JP2000324282A - Network copy file management system, copy system, copy server, network copy file managing method and computer-readable medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a network copy file management system, which stores image data obtained by reading an original as an image file on a disk in a copy system and also can transmit the image file to a 3rd network device. SOLUTION: Image data, obtained by a scanner part 115, is stored in an image file and stored in a hard disk (13), whereas each client terminal 2 requests a copy server 10 for the management information of the image file in the hard disk (13). A control part 112 of the server 10, receiving this file management information request, reads file management information about the image file in a request object directory from the disk (13) and transmits it to the client terminal of a request source. The image file is transmitted to a 3rd network device in accordance with operation performed by an operator, on the basis of the information.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention comprises a copy system, a terminal, and a third network device interconnected via a computer network, and reads image data obtained by reading a document in the copy system from a terminal. Network copy file management system for transmitting to a third network device in response to an instruction, copy system constituting such a network copy file management system, copy server forming the core of such a copy system, network copy as described above The present invention relates to a network copy file management method by a file management system, and a computer-readable medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as a copy server as described above.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In the past, a copy system was of a so-called analog type in which an image of a document placed on a platen was formed directly on a photosensitive drum and developed on paper using an electrophotographic process. However, with the development of digital technology in recent years, in order to enable more advanced image processing, a digital method in which an original is read as digital image data, image processing is performed as appropriate, and then printed,
Copy systems have become mainstream.

[0003] Such a digital copying system is a reading device for reading an original, a printing device for printing, and controlling these devices, appropriately processing image data received from the reading device, and transmitting the processed image data to the printing device. It consists of a copy server. Among them, the reading device and the printing device operate on the same principle as the scanner and the printing device used in the computer system, respectively. Therefore, the architecture of the copy system is changed to PC-AT.
For example, a scanner or a printer can be used as a reading device and a printing device, and a general-purpose personal computer or a dedicated computer on which a print control program is installed can be used as a copy server.

[0004]

In the case where a personal computer such as a PC-AT is used as a copy control device, TCP / IP,
By providing a communication protocol such as HTTPD and network hardware, the copy system and the terminal can be mutually connected via a computer network such as the Internet or a LAN (local area network). When the copy system and the terminal are connected and communicable with each other in this manner, the copy system can be utilized in various forms by using a terminal having a computer capable of performing various processes depending on a program to be executed. be able to.

For example, image data obtained by reading an original with a scanner of a copy system is stored in a copy server, and a list of the image data thus stored is displayed on a terminal as necessary. If the specific image data specified by the terminal can be transmitted (moved, copied) to the third network device, it becomes possible to transmit the image data to the required network device when needed, so that the conventional Send images to one or more third network devices at a remote location with much higher image quality and speed than fax mail service, and much easier than sending image data by personal computer communication. It becomes possible.

In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to store image data obtained by a copy system by reading a document as an image file on a disk in the copy system and to copy the image data via a computer network to the copy system. In response to a request from the terminal connected to the terminal, the management information of the plurality of image files within the requested range is displayed on the screen of the terminal, and among the displayed plurality of management information, the management information is requested by the terminal operator. Network copy file management system for transmitting an image file corresponding to specific management information to a third network device specified by a terminal operator, a copy system constituting such a network copy file management system, such a copy system Copy server at the core of the above Network copy file management method by a network copy file management system as a computer-readable medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as a copy system as described above, is to provide.

[0007]

The present invention has the following features to attain the object mentioned above.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a network copy file management system comprising a copy system, a terminal, and a third network device connected to each other via a network, wherein the copy system reads an original and outputs image data. An image reading unit that obtains the image data, an image file storage unit that converts the image data obtained by the image reading unit into an image file format, and stores the converted image data on a disk. A management information response unit for transmitting management information of an image file to the terminal, and an image for reading a requested image file from the disk and transmitting the read image file to a third network device specified by the terminal in response to a request from the terminal A file transmitting unit, wherein the terminal transmits management information of image files in a predetermined range. A management information request unit for requesting the copy system, a display unit for displaying management information transmitted by the copy system in response to the request, and an image file indicated by the management information displayed on the display unit. And an input unit for receiving data input by the operator for specifying any one of the above, and data input by the operator for specifying the third network device as the transmission destination of the image file, and data received by the input unit. An image file transmission request unit that requests the copy system to transmit any of the image files specified by the input to the specified third network device.

With this configuration, when the image reading section reads a document, the image data obtained by reading the document is converted into an image file format and stored in the disk. Therefore, when a large number of originals are read, a large number of image files are stored in the disk. In a state where the image file is stored in the disc in this way, when the management information requesting unit of the terminal requests the management information of the image file in any range to the copy system, the management information response unit of the copy system The management information of all the image files in the requested range is read from the disk and transmitted to the terminal. In the terminal, the display unit displays the received management information. The operator of the terminal sends the data for specifying any of the management information displayed on the display unit and the data for specifying the third network device as the transmission destination of the image file to the input unit by the terminal operator. Upon input, the image file transmission request unit requests the copy system to transmit the image file corresponding to the specified management information to the third network device. In the copy system, the image file transmitting unit reads the image file requested from the terminal from the disk and transmits the read image file to the specified third network device.

The image data may be monochrome binary data, multi-tone gray scale data, RGB multi-tone data, YMC
It may be K multi-tone data or color pallet data. The image file may be a JPEG file, a TIFF file, or a GIF file. The image file management information may be any one of the file name, file size, file attribute, time stamp, and number of pages of image data stored in the image file, or may be all of the image file. May be. The network is
It may be a LAN, a public line network such as a telephone network or a packet switching network, or the Internet or an intranet. The disk may be a hard disk, a RAM disk, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, or a magneto-optical disk. The input unit may have a keyboard, or may have a pointing device such as a mouse or a touch panel. The third network device may be another copy system having the same configuration as the copy system, or may be another terminal having the same configuration as the terminal.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the image file according to the first aspect is a JPEG file, and the image file storage unit generates JPEG data by JPEG-compressing the image data. It is specified by storing it in a JPEG file.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the image file storage unit of the first aspect generates JPEG data for a detailed image by JPEG-compressing the image data, and reduces the resolution of the image data before the JPEG data. The JPEG data for the general image is generated by compression, and the JPEG data for the detailed image and the JPEG data for the general image are combined and stored in one JPEG file, thereby specifying the JPEG data.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image file storage section of the third aspect, when the original is composed of a plurality of pages, the JPEG data for each detailed image and the JPEG data for each general image generated for each page are provided. Combine data and make one J
It is specified by storing it in a PEG file.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the image file of the first aspect is a TIFF file, and the image file storage unit specifies the image data by storing the image data in the TIFF file.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the image file storage unit of the fifth aspect generates JPEG data for general image by performing JPEG compression after reducing the resolution of the image data, and JP for image
This is specified by combining the EG data and storing it in one TIFF file.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image file storage section of the sixth aspect, when the original is composed of a plurality of pages, the image data of each page and the JPEG data for each general image generated for each page are provided. Are combined and stored in a single TIFF file.

According to the invention described in claim 8, the management information of the image file transmitted to the terminal by the management information response unit of claim 1 is specified by being the file name of the image file.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a large number of directories are defined on the disk of the first aspect, and the image file is specified by being stored in any one of the directories.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the predetermined range of the ninth aspect is specified as the range of the directory.

[0020] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the management information response unit according to the tenth aspect, when a directory of a lower hierarchy is defined within the predetermined range, the management information responding unit also stores the management information of the lower hierarchy directory. The information is transmitted to a terminal, and the display unit specifies the directory structure by displaying the directory structure based on the directory management information. When the directory management information is displayed in this manner, the image files can be organized and stored for each directory, so that the terminal operator can easily find the target image file.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the first aspect of the invention.
The display unit according to 1 also displays management information of a third network device that can communicate with the copy system,
It is specified. When the management information of the third network device is displayed in this manner, the operator of the terminal can easily specify the third network device as the transmission destination of the image file.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the input unit according to the twelfth aspect allows the operator to input data for specifying any of the management information of the third network device displayed on the display unit. Receiving the image file requesting unit, by requesting the copy system to transmit the image file to any of the third network devices specified by the data input received by the input unit, It is.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the input unit according to the thirteenth aspect includes a pointing device.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the third or sixth aspect.
The copy system extracts the JPEG data for the general image from the image file requested in response to the request from the terminal, stores the JPEG data for the general image in the JPEG file for the general image, and transmits it to the terminal. A JPEG file responding unit for the general image, the terminal comprising:
A schematic image JPEG file request unit for requesting a PEG file to the copy system, wherein the display unit displays the schematic image in the schematic image JPEG file transmitted by the copy system in response to the request; By displaying the outline image based on the JPEG data for the image,
It is specified.

With this configuration, a schematic image of the image file is displayed on the screen of the terminal together with the management information of the image file stored in the disc of the copy system. The image file to be requested can be easily specified.

The invention of claim 16 provides the invention of claim 4 or 7
The copy system extracts the JPEG data for the general image for the requested page from the image file requested in response to the request from the terminal, and
A schematic image JPEG file response unit that stores the G data in the schematic image JPEG file and transmits the image data to the terminal; the terminal includes any one of the image files specified by the data input received by the input unit; Requesting the copy system to provide the summary image JPEG file for any page related to the summary image J
A PEG file request unit, wherein the display unit displays a schematic image based on the schematic image JPEG data in the schematic image JPEG file transmitted by the copy system in response to the request. , Specified.

With this configuration, for an image file including image data for a large number of pages, a schematic image of each page stored in the image file can be arbitrarily displayed. Can easily specify an image file to be requested.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a scanner for reading an original, and a printer for performing printing based on image data read by the scanner.
A copy system capable of communicating with a terminal and a third network device via a network, wherein the scanner converts image data obtained by reading an original into an image file format and saves the image data in a disk. And a management unit for transmitting, to the terminal, the management information of the requested predetermined range of image files when the terminal requests management information of the predetermined range of image files stored in the disk. An information responding unit and, when the terminal requests to transmit an image file corresponding to any of the management information transmitted to the terminal to the third network device, the requested image An image file transmission unit for reading a file from the disk and transmitting the file to the third network device specified by the terminal It is, those identified.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the copy system according to the seventeenth aspect causes a computer constituting the terminal to request management information of image files in a predetermined range from the management information responding unit. In response, the management information transmitted by the management information response unit is displayed, and any of the displayed management information is specified by the operator of the terminal, and the third information as the transmission destination of the image file is displayed.
If the network device is specified by the operator of the terminal, the image file transmitting unit is requested to transmit the image file corresponding to the specified management information to the specified third network device. A computer-readable medium storing a program, and a program transmission unit configured to transmit the program stored in the computer-readable medium to the terminal in response to a request from the terminal, thereby specifying the program. .

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, a copy system is configured by being connected to a scanner for reading an original and a printer for performing printing based on image data read by the scanner, and via a network. A copy server capable of communicating with a terminal and a third network device, wherein the scanner converts image data obtained by reading a document into an image file format and saves the image data in a disk; When the terminal has requested management information of image files in a predetermined range stored in the disk, a management information response unit that transmits management information of the requested predetermined range of image files to the terminal. An image file corresponding to any of the management information transmitted to the terminal to a third network. An image file transmitting unit that reads the requested image file from the disk and transmits the image file to the third network device specified by the terminal when the terminal requests transmission to the work device; Is provided.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the copy server of the nineteenth aspect causes the computer constituting the terminal to request management information of a predetermined range of image files from the management information responding section. The management information transmitted by the management information responding unit is displayed in response thereto, and any of the displayed management information is specified by the operator of the terminal, and the third network device as a destination of the image file is displayed. A program for requesting the image file transmitting unit to transmit an image file corresponding to the specified management information to the specified third network device when the terminal file is specified by the operator of the terminal is stored. A computer readable medium and, in response to a request from the terminal, the program stored in the computer readable medium. By further comprising a program transmitting unit that transmits the ram to the terminal, those identified.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in a network copy system including a copy system, a terminal, and a third network device connected to each other via a network, an image obtained by the copy system reading an original is provided. A network copy file management method for managing files, wherein the terminal requests management information of a predetermined range of image files from the copy system, and copies the management information of the requested predetermined range of image files to the copy system. The system transmits to the terminal, the terminal displays the transmitted management information, and the image file corresponding to the management information specified by the operator among the displayed management information is the third file specified by the operator. The terminal transmits to the network device by the copy system. Third that requests the image file requested by the terminal, identified by the terminal to the
Wherein the copy system transmits to the network device.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, a copy system is configured by being connected to a scanner for reading an original and a printer for printing based on image data read by the scanner, and via a network. For a computer capable of communicating with the terminal and the third network device, the scanner converts the image data obtained by reading the original into an image file format and saves it on a disk, and the terminal stores the image data in the disk. When requesting the management information of the stored predetermined range of the image file, the management information of the requested predetermined range of the image file is transmitted to the terminal, and of the management information transmitted to the terminal, The terminal transmits an image file corresponding to any of the above to a specific third network. When came to request a program to be transmitted is read from the disk to the third network device requested image file, a computer-readable medium storing.

[0034]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of a network copy control system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(Overall Configuration) FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a network copy control system according to the present embodiment. The network copy control system of the present embodiment is, for example, a LAN
Or, it is composed of a plurality of sets of copy systems 1 and 1 'and a large number (or one) of client terminals 2 mutually connected by a network NW such as the Internet. Since each of the copy systems 1 and 1 'has exactly the same configuration as each other, the following one copy system 1
Only the detailed configuration will be described.

The copy system 1 includes a copy server (file server) 10 composed of a dedicated computer or a general personal computer, and a scanner 20 and a printer 21 connected to the copy server 10, respectively.
Be composed.

Further, the copy server 10 includes a CPU 17, a RAM 11, an input / output control unit 12, a hard disk 13, a communication device 14, a SCSI interface 15, and a Centronics interface 16, which are mutually connected by a bus (data bus and system bus) B. , Touch panel 18 connected to input / output control unit 12, LCD
(Liquid Crystal Display) 19 and a keyboard 23.

The CPU 17 is a processor (computer) that controls the entire copy server 10, and includes an image reading unit, an image file storage unit, a program transmission unit, a management information response unit, an image file transmission unit, Functions as an image JPEG file response unit. RA
M11 is a random access memory in which a work area by the CPU 17 is expanded.

The communication device 14 performs packet-based data exchange with each client terminal 2 and another copy system 1 '. As the communication interface 14, the network NW is a LAN (Local Area Network).
If k), a LAN card is used, and if the network NW is the Internet, a serial interface and a modem, a LAN card or DSU is used.

A SCSI cable connected to the scanner 20 is connected to the SCSI interface 15 for exchanging data with the scanner 20 (transmission of various information and commands to the scanner 20, transmission of various information and scan data from the scanner 20). Control). A Centronics cable connected to the printer 21 is connected to the Centronics interface 16 for exchanging data with the printer 21 (transmission of various information, commands and print data to the printer 21, various information from the printer 21). Control).

The hard disk 13 as a computer-readable medium has a control program (including an operation system program) 131 read and executed by the CPU 17 and a large number of hypertext data distributed in response to a request from the client terminal 2. (One of them is "WebExplore.html" 132) and the class file 133 of the Java applet. These control programs and the like are stored in a CD-R (not shown).
It is downloaded to the hard disk 13 via an OM drive or the like. Further, an image file area 134 for storing various image files (JPEG files, TIFF files) to be described later is secured on the hard disk 13 as a disk.

A unique drive name is given to the image file area 134, and the inside thereof has a logically tree structure. That is, the whole is defined as a root directory, and all or a part of the area of the root directory is defined as zero or a plurality of lower-level subdirectories. Some are defined as zero or more subdirectories in the lower hierarchy. Since a directory name is assigned to each subdirectory, all subdirectories are specified by tracing the directory name of each subdirectory branched from the root in a tree shape.
A series of directory names given to a series of subdirectories from the root to a target subdirectory is called a "path name". In addition, the root and each subdirectory are collectively referred to as a “directory”. Each of the image files described above can be stored in any directory defined in the image file area 134. An image file stored in any directory is specified by its file name and the path name of the stored directory.

The image files stored in the image file area 134 are roughly classified into JPEG files and TIFF files. However, in the present embodiment, the original JPE
The format of a G (Joint Photographic Coding Experts Group) file and a TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) file is used with its own modification.
That is, in the original JPEG standard, one JPEG file is composed of only a header and one page of JPEG data. In the present embodiment, however, one JPEG file includes a plurality of pages of JPEG data. JPEG data (detailed image JPEG data) and JPEG thumbnail data corresponding to each page (generative image J generated at a reduced resolution to display a schematic image of the original JPEG data)
PEG data) is stored in the JPEG file. Also, the original TIF
According to the F standard, one TIFF file is composed of one header and one or a plurality of pages of bitmap data, but in the present embodiment, one TIFF file is used.
In the F file, bitmap data for a plurality of pages and JPEG thumbnail data corresponding to each page (JP for general image)
EG data) is modified so that the format of the TIFF file is stored.

FIG. 37 shows the J used in this embodiment.
PEG file (J that stores JPEG data for one page)
FIG. 3 is a format diagram of a PEG single page file). In this case, the JPEG single page file includes the Total JPEG data area 60 and the Size of JPEG
thumnail area 61, JPEG thumnail area 62, Offsetof
Total JPEG Data area 63, Offset of JPEG Thumnail area 64, No. of pages area 65, and Maker area 66
Is composed of Of these, Total JPEG data area 6
Since 0 is an area corresponding to an original JPEG file defined by JPEG, it stores a header and one page of JPEG data. This Total JPEG data
The size of the area 60 depends on the size of the image before JPEG compression and the compression ratio, but here, it is assumed that it is 100 Kbytes as an example. Next Size of JPEG thumnail area 61
Is an area indicating the size of the subsequent JPEG thumnail area 62 by 4 bytes. Since the size of the JPEG thumnail area 62 is fixed to 1024 bytes, the value is “1024”. The next JPEG thumnail area 62 is T
This is an area for storing JPEG thumbnail data indicating a schematic image of the JPEG data stored in the otal JPEG data area 60. Next Offset of Total JPEGData area 63
Is an area indicating the offset amount of the total JPEG data area 60 from the beginning of the JPEG file.
Since there is only one Total JPEG data area 60 in the G single page file, its value is “0”.
The next Offset of JPEG Thumnail area 64 is the JPEG thumna
This is an area indicating the offset amount of the il area 62 from the beginning of the JPEG file. Since the JPEG single page file has only one JPEG thumnail area 62, its value is “100K + 4”. Next No. of
The pages area 65 includes the To field included in the JPEG file.
tal This is an area indicating the number of JPEG data areas 60.
Total JPEG data in EG single page file
Since there is only one area 60, its value is "1". The next Maker area 66 is an area indicating that the JPEG file is in a unique format,
“Color Copy Sta” which is the model name of the copy server 10
Option ”is described.

FIG. 38 shows the J used in this embodiment.
PEG file (J to store JPEG data for X pages)
FIG. 3 is a format diagram of a PEG multi-page file). In this JPEG multi-page file, compared to the case of the JPEG single page file in FIG.
tal JPEG data area 60, Size of JPEG thumnail area 6
1, and a set of JPEG thumnail areas 62 are repeatedly arranged X times, and Offset of Total JPEG D
X ata areas 63 and X Offset of JPEG Thumnail areas 64 are arranged respectively. Therefore, a certain page (npa
ge) Offset of Total JPEG Data area 63−
The value of n is the offset amount from the top of the JPEG file in the Total JPEG data area 60-n corresponding to the nth page, that is, “(n−1) × (100K + 4 + 1024)”. Offset of a certain page (npage)
The value of the JPEG Thumnail area 64-n is an offset amount from the head of the JPEG file of the JPEG thumnail area 62-n corresponding to the n-th page, that is, “(n−1) × (100K
+ 4 + 1024) + 100K + 4 ″. No. of
The value of the pages area 65 is the number of the total JPEG data areas 60 included in the JPEG file, that is, “X”.

FIG. 39 shows the T used in this embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a format diagram of an IFF file (single page TIFF file storing bitmap data for one page). In this case, the single-page TIFF file includes the TIFF Header + Data area 70, Size o
f JPEG thumnail area 71, JPEG thumnail area 72, Of
fset of TIFF Data area 73, Offset of JPEG Thumnail
Area 74, No. of pages area 75, and Maker area 7
6 is composed. The TIFF Header + Data area 70 corresponds to an area for storing the data of the first page in the original TIFF file, and thus stores the header and bitmap data for one page. Next Size o
f The JPEG thumnail area 71
This is an area indicating the size of the area 72. Next JPEG thumnai
The l area 72 is an area for storing JPEG thumbnail data indicating a schematic image of the bitmap data stored in the TIFF Header + Data area 70. Next Offset of TI
The FF Data area 73 is an area indicating the offset amount of the bitmap data stored in the TIFF Header + Data area 70 from the head of the TIFF file. Next of
The fset of JPEG Thumnail area 74 is an area indicating the offset amount of the JPEG thumnail area 72 from the head of the TIFF file. The next No. of pages area 75 is an area indicating the number of bitmap data included in the TIFF file, and its value is “1”. The next Maker area 76 is an area indicating that the TIFF file is in a unique format, and describes “Color CopyStation” which is the model name of the copy server 10.

FIG. 40 shows the T used in the present embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a format diagram of an IFF file (a multi-page TIFF file storing bitmap data for X pages). This multi-page TIFF file is a TIFF Heade for bitmap data of the first page in order from the top.
r + Page 1 Data area 70-1, Size of Page 1 JPEG thu
mnail area 71-1 and JPEG thumnail for Page 1 area 72-1 and X-
TIFF Page n Data area 70-
n, Size of Page n JPEG thumnail area 71-n, and
Set of JPEG thumnailfor Page n area 72-n, X Offset of TIFF page n Data area 73-n, X Of
fset of JPEG Thumnail page n area 74-n, No. of p
An ages area 75 and a Maker area 76 are provided. Among them, TIFF Header + Page1 Data area 70-1
Corresponds to the area for storing the data of the first page in the original TIFF file, and thus stores the header and the bitmap data of the first page. Next Size of Pa
The ge 1 JPEG thumnail area 71-1 is the JPEG thumnail
This is an area indicating the size of the umnail for Page 1 area 72-1. The next JPEG thumnail for Page 1 area 72-1 is
This is an area for storing JPEG thumbnail data indicating a schematic image of the bitmap data stored in the TIFF Header + Page 1 Data area 70-1. The TIFF Page n Data area 70-n corresponds to an area for storing the data of the n-th page in the original TIFF file, and thus stores the bit map data of the n-th page. Next Size of
Page n JPEG thumnail area 71-n is the JPEG
An area indicating the size of the thumnail for page n area 72-n. Next JPEG thumnail for Page n area 72-n
Is an area for storing JPEG thumbnail data indicating a schematic image of the bitmap data stored in the TIFF Header + Page n Data area 70-n. Each Offset of TI
The FF data areas 73-1 to X are areas indicating the offset amount of the bitmap data of the corresponding page from the head of the TIFF file. Each Offset of JPEG Thumnail pa
The gen region 74n is a JPEG thumnail for pa for the corresponding page.
This is an area indicating the amount of offset from the head of the TIFF file in the gen area 72-n. The next No. of pages area 75 is an area indicating the number of bitmap data included in the TIFF file, and its value is “X”.
The next Maker area 76 is an area that indicates that the TIFF file is in a unique format, and the “Color Copy Statio” which is the model name of the copy server 10.
n "is described.

Returning to FIG. 1, an LCD (liquid crystal panel) 19
Is mounted on the upper surface of the housing of the copy server 10, and a touch panel 18 forming a part of a transmission destination setting unit and a copy condition specifying unit is superimposed on the surface.
The LCD 19 is a monochrome two-tone dot matrix liquid crystal panel, which is driven by the input / output control unit 12 and displays an operation screen generated by the CPU 17.

FIG. 35 shows the LCD 1 in the initial state.
Operation screen displayed in 9 (copy mode basic operation screen)
Is shown. As shown in FIG. 35, the copy mode basic operation screen is divided into three columns: left, right, and center. Tabs (magnification, paper type, output destination, memory) indicating the types of main parameters are displayed in the left column 50, and the current setting contents of each parameter are displayed in the center column 51. (In the example of FIG. 35, each parameter is set so as to output to a local printer, that is, A4 plain paper set in the printer 21 of the own copy system 1 at the same magnification. ). Note that a copy mode button 52 and a scan mode button 53 are displayed in the upper left corner of the copy mode basic operation screen. Since this copy mode basic operation screen is displayed when the copy server 10 is set to the copy mode, the copy mode button 52
The display is shaded to indicate that the copy mode is currently set.

FIG. 36 shows an operation screen (scan mode basic operation screen) first displayed on the LCD 19 when the copy server 10 is set to the scan mode.
As shown in FIG. 36, the scan mode basic operation screen is divided into three columns: left, right, and center. In the left column 50, tabs (user, document, resolution, mode,
Preset) is displayed, and the current setting content of each parameter is displayed in the center column 51 (in the example of FIG. 36, the resolution is 360 [dpi] and A
Each parameter is set so that the original No. 4 is read in the color mode and stored in the hard disk 13 of the copy system 1). A copy mode button 52 and a scan mode button 53 are displayed at the upper left corner of the scan mode basic operation screen. The scan mode button 53 is used to indicate that the scan mode is currently set to the scan mode. It is in the hanging display state.

Returning to FIG. 1, the touch panel 18
A signal corresponding to the position pressed by the operator's finger is input to the input control unit 12. Pressing a portion of the touch panel that overlaps each display item on the LCD 19 is simply referred to as “pressing” the display item. When each tab on the basic operation screen is pressed in this manner, under the control of the CPU 17, options for the parameter indicated by the tab are listed and displayed in the center column 51 in the copy mode basic operation screen. When the scan mode button 53 in the copy mode basic operation screen is pressed, the copy server 10 is set to the scan mode and the LCD 1
9, a scan mode basic operation screen is displayed. Conversely, when the copy mode button 52 in the scan mode basic operation screen is pressed, the copy server 10 is set to the copy mode under the control of the CPU 17 and the L mode is set.
A copy mode basic operation screen is displayed on the CD 19.

The keyboard 23 is connected to the copy server 10
A signal corresponding to a key depressed by an operator is input to the input control unit 12 which includes a start key, a numeric keypad, and the like provided on the upper surface of the housing adjacent to the touch panel 18.

The input / output control unit 12 appropriately drives the LCD 19 based on the image data received from the CPU 17, and inputs a corresponding position signal to the CPU 17 by analyzing an input signal from the touch panel 18, The corresponding code signal is input to the CPU 17 by analyzing the input signal from the CPU 17.

Next, the hardware configuration of each client terminal 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 2, each client terminal 2 includes a CPU 30, a ROM 31, a RAM 32, a communication device 33, a bus controller 34, a disk drive controller (DDC) 35, a display controller 36, and an input interface 37, which are connected to each other by a bus B. , A hard disk 38 and a floppy disk drive 39 connected to a disk drive controller (DDC) 35, a display 40 connected to a display controller 36, and a keyboard 41 and a mouse 42 connected to an input interface 37. ing.

The bus controller 34 is a device that manages the state of the bus B and enables data transfer between circuits via the bus B. Disk drive controller (DD
C) 35 drives each of the disk drives 38 and 39 under the control of the CPU 30 to write data to each disk (the hard disk 38 and the floppy disk 43) and to write data to the disks (the hard disk 38 and the floppy disk 43).
Data is read from the floppy disk 43).

The hard disk 38 is given a unique drive name, and stores an operation system program (Windows 95 (trademark) manufactured by Microsoft Corporation) executed by the CPU 30, a communication program, and a web browser. The hard disk 38 is also logically divided into a large number of directories arranged in a tree, similarly to the hard disk 13 of the copy server 10. And in each directory:
Copy server 10 of one of copy systems 1, 1 ',
It is possible to store an image file downloaded from 10 ′ or an image file received from another client terminal 2. Note that if the viewer is a multi-page TIFF-compatible viewer, the viewer of the multi-page TIFF file according to the present embodiment having the format of FIG.
TIFF Header + Page 1 Data area 70-1 and TIFF Page n
Since only the Data area 70-n can be recognized,
The TIFF files shown in FIGS. 40 and 39 are stored in the hard disk 38 as they are. However, FIG.
And J according to the present embodiment having the format of FIG.
Since the PEG file cannot be read from a general JPEG-compatible viewer, only the Total JPEG data area 60 is extracted and stored in the hard disk 38.

The display controller 36 as a display unit displays various images on the display 40 based on the display data generated by the CPU 30 under the control of the CPU 30.

Input interface 37 as an input unit
Is information input by the user by encoding signals input from the mouse 42 and the keyboard 41 (signal indicating a pressed key, vector information input by the mouse 42, click signal input by the mouse 42). Is input to the CPU 30.

The CPU 30 is a processor (computer) that controls the entire client device 2, and functions as a management information requesting unit, a JPEG file requesting unit for a general image, and an image file transmission requesting unit. Also, RAM3
Reference numeral 2 denotes a memory used as a work area of the CPU 30, on which an operation system program and a web browser 301 read from the hard disk 38 by the CPU 30 are expanded. The CPU 30 reads out and executes the BIOS program from the ROM 31 when the power is turned on, reads out the operation system program and the web browser from the hard disk 38 and expands them on the RAM 32, and controls the entire client terminal 10 by executing this operation program. And the copy server 1 of each copy system 1
0 is used for packet-based communication.

By executing this operation system, the CPU 30 displays and moves the cursor on the display 40 in accordance with the vector information input from the input interface 37. When a click signal is input, the CPU 30 , The item on the screen overlapping the cursor is specified, and it is recognized that the item is selected (if the item is a command, the command is input) (corresponding to a part of the input unit). Hereinafter, input of a click signal in a state where a cursor is placed on an item is simply referred to as “clicked” on the item. Also, if vector information is input while the click signal is continuously input, the object that is over the cursor at the time when the click signal is input is recognized as being dragged, and the click signal is recognized. At the time when is cut off, it is recognized that the item is dropped on the item overlapping the cursor.

The CPU 30 executes the web browser to execute the hypertext data (“WebExplore.html” 132) stored in the server 10.
And class files of Java applet 133
It is downloaded onto M32 to generate display data for displaying the contents of the hypertext data ("WebExplore.html" 132) and execute a Java applet.

When the network NW is a LAN (Local Area Network), the communication device 33 is L
When an AN card is used and the network NW is the Internet, a serial interface and a modem, a LAN card or a DSU are used.

FIG. 3 shows that the CPU 17 of the copy server 10 of each copy system 1, 1 ′ reads out the control program 131 from the hard disk 13 and expands it on the RAM 11, and that each client terminal 2
Operating system and web browser from R
FIG. 4 is a software configuration diagram showing a relationship between each task and a program in a state where the program is developed on the AM 32. As shown in FIG. 3, the tasks executed by the CPU 17 of the copy server 10 include a network receiving unit 111, a control unit 112 having 25 coexisting units, an HDD control 113, a management unit 114, a scanner unit 115, a printing unit 116, and an operation unit. Panel section 118. The tasks executed by the CPU 30 of each client terminal 2 are the web browser 301 and the communication unit 302. The communication between each copy server 10 and each client terminal 2 is as follows.
Since this is performed according to the TCP / IP protocol, a unique IP address is assigned to each copy server 10 and each client terminal 2 in advance.

The network receiving unit 111 of the above-described copy server 10 is a task as an Internet server that controls the network adapter 14 and terminates TCP / IP protocol and HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol), and is stored in a packet. When data (URL, various messages) transmitted from the network NW is received, one of the control units 112 in an empty state is activated, and these data are passed to the control unit 112. FIG. 41 is a table constructed in the RAM 11 to manage whether each control unit 112 is empty or busy (a state in which another process is being executed). The network receiving unit 111 searches for an empty control unit 112 by referring to this table.

The control unit 112 transmits a class file of the Java applet 133 to the client terminal 2 (corresponding to a program transmission unit) according to the type of data received from the network interface unit 111, The management information of the image file in the hard disk 13 is returned to the copy system 1 '(corresponding to a management information responding unit), and the image file in the hard disk 13 is downloaded, copied, searched, and deleted to the HDD control unit 113. , Rename, read, store an image file from another copy system 1 ′ in the HDD 113, send an image file to the client terminal 2 or another copy system 1 ′ (image file transmission Section), client terminal 2 and other copy JP in the image file to Temu
A JPEG thumbnail file storing EG thumbnail data is transmitted (corresponding to a JPEG file response section for a schematic image), and an image file can be downloaded, copied, searched, deleted, renamed,
Send a read request.

The operation panel section 118 controls the input / output control section 12 to create operation screen data to be displayed on the LCD 19, and to control the operation screen LC based on the data.
The input / output control unit 12 is instructed to display on D19. Further, when receiving the position data indicating the pressed position of the touch panel 18 from the input / output control unit 12, the display item overlapping the pressed position on the operation screen displayed on the LCD 19 at that time is specified, and the operation key is specified. A corresponding process is executed (that is, a process corresponding to the pressed display item is executed). Also, the keyboard 23 is input from the input / output control unit 12.
When a signal indicating a key that has been pressed is received, a process corresponding to the type of the key is executed. For example, the operation panel unit 118 displays the copy mode button 52,
When the scan mode button 53 is pressed, the fact is notified to the management unit 14, and when any tab is pressed, a screen for selecting a parameter corresponding to the tab is displayed. When one of the parameters is pressed, the parameter is determined and held. And
When the start key is pressed, the management unit 114 is notified of the fact and the held parameters.
In response to the message from the management unit 114, the operation panel unit 118 displays a display screen (copy mode basic screen, scan mode basic screen, etc.) corresponding to the display number specified in the message on the LCD1.
9 above.

The management unit 114 switches the operation mode to the copy mode or the scan mode in accordance with the notification of pressing the copy mode button 52 or the scan mode button 53 from the operation panel unit 118. In the copy mode, the scanner unit 115 and the printing unit 116 To execute the copy operation. In the scan mode, the scanner unit 115 is controlled to acquire image data, and this image data is stored in a JPEG file or TIF file.
Convert to F file and save to hard disk 13 as H
Request the DD control unit 113.

The scanner unit 115 as an image reading unit includes
SCSI for controlling SCSI interface 15
It includes a driver and a scanner driver for controlling the scanner 20, and operates the scanner 20 in accordance with an instruction from the management unit 114 to receive image data obtained by reading a document. Then, in the copy mode, the image data is transferred to the printing unit 116, and in the scan mode, the image data is transferred to the HDD control unit 113.

The HDD control unit 113 serving as an image file storage unit accesses the hard disk 13 in response to a request from the management unit 114 and the control unit 112 to store, read, copy, move, search, and delete image files. The task to be performed.

On the other hand, the communication unit 302 of the client terminal 2
Controls the network adapter 33 and
This is a task that terminates the P / IP protocol and HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), and stores data (hypertext data [“WebExplore.html” 132) stored in a packet and transmitted from the network NW.
Etc.], a Java applet class file and an image file are received, and the web browser 301 (or the Java applet 13 started on the web browser 301) is received.
3) and the data (UR) sent to the server 10 from the web browser 301 (or the Java applet 133 activated on the web browser 301).
L, various messages) are stored in a packet and transmitted to the network NW.

The web browser 301 sends various data (UR) to the communication unit 302 in accordance with an instruction input from the operator via the mouse 42 and the keyboard 41.
L, various messages). Also, URL
According to the hypertext (“WebExplore.html” 132 etc.) downloaded from any server according to
An image is displayed on the display 40. In addition, each class file of the Java applet transmitted by the server 10 in response to the request is expanded in the RAM 32 to reproduce the Java applet (program) 133 and display an image generated by the Java applet 133.

In the hypertext data, in particular, “WebExplore.html” 132 secures an applet class file name for specifying the class file of the Java applet 133, and an area for displaying an image generated by the Java applet 133. Information and definitions of various parameters given to the Java applet 133 (for example, “WebExplore.html” 1
32 and the names and IPs of other copy systems 1 ′ and client terminals 2 registered as copy destinations of image files in the copy server 10 of the copy system 1
Address, etc.). Web browser 30
1 is the copy server 1 of one of the copy systems 1 and 1 '
Then, the URL corresponding to “WebExplore.html” 132 in “0.
l ”132 and the class file of the Java applet 133 are downloaded, the started Java applet 133 transmits the downloaded copy server 1
0, and direct message transmission is performed only to the copy server 10 of the download source.

FIG. 42 shows that the web browser 301 displays “We
bExplore.html ”132 and Java Applet 133
To display on the display 40 in accordance with (WebExplo
re shows the initial screen 80). The initial screen 80 has a standard application window configuration based on Windows 95 (a trademark of Microsoft Corporation). That is, a title bar 81 is displayed on the top line of the initial screen 80, a menu bar 82 is displayed on the next line, and a toolbar 83 is displayed on the next line. A status bar 84 is displayed at the bottom of the initial screen.
The area between the toolbar 83 and the status bar 84
It is divided into two windows 85 and 86 on the left and right.

The title bar 81 shows the title "WebExplore" of the Java applet 133, and a normal control box, a minimize button, a maximize button, and a close button.

The menu bar 82 lists items of "file", "edit", "display", "tool", and "help". When the "file" is clicked, a pull-down menu including items such as "delete" and "rename" is further displayed. Similarly, when "edit" is clicked, a pull-down menu including items such as "copy" and "paste" is displayed. Similarly, when "display" is clicked, a pull-down menu including items of "file list" and "thumbnail" is displayed as shown in an enlarged manner in FIG. further,
When "thumbnail" is clicked from this pull-down menu, a menu for selecting any one of "3", "6", and "9" is displayed. When "Tool" is clicked, a pull-down menu including items such as "Search" is displayed.

Further, on the toolbar 83, a cut button 83a, a copy button 83b, a search button 83c, a delete button 83d and the like are drawn.

The status bar 84 displays the available disk space for the selected directory.

In the left window 85, directory names of directories that can be referred to from the Java applet 133 are displayed in a tree structure with "network" at the top. In this window, the own client terminal 2, the copy server 10 that is the source of the class file of the “WebExplore.html” 132 and the Java applet 133, and the other copy system 1 ′ registered in the copy server 10 are also displayed. The copy server 10 and the client terminal 2 are also treated as forming one directory, so that the operator can always operate the file by the same operation without being conscious of the difference between the apparatuses. In the initial state, the name of the source copy server 10 of “WebExplore.html” 132, the copy server 10 of another copy system 1 ′ registered in this copy server 10, and the client terminal are displayed on the left window 85. 2 and “My Computer” meaning its own client terminal are displayed as directories under “Network”. In the example of FIG. 42, “WebExp
lore.html ”132, the name of the source copy server 10“ O
DAE241 ", names" ODAE240 "and" ODAE145 "of the copy server 10 of the other copy system 1 'registered in the ODAE 241, and" My Computer "are displayed.

In the right window 86, icons and names corresponding to the files and subdirectories in the directory selected by clicking in the left window 85 are listed and displayed. In addition, below the right window 86, a previous page button 86a and a next page button 86b are displayed. These buttons will be described later.

(Processing by Each Task) The operation of each task and each program described above will be described in order.

<Operation Panel Unit> First, the processing by the operation panel unit 118 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The operation panel unit 118 displays the copy mode basic operation screen shown in FIG.

In the next step S002, the operation panel unit 118 checks whether any message has been received from the management unit 114. If no message has been received, it is checked in S003 whether any button on the screen or any key on the keyboard 23 has been pressed. If no button is pressed, the process proceeds to S00.
Return to 2.

If any of the buttons on the screen or any of the keys on the keyboard 23 is pressed while the loop processing of S002 and S003 is repeated, the operation panel unit 118 returns to S004. Determine what was pressed. And the keyboard 23
If the start key in the middle, the copy mode button 52 or the scan mode button 53 in the screen is pressed, the process proceeds to S006, and if any other key or button is pressed, the process proceeds to S005. . This S00
In 5, the process corresponding to the pressed key or button is executed. For example, when any tab in the copy mode basic operation screen shown in FIG. 35 or the scan mode basic screen shown in FIG. 36 is pressed, a list of parameter options corresponding to the tab is displayed in the center column 51. And
When any specific setting value in the center column 51 is pressed, the option is set in the RAM 11 as the value of the parameter. Upon completing this step S005, the operation panel unit 118 proceeds to step S002.
Return to

On the other hand, in S006, the operation panel unit 118 transmits a key information message corresponding to the pressed key or button to the management unit 114. Specifically, when the copy mode button 52 or the scan mode button 53 is pressed, the operation panel unit 118 transmits a key information message indicating the type of the pressed button to the management unit 114.
When the start key has been pressed, the management unit 114 transmits a message to the effect that the start key has been pressed and a key information message storing the set values of the parameters currently set in the RAM 11. When this S006 is completed, the operation panel unit 118 proceeds to S
Return to 002.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S002 that any message has been received from the management unit 114, the operation panel unit 118 proceeds to S007.
, The contents of the received message are checked.
Then, the received message is a display switching message (S
105, S109, S111, S122, and S124), the operation panel unit 118
At 008, display corresponding to the display number in the received display switching message is executed. For example, when the display number corresponding to the scan mode basic operation screen is described in the display switching message, the scan mode basic operation screen is displayed on the LCD 19. When the display number corresponding to the copy mode basic operation screen is described in the display switching message, the copy mode basic operation screen is displayed on the LCD 19. When this S008 is completed, the operation panel unit 118 proceeds to S002.
Return to

On the other hand, in S009, operation panel section 118 performs other processing according to the received message. After completing step S009, the operation panel unit 118 returns the process to step S002.

<Management Unit> Next, the processing by the management unit 114 will be described with reference to FIGS. In S101, the management unit 114 waits for reception of a message from the operation panel unit 118, the HDD control unit 113, the scanner unit 115, or the printing unit 116.

Upon receiving any message, the management unit 114 checks the type of the received message in the next step S102. Then, when receiving the key information message from the operation panel unit 118 (see S006), the management unit 114 advances the process to S107, and receives the process end message from the scanner unit 115 or the HDD control unit 113 ( S
219, S363, and S374).
If the scanner operation state notification message from the scanner unit 115 has been received (see S203), the process proceeds to S121. If an error message has been received from the scanner unit 115 (see S207), the process proceeds to S11.
The process proceeds to S120, and if another message is received, the process proceeds to S120.

In S107, the management unit 114
The type of the pressed key or button included in the key information message is checked. Then, when it is included that the copy mode button 52 has been pressed, the management unit 114 sets the current setting mode to the copy mode in S108. In the next step S109, the management unit 114 transmits to the operation panel unit 118 a display switching message in which a display number for displaying the copy mode basic operation screen (FIG. 35) is set. When this step S109 is completed, the management unit 114
Returns the process to S101.

On the other hand, the scan mode button 53
If it is determined in step S107 that the message indicates that the button has been pressed, the management unit 114 sets the current setting mode to the scan mode in step S110. Next S
In 111, the management unit 114 transmits a display switching message in which a display number for displaying the scan mode basic operation screen (FIG. 36) is set to the operation panel unit 118. After completing step S111, the management unit 114 returns the process to step S101.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S107 that the start key is pressed, the management unit 114 determines in S112 whether the currently set mode is the copy mode. Check if it is in scan mode. If the scan mode is set, the management unit 114 proceeds to S1
At 14, a scanner operation confirmation message is transmitted to the scanner unit 115. On the other hand, when the copy mode is set, the management unit 114
In step 13, a copy execution request is issued to the scanner unit 115 and the printing unit 116, and the image data (scan data) acquired from the scanner 20 is transmitted to the printing unit 116.
6 causes the printer 21 to perform printing based on the scan data. In any case, the management unit 114 returns the processing to S101 after the processing is completed.

On the other hand, in S121 executed when a scanner operating state notification message (see S203) is received from the scanner unit 115, the management unit 114
It is checked whether the scanner state included in the scanner operation state notification information message indicates a busy state or an idle state. Then, when indicating a busy state, the management unit 114 transmits a display switching message in which a display number for performing a display indicating busy is set to the operation panel unit 118 in S122. After the completion of S122, the management unit 11
4 returns the processing to S101.

On the other hand, when indicating an idle state, the management unit 114 determines in step S123 that the HD
A “scan and HDD storage request” message is transmitted to the D control unit 113. The “scan and HDD storage request” message includes, as parameters, the document size parameter, resolution parameter, and storage format parameter (binary image data or 256-tone grayscale image data stored in the key information message). Or 24-bit RGB image data, stored in a TIFF file, or stored in a JPEG file), density adjustment parameters, RGB adjustment parameters, saturation and hue adjustment parameters, paper feed position parameters (on the scanner 20) Whether a document is set on a flat bed or an ADF), a single-sided scan or a double-sided scan designation parameter is included.

In the next S124, the management unit 114
Transmits a display switching message in which a display number for performing a display indicating that scanning is being performed is transmitted to the operation panel unit 1.
18 is transmitted. After the completion of S124, the management unit 114 returns the processing to S101.

On the other hand, a processing end message from the scanner unit 115 or the HDD control unit 113 (S219, S36)
S10 executed when S3 is received)
In 3, the management unit 114 checks whether or not the scan mode is currently set. If the scan mode is not set (that is, if the copy mode is set), the management unit 114
Returns the process to S101 after executing the process corresponding to the copy mode in S106.

On the other hand, if the scan mode is currently set, the management unit 114
4, the scanner unit 115 and the HDD control unit 113
It is checked whether a process end message has been received from both. Then, if the information has not been received from both sides yet, the management unit 114 proceeds to S101 as it is.
, But if both have been received, the process proceeds to S105. In this S105, the management unit 114
A display switching message in which a display number for displaying a normal scan mode basic operation screen (FIG. 36) is set,
It is transmitted to the operation panel unit 118. S1
05, the management unit 114 proceeds to S10
Return to 1.

On the other hand, when an error message is received from the scanner unit 115 (see S207), S
At 117, the management unit 114 checks whether or not the scan mode is currently set. And
When the scan mode is not set (that is, when the copy mode is set), the management unit 1
In S119, after executing the process corresponding to the copy mode in S119, the process returns to S101.

On the other hand, if the scan mode is currently set, the management unit 114
8, the scanner unit 115 and the HDD control unit 113
Send a cancel message to. This S1
18, the management unit 114 proceeds to S
Return to 101.

On the other hand, in S120 executed when another message is received, the management unit 114
Execute the process corresponding to the message. Then, when this S120 is completed, the management unit 114 returns the processing to S101.

<Scanner Unit> Next, the processing by the scanner unit 115 will be described with reference to FIGS. In S201, the scanner unit 115
4 or the reception of a message from the HDD control unit 113.

Upon receiving any message, the scanner unit 115 checks the type of the received message in S202. Then, the management unit 114
If the scanner operation confirmation request message is received from the HDD control unit 113 (see S114), the process proceeds to S203. If the scan request message from the HDD control unit 113 is received (see S303), the process proceeds to S204. If a cancel message from the management unit 114 has been received (see S118), the process proceeds to S208. If a copy execution request from the management unit 114 has been received (S113), the process proceeds to S209, and another message has been received. In this case, the process proceeds to S210.

In S203, the management unit 114
It checks whether the scanner 20 is currently operating (busy state) or waiting (idle state), and transmits a scanner operating state notification message in which the check result is set to the management unit 114. After completing step S203, the scanner unit 115 returns the process to step S201.

On the other hand, in S204 executed when a scan request message is received from the HDD control unit 113 (see S303), the scanner unit 115
It is checked whether the feeding position of No. 1 is a flat bed or an ADF (auto document feeder). If the sheet feeding position is the flat bed, the scanner unit 115 proceeds with the process directly to S211. On the other hand, if the paper feed position is the ADF, the scanner unit 115 checks in S205 whether a document is set on the ADF. If no document is set on the ADF, the scanner unit 115
Sends an error message to the management unit 114 with the reason (no original) in S207. Upon completion of S207, the management unit 114
Returns the process to S201. On the other hand, when a document is set on the ADF, the management unit 114
Controls the scanner 20 to feed the document set on the ADF to the reading position. After the completion of S206, the management unit 114 advances the processing to S211.

In S211, the management unit 114
The scanner 20 is controlled to execute a scan according to each parameter in the scan request message received from the HDD control unit 113.

In the next S212, the management unit 114
Indicates scan data (binary image data, 256-tone grayscale image data,
Or 24 bit RGB image data). Then, upon acquiring the scan data for n lines, the management unit 114 advances the processing to S213.

In S213, the management unit 114
Scan data for n lines acquired from the scanner 20 is stored in a message and transmitted to the HDD control unit 113.

In the next step S214, the scanner unit 115
It is checked whether scanning of all lines of one document has been completed. If the scanning for all the lines has not been completed yet, the scanner unit 115 proceeds to S
Return to 212. On the other hand, if the scanning for all the lines has been completed, the scanner unit 115 proceeds to step S215.
Proceed to

In step S215, the scanner unit 115 executes
In the same manner as in step S04, it is checked whether the feed position of the scanner 21 is a flat bed or an ADF (auto document feeder). If the paper feed position is a flat bed, the scanner unit 115 proceeds to S2
Proceed to 18. On the other hand, if the paper feed position is the ADF, the scanner unit 115
It is checked whether or not the original set in the DF remains. And if there are any documents left on the ADF,
In step S217, the scanner unit 115 transmits a scan end message in which “there is a remaining page” to the HDD control unit 113, and then returns the processing to step S201.
On the other hand, if there are no documents left in the ADF,
The process proceeds to S218.

In step S218, the scanner unit 115
A scan end message set to “no remaining pages” is transmitted to the D control unit 113. In the next S219,
The scanner unit 115 controls the management unit 114
Send a processing end message. After completing step S219, the scanner unit 115 returns the process to step S201.

On the other hand, when the cancel message is received from the management unit 114 (see S118), in S208 executed, the scanner unit 115 stops the operation of the scanner 20 and returns to the idle state. This S2
08, the scanner unit 115 proceeds to S20.
Return to 1.

On the other hand, when a copy execution request is received from the management unit 114 (S113), S2 is executed.
In step 09, the scanner unit 115 controls the scanner 20 to read the original to acquire scan data, and transfers the acquired scan data to the printing unit 116 to execute a copy operation. After completing step S209, the scanner unit 115 returns the process to step S201.

On the other hand, in S210 executed when another message is received, the scanner unit 115 executes a process corresponding to the message. After completing step S210, the scanner unit 115 returns the process to step S201.

<HDD Control Unit> Next, the HDD control unit 11
3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 15.
In S301, the HDD control unit 113 waits for reception of a message from the management unit 114 or the scanner unit 115.

When any of the messages is received, the HDD
In the next step S302, the control unit 113 checks the type of the received message. Then, the HDD control unit 1
13 indicates “scan and H” from the management unit 114.
If the “DD storage request” message has been received (see S123), the process proceeds to S303, and if the scan data from the scanner unit 115 has been received (S213), the process proceeds to S304, and the scan from the scanner unit 115 ends. If a message has been received (see S217 and S218), the process proceeds to S305, and the management unit 114
(S118)
), The process proceeds to S306, and if another message is received, the process proceeds to S307.

At S303, HDD control section 113 transmits a scan request message to scanner section 115. The scan request message includes, as parameters, a document size parameter, a resolution parameter, a storage format parameter, a density adjustment parameter, and RGB stored in the “scan and HDD storage request” message.
The adjustment parameters, the saturation and hue adjustment parameters, the paper feed position parameters, and the single-sided scan or double-sided scan designation parameters are stored as they are. Upon completion of S303, the HDD control unit 113 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, when scan data is received from the scanner unit 115 (see S213), S3 is executed.
In the HDD 04, the HDD control unit 113
4 according to the storage format parameter stored in the “scan and HDD storage request” message from JPEG4.
Check whether a file is specified or a TIFF file is specified. If a JPEG file has been designated, the process proceeds to S308,
If an FF file has been designated, the process proceeds to S331.
Proceed to.

In step S308, the HDD control unit 113 checks whether the received scan data is scan data including the top row of any page. If the received scan data is scan data including the top row of any page, the HDD control unit 113 advances the process to S309.

At S309, the HDD control unit 113
At step 303, the scan request message is sent to the scanner unit 115.
It is checked whether or not the scan data of the first page has been received after the transmission. Then, the HDD control unit 113
In step S314, if the scan data of the second and subsequent pages has been received, the process proceeds to step S314. If the scan data of the first page has been received, the process proceeds to step S310.

In S310, the HDD control unit 113 sets the R
In the work area prepared on the AM 11, the area corresponding to the Offset of Total JPEG Data area 63-1 to X for the total number of pages of the document is cleared to 0 (that is, 0 is set to the numerical value).

At the next step S311, the HDD control unit 113
Clears the area corresponding to the Offset of JPEG Thumbnail areas 64-1 to X for the total number of pages of the document in the work area prepared on the RAM 11 to 0 (that is, sets the numerical value to 0).

In the next S312, the HDD control unit 113
No. of P in the work area prepared on the RAM 11
The area corresponding to the ages area 65 is cleared to 0 (that is, the numerical value is set to 0).

In the next S313, the HDD control unit 113
Sets “Color Copy Station” in an area corresponding to the Marker area 66 in the work area prepared on the RAM 11. Upon completing S313, the HDD control unit 113 advances the process to S314.

At S314, the HDD control unit 113
In the work area prepared on the AM 11, an area corresponding to the page size of JPEG thumbnail area 61 corresponding to the received scan data is cleared to 0 (that is, the numerical value is set to 0).

In the next S315, the HDD control unit 113
Is the Total JP for the page corresponding to the received scan data
A header to be stored in the EG Data area 60 is created.

In the next S316, the HDD control unit 113
Performs JPEG compression on the received scan data.

In the next S317, the HDD control unit 113
Creates a data section to be stored in the Total JPEG Data area 60 for the page corresponding to the received scan data, based on the JPEG data obtained by JPEG compression in S316.

In the next S318, the HDD control unit 113
Summarizes the header part created in S315 and the data part created in S317 as a JPEG file, attaches a temporary file name “ActualData.JPG”,
It is stored in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13.

In the next S319, the HDD control unit 113
Is the JPEG thu for the page corresponding to the received scan data.
A header to be stored in the mbnail area 62 is created.

In the next S320, the HDD control unit 113
Performs JPEG compression on received scan data while reducing the resolution for thumbnails.

In the next S321, the HDD control unit 113
Is the header created in S319 and the JP in S320.
The JPEG data obtained by the EG compression is combined as a JPEG file, and the temporary file name “Thum
bData.JPG "and store it in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13.

In the next S322, the HDD control unit 113
Is a size of JPEG thumbna for a page corresponding to the received scan data in a work area prepared on the RAM 11.
In the area corresponding to the il area 61, the data length of the thumbnail JPEG file created in S321 is set.
When S322 is completed, the HDD control unit 113 returns the processing to S301.

On the other hand, if the received scan data is not scan data including the top row of any page, S3
When the determination is made in 08, the HDD control unit 113 advances the processing to S323. In S323, the HDD control unit 113 performs JPEG compression on the received scan data.

In the next S324, the HDD control unit 113
Reads the JPEG file “ActualData.JPG” stored in the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13 and adds the JPEG data obtained by JPEG compression in S323 to the data portion.

In the next S325, the HDD control unit 113
Is the JPEG file “ActualDa that has been added in S324.
“ta.JPG” is overwritten in the hard disk 13.

In the next S326, the HDD control unit 113
Performs JPEG compression on received scan data while reducing the resolution for thumbnails.

In the next S327, the HDD control unit 113
Reads the JPEG file "ThumbData.JPG" stored in the image file area 134 of the hard disk 113, and adds the JPEG data obtained by JPEG compression in S326 to the data portion.

In the next S328, the HDD control unit 113
Is the JPEG file “ThumbDat” added in S326.
a.JPG ”is overwritten in the hard disk 13.

In the next S329, the HDD control unit 113
Is a size of JPEG thumbna for a page corresponding to the received scan data in a work area prepared on the RAM 11.
In the area corresponding to the il area 61, the data length of the thumbnail JPEG file overwritten in S328 is set. Upon completion of S329, the HDD control unit 113 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, in S331, the HDD control unit 113
Checks whether the received scan data is scan data including the top row of any page. If the received scan data is scan data including the top row of any page, the HDD control unit 113
Advances the process to S332.

In step S332, the HDD control unit 113
At step 303, the scan request message is sent to the scanner unit 115.
It is checked whether or not the scan data of the first page has been received after the transmission. Then, the HDD control unit 113
In step S340, if the scan data of the second and subsequent pages has been received, the process proceeds to step S340. If the scan data of the first page has been received, the process proceeds to step S333.

In step S333, the HDD control unit 113
In the work area prepared on the AM 11, the area corresponding to the Offset of TIFF Data areas 73-1 to X for the total number of pages of the document is cleared to 0 (that is, 0 is set to the numerical value).

In the next S334, the HDD control unit 113
Clears, to zero, the areas corresponding to the Offset of JPEG Thumbnail areas 74-1 to X for the total number of pages of the document in the work area prepared on the RAM 11 (that is, sets the numerical value to 0).

In the next S335, the HDD control unit 113
No. of P in the work area prepared on the RAM 11
The area corresponding to the ages area 75 is cleared to 0 (that is, the numerical value is set to 0).

In the next S336, the HDD control unit 113
Sets “Color Copy Station” in an area corresponding to the Marker area 66 in the work area prepared on the RAM 11.

In the next S337, the HDD control unit 113
Clears the area corresponding to the Size of Page 1 JPEG thumbnail area 71-1 for the first page in the work area prepared on the RAM 11 to 0 (that is, sets the numerical value to 0).

In the next S338, the HDD control unit 113
Is the TIFF Header + Page 1 Data area 70-1 for the first page
Create a header to be stored in

In the next S339, the HDD control unit 113
Collects the received scan data and the header created in S338 as a TIFF file, temporarily attaches a temporary file name “ActualData.Tif”, and stores it in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13. Upon completion of S339, the HDD control unit 113
Advances the process to S342.

On the other hand, in S340, the HDD control unit 113 sets the work area in the RAM 11
Size of page for the page corresponding to the received scan data
n The area corresponding to the JPEG thumbnail area 71-n is
Clear 0 (that is, set the numerical value to 0).

In the next S341, the HDD control unit 113
Converts the received scan data to the TIFF file format and adds the temporary file name “Ac
“tualData.Tif” is added and stored in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13. When S341 is completed, the HDD control unit 113 advances the process to S342.

In step S342, the HDD control unit 113 generates a JPEG thumbnail for the page corresponding to the received scan data.
A header portion to be stored in the areas 72-1 to 7-X is created.

In the next S343, the HDD control unit 113
Performs JPEG compression on received scan data while reducing the resolution for thumbnails.

In the next S344, the HDD control unit 113
Is the header created in S342 and the JP in S342.
The JPEG data obtained by the EG compression is combined as a JPEG file, and the temporary file name “Thum
bData.JPG "and store it in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13.

In the next S345, the HDD control unit 113
Is a size of JPEG thumbna for a page corresponding to the received scan data in a work area prepared on the RAM 11.
The data length of the thumbnail JPEG file created in S344 is set in an area corresponding to the il areas 71-1 to X. When this S345 is completed, the HDD control unit 113
Returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, if the received scan data is not scan data including the top row of any page, S3
If it is determined in S31, the HDD control unit 113 advances the processing to S346. In S346, the HDD control unit 113 sets the image file area 1
34, the TIFF file “ActualData.T
If "" is read, and the received scan data is added to the data portion.

In the next S347, the HDD control unit 113
Is the TIFF file “ActualDa” after the addition in S346.
ta.Tif ”is overwritten in the hard disk 13.

In the next S348, the HDD control unit 113
Performs JPEG compression on received scan data while reducing the resolution for thumbnails.

In the next S349, the HDD control unit 113
Reads the JPEG file “ThumbData.JPG” stored in the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13 and adds JPEG data obtained by JPEG compression in S348 to the data portion.

In the next S350, the HDD control unit 113
Is the JPEG file “ThumbDat” added in S349.
a.JPG ”is overwritten in the hard disk 13.

In the next S351, the HDD control unit 113
Is a size of JPEG thumbna for a page corresponding to the received scan data in a work area prepared on the RAM 11.
The data length of the thumbnail JPEG file overwritten in S350 is set in an area corresponding to the il areas 71-1 to X. When this step S351 is completed, the HDD control unit 113
Returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, when the scan end message is received from the scanner unit 115 (see S217 and S218), the HDD control unit 113 executes
“Scan and HDD” from the management unit 114
Whether the JPEG file is specified by the storage format parameter stored in the “storage request” message
Check whether an IFF file is specified. Then, if a JPEG file has been designated, the process proceeds to S352, and if a TIFF file has been designated, the process proceeds to S364.

In step S352, the HDD control unit 113
In the work area prepared on the AM 11, an area corresponding to the Offset of Total JPEG Data area 63 for the page where scanning has been completed is placed in the Total JPEG Data area 6 for that page.
An appropriate value of the offset amount of 0 (that is, Total JPEG Data area 60 for all pages before the page, Size of JPEG thumbnai
l area 61 and JPEG thumbnail area 62).

In the next S353, the HDD control unit 113
Is an Offset of JPEG Thumbnail area 6 for a page for which scanning has been completed in a work area prepared on the RAM 11.
In the area corresponding to No. 4, the appropriate value of the offset amount of the JPEG thumbnail area 62 for the page (that is, the Total JPEG Data area 60 for all pages before the page, Size of JPEG thumbn
Total data length of ail area 61 and JPEG thumbnail area 62 + Total JPEG Data area 60 and Size of J for the page
PEG thumbnail area 61).

In the next S354, the HDD control unit 113
No. of P in the work area prepared on the RAM 11
The value of the area corresponding to the ages area 65 is incremented by one.

In the next S356, the HDD control unit 113
Indicates "there are pages remaining" in the received scan end message.
Is set or “No remaining pages” is set. If “there is a remaining page” is set, the process proceeds to S357, and “there is no remaining page”
If is set, the process proceeds to S360.

In S357, the HDD control section 113 checks whether or not the page for which scanning has been completed is the first page. And if it is the first page, HDD
The control unit 113 determines in S358 that the hard disk 1
JPEG file “ActualData.JPG” in 3 and JPE
Combine the G file “ThumbData.JPG” and temporarily assign a temporary file name “PreviousData.JPG”
It is stored in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13. After the completion of S358, the HDD control unit 11
3 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, if it is not the first page,
In step S359, the HDD control unit 113 stores the JPEG file “PreviousData.JPG” in the hard disk 13.
Similarly, the JPEG file “ActualData.JPG” and the JPEG file “ThumbData.
JPG ”in order to create a hard disk 1
Update the JPEG file “PreviousData.JPG” in 3. After the completion of S359, the HDD control unit 113 returns the processing to S301.

On the other hand, S which is executed when "no remaining pages" is set (when scanning of the last page is completed)
In 360, the HDD control unit 113 checks whether or not the document is composed of a single page. If it is determined that the document consists of a single page (that is, if the page for which scanning has been completed is the first page), the HDD control unit 113
In step S361, the JPEG file “ActualData.JPG” and the JPEG file “Thum
bData.JPG "and each file management data on the RAM 11 (that is, Size of JPEG thumbnail area 61, Offset of
Total JPEG Data area 63, Offset of JPEG Thumbnail
The area 64, the No. of pages area 65, and the data set in the areas corresponding to the Mrker area 66 are combined according to a predetermined format (the format of the JPEG single page file shown in FIG. 37). Then, the “scan and HDD”
A file name corresponding to the file format (in this case, a JPEG file) specified by the storage format parameter in the “storage request” message is assigned to the hard disk 1
3 is stored in the root of the image file area 134. Upon completing S361, the HDD control unit 113 advances the process to S363.

On the other hand, if the original consists of a plurality of pages, S
If it is determined in 360 (that is, if the page for which scanning has been completed is not the first page), the HDD control unit 113
Is the JPE in the hard disk 13 in S362.
G file “PreviousData.JPG”, JPEG file “ActualData.JPG” and JPEG file “ThumbData.JPG”
JPG "and each file management data on the RAM 11 (that is,
Size of JPEG thumbnail areas 61-1 to X for each page, Offset of Total JPEG Data areas 63-1 to X for each page,
Offset of JPEG Thumbnail area 64-1 to X for each page
The No. of pages area 65 and the data set in the area corresponding to the Mrker area 66) are combined according to a predetermined format (the JPEG multi-page file format shown in FIG. 38). Then, a file name corresponding to the file format (in this case, a JPEG file) specified by the storage format parameter in the “scan and HDD storage request” message from the management unit 114 is assigned to the image file area 134 on the hard disk 13. Store in the root of. Upon completing this S362, the HDD control unit 113 advances the processing to S363.

In S363, HDD control section 113 transmits a processing end message to management section 114. Upon completion of S363, the HDD control unit 11
3 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, in S364, the HDD control unit 113
In the work area prepared on the RAM 11, an area corresponding to the Offset of TIFF Data area 73 for the page where scanning has been completed is placed in the TIFF Header + Data area 70 (70-1) or TIFF page for that page. n The appropriate value of the offset amount of the data area 70-n (that is, the
TIFF Header + Data area 70 (70-1) or TIFF pag
en data area 70-n, Size of JPEG thumbnail area 7
1 and the total data length of the JPEG thumbnail area 72).

In the next S365, the HDD control unit 113
Is an Offset of JPEG Thumbnail area 7 for a page for which scanning has been completed in a work area prepared on the RAM 11.
4, an appropriate value of the offset amount of the JPEG thumbnail area 72 for the page (that is, the TIFF Header + Data area 70 (70-1) or TI for all pages before the page)
FF page n data area 70-n, Size of JPEG thumbnail
Sum of data length of area 71 and JPEG thumbnail area 72 +
TIFF Header + Data area 70 (70-1) or TIFF page n data area 70-n for the page and Size of JPEG thu
mbnail area 71).

In the next S366, the HDD control unit 113
No. of P in the work area prepared on the RAM 11
The value of the area corresponding to the ages area 75 is incremented by one.

In the next S367, the HDD control unit 113
Indicates "there are pages remaining" in the received scan end message.
Is set or “No remaining pages” is set. If “there is a remaining page” is set, the process proceeds to S358, and “there is no remaining page”
If is set, the process proceeds to S371.

In S368, the HDD control section 113 checks whether or not the page for which scanning has been completed is the first page. And if it is the first page, HDD
The control unit 113 determines in S369 that the hard disk 1
3 TIFF file "ActualData.Tif" and JPE
Combine the G file “ThumbData.JPG” and temporarily assign a temporary file name “PreviousData.Tif”
It is stored in the root of the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13. After the completion of S369, the HDD control unit 11
3 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, if it is not the first page,
In S370, the HDD control unit 113 stores the TIFF file “PreviousData.Tif” in the hard disk
Similarly, the TIFF file “ActualData.Tif” and the JPEG file “ThumbData.
JPG ”in order to create a hard disk 1
Update the TIFF file “PreviousData.Tif” in 3. After the completion of S370, the HDD control unit 113 returns the processing to S301.

On the other hand, S is executed when “no remaining pages” is set (when scanning of the last page is completed).
In 371, the HDD control unit 113 checks whether the document is composed of a single page. If it is determined that the document consists of a single page (that is, if the page for which scanning has been completed is the first page), the HDD control unit 113
In S372, the TIFF file “ActualData.Tif” and the JPEG file “Thum
bData.JPG "and each file management data on the RAM 11 (that is, Size of JPEG thumbnail area 71, Offset of
TIFF Data area 73, Offset of JPEG Thumbnail area 7
4, the data set in the areas corresponding to the No. of pages area 75 and the Mrker area 76) are combined according to a predetermined format (single page TIFF file format shown in FIG. 39). A file name corresponding to the file format (in this case, a TIFF file) specified by the storage format parameter in the “scan and HDD storage request” message from the management unit 114 is assigned to the image file area 134 of the hard disk 13. Store in the root of. This S372
Is completed, the HDD control unit 113 proceeds to S374.
Proceed to.

On the other hand, if the original consists of a plurality of pages, S
If it is determined at 371 (that is, if the page for which scanning has been completed is not the first page), the HDD control unit 113
Is the TIF in the hard disk 13 in S373.
F file “PreviousData.Tif”, TIFF file “ActualData.Tif” and JPEG file “ThumbData.
JPG "and each file management data on the RAM 11 (that is,
Size of JPEG thumbnail area 71-1 to X for each page, Offset of TIFF Data area 73-1 to X for each page, Offset of JPEG Thumbnail area 74-1 to X for each page, No. of
The page area 75 and the data set in the area corresponding to the Mrker area 76 are combined according to a predetermined format (the format of the JPEG multi-page file shown in FIG. 40). Then, a file name corresponding to the file format (in this case, a JPEG file) specified by the storage format parameter in the “scan and HDD storage request” message from the management unit 114 is assigned to the image file area 134 on the hard disk 13. Store in the root of. Upon completing this step S373, the HDD control unit 113 advances the process to step S374.

At S374, HDD control section 113 transmits a processing end message to management section 114. Upon completion of S374, the HDD control unit 11
3 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, in S306, which is executed when a cancel message is received from the management unit 114, the HDD control unit 113 checks the file (ie, the JPEG file “PreviousDa
ta.JPG ”or TIFF file“ PreviousData.Tif ”,
JPEG file "ActualData.JPG" or TIFF file "ActualData.Tif" and JPEG file "ThumbD
ata.JPG ") is deleted from the hard disk 13. Upon completion of S306, the HDD control unit 113 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, in S307 executed when another message is received, HDD control section 113 executes processing corresponding to the message. This S307
Is completed, the HDD control unit 113 proceeds to S301.
Return to

<Web Browser> Next, the processing executed by the web browser 301 in each client terminal 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The following description focuses on the case where the URL of “e” is input.
When the URL of “xplore” is input, in S401,
This URL is transmitted to the copy server 10 of one of the copy systems 1 via the communication unit 302. The copy system 1 to which the URL is transmitted is hereinafter referred to as a primary copy system.

In response to the transmission of the URL, when the copy server 10 of the primary copy system 1 transmits the hypertext “WebExplore.html”, the web browser 301 in S302 transmits the hypertext data “WebExplore.html”. html ”is received.

Next, the web browser 301 executes S40
3, the received hypertext data "WebExp
In accordance with “lore.html”, an image display area by the Java applet is secured, and the class file of the Java applet whose applet class file name is specified in the hypertext data “WebExplore.html” is transmitted via the communication unit 302. A request is made to the copy server 10 of the primary copy system 1.

Next, the web browser 301 executes S40
In 4, wait for completion of reception of all the class files of the requested Java applet. When all the class files have been received, the web browser 301 proceeds to step S405.
, The Java applet 133 is restored from all the received class files, and the Java applet 133 is restored.
Start After the above, the web browser 301
Continue normal processing.

<Java Applet> Next, in this embodiment, the hypertext data "WebExplore.html"
J whose applet class file name is specified within
The processing by the ava applet 133 is described in FIGS.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S101, the Java applet 133 started in step S405 displays an initial screen 80 shown in FIG. However, at this time, the left and right windows 85 and 86 of the initial screen 80 are left blank.

In the next step S502, the Java applet 1
33, according to various parameters described in the hypertext data “WebExplore.html” received in S402, the primary copy system 1, the secondary copy system 1 ′, and other client terminals are displayed in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen 80. 2 is displayed in a tree. Further, the user accesses the hard disk 38 of the client terminal 2 and additionally displays the characters and icons of My Computer on the window 85.

At the next step S503, the Java applet 1
33 determines whether or not any operation event has occurred based on an input signal from the input interface 37. If it is determined that an operation event has occurred, the Java applet 133 proceeds to step S504.
In, the type of operation event that has occurred is checked.

If it is determined in step S504 that a display type selection operation has occurred, that is, "display" in the menu bar 82 of the initial screen 80 is clicked, and
When "File list" or "Thumbnail" in the pull-down menu displayed after that is clicked, J
The ava applet 133 advances the processing to S505.
In this step S505, the Java applet 133 stores the selected display type, that is, “file list display” or “thumbnail display” corresponding to the clicked name. Upon completing this step S505, the Java applet 133 returns the process to step S503.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S504 that the operation for changing the number of display thumbnails has occurred, “Display” in the menu bar 82 of the initial screen 80 is clicked, and
When “thumbnail” in the pull-down menu displayed thereafter is clicked, and “3”, “6” or “9” is clicked from the subsequently displayed menu, Ja is displayed.
The va applet 133 advances the process to S506. In this S506, the Java applet 133 stores the number of selected thumbnails, that is, the number of clicked thumbnails. When this step S506 is completed, the Java applet 1
The process returns to S503.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S504 that a click operation of any directory has occurred, that is, any icon or character currently displayed in the left window 85 of the initial screen 80 (hereinafter simply referred to as “click”). , The directory is clicked), the Java applet 133 advances the processing to S508. In step S508, the Java applet 133 links with the primary copy system 1 and transmits a file list request packet specifying a path name corresponding to the clicked directory (corresponding to a management information request unit).

At the next step S509, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response of the file information to the file list request packet transmitted in S508 (see S715). The file information (file management information) includes a directory name of each subdirectory in the directory indicated by the path name in the file list request packet, a file name of each file stored in the directory indicated by the path name, and a file name. The size, the file attribute, the time stamp, the number of pages, and the free disk space available for the directory indicated by the path name are included.

When this file information is answered, Ja
The va applet 133 executes the processing from S509 to S510.
Proceed to. In this S510, the Java applet 13
3 displays the free disk capacity on the status bar 84 of the initial screen 80 based on the free disk capacity included in the file information, and displays the window 8 on the left side of the initial screen 80 based on the subdirectory name included in the file information.
Update in the tree displayed in 5 is performed. That is, as shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, each subdirectory name and its icon are displayed as a tree in a hierarchy below the clicked directory.

At the next step S511, the Java applet 1
33 checks whether the display type stored in S505 is a file list display or a thumbnail display. If the file list display is stored, in S512, the file list is displayed based on the file information responded in S509. That is, as shown in FIG. 44, in the window 86 on the right side of the initial screen,
A file name, a file size, a file attribute, a time stamp, and the number of pages of each file included in the file information are listed and displayed in order from the top (corresponding to a display unit). This S
Upon completing 512, the Java applet 133 returns the processing to S503.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S511 that the thumbnail display is stored, the Java applet 133 determines in step S513 that the first file included in the file information responded in step S509. Specify the first name. Upon completing this step S509, the Java applet 133 advances the processing to step S510.

At 510, the Java applet 133
Initializes the variable n to “0”. Then Java
The applet 133 executes a loop process from S515 to S520 in order to receive JPEG thumbnail data corresponding to each file name included in the file information.

In the first step S515 after entering this loop processing, the Java applet 133 links with the primary copy system 1, and executes the steps S513, S521, and S52.
4 or a file download request packet specifying the file name specified in S525, its path name, and the request target file type (here, a JPEG thumbnail file) is transmitted (corresponding to a JPEG file request section for schematic images).

In the next S516, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response (see S727) of a JPEG thumbnail file (JPEG file for schematic image) to the file download request packet transmitted in S515.

When a JPEG thumbnail file is returned, the Java applet 133 advances the process from S516 to S517. In S517, the Java applet 133 saves the received thumbnail JPEG file in the RAM 32.

At the next step S518, the Java applet 1
33 increments the variable n by one.

In the next S519, S51 is executed for all the file names included in the file information received in S509.
It is checked whether the file download request packet of No. 5 has been transmitted. If the file download request packet has not yet been transmitted for all the file names, the Java applet 133 proceeds to S5
Proceed to 20.

At S520, the Java applet 133
Checks whether the variable n matches the number of thumbnails stored in S506. And the variable n
If the number of thumbnails has not reached the number of thumbnails, the Java applet 133 specifies the next file name in the file information in step S521, and then performs processing to transmit a file download request packet related to the newly specified file name. Is returned to S515.

If the transmission of the file download request packet has been completed for all the file names in the file information as a result of repeating the above loop processing of S515 to S521, the Java applet 133 proceeds to S51.
The process proceeds from S9 to S522. If the variable n matches the number of thumbnails, the Java applet 133 advances the processing from S520 to S522.

At S522, the Java applet 133
45, based on the JPEG thumbnail file saved in the RAM 32, as shown in FIG.
A thumbnail is displayed in a window 86 on the right side of the display unit 0 (corresponding to a display unit). In this case, as for a file name whose number of pages is "1" in the file information, as shown in A of FIG. 45, a thumbnail image based on JPEG thumbnail data in a JPEG thumbnail file responded with respect to the file name ( (Outline image) 87, the fact that it is the first page of one page (Page 1 OF 1) 88, its file name 89, and file size 90 are displayed vertically. On the other hand, for a file name in which the number of pages in the file information is a plurality of pages (tentatively X pages), as shown in B in FIG. Are added so that the border 87a appears to overlap. Further, between the thumbnail image 87 and the file name 89, a message (Page Y of X) 91 indicating that the page is the Y page (“1” in the initial stage) of the X page is displayed. However, Y indicating "page number" is displayed in a text box 88b to which a scroll bar 88a is attached. Therefore, by operating the scroll bar 88a with a mouse, the value of Y displayed in the text box 88b is changed to X
It is possible to increase or decrease within the range of the value. When this S522 is completed, the Java applet 133 becomes
The process returns to S503.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S504 that the click operation of the previous page or the next page button has occurred, that is, the previous page displayed in the right window 86 during thumbnail display as shown in FIG. If the button 86a or the next page button 86b is clicked, the Java applet 133 advances the processing to S523.

In S523, the Java applet 133
Checks whether the previous page button 86a or the next page button 86b has been clicked. Then, the Java applet 133 advances the process to S524 when the previous page button 86a is clicked, and advances the process to S525 when the next page button 86b is clicked. In S524, the Java applet 133
The file name next to the last file name whose thumbnail is currently displayed in the window 86 is selected from the file information responded in the latest S509 for the current directory.
Identify. On the other hand, in S525, the Java applet 133 updates the latest S with respect to the current directory.
From the file information responded in 509, the current window 86
Then, a file name earlier than the first file name whose thumbnail is displayed by the number of thumbnails stored in S506 is specified. In any case, Java
The applet 133 then advances the process to S514. Since the processing after S514 has already been described, the description thereof is omitted here.

On the other hand, in S504, the display page number of the multi-page file is determined. If it is recognized that an update operation has occurred, that is, the number of pages Y displayed in the text box 88b because the scroll bar 88a of one of the thumbnails displayed in the right window 86 has been operated by the mouse 42. Is increased or decreased, the Java applet 133 causes the process to proceed to S526.

In S526, the Java applet 133
Is linked to the primary copy system 1 to update the file name (that is, the file name described below the text box 88b with the number of pages Y increased or decreased), its path name, and file type (here, JPEG A file download request packet specifying a thumbnail file) and the number of requested pages (that is, the number Y of pages after increase / decrease) is transmitted (corresponding to a general image JPEG file request unit).

At the next step S527, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response (see S727) of a JPEG thumbnail file (schematic image JPEG file) to the file download request packet transmitted in S526.

[0210] When a JPEG thumbnail file is returned, the Java applet 133 advances the process from S527 to S528. In S528, the Java applet 133 saves the received thumbnail JPEG file in the RAM 32.

At the next step S529, the Java applet 1
Reference numeral 33 denotes a thumbnail image 8 displayed on a text box 88b whose number of pages Y has been increased or decreased based on the JPEG thumbnail file saved in the RAM 32.
7 is updated. As a result, a thumbnail image (schematic image) 87 corresponding to the increased / decreased number of pages Y is displayed. When this S529 is completed, the Java applet 1
The process returns to S503.

On the other hand, if it is recognized in S504 that the file drop operation has occurred, that is, any file name (and the corresponding icon or thumbnail image 87) displayed in the right window 86 is dragged. If the Java applet 133 is dropped on any directory name (or its icon) displayed on the left window 85, the process proceeds to S530.

In S530, the Java applet 133
Proceeds to S531, if the drop destination is My Computer (or a directory belonging to a lower hierarchy),
If the drop destination is another directory name, the process proceeds to S53.
Proceed to 5.

At S531, the Java applet 133
Performs a link with the primary copy system 1 and copies the source file name (that is, the dragged file name), its path name, and the destination drive name (that is, the name of the own client terminal 2 to which the directory where the file name is dropped belongs). A file download request packet designating the drive name of the hard disk 38, its path name, and the file type (here, an image file including all data) is transmitted.

At the next step S532, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response (see S727) of the image file (JPEG file or TIFF file) to the file download request packet transmitted in S531.

When an image file is responded, Java
The applet 133 advances the processing from S532 to S533. In this S533, the Java applet 133
Writes the received image file into the directory indicated by the copy destination path name in the copy destination drive.

At the next step S534, the Java applet 1
33 checks whether all image files corresponding to the file download request in S531 have been received. If all image files have not been received yet, the process returns to S532. On the contrary,
If all image files have been received, Java
The applet 133 returns the process to S503.

On the other hand, in S535, the Java applet 133 links with the primary copy system 1 and copies the source file name (that is, the dragged file name), its path name, and the destination drive name (that is, the file drive name). A file copy request packet that specifies the copy server 10 or the drive names of the hard disks 13 and 38 of the other client terminals 2 to which the directory whose name has been dropped and the path name thereof is transmitted (corresponding to a file transmission request section).

At the next step S536, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response to the file download request packet transmitted in S535. If there is a response, the Java applet 133 in the next S537 indicates that the copy has been normally accepted (S730, S73).
It is checked whether a response has been received (see steps S736 and S740) or an error. If an error is returned, the Java applet 133 returns to S
In 542, after displaying an error on the screen, the process returns to S503. On the other hand, if a response indicating that the copy has been normally accepted is received, the Java applet 133 advances the processing to S538. In S538, the Java applet 133 links with the primary copy system 1 and transmits a copy status confirmation packet for confirming the end of the copy. The copy status confirmation packet includes a process number,
A copy source file name and its path name, a copy destination drive name and its path name are stored.

At the next step S539, the Java applet 1
33 checks the content of the response (see S742 and S746) to the copy status confirmation packet in S538. If an error has been responded, the Java applet 133 displays an error on the screen in S542, and then returns the processing to S503. On the other hand, the fact that it is continuing (that is, the processing progress <10
0%) is returned, the Java applet 13
In S540, after the fact that copying is being continued and the processing progress are displayed on the screen in S540, the processing is performed in S538.
Return to On the other hand, if a response indicating that the copying has been completed (that is, processing progress = 100%) is received, the Java applet 133 displays a message indicating that the copying has been completed on the screen in step S541, and then proceeds to step S503. return.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S504 that the file search operation has occurred, that is, if the initial screen 8
0 is clicked on the "edit" in the menu bar 82 and then clicked on the "search" in the pull-down menu displayed thereafter, or is displayed by clicking the search button 83c in the toolbar 83. When a search path and a search target file name or a search target directory name are input in a search dialog (not shown), the Java applet 133 advances the processing to S542.

In S542, the Java applet 133
Determines whether or not the search path entered in the search dialog (not shown) includes the drive name in the client terminal 2 itself.
To check. If the search path does not include the drive name in the client terminal 2, the Java applet 133 proceeds with the process directly to S544. On the other hand, when the search path includes the drive name in the client terminal 2, the Java applet 133 sets the S
In 543, after performing a file search in the hard disk 38 of the client terminal 2 itself, the process proceeds to S54.
Proceed to 4.

At S544, the Java applet 1
33 links with the primary copy system 1,
A file search request packet including, as parameters, a search range (a range of a search path) input in a search dialog (not shown) and a search target file name or a search target directory name is transmitted.

At the next step S545, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response (see S751) to the file search request packet transmitted in S544. If there is a response, the Java applet 133 proceeds to the next step S546.
, It is checked whether or not the search has been normally completed based on the response content. If the search has not been completed normally, the Java applet 133 returns to S54
In step 8, after an error is displayed on the screen, the process returns to step S503.

On the other hand, when the search is completed normally, the Java applet 133 displays all the search results (the search results in S543 and the search results included in the response) on the screen. indicate. Upon completing this step S547, the Java applet 133 proceeds to step S503.
Return to

On the other hand, if it is determined in S504 that a file deletion operation has occurred, that is,
Any file name displayed in 6 or left window 8
After clicking on any of the directory names displayed in 5, “File” in the menu bar 82 of the initial screen 80 is clicked, and “Delete” in the pull-down menu displayed thereafter is clicked. In this case, or when the delete button 83d in the toolbar 83 is clicked after clicking any file name or directory name, the Java applet 133 advances the processing to S549.

In step S542, the Java applet 133
Indicates that the deletion path (that is, the path corresponding to the clicked file name or directory name) is
Check whether the drive name in the file is included. If the deletion path includes the drive name in the client terminal 2, the Java applet 133 proceeds to S 552.
In step 2, the file to be deleted (the file indicated by the clicked file name) or the directory to be deleted (the directory indicated by the clicked directory name) is deleted from the hard disk 38 of the client terminal 2 itself.
When this S552 is completed, the Java applet 133
Advances the processing to S553.

On the other hand, if the deletion path does not include the drive name in the client terminal 2, the Java applet 133 links with the primary copy system 1 in S 550, and searches for the file name or search target file. A file deletion request packet including the directory name and its path name as parameters is transmitted. In the next step S551, the Java applet 133 executes the processing in step S550.
Wait for a response (see S756) to the file deletion request packet transmitted in. If there is a response, Ja
The va applet 133 advances the processing to S553.

At S553, the HDD control unit 113 sets
The execution result of the file deletion process in 552 or S5
At 51, based on the response received from the primary copy system 1, it is checked whether or not the file has been deleted normally. If the file has not been deleted normally, the Java applet 133 proceeds to S555.
In step S, after displaying an error on the screen,
Return to 503.

On the other hand, if the file has been deleted normally, the Java applet 133 returns to S554.
, The execution result of the file deletion process in S552,
Alternatively, based on the parameters included in the response received from the primary copy system 1 in S551, the disk free space displayed on the status bar 84 is rewritten to the one after file deletion. Upon completing this step S554, the Java applet 133 proceeds to step S503.
Return to

On the other hand, if it is determined in S504 that a file rename operation has occurred, that is, one of the file names displayed in the right window 86 or one of the directories displayed in the left window 85 After the name is clicked, "File" in the menu bar 82 of the initial screen 80 is clicked, "Rename" in the pull-down menu displayed thereafter is clicked, and further a new file name or directory name is clicked. When input from the keyboard 41, the Java applet 133
Advances the process to S556.

In S556, the Java applet 133
Checks whether the rename path (that is, the path corresponding to the clicked file name or directory name) includes the drive name in the client terminal 2 itself. If the rename path includes the drive name in the client terminal 2, the Java applet 133 returns to S
At 559, the actual name of the file to be renamed (the file indicated by the clicked file name) or the directory to be renamed (the directory indicated by the clicked directory name) in the hard disk 38 is
The name is changed to the name input from the keyboard 41. This S
Upon completion of Step 559, the HDD control unit 113 proceeds to S
Proceed to 560.

On the other hand, if the rename path does not include the drive name in the client terminal 2, the Java path
In step S557, the a applet 133 links with the primary copy system 1 and transmits a file rename request packet including, as parameters, the file name or directory name to be renamed, its path name, and the name input from the keyboard 41. I do. In the next S558, the Java applet 133 executes the processing in S55.
Wait for a response to the file rename request packet transmitted in step 7 (see S761). If there is a response,
The Java applet 133 advances the processing to S560.

At S560, the HDD control unit 113
Based on the execution result of the file rename process in 559 or the response received from the primary copy system 1 in S558, it is checked whether or not the file was successfully renamed. If the file is not properly renamed, the Java applet 133
Returns an error display on the screen in S562, and then returns the processing to S503.

[0235] On the other hand, if the file is successfully renamed, the Java applet 133 returns to step S5.
At 61, the display of the clicked file name or directory name is changed to the name input from the keyboard 41. Upon completing this step S561, the Java applet 133 returns the process to step S503.

On the other hand, if another event has occurred in step S504, the Java applet 133 returns to step S507.
In, after executing the process corresponding to the event, the process returns to S503.

<Network Receiving Unit> Next, processing by the network receiving unit 111 executed on the copy server 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. As shown in FIG. 26, the network receiving unit 111
In S601, the process waits for reception of a packet from any one of the client terminals 2 or the copy server 10 (control unit 112) of the other copy system 1 'via the network NW. When any packet is received, S
In 602, one of the control units 112 in an empty state is selected based on the control unit management table (FIG. 41) stored in the RAM 11.

In the next S603, the network receiving unit 1
11 is for the control unit 112 selected in S602
The information recorded in the control section management table is "empty"
To "busy".

In the next S604, the network receiving unit 1
11 extracts the message from the packet received in S601 and notifies the control unit 112 selected in S602. Upon completing step S604, the network receiving unit 111 returns to step S601 and waits for the next packet.

<Control Unit> Next, the processing by each control unit 112 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. In S701, each control unit 112 transmits a message from the network interface unit 111 (S60).
4)). Upon receiving the message from the network interface unit 111, the control unit 112
In S702, the type of the received message is checked. And the received message is "WebExplo
If the URL is “re” (see S401), the control unit 112 advances the process from S702 to S703.

In step S703, the control unit 112 determines the contents stored in the copy server 10 of its own system (that is, the contents stored in the copy server 10).
The name and I of another copy system 1 ′ or client terminal 2 registered in advance as the destination of the image file
Hypertext data “WebExplore.htlm” is dynamically created based on the P address, the class file name of the Java applet 133, and other parameters.

At the next step S704, the control unit 112 sets
03 hypertext data “WebExplor
e.htlm ”to the requesting client terminal 2 (web browser 301).
In S710, the information of the own device recorded in the control unit management table (that is, the network interface unit 1).
After rewriting the information corresponding to the use control unit number passed from No. 11 from “busy state” to “empty state”, the process returns to S701.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
1 is a Java applet class file request message (see S403), the control unit 112 proceeds from S702 to S7.
Proceed to 05.

In S705, the class file requested in the class file request message is received from the HDD control unit 113, and is sequentially transmitted to the requesting client terminal 2 (web browser 301) (corresponding to a program transmission unit). ). After that, the control unit 112
Rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from "busy state" to "empty state" in S710, and then returns the processing to S701.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
If the received request is a file list request from the third or other copy system 1 '(see S508 and S712), the control unit 112 advances the processing from S702 to S711.

In S711, the control section 112 checks whether or not the path name specified in the file list request includes a drive name in its own system. If it does not include the drive name in its own system, in S712, the control unit 112 links with the request destination copy system (secondary copy system) 1 'indicated by the path name, and sends a file list request packet. To transfer. The control unit 112 determines in the next S713
The process waits for a file information response (see S715) to the file list request packet transferred in S712, and if there is a response, the process proceeds to S715.

[0247] On the other hand, if the path name specified in the file list request includes a drive name in the own system, the control unit 112 indicates the path name from the hard disk 13 in S714. After reading the file information of the directory, the process proceeds to S71.
Proceed to 5.

In step S715, the control unit 112 determines in step S714
Transmits the file information read out by itself to the Java applet 133 or the primary copy system 1 ', which is the file list request source (corresponding to a management information response unit). Alternatively, the file information received from the secondary copy system 1 ′ in S713 is
The data is transmitted to the va applet 133 (corresponding to a management information response unit). After that, the control unit 112 rewrites its information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S710, and then proceeds to S7
Return to 01.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
3 or a file download request from another copy system 1 '(see S515, S526, S531, S717), the control unit 112 proceeds to S70.
2 to S716.

In S716, control unit 112 determines that the path name specified in the file download request (in the case of the file download request transmitted in S531, the path name specified as the copy source) is the drive name in its own system. Check whether it contains. If the drive name in the own system is not included, the control unit 11
2 is a request destination copy system (secondary copy system) indicated by the path name in S717
Link with 1 'and transfer the file download request packet. In the next step S718, the control unit 112 responds to the image file in response to the file download request packet transferred in step S717 (see step S727).
, And if there is a response, the process proceeds to S727.

On the other hand, if the path name specified in the file download request includes a drive name in the own system, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S719.
It is checked whether the file type specified in the file download request is a JPEG thumbnail file or an image file including all data. And JPE
When a G thumbnail file is specified (S51
5, S526, S717), the process proceeds to S720.

At S720, control unit 112 checks whether or not a page number is specified in the file download request. If there is no page number specified (S
515, S717), the control unit 112 executes S72.
In step 1, a JPEG file or a TIFF file corresponding to the file name specified in the file download request is read from the hard disk 13, and
JPEG thumbnail data is extracted from the JPEG Thumbnail areas 62 and 72 and is extracted as a JPEG file (JPE file).
G thumbnail file) (schematic image JPEG file). When this step S721 is completed, the control unit 1
In step 12, the process advances to step S727.

On the other hand, if the page number is specified in the file download request (see S526 and S717), the control unit 112 determines in S722 that the JPEG file or the file name corresponding to the file name specified in the file download request. Reads the TIFF file from the hard disk 13 and reads the JP for the page with the specified page number.
JPEG thumbnail data is extracted from the EG Thumbnail areas 62 and 72, and is extracted as a JPEG file (JPEG
Thumbnail file) (JPEG file for schematic image)
To be stored. When this step S722 is completed, the control unit 112
Advances the process to S727.

On the other hand, if the file type specified in the file download request is an image file containing all data (see S531, S717), the control unit 11
In step S2, the process advances from step S719 to step S723. This S7
At 23, the control unit 112 reads from the hard disk 13 a JPEG file or a TIFF file corresponding to the path name and the file name specified as the copy source in the file download request.

In the next step S724, the control unit 112 sets
At 23, it is checked whether the read image file is a JPEG file or a TIFF file. If the file is a TIFF file, the process proceeds to S727. On the other hand, if the file is a JPEG file, the control unit 112 determines in step S725 whether the file is a JPEG multi-page file (see FIG. 38) or a JPEG single page file (see FIG. 37).
Check). When the file is a JPEG single page file, the control unit 112
The process proceeds directly to S727. In contrast, JP
If the file is an EG multi-page file, the control unit 11
2 advances the processing to S726.

In S726, the control section 112 executes S723
The JPEG multi-page file read in is decomposed and divided into a plurality of JPEG files consisting only of Total JPEG data areas 60-1 to X for individual pages. This S
Upon completion of S726, the control unit 112 proceeds to S727.
Proceed to.

In step S727, the control unit 112 determines in step S721
Or a JPEG file storing the JPEG thumbnail data extracted in S722, and the JPEG file read in S723.
PEG file or TIFF file or S72
6. The plurality of JPEG files divided in step 6 are transmitted to the Java applet 133 or the primary copy system 1 'which has requested the file download (JP for general image).
EG file responder). Alternatively, the JPEG file or the TIFF file received from the secondary copy system 1 ′ in S718 is transmitted to the Java applet 133 that has requested the file download (corresponding to the schematic image JPEG file response unit). After that, in step S710, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state”, and then returns the processing to step S701.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
In the case of a file copy request from S3 or another copy system 1 '(see S535 and S739), the control unit 112 advances the processing from S702 to S728.

In S728, the control section 112 checks whether or not both the copy source path name and the copy destination path name specified in the file copy request include a drive name in the own system. If both the copy source path name and the copy destination path name include a drive name in the own system, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S729, where the copy source path name and the file name specified in the file copy request Source file specified by (JP
EG file or TIFF file) and reads it out from the hard disk 1 specified by the copy destination path name.
Write to the directory in 3. In the next S730,
The control unit 112 controls the Java applet 133 only when directly requested by the Java applet 133.
A response to the effect that the copy has been normally accepted.

On the other hand, if either the copy source path name or the copy destination path name specified in the file copy request includes a drive in another system, the control unit 112 proceeds to S731. Proceed to. In S731,
The control unit 112 checks whether or not the copy source path name specified in the file copy request includes a drive name in the own system and the copy destination path name includes a drive name in another system. If the copy source path name includes a drive name in the own system and the copy destination path name includes a drive name in another system, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S732 and executes Copy system) 1 'is read, a copy source file (JPEG file or TIFF file) specified by the copy source path name and the file name specified in the file copy request is read from the hard disk 13, and the copy destination path is specified. And transmits it to the destination system (corresponding to an image file transmission unit).
In the next step S733, the control unit 112 determines whether or not the Java applet 133 has directly requested the Java applet.
It responds to the applet 133 that the copy has been normally accepted.

On the other hand, if the copy source path name specified in the file copy request includes a drive name in another system, the control unit 112 proceeds to S73.
Proceed to 4. In S734, the control unit 112 determines whether or not the copy source path name specified in the file copy request includes a drive name in another system and the copy destination path name includes a drive name in the own system. To check. If the copy source path name includes a drive name in another system and the copy destination path name includes a drive name in the own system, the control unit 112 proceeds to S
In 735, a link is made with the copy source system (secondary copy system) 1 ', and a file transfer request packet specifying the copy source file name and path name and the copy destination path name is transferred. In the next S736, the control unit 112
Responds to the Java applet 133 that the copy has been normally accepted. In the next S737, the control unit 112 determines that the copy source system responds to the file transfer request packet transmitted in S736 by the copy source system.
(G file or TIFF file). Then, when there is a response to the image file (see S708), in the next step S738, the control unit 112 writes the data of the received image file into the directory corresponding to the copy destination path name specified in the file copy request. .

On the other hand, if the copy destination path name specified in the file copy request includes a drive name in another system, the control unit 112 proceeds to S73.
Proceed to 9. In S739, the control unit 112 links with the copy source system (secondary copy system) 1 'and transfers the file copy request packet. Next S
In step 740, the control unit 112 sends the Java applet 13
Respond to 3 that copy has been accepted normally.

S730, S733, S738, S740
When any of the above is completed, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S710, and then returns the processing to S701.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 receives the message from another copy system 1 '
If the received image file is an image file transmitted from S702 (see S732), the control unit 112 executes the processing from S702 to S70.
Proceed to 6.

At S706, control unit 112 writes the data of the received image file into the directory corresponding to the specified copy destination path. In the next step S707, the control unit 112 checks whether the data reception of the image file has been completed. If the data reception has not been completed yet, the process returns to S706. If the data reception has been completed, in S710, the own information recorded in the control unit management table is changed from "busy state" to "busy state". After rewriting to “empty state”, the process returns to S701.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 receives the message from another copy system 1 '
If the received request is a file transfer request transmitted from S702 (see S735), the control unit 112 proceeds from S702 to S702.
Proceed to 708.

In step S708, the control unit 112 reads the copy source file (JPEG file or TIFF file) specified by the copy source path name and the file name specified in the file transfer request, and (Primary Copy System). In the next step S709, the control unit 112 checks whether all data of the file has been transmitted. Then, if all data has not been transmitted yet, the process returns to S708. If all data has been transmitted, the process returns to S708.
In step 710, the process returns to step S701 after rewriting the own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state”.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
3 or the copy status confirmation from another copy system 1 '(S538, S744), the control unit 1
In step S12, the process advances from step S702 to step S741.

In S741, the control unit 112 checks whether both the copy source path name and the copy destination path name specified in the copy status confirmation include a drive name in the own system. If both the copy source path name and the copy destination path name include a drive name in the own system, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S742, where the process number and the copy source path name specified in the copy status confirmation Then, the progress of the copy operation is checked based on the file name and the copy destination path name, and the processing progress (%) is returned to the Java applet 133.

On the other hand, when either the copy source path name or the copy destination path name specified in the file copy status check includes a drive in another system,
The control unit 112 advances the process to S743. In S743, the control unit 112 determines that the request source of the copy status confirmation is Java.
It is checked whether it is a applet 133 or another copy system 1 '. If the request source is the Java applet 133, the control unit 112 proceeds to S7
At 44, a copy status confirmation packet is further transmitted to the other copy system 1 ′ that is the copy destination or the copy source. In the next step S745, the control unit 112
It waits for a response (see S747) from the copy system 1 'that has received the copy status confirmation packet transmitted at 44.
If there is a response, the control unit 112 advances the process to S746.

In S746, the control unit 112 determines the progress status of the copy operation in its own system based on the process number, copy source path name and file name, and copy destination path name specified in the copy status confirmation. , S74
In step 5, the copy status (processing progress) returned from another system is checked, and the processing progress (%) is checked.
Is returned to the Java applet 133.

On the other hand, the copy status confirmation is requested by another copy system (primary copy system) 1 ′.
In step S747, the control unit 112 checks the progress of the copy operation based on the process number, copy source path name and file name, and copy destination path name specified in the copy status confirmation. Then, the processing progress (%) is returned to the requesting primary copy system 1 '.

When any of S742, S746, and S747 is completed, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S710. Processing is S70
Return to 1.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
If it is a file search request from the third or other copy system 1 '(see S544 and S752), the control unit 112 advances the processing from S702 to S748.

In S748, control unit 112 checks whether the search range specified in the file search request is in the own system or in another system. If the search range is within another system, the control unit 112 links the other system (secondary copy system) and transfers the file search request packet in S749. In the next step S750, the control unit 112 returns a search result response to the file search request packet transferred in step S749 (see step S751).
, And if there is a response, the process proceeds to S751.

On the other hand, if the search range specified in the file search request is within the own system, the control unit 112 determines in S752 that the search range specified in the file search request and the search target A file search is executed in the hard disk 13 in the own system according to the file name or the directory name to be searched. After execution of S752, control unit 112 advances the process to S751.

In S751, the control unit 112 determines in S752
Is transmitted to the Java applet 133 or the primary copy system 1 'which has requested the file search. Alternatively, the file search result received from the secondary copy system 1 ′ in S750 is transmitted to the Java applet 133 that has issued the file search request. Thereafter, the control unit 112 proceeds to S710
In step, after rewriting its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state”, the process returns to S701.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
If the request is a file deletion request from the third copy system 1 or another copy system 1 '(see S550 and S754), the control unit 112 advances the processing from S702 to S753.

In S753, the control unit 112 checks whether the path name of the file or directory to be deleted specified in the file deletion request includes a drive name in its own system or a drive name in another system. If the path name includes a drive name in another system, in S754, the control unit 112 links with another system (secondary copy system) and transfers a file deletion request packet. In the next S755, the control unit 112 responds to the file deletion request packet transferred in S754 with a deletion result (see S756).
, And if there is a response, the process proceeds to S756.

On the other hand, if the path name of the file or directory to be deleted specified in the file deletion request includes the drive name in the own system, the control unit 11
2 deletes the file to be deleted or the directory to be deleted in S757 according to the path name and the file or directory name to be deleted specified in the file deletion request. After the execution of S757, the control unit 112
Advances the process to S756.

In S756, the control section 112 executes S757
Of the file deletion request (including information on the free disk space and the total disk space of the drive storing the deleted file or directory) by the file deletion requester Ja
va applet 133 or primary copy system 1 '. Alternatively, the file deletion result received from the secondary copy system 1 ′ in S755 is transmitted to the Java applet 133 that has issued the file deletion request. After that, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S710, and then proceeds to S70.
Return to 1.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
2 received the Java applet 13
If the request is a file rename request from the third copy system 1 or another copy system 1 ′ (see S557 and S759), the control unit 112 proceeds from S702 to S75.
Proceed to 8.

In S758, the control unit 112 checks whether the path name of the file or directory to be renamed specified in the file rename request includes a drive name in the own system or a drive name in another system. If the path name includes a drive name in another system, in S759, the control unit 112 links with another system (secondary copy system) and transfers a file rename request packet. Control unit 112
Waits for a response of the rename result (see S761) to the file rename request packet transferred in S759 in the next S760, and if there is a response, the process proceeds to S76.
Proceed to 1.

[0284] On the other hand, if the path name of the file or directory to be renamed specified in the file rename request includes a drive name in the own system, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S762 and specifies the file name in the file rename request. According to the path name and the file name or directory name to be renamed, the file to be renamed or the directory to be renamed is specified, and the name is changed to the new name specified in the file rename request. After the execution of S762, the control unit 112 executes the processing in S761.
Proceed to.

In S761, the control unit 112 determines in S762
Is transmitted to the Java applet 133 or the primary copy system 1 ′, which is the file rename request source, as a result of the rename in (1). Alternatively, the file rename result received from the secondary copy system 1 ′ in S760 is transmitted to the Java applet 133 that has requested the file rename. After that, in step S710, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state”, and then returns the processing to step S701.

(Operation Example) Next, an operation example of the network copy file management system according to the present embodiment having the above-described configuration will be specifically described. In the following description, it is assumed that the first copy system 1 is installed in the vicinity of the client terminal 2 operated by the operator, and the second copy system 1 'is installed in a remote place.
Therefore, the operator sets a document on the scanner 20 of the first copy system 1 and operates the touch panel 18 and the keyboard 23.
It is assumed that the first copy system 1 becomes the “primary copy system” and the second copy system 1 ′ becomes the “secondary copy system”.

<Storing of Image File in Scan Mode> First, the operation when the primary copy system 1 is set to the scan mode and a document is read will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG. In this case, as a premise of the operation, the operator presses the scan mode button 53 displayed on the touch panel 18 and displays the scan mode basic operation screen (FIG. 3) displayed as a result.
6) Set various parameters and set an original on the flatbed or the ADF of the scanner 20.

When the operator presses the start key on the keyboard 23 after making such preparations, the operation panel unit 118 manages these parameters and a key information message including the fact that the start key has been pressed, by the management. To the unit 114 (S00
6). The management unit 114 that has received the key information message transmits a scanner operation confirmation request message to the scanner unit 115 while holding the parameters included in the key information message (S1).
14). Upon receiving the scanner operation confirmation request message, the scanner unit 115 responds to the management unit 114 as to whether the scanner 20 is busy or idle (S203). Upon receiving this response, the management unit 114 transmits a display switching message in which a display number for displaying a busy is set if the response is busy, and is scanning if the response is idle. The display switching message in which the display number for displaying the
(S122, S124). The operation panel unit 118 that has received the display switching message displays L
Display according to the display number is performed on the CD 19 (S00
8).

If the response from the scanner unit 115 is idle, the management unit 114
The “scan and HD” with various parameters included in the key information message added to the HDD control unit 113.
D storage request message ”(S123). The HDD control unit 113, which has received the “scan and HDD storage request message” from the management unit 114, sends a scan request message with various parameters attached to the “scan and HDD storage request message” to the scanner unit 115. It is transmitted (S303). Then
The scanner unit 115 instructs the scanner 20 to execute a scan for each page of a document set in the flatbed or the ADF of the scanner 20 according to various parameters attached to the scan request message (S21).
1).

[0290] Then, the scanner unit 115
Each time scan data for a predetermined line is received from 0,
The received scan data is transmitted to the HDD control unit 113 (S213). When the scan data including the last line of each page has been transmitted, the scanner unit 115
A scan end message is sent to the DD control unit 113 (S217, S218), and if there is no remaining page, a process end message is sent to the management unit 114 (S219). The HDD control unit 113
Depending on the file type parameter in the “scan and HDD storage request message”, a JPEG file or T
Create an IFF file. In any of the image files, if the document has a plurality of pages, the scanner unit 115
And creates image data (JPEG data or 24-bit RGB data) for each page based on the scan data received from the server, and stores it in the image file. further,
For each page, JPEG thumbnail data is created by reducing the resolution of the scan data and JPEG-compressing the image data and storing it in an image file. When the image file is created in this way, the HDD control unit 113 transmits a processing end message to the management unit 114 (S363, S374).

Scanner unit 115 and HDD control unit 113
The management unit 114 that has received the processing end message from both of the above displays a display switching message in which a display number for displaying the normal scan mode basic operation screen is set,
Transmit to the operation panel section 118 (S10
5). The operation panel unit 118 that has received the display switching message displays the original scan mode basic operation screen on the LCD 19 (S008).

<File operation from client terminal>
Next, an operation in the case of a file operation from the web browser 301 of the client terminal to the primary copy system 1 will be described. In this case, the operator starts the web browser 301 on the client terminal 2, inputs the URL of “WebExplore” of the primary copy system 1 on the web browser 301, and
Via the network NW (S401).
Then, the copy server 1 of the primary copy system 1
Network interface unit 1 running within 0
11 receives this URL, and any one of the control units 112 managed as an empty state in the control unit management table.
This URL is passed to (S601 to S604).

[0293] Then, the control unit 112 obtains information on the IP addresses and names of other copy systems (secondary copy systems) 1 'and other client terminals 2 registered in the own system 1 as image file transmission / reception destinations. Dynamically creates hypertext data "WebExplore.html" including the class file name of the Java applet and the like (S703), and stores the hypertext data "WebExplore.html" in the client terminal 2.
Is transmitted to the web browser 301 (S704).

The hypertext data “WebExplor
The web browser 301 that has received the “e.html” receives the Java whose applet class file name is described in the hypertext data “WebExplore.html”.
The server 10 requests the applet class file (S403). Upon receiving this request, the network interface unit 111 sends to any of the control units 1 in the waiting state.
The request is passed to S12 (S601 to S604). Upon receiving the request for the class file, the control unit 112 sequentially reads the requested class files from the hard disk 13 in accordance with the specified applet class file name, and reads the class files from the hard disk 13.
1 (S705).

[0295] When all the class files necessary for the activation are arranged in the RAM 32 of the client terminal 2 in this manner, the web browser 301 starts the Java applet 13
3 is started (S405). This Java applet 1
Reference numeral 33 displays an initial screen 80 shown in FIG. 42 in a designated area in a display screen of the web browser 301.

[File List Display] Next, the operation when the file list display is selected while the initial screen is displayed (S505) and any directory name is clicked will be described.

When the Directory Name in Primary Copy System 1 is Clicked When the operator clicks the primary copy system 1 or the directory name under the primary copy system 1 displayed in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen 80, FIG. As shown, the Java applet 133 transmits a file list request packet specifying a path name corresponding to the clicked directory name to the primary copy system 1 (S508). Upon receiving this file list request packet, the control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 sends, from the hard disk 13, the file information (subdirectory name and each image) in the directory corresponding to the path name specified in the file list request packet. The file name, file size, time stamp, file attribute, and number of pages of the file are read (S714), and the file information is returned to the requesting Java applet 133 (S715). Upon receiving this file information, the Java applet 133 performs a tree display of the subdirectory name based on the received file information in a lower layer of the directory name clicked by the operator in the left window 85 of the initial screen (S
510). At the same time, as shown in FIG. 44, the HDD control unit 113 performs a list display (file list display) of the received file information in the window 86 on the right side of the initial screen (S512).

When a directory name in the secondary copy system 1 'is clicked: The operator clicks any of the secondary copy systems 1' displayed in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen 80 or a directory name under the secondary copy system 1 '. Then, as shown in FIG. 48, the Java applet 133 transmits a file list request packet specifying a path name corresponding to the clicked directory name to the primary copy system 1 (S508).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 receiving the file list request packet transfers the file list request packet to the secondary copy system 1 'corresponding to the path name specified in the file list request packet. (S712).

Upon receiving this file list request packet, the control unit 112 of the secondary copy system 1 'sends, from the hard disk 13, the file information (subdirectory name, subdirectory name, sub directory name) in the directory corresponding to the path name specified in the file list request packet. Also, the file name, file size, time stamp, file attribute, and number of pages of each image file are read out (S71).
4), the file information is returned to the requesting primary copy system 1 (S715).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 that has received the response of the file information returns a response of the received file information to the requesting Java applet 133 (S715). Java that received this file information
The applet 133 displays a tree of subdirectory names based on the received file information in a lower layer of the directory name clicked by the operator in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen (S510). At the same time, H
As shown in FIG. 44, the DD control unit 113 performs a list display (file list display) of the received file information in the window 86 on the right side of the initial screen (S512).

[Thumbnail Display] Next, while the initial screen is displayed, the thumbnail display is selected (S5).
05), the operation when any directory name is clicked will be described.

When the Directory Name in the Primary Copy System 1 is Clicked When the operator clicks the primary copy system 1 or the directory name under the primary copy system 1 displayed in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen 80, FIG. As shown, in the same manner as in the case of the file list display, the file information is responded to the Java applet 133, and a tree display is made in the left window 85 of the initial screen 80 (S50).
8, S714, S715, S509, S510).

Next, the Java applet 133 sets a display type parameter to thumbnail for the first file name included in the received file information, and sets a path name and a file download request packet in which the file name is set. Is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S515). Upon receiving the file download request packet, the control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 reads out the image file corresponding to the path name and the file name specified in the file download request packet from the hard disk 13 and reads the image file in the image file. J on the first page
PEG thumbnail data is extracted, and a JPEG thumbnail file storing the JPEG thumbnail data is
The request is transmitted to the requesting Java applet 133 (S72).
1, S727). When a plurality of file names are included in the file information, a predetermined number of file names (the same number as the number of display thumbnails set in advance by the operator) from the first file name are respectively assigned to the file download described above. Request packet transmission (S515)
And JPEG thumbnail file transmission (S727)
Is repeated.

When JPEG thumbnail files have been received for a predetermined number or for all file names in the file information, the Java applet 133, based on the received and saved JPEG thumbnail files, as shown in FIG. In the window 86 on the right side of the initial screen 80,
Display thumbnails.

When the directory name in the secondary copy system 1 'is clicked: The operator clicks any of the secondary copy systems 1' displayed in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen 80 or a directory name under the secondary copy system 1 '. Then, as shown in FIG. 50, similar to the case of the file list display,
The file information is returned to the Java applet 133,
A tree is displayed in the window 85 on the left side of the initial screen 80 (S508, S712, S714, S715, S50
9, S510).

Next, the Java applet 133 sets the display type parameter to thumbnail for the first file name included in the received file information, and sets the path name and the file download request packet in which the file name is set. Is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S515).

Control unit 112 of primary copy system 1 that has received this file download request packet
Is the secondary copy system 1 'corresponding to the path name specified in the file download request packet.
, A file download request packet is transferred (S717).

Upon receiving the file download request packet, the secondary copy system copies the image file corresponding to the path name and file name specified in the file download request packet to the hard disk 13.
And read the JPEG thumbnail data of the first page in the image file.
The JPEG thumbnail file storing the thumbnail data is transmitted to the requesting primary copy system 1 (S721, S727).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 that has received the JPEG thumbnail file converts the received JPEG thumbnail file into the requesting Java file.
It is transmitted to the applet 133 (S727).

When a plurality of file names are included in the file information, a predetermined number of file names (the same number as the number of display thumbnails set in advance by the operator) from the first file name are described above. Transmission and transfer of the file download request packet (S
515, S717) and transmission of the JPEG thumbnail file (S727) are repeated.

Upon receiving JPEG thumbnail files for a predetermined number or for all file names in the file information, the Java applet 133, based on the received and saved JPEG thumbnail files, as shown in FIG. In the window 86 on the right side of the initial screen 80,
Display thumbnails.

[File Copy] Next, the operation when any file name is dragged and dropped on any directory name while the file list display or the thumbnail display is being performed will be described. .

In the case where the directory of the dragged file name is in the primary copy system 1 and the dropped directory is My Computer or a directory below it, in this case, as shown in FIG. 51, the Java applet 133 Sends a file download request packet in which the dragged file name and its path name are set as the copy source and the path name corresponding to the dropped directory in the client terminal 2 is set as the copy destination to the primary copy system 1 The message is transmitted (S531).

Control unit 112 of primary copy system 1 receiving this file download request packet
Reads the image file corresponding to the path name and the file name specified as the copy source in the file download request packet from the hard disk 13 (S723), and transmits it to the requesting Java applet 133 (S727).

The Java applet 133 that has received the image file writes the received image file into the directory corresponding to the path name specified as the copy destination on the hard disk 38 (S533).

When the directory of the dragged file name is in the primary copy system 1 and the dropped directory is in the primary copy system 1, in this case, as shown in FIG. 52, the Java applet 133 A file download request packet in which the dragged file name and its path name are set as the copy source and the path name corresponding to the dropped directory in the primary copy system 1 is set as the copy destination is sent to the primary copy system 1. It is transmitted (S531).

Control unit 112 of primary copy system 1 receiving this file download request packet
Reads out the image file corresponding to the path name and the file name specified as the copy source in the file download request packet from the hard disk 13,
Write to the directory corresponding to the path name specified as the copy destination in the hard disk 13 (S72).
9). At the same time, the control unit 112 responds to the requesting Java applet 133 that the copy has been accepted (S730).

[0319] Java applet 1 receiving this response
33 transmits a copy status confirmation packet in which the copy source file name and path name and the copy destination path name are set to the primary copy system 1 (S538).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 having received the copy status confirmation packet reports the copy progress status (error or progress information) to the requesting Ja.
It is returned to the va applet 133 (S742).

The Java applet 133 that has received the copy progress status performs an error display (S542), a continuation display (S540), or an end display (S541) according to the copy progress status.

When the directory of the dragged file name is in the primary copy system 1 and the dropped directory is in the secondary copy system 1 'In this case, as shown in FIG. 53, the Java applet 133 A file download request packet in which the dragged file name and its path name are set as the copy source and the path name corresponding to the dropped directory in the secondary copy system 1 'is set as the copy destination is sent to the primary copy system 1. The message is transmitted (S531).

Control unit 112 of primary copy system 1 receiving this file download request packet
Reads out the image file corresponding to the path name and the file name specified as the copy source in the file download request packet from the hard disk 13,
The information of the copy destination path name is added and transmitted to the secondary copy system 1 'corresponding to the copy destination path name (S732).

[0324] The control unit 112 of the secondary copy system 1 'that has received the transmission file writes the received image file in the hard disk 13 in the directory corresponding to the path name specified as the copy destination (S706).

At the same time, the control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 responds to the requesting Java applet 133 that the copy has been accepted (S733).

The Java applet 1 that has received this response
33 transmits a copy status confirmation packet in which the copy source file name and path name and the copy destination path name are set to the primary copy system 1 (S538).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 having received the copy status confirmation packet transmits a copy status confirmation packet to the secondary copy system 1 ′ corresponding to the path name specified as the copy destination (S744). ).

The control unit 112 of the secondary copy system 1 'that has received the copy status confirmation packet returns the copy progress status (error or progress information) to the requesting primary copy system 1 (S74).
7).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 which has received the copy progress status receives the total copy progress status (error or error) based on the received copy progress status of the secondary copy system 1 'and the copy progress status within its own system. Progress information) is determined, and the copy progress is returned to the requesting Java applet 133 (S746).

The Java applet 133 that has received the copy progress status performs an error display (S542), a continuation display (S540), or an end display (S541) according to the copy progress status.

[File Search] Next, an explanation will be given on the operation when a file name or directory name to be searched and a search range are input in a search dialog (not shown) in a state where the file list display or the thumbnail display is performed. I do.

In the case where the input search range is within the primary copy system 1, in this case, as shown in FIG. 54, the Java applet 133 stores the input search range and the search target file within the primary copy system 1. A file search request packet in which the name or directory name is set is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S544).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 which has received the file search request packet sets the file having the specified search target file name or the specified search within the search range specified in the file search request packet. The directory having the target directory name is searched (S752). The search result is returned to the Java applet 133 (S751).

The Java applet 133 that has received the search result displays the received search result (S54).
7).

In the case where the input search range is within the secondary copy system 1 'In this case, as shown in FIG. 55, the Java applet 133 transmits the input secondary copy system 1'.
A file search request packet in which the search range and the search target file name or directory name are set is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S544).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 having received the file search request packet transfers the file search request packet to the secondary copy system 1 '(S749).

The control unit 112 of the secondary copy system 1 ′ that has received the file search request packet sets the file having the specified search target file name or the specified file within the search range specified in the file search request packet. The directory having the searched directory name is searched (S752). Then, the search result is returned to the requesting primary copy system 1 (S
751).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 having received the search result transmits the search result to Java.
The data is transferred to the applet 133 (S751).

The Java applet 133 that has received the search result displays the received search result (S54).
7).

[File Deletion] Next, in the state where the file list display or the thumbnail display is performed, after any file name or thumbnail is clicked, "delete" of "file" is clicked from the menu bar 83. The operation performed when the user clicks or when the delete button 83d is clicked will be described.

When the clicked file to be deleted or the directory to be deleted is in the primary copy system 1, in this case, as shown in FIG. 56, the Java applet 133 A file deletion request packet in which the directory name and its path name are set is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S550).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 which has received the file deletion request packet deletes the path name and the deletion target file name or the deletion target directory name specified by the file deletion request packet from the hard disk 13. The target file or the directory to be deleted is deleted (S757). Then, the result of the deletion (including information on the available disk space and the total disk space available for the directory specified by the path name) is returned to the Java applet 133 (S756).

The Java applet 133 that has received the deletion result displays the free disk space in the received deletion result on the status bar 84 (S554).

In the case where the clicked file to be deleted or the directory to be deleted is in the secondary copy system 1 'In this case, as shown in FIG. 57, the Java applet 133 stores the name of the file to be deleted or the name of the file to be deleted. A file deletion request packet in which the target directory name and its path name are set is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S550).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 having received the file deletion request packet transfers the file deletion request packet to the secondary copy system 1 '(S754).

The control unit 112 of the secondary copy system 1 ′ that has received the file deletion request packet corresponds to the path name and the file name or directory to be deleted specified by the file deletion request packet from the hard disk 13. The file to be deleted or the directory to be deleted is deleted (S757). And
The deletion result (including information on the free disk space and the total disk space available for the directory specified by the path name) is returned to the requesting primary copy system 1 (S756).

[0347] The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 that has received the result of deletion deletes the result of deletion in Java.
The data is transferred to the applet 133 (S756).

The Java applet 133 that has received the deletion result displays the free disk space in the received deletion result on the status bar 84 (S554).

[File Rename] Next, in the state where the file list display or the thumbnail display is performed, after any file name or thumbnail is clicked,
The operation when "Delete" of "File" is clicked from the menu bar 83 or the delete button 83d is clicked and a new file name or directory name is input will be described.

In the case where the clicked file to be renamed or the directory to be renamed is in the primary copy system 1, in this case, as shown in FIG. 58, the Java applet 133 stores the name of the file to be renamed or the name of the file to be renamed. A file rename request packet in which a directory name, its path name, and a new file name or directory name are set is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S557).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 that has received the file rename request packet stores the path name and the file name corresponding to the path name and the rename target file name or the directory name designated by the file rename request packet in the hard disk 13. Alternatively, the directory name is changed to a new name specified by the file rename request packet (S
762). Then, the result of the renaming is returned to the Java applet 133 (S761).

The Java applet 133 that has received the rename result renews the displayed name of the file or directory to be renamed according to the received rename result (S561).

In the case where the clicked file to be renamed or the directory to be renamed is in the secondary copy system 1 'In this case, as shown in FIG. 59, the Java applet 133 stores the name of the file to be renamed or the name of the file to be renamed. A file rename request packet in which the target directory name, its path name, and a new file name or directory name are set is transmitted to the primary copy system 1 (S557).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 receiving the file rename request packet transfers the file rename request packet to the secondary copy system 1 '(S759).

The control unit 112 of the secondary copy system 1 'receiving this file rename request packet,
In the hard disk 13, the name of the file or directory corresponding to the path name and the file name to be renamed or the directory name to be renamed specified by the file rename request packet is changed to a new name specified by the file rename request packet ( S762). Then, the result of the rename is returned to the requesting primary copy system 1 (S761).

The control unit 112 of the primary copy system 1 having received the rename result transfers the rename result to the Java applet 133 (S761).

The Java applet 133 that has received the rename result renews the displayed name of the file or directory to be renamed according to the received rename result (S561).

<Effects of Embodiment> As described above, according to the network copy file management system of this embodiment, the operator presses the scan mode selection button 53 from the touch panel 18 of the copy server 10 to When the start key is pressed, the original set on the flatbed or the ADF of the scanner 20 is read. However, the image data obtained by the reading is not immediately printed on the paper by the printer 21 but the image data obtained by the reading is stored in an image file (JPEG file). Or TIF
F file) and stored in the hard disk 13. Then, the operator downloads the class file of the Java applet 133 from the copy server 10 and executes the Java applet 133, whereby the management information (file name) of each image file stored on the hard disk 13 of the copy server 10 is obtained. , A file size, a time stamp, a file attribute, the number of pages of image data stored in the image file) and a schematic image (thumbnail) of the image data stored in each image file. Can be displayed on the display 40. Further, when the file name of any image file displayed on the display of the client terminal 2 is dragged and dropped on any directory name, it is stored in the hard disk 13 of the copy server 10. A specific image file is copied to the copy server 10 or another client terminal 2 of another copy system 1 '. Therefore, the operator can arbitrarily transmit the image file stored in the server 10 of the primary copy system 1 to the required third network device (the secondary copy system 1 'or another client terminal 2) when necessary. This makes it possible to transmit an image with much higher image quality and speed than a conventional FAX mail service, and much easier than when image data is transmitted by personal computer communication.

[0359]

According to the present invention constructed as described above, the image data obtained by the image reading section of the copy system by reading the original is stored as an image file on the disk in the copy system, and the computer network is connected to the computer. In response to a request from a terminal connected to the copy system, management information of a plurality of image files within the requested range can be displayed on a display unit of the terminal. When any one of the plurality of pieces of management information displayed in this manner is specified by the operator and the third network device as the transmission destination is specified, the image file corresponding to the specified management information is displayed. Send to specified third network device (copy, move)
Is done. Therefore, an image can be transmitted to a necessary network device when necessary.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a network file management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the client terminal shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a program configuration diagram showing tasks executed on a copy server and a client terminal of each copy system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing processing executed by an operation panel unit.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a management unit.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a management unit.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a scanner unit.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a scanner unit.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the HDD control unit.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing executed by an HDD control unit.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by an HDD control unit.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by an HDD control unit.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the HDD control unit.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by an HDD control unit.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the HDD control unit.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a web browser.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the network receiving unit.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 35 is a view showing a copy mode basic operation screen displayed on the LCD.

FIG. 36 is a view showing a scan mode basic operation screen displayed on the LCD.

FIG. 37 is a format diagram of a JPEG single page file.

FIG. 38 is a format diagram of a JPEG multi-page file.

FIG. 39 is a format diagram of a single page TIFF file.

FIG. 40 is a format diagram of a multi-page TIFF file.

FIG. 41 is a conceptual diagram of a control unit management table.

FIG. 42 is a view showing an initial screen displayed by a Java applet.

FIG. 43 is an enlarged view showing a menu bar when a display type is selected and the number of display thumbnails is set.

FIG. 44 is a view showing a file list display.

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing a thumbnail display.

FIG. 46 is a time chart showing message transmission when scan data is stored.

FIG. 47 is a time chart showing message transmission for displaying a file list for a directory in the primary copy system.

FIG. 48 is a time chart showing message transmission for displaying a file list to a directory in the secondary copy system.

FIG. 49 is a time chart showing transmission of a message for displaying a thumbnail to a directory in the primary copy system.

FIG. 50 is a time chart showing transmission of a message for displaying a thumbnail to a directory in the secondary copy system.

FIG. 51 is a time chart showing message transmission when an image file is downloaded from the primary copy system.

FIG. 52 is a time chart showing message transmission when an image file is copied in the primary copy system.

FIG. 53 is a time chart showing message transmission when an image file is copied from the primary copy system to the secondary copy system.

FIG. 54 is a time chart showing message transmission at the time of retrieval in the primary copy system.

FIG. 55 is a time chart showing message transmission at the time of retrieval in the secondary copy system.

FIG. 56 is a time chart showing message transmission at the time of deletion in the primary copy system.

FIG. 57 is a time chart showing message transmission at the time of deletion in the secondary copy system.

FIG. 58 is a time chart showing message transmission at the time of renaming in the primary copy system.

FIG. 59 is a time chart showing message transmission at the time of renaming in the secondary copy system.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Copy System (Primary Copy System) 1 'Copy System (Secondary Copy System) 2 Client Terminal 10 Copy Server 11 RAM 13 Hard Disk 17 CPU 20 Scanner 21 Printer 30 CPU 32 RAM 38 Hard Disk 112 Control Unit 113 HDD Control Unit 114 Management Unit 115 Scanner unit 118 Operation panel unit 131 Control program 132 Hypertext data 133 Java applet

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 5B082 AA13 EA01 GA01 GA02 GA16 GC02 GC03 GC04 GC06 HA05 HA08 5C062 AA06 AA13 AA29 AA35 AB11 AB13 AB17 AB22 AB23 AB38 AC21 AC25 AC40 AC43 AC51 5C078 AA09 BA21 CA01 CA31 EA01

Claims (22)

[Claims] 1. A network copy file management system comprising a copy system, a terminal, and a third network device connected to each other via a network, wherein the copy system reads an original to obtain image data. An image file storage unit for converting the image data obtained by the image reading unit into an image file format and storing the converted image data in a disk; A management information responding unit for transmitting to the terminal, and an image file transmitting unit for reading a requested image file from the disk in response to a request from the terminal and transmitting the read image file to the third network device specified by the terminal. Wherein the terminal stores management information of a predetermined range of image files in the copy system. A management information requesting unit for requesting the system, a display unit for displaying the management information transmitted by the copy system in response to the request, and a display unit of the image file indicated by the management information displayed on the display unit. An input unit for receiving data input by an operator to specify one of them and data input by an operator to specify a third network device as a transmission destination of an image file; and a data input received by the input unit Any of the image files specified by the third
An image file transmission request unit for requesting the copy system to transmit the image file to the network device. 2. The image file is a JPEG file, and the image file storage unit stores the image data in a JPEG file.
JPEG data is generated by PEG compression,
2. The network copy file management system according to claim 1, wherein the JPEG data is stored in the JPEG file. 3. The detailed image JPE by compressing the image data by JPEG.
In addition to generating G data, JPEG data for the rough image is generated by reducing the resolution of the image data and then JPEG-compressing the image data.
The network copy file management system according to claim 1, wherein the data and the JPEG data for schematic image are combined and stored in one JPEG file. 4. The image file storage unit according to claim 2, wherein, when the original is composed of a plurality of pages, each of the detailed image JPEG data and the general image JPEG data generated for each page is provided.
4. The network copy file management system according to claim 3, wherein the data is combined and stored in one JPEG file. 5. The network copy file management system according to claim 1, wherein the image file is a TIFF file, and the image file storage unit stores the image data in the TIFF file. 6. The image file storage unit generates JPEG data for a general image by reducing the resolution of the image data and performing JPEG compression, and combines the image data and the JPEG data for the general image to generate one image. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the data is stored in one TIFF file.
The described network copy file management system. 7. The image file storage unit, when a document is composed of a plurality of pages, combines the image data of each page and the JPEG data for general image generated for each page into one TIFF file. 7. The network copy file management system according to claim 6, wherein the file is stored. 8. The network copy file management system according to claim 1, wherein the management information of the image file transmitted to the terminal by the management information response unit is a file name of the image file. 9. The network copy file management system according to claim 1, wherein a large number of directories are defined on the disc, and the image files are stored in any one of the directories. 10. The network copy file management system according to claim 9, wherein said predetermined range is a range of said directory. 11. The management information responding unit, when a directory in a lower hierarchy is defined within the predetermined range,
The management information of the lower directory is also transmitted to the terminal, and the display unit displays a directory structure based on the management information of the directory.
0. A network copy file management system according to item 0. 12. The network copy file management system according to claim 1, wherein the display unit also displays management information of a third network device that can communicate with the copy system. 13. The image file requesting unit, wherein the input unit accepts a data input by an operator to specify any of the management information of the third network device displayed on the display unit, 13. The network copy file management system according to claim 12, requesting the copy system to transmit an image file to any one of the third network devices specified by the data input received by the input unit. . 14. The network copy file management system according to claim 13, wherein said input unit includes a pointing device. 15. The copying system according to claim 1, further comprising: extracting the summary JPEG data from the requested image file in response to a request from the terminal; and converting the summary JPEG data into a summary image JPEG file. A schematic image JPEG file requesting unit that requests the copy system for the schematic image JPEG file relating to a predetermined range of image files; A requesting unit, wherein the display unit displays a schematic image based on the schematic image JPEG data in the schematic image JPEG file transmitted by the copy system in response to the request. 7. The network copy file management system according to claim 3, wherein: 16. The copy system according to a request from the terminal, extracts the schematic image JPEG data for a requested page from a requested image file, and extracts the schematic image JPEG data. JPEG for schematic images
JP for outline image stored in file and sent to the terminal
An EG file response unit, wherein the terminal sends the general image JPEG file for any page relating to any image file specified by the data input received by the input unit to the copy system. A general image JPEG file requesting unit for requesting the general image, and the display unit displays the general image JPEG file in the general image JPEG file transmitted by the copy system in response to the request. 8. The network copy file management system according to claim 4, wherein a schematic image is displayed. 17. A copy system having a scanner for reading a document and a printer for printing based on image data read by the scanner, and capable of communicating with a terminal and a third network device via a network. An image file storage unit that converts image data obtained by reading the original by the scanner into an image file format and saves the image data in a disk; and the terminal stores a predetermined range of image files stored in the disk. When the management information is requested, the management information responding unit transmits the management information of the requested predetermined range of the image file to the terminal, and the management information responding unit responds to any of the management information transmitted to the terminal. Requesting that the terminal send an image file to be transmitted to the third network device. An image file transmitting unit for reading the specified image file from the disk and transmitting the read image file to the third network device specified by the terminal. 18. The copy system causes a computer constituting the terminal to request management information of image files in a predetermined range from the management information response unit, and the management information response unit transmits the management information in response to the request. When the terminal information is displayed, and any of the displayed management information is specified by the terminal operator, and the third network device as the transmission destination of the image file is specified by the terminal operator. A computer-readable medium storing a program for requesting the image file transmitting unit to transmit an image file corresponding to the specified management information to the specified third network device; and Transmitting the program stored in the computer-readable medium to the terminal in response to the request; Copy system according to claim 17, further comprising a program transmitting unit. 19. A copy system is configured by being connected to a scanner for reading a document and a printer for printing based on image data read by the scanner, and a terminal and a third network via a network. An image file storage unit that converts image data obtained by reading the original by the scanner into an image file format and saves the image data in a disk, wherein the terminal is located in the disk. When requesting the management information of the stored predetermined range of image files, a management information response unit that transmits the requested management information of the predetermined range of image files to the terminal, and transmitted to the terminal. Transmitting an image file corresponding to any of the management information to the third network device. And an image file transmitting unit that reads the requested image file from the disk and transmits the read image file to the third network device specified by the terminal when the terminal requests that the image data be transmitted to the third network device. Characterized copy server. 20. The copy server causes a computer constituting the terminal to request management information of image files in a predetermined range from the management information response unit, and the management information response unit transmits the management information in response to the request. When the terminal information is displayed, and any of the displayed management information is specified by the terminal operator, and the third network device as the transmission destination of the image file is specified by the terminal operator. A computer-readable medium storing a program for requesting the image file transmitting unit to transmit an image file corresponding to the specified management information to the specified third network device; and Transmitting the program stored in the computer-readable medium to the terminal in response to a request Copy server according to claim 19, wherein further comprising a program transmitting unit. 21. A network copy system comprising a copy system, a terminal, and a third network device connected to each other via a network, wherein the copy system manages an image file obtained by reading a document. A file management method, wherein the terminal requests management information of a predetermined range of image files to the copy system, and the copy system requests the management information of the requested predetermined range of image files to the terminal. The terminal displays the transmitted management information, and transmits an image file corresponding to the management information specified by the operator among the displayed management information to the third network device specified by the operator. To
A network copy file management method, wherein the terminal requests the copy system, and the copy system transmits an image file requested by the terminal to a third network device specified by the terminal. . 22. A copy system is configured by being connected to a scanner for reading an original and a printer for printing based on image data read by the scanner, and a terminal and a third network via a network. For a computer that can communicate with the device, the scanner converts the image data obtained by reading the original into an image file format and stores it on a disk, and the terminal stores a predetermined range stored in the disk. When requesting the management information of the image file of the above, the management information of the requested predetermined range of the image file is transmitted to the terminal, and corresponds to any of the management information transmitted to the terminal. If the terminal requests to send an image file to a specific third network A computer-readable medium storing a program for reading a requested image file from the disk and transmitting the read image file to the third network device.