confirming the necessity of addition of an additional image. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processing executed by the multi-function peripheral when data is stored in a print data storage area. It is a chart which shows the judgment standard at the time of judging the necessity of addition of an additional image. It is explanatory drawing explaining a judgment method. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a print server. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the print server. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a multifunction peripheral that has received a print job from a print server.

Explanation of symbols

100 MFP 101 CPU
102 bus 103 ROM
104 RAM
105 Operation Panel 106 Image Reading Unit 107 Image Forming Unit 108 Image Memory 109 Communication Interface 110 HDD Device 110A Print Data Storage Area 110B History Information Storage Area 110C Additional Image Storage Area 111 User Authentication Device 200 Print Server
300 Information processing equipment N Communication network

Claims (13)

In the image output apparatus that receives the image data and an instruction related to the output process of the image data, and executes the output process based on the received instruction.
Storage means for storing one or a plurality of image data to be combined with the received image data; first determination means for determining whether the received image data satisfies a predetermined condition; and the image data satisfies the condition. A second determination unit that determines whether or not the instruction received for the image data includes an instruction to synthesize the image data stored in the storage unit when it is determined that the image data is satisfied; Obtained by combining the determining means for determining whether or not the output processing is possible based on the determination result, and the means for combining the image data with the received image data when the determination is made that the output processing is permitted. An image output apparatus comprising: means for executing output processing based on image data.   Detection means is provided for detecting whether the received image data includes predetermined information, and the first determination means is configured to determine whether the condition is satisfied based on a detection result of the detection means. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image output apparatus is provided.   Receiving means for receiving information relating to the user of the received image data, wherein the first determining means is configured to determine whether the condition is satisfied based on the information received by the receiving means; The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:   Data storage means for storing the received image data; and detection means for detecting the state of the image data stored in the data storage means, wherein the first determination means is based on a detection result of the detection means. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not the condition is satisfied.   A plurality of data storage means for storing the received image data, wherein the first determination means determines whether or not the condition is satisfied according to a storage destination of the image data; The image output apparatus according to claim 1.   2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for specifying a path of received image data, wherein the first determination means determines whether or not the condition is satisfied according to the path of the image data. The image output device described in 1.   The image output apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising means for notifying information to that effect when the determining means determines that output processing is not allowed.   In the case where the determination means determines that output processing is not possible, the determination means includes a means for accepting selection relating to the necessity of composition of the image data stored in the storage means, and accepts a selection requiring composition by the means. 8. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image data is combined with the received image data and then output processing is executed. .   When the determination means determines that output processing is disabled, the image data is invalidated if the selection is not received before a predetermined time elapses after starting the time measurement when the time measurement is started. The image output apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising: means.   10. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: means for selecting image data to be synthesized from image data stored in the storage unit according to a condition satisfied by the received image data. 11. Image output device.   11. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for storing a history of instructions relating to the accepted output process.   12. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output process is a process of forming an image on a sheet.   12. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output process is a process of transmitting received image data and an instruction related to the output process of the image data to the outside. .

Images