JP2002236571A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make it easy to handle print data specified as secret data and to enhance secrecy protection. SOLUTION: The ID number input of the print data specified as secret data is judged (S10) and when the ID numbers are inputted (Yes), the ID numbers are discriminated by an ID discrimination part (S11). When it is the pertinent ID number (Yes) in the process S11, a print data list is displayed and print data are selected (S13). The print data are read out of a storage part according to respective pieces of information of ID numbers in an ID storage part and decoded by a decoding part (S14). A user's output interruption request is confirmed (S15) and when the request is not made (No), the print data are outputted (S16). All outputs are confirmed (S17) and the process is ended. If the output is interrupted (Yes) in the process S15, the reading process from the storage part is stopper and when a new ID number is inputted (S18), the print data of a print output part are redecoded by a decoding part and stored in a storage part (S19). Information of the stored print data is stored in the ID data storage part (S20) while made to correspond to the new ID number. Reprinting after the interruption of the output of the print data can be started from the interruption point to prevent repetitive output and also protect the secrecy.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to print data which is printed and output by an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral having the functions thereof, and particularly to print data designated as confidential. And an image forming apparatus for protecting the image forming apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a computer and an image forming apparatus (printer) as a plurality of terminal apparatuses are connected to a network such as a LAN, and each processing is performed. In such an environment, as a method for protecting confidential print data to be printed out, a user ID is added to print data of a print request, the print data is transmitted to a printer connected on a network, and a storage unit of the printer is stored. Once. At the time of output, a user ID is input from the operation unit of the printer, and when the user IDs match, printout is performed. Or I
Instead of inputting the D data, a printer is provided with a card reader, and print output is performed by permitting output from the card.

[0003]

However, the image forming apparatus (printer) having such a configuration, even when processing print data designated as confidential, outputs large amounts of data in the same manner as normal print data. In the case where the output is temporarily interrupted and restarted for some reason, it is necessary to perform the output again from the beginning. If it is wrong to specify the confidentiality of the print data, it is necessary to delete the print data stored in the storage unit of the printer and specify the confidentiality again from the beginning, which takes time. Was.
Further, since the print data designated as confidential is stored in the printer until a print request is issued, there is a problem in confidentiality of the print data such as when the user forgets to print out.

An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus which facilitates handling of print data designated as confidential and enhances confidentiality. I do.

[0005]

In order to achieve this object, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention is created by an application program running on a computer, which is a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, and is provided with a print request. In an image forming apparatus that receives transmitted data and prints out the data, a determining unit that determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on ID information received together with the print data as data; Encryption means for encrypting data, large-capacity storage means for storing print data in association with the ID information, decryption means for decrypting the encrypted print data, and ID information input from the input means Identification means for judging whether or not decoding processing can be executed by the decoding means based on the image data, and print data from the decoding means to form an image. To a imaging means, characterized in that decrypt the encrypted print data stored in the storage means by the input ID information to print out.

When print data output from the input unit is interrupted, the decrypted print data in the print output unit is re-encrypted by the encryption unit and stored in the storage unit in association with ID information different from the ID information. It is characterized by the following.

[0007] In addition, ordinary print data not designated as confidential, which is stored in the storage means selected by the input means,
It is characterized in that it is encrypted by the encryption means in correspondence with the ID information inputted from the input means and stored again in the storage means.

[0008] The ID information corresponding to the print data designated confidentiality stored in the storage means is input from the input means.
It is characterized by changing to information.

[0009] Further, a time management means for managing an output time of the print data stored in the storage means is provided, and the time management means deletes the print data whose set time has elapsed from the storage means.

[0010] Further, a time management means for managing a change time of the ID information for judging whether or not the decryption process can be executed by the identification means is provided, and the ID information is changed by the time management means after a lapse of the set time.

The image processing device further includes a number management unit for managing the number of times that the print data designated as confidential is output from the image forming unit, and stores the print data after the set number of times is counted by the number management unit. Erasing from

According to these configurations, the security can be secured by decrypting and printing out the print data stored in an encrypted form in response to the input of the ID number of the print request.

In the case where print data specified as confidential is interrupted in the middle of print output, the print data is output from the middle when reprinting, so that the print data is not reprinted and processed efficiently. Good processing can be performed, and security can be secured.

Further, by changing normal print data to print data designated as confidential, efficient processing can be performed without processing reprint requests for print data, and confidentiality can be secured. .

Further, since the ID number can be arbitrarily changed, security can be further improved.

Further, by managing the time limit for the output of the print data designated as confidential, the confidentiality can be maintained without the print data being stored in the storage means for a long time.

Further, the security of the print data can be further improved by changing the ID number for making a print request for the print data designated as confidential according to time.

Further, the number of times the print data designated as confidential is output is limited, preventing the print data from being output more than necessary, and protecting the confidentiality of the print output.

[0019]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, data is created by an application program or the like by a computer 1, which is one of a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, and the data is transmitted in response to a print output request of the data. A printer 2 that forms an image of received data in response to a print request and performs output processing is connected to the same network. The data received by the printer 2 is print data and ID information such as information that the print data is designated as confidential and information including an ID number assigned to the print data.

When receiving data from the computer 1 and storing the data, the printer 2 determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information of the received data, and determines whether the print data is classified into ID information and print data. Unit 3, an ID data storage unit 4 for storing ID information, an encryption unit 5 for encrypting print data designated as confidential, and a storage unit such as a memory for storing print data or an HDD (hard disk drive). 6 is provided.

The printer 2 performs various operations from the outside of the printer 2 and inputs an ID number for requesting printing of confidentially specified print data in order to print out print data stored in the storage unit 6. And an operation / display unit 7 for displaying status information of the printer 2, an ID identification unit 8 for identifying an ID number input from the operation / display unit 7, and an encryption for decrypting the encrypted confidential designated print data. The apparatus includes a decryption unit 9, a print output unit 10 that performs image forming processing of print data from the storage unit 6 or the decryption unit 9, and a control unit 11 that controls each unit described above.

The operation of the print data storing process of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG. 1 based on the flowchart of FIG.

The printer 2 receives the data created in the computer 1 and transmitted by the print request (S)
1). The data determination unit 3 separates the print data from the ID information included in the received data (S2). It is determined from the ID information whether the print data is designated as confidential (S
3).

As a determination method, for example, the computer 1
Is transmitted as ID information + print data, and when the ID number of this ID information is a predetermined number, it is handled as print data designated as confidential. Or I
The D number may be a predetermined value and may have a hierarchical structure of several stages according to the degree of importance of confidentiality, and it may be possible to simply determine whether the print data is normal or confidentially designated print data.

If it is determined in step S3 that the print data is designated as confidential (Yes), the encryption unit 5 encrypts the print data output from the data determination unit 3 in response to a request signal for encrypting the print data. (S4). The encrypted print data is stored in the storage unit 6 (S5).
The size and address information of the print data stored in
The ID number is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with the D number (S
6). If the confidentiality has not been designated in the process S3 (No), the print data is stored in the storage unit 6 without being encrypted (S7).

Next, the operation of outputting and interrupting print data designated as confidential in the first embodiment will be described.
This will be described with reference to FIG. 1 based on the flowchart of FIG. In the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, the encrypted print data stored in the storage unit 6 of the printer 2 is printed out in accordance with a user's instruction from the printer 2 side, and is further interrupted while maintaining security. The print data can be stored, and the print output can be restarted from the middle of the interruption.

First, it is determined whether or not the user has input an ID number from the operation / display unit 7 of the printer 2 as a print request for print data designated as confidential (S1).
0). In the process S10, when the ID number is input as a print request of the print data designated as confidential (Ye
s) The input ID number is identified and determined by the ID identification unit 8 (S11). The ID number is input from the operation / display unit 7
The ID number is sent to the D identification unit 8 and compared with the ID number stored in the ID data storage unit 4 to determine whether or not there is a corresponding ID number. If there is no corresponding ID number in this process S11 (No), a message indicating that output is not possible is displayed on the operation / display unit 7 to notify the user (S12).

If there is a corresponding ID number in the processing S11 (Yes), the ID corresponding to the operation / display unit 7 is displayed.
Display a list of print data for the number. Further, print data to be printed out is selected from the print data displayed in a list by the user's operation / input from the display unit 7 (S1).
3). At this time, if there is one print data of the corresponding ID number, the process proceeds to step S14.

The ID identification section 8 outputs information (size, address, etc.) of the corresponding ID number stored in the ID data storage section 4 and a signal for reading out the print data stored in the storage section 6, and stores the information. The corresponding print data is read out from the section 6 based on each information of the ID number and output to the decryption section 9,
The print data is decrypted by the decryption unit 9 (S14).

Further, it is confirmed whether or not the user has issued a print output interruption request from the operation / display unit 7 (S1).
5). If there is no interruption request (No), the decrypted print data is image-formed by the print output unit 10 and output (S
16). It is confirmed whether all the print data of the ID number of the print request has been output (S17), and if all the print data has not been output (No), the process returns to step S14.
When output of all print data is confirmed (Ye
s), end the process.

In step S7 of the flowchart of FIG. 2, ordinary print data not designated as confidential stored in the storage unit 6 is processed in step S16 of the flowchart of FIG.
Is printed out.

In step S15, when there is a request to interrupt the output (Yes), the print output unit 10 outputs a read stop signal from the storage unit 6 and stops the process. The operation / display unit 7 displays a new I / O as a prompt for inputting a new ID number.
Wait for the input of the D number, and when the ID number is input (S1
8) The non-output print data interrupted by the print output unit 10 is sent to the encryption unit 5 via the storage unit 6 and re-encrypted. The re-encrypted print data is stored in the storage unit 6 (S1).
9). The size and address information of the print data stored in the storage unit 6 are made to correspond to the new ID number and the ID data storage unit 4
(S20), and then proceeds to processing S10.

In the first embodiment, the print data is changed to a new ID number during printing. However, the print data remaining in the storage unit 6 without being decoded as determined in step S17 is a new print data. After being re-encrypted with the ID number, when it is stored in the storage unit 6, it is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with each information corresponding to the new ID number.

Thus, the encrypted print data stored in the storage unit 6 is decrypted and printed out in accordance with the input of the ID number of the print data designated as confidential, so that confidentiality can be secured. When it is necessary to interrupt print data specified as confidential for some reason during printing, or when reprinting after interrupting print output, the print data can be output from the middle, and waste of print output requiring security is required. It is possible to prevent unnecessary duplicate output and secure confidentiality.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Here, components having substantially the same functions as those described in FIG. 1 showing the first embodiment and having substantially the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the same applies to the following drawings. I do.

As shown in FIG. 4, data created by the computer 1 of the terminal device via a network is transmitted by a print request, received by a printer 2 connected on the same network, and formed and output.

When storing data from the computer 1, the printer 2 determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information of the received data, and separates the print data into ID information and print data. Data storage unit 4 for storing print data, an encryption unit 5 for encrypting print data designated as confidential, a storage unit 6 for storing print data, and an ID number of the storage unit 6 for requesting print of the designated print data. input,
And an operation / display unit 7 'for displaying status and status information;
ID identification unit 8 for identifying an input ID number from display unit 7 '
And a decryption unit 9 for decrypting the encrypted print data
A print output unit 10 that performs image forming processing of print data, and a control unit 11 that controls each unit.

The operation of the print data storing process of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG. 4 based on the flowchart of FIG.

In the second embodiment, when storing ordinary print data not designated as confidential, which is processed by the process S7 shown in the flowchart of FIG. Is changed from normal print data to print data designated as confidential for print data in the waiting state.

As in the case of FIG. 2 of the first embodiment, the printer 2 receives the data generated by the computer 1 and transmitted by the print request (S1). The data determination unit 3 separates the print data from the ID information included in the received data (S2). It is determined from the ID information whether the print data is designated as confidential (S3).

In step S3, if the print data is not the print data designated as confidential (No), the print data is stored in the storage unit 6 without being encrypted (S7). It is checked whether or not the print output of the print data is in a waiting state (S21).
When the print data is not in the order waiting state for print output (No), the print data is image-formed by the print output unit 10 in step S16 shown in FIG.

When the print data is in the waiting state for print output (Yes), it is confirmed whether or not the user has issued an instruction to change to confidential designation from the operation / display unit 7 '(S22), and if there is no instruction to change (No). Similarly to the process S21, the print data is image-formed by the print output unit 10 in the process S16 shown in FIG.

In the process S22, when there is a change instruction (Yes), a list of normal print data waiting for a turn is displayed on the operation / display unit 7 ', and the print data to be changed to the secret designation is selected (S23). The selected print data is deleted from the waiting state, a display prompting the input of a new ID number is displayed on the operation / display unit 7 ', and the user inputs a new ID number from the operation / display unit 7'. The selected print data stored in the storage unit 6 is sent to the encryption unit 5 (S2
4).

The print data from the storage unit 6 is encrypted in the encryption unit 5 (S4). The encrypted print data is stored in the storage unit 6 (S5), and the size and address information of the print data stored in the storage unit 6 is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with the new ID number. (S
6).

Next, the operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 4 based on the flowchart of FIG.

The encrypted print data stored in the storage unit 6 of the printer 2 in the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment is printed out from the printer 2 according to a user's instruction.

As in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment, it is determined whether or not the user has input an ID number from the operation / display unit 7 'of the printer 2 as a print request of the print data designated as confidential (S10). . In processing S10, when the ID number of the print request is input (Yes), the input I
The D number is identified and determined by the ID identifying unit 8 (S11). I
The D number is sent from the operation / display unit 7 'to the ID identification unit 8,
The ID number is compared with the ID number stored in the ID data storage unit 4 to determine whether or not there is a corresponding ID number. This processing S
In step 11, if there is no corresponding ID number (No), a message indicating that output is impossible is displayed on the operation / display unit 7 'to notify the user (S12).

In step S11, if there is a corresponding ID number (Yes), an I / O corresponding to the operation / display unit 7 'is selected.
A list of print data of the D number is displayed. Further, print data to be printed out is selected from the print data displayed in a list by the user's operation / input from the display unit 7 '(S
13). At this time, the print data of the corresponding ID number is 1
If there are two, the process proceeds to step S14.

The ID identification section 8 outputs each information of the corresponding ID number stored in the ID data storage section 4 and a signal for reading out the print data stored in the storage section 6.
Based on each information of the D number, the corresponding print data is read and output to the decryption unit 9, and the decryption unit 9 decrypts the print data (S14).

Further, the decoded print data is subjected to image forming processing by the print output unit 10 and output (S16). It is confirmed whether all the print data of the ID number of the print request has been output (S17). If the output of all the print data has not been completed (No), the process returns to the processing S14, and the output of all the print data is confirmed. If yes (Yes), the process ends.

By the above processing, the normal print data can be changed to the print data designated as confidential, whereby, for the print data erroneously designated without confidential designation, the corresponding print data can be deleted or reprinted. Efficient processing can be performed without processing, and confidentiality can be protected.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, a computer 1 of a terminal device is connected via a network.
Is transmitted by a print request, received by the printer 2 connected on the same network, and image-formed and output.

When storing data from the computer 1, the printer 2 determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information of the received data, and divides the data into ID information and print data. , An encryption unit 5 for encrypting print data designated as confidential, a storage unit 6 for storing print data, and input of various operations from outside the printer 2 and display of status information. An operation / display unit 7 ″, an ID identification unit 8 for identifying an input ID number,
A decryption unit 9 for decrypting the encrypted print data, a print output unit 10 for performing image processing of the print data, a control unit 11 for controlling each unit, and a print request for the print data designated confidential in the storage unit 6 And an ID data input unit 13 for inputting an ID number to be entered.

The operation of the print data processing of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment configured as described above will be described.
This will be described with reference to FIG. 7 based on the flowchart of FIG. As the operation in the third embodiment, in each processing described in the first and second embodiments, an I
The D number can be changed.

As shown in FIG. 7, the data created in the computer 1 and transmitted by the print request is received (S1), and the data determination unit 3 separates the ID information of the received data from the print data (S2). It is determined from the ID information whether the print data is designated as confidential (S3).

If it is determined in step S3 that the print data is confidential print data (Yes), the encryption unit 5 encrypts the print data from the data determination unit 3 (S4). The encrypted print data is stored in the storage unit 6 (S5), and the size and address information of the stored print data is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with the ID number (S6). If the confidential information has not been designated (No) in step S3, the print data is stored in the storage unit 6 without encryption (S3).
7).

Next, as in the first and second embodiments, it is determined whether or not the user has input an ID number from the ID data input unit 13 as a print request for print data designated as confidential (S10). In step S10, if the ID number of the print request is input (Yes), the input ID number is
The identification section 8 makes an identification determination. Thereafter, the same processing as shown in FIG. 6 is performed.

Here, in step S10, the ID of the print request
If a number is not input (No), a determination process is performed to confirm the presence or absence of an ID number change request (S25). If there is no change request (No), the process returns to step S10, and if there is a change process (Yes), The ID number before the change and the ID number after the change are output to the ID data storage unit 4 and changed according to the input from the operation / display unit 7 ″ or the ID data input unit 13 by the user (S26).

In the third embodiment, the ID number of the print request is input from the ID data input unit 13. However, similarly to the first and second embodiments, the input from the operation / display unit 7 ″ is also possible. Conversely, conversely, the configuration of the first and second embodiments
A D data input unit 13 may be added. By using the ID data input unit 13, the ID number is a combination of numbers due to the limitation of the number of keys of the operation unit included in the normal printer 2. For example, the ID data input unit 13 reads the ID card. In this case, the amount of information recorded therein can be increased, and security can be further improved.

As described above, confidentiality can be further improved by arbitrarily changing the ID number.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9, the computer 1 of the terminal device is connected via a network.
Is transmitted by a print request, received by the printer 2 connected on the same network, and image-formed and output. The data received by the printer 2 is
Print data and ID information such as information indicating that the print data is confidential, an ID number assigned to the print data, and information including a print data output restriction time.

When storing data from the computer 1, the printer 2 determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information of the received data, and divides the print data into ID information and print data. Data storage unit 4 for storing print data, an encryption unit 5 for encrypting print data designated as confidential, a storage unit 6 for storing print data, and an ID number of the storage unit 6 for requesting print of the designated print data. input,
An operation / display unit 7 for displaying information and status information; an ID identification unit 8 for identifying an input ID number from the operation / display unit 7;
A decryption unit 9 for decrypting the encrypted print data; a print output unit 10 for performing image processing on the print data; a control unit 11 for controlling each unit; A time management unit 14 for managing the output limit time.

The operation of storing print data for image formation in the fourth embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG. 9 based on the flowchart of FIG. In the fourth embodiment, a time management unit 14 for managing the output time limit is provided in the configuration of the second embodiment.

As in FIG. 5 of the second embodiment, the data created by the computer 1 and transmitted in response to the print request is received (S1), and the data determination unit 3 compares the ID information and print data of the received data. It is determined (S2) whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information (S3).

If it is determined in step S3 that the print data is confidential designated print data (Yes), the time management unit 14 receives the ID number of the ID information from the data determination unit 3,
The reception time of the print data corresponding to the number, the computer 1
Then, output limit time information based on the information set by the application program or the printer driver is acquired (S27).

Further, the encryption section 5 encrypts the print data from the data determination section 3 (S4). The encrypted print data is stored in the storage unit 6 (S5), and the size and address information of the stored print data is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with the ID number (S6). If the confidential information has not been designated (No) in step S3, the print data is stored in the storage unit 6 without encryption (S3).
7).

Next, the operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9 based on the flowchart of FIG. In the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, the encrypted print data stored in the storage unit 6 of the printer 2 is printed out according to a user's instruction from the printer 2 side, or there is no instruction. In such a case, the data is automatically deleted after a certain period of time.

As in FIG. 6 of the second embodiment, it is determined whether or not the user has input an ID number from the operation / display unit 7 of the printer 2 as a print request of the print data designated as confidential. S10). In processing S10,
When an ID number is not input as a print request (No) The time management unit 14 determines an output limit time for every print data stored in the storage unit 6 based on the time counted at a fixed interval (S28). If it is within the output time limit (Yes), the process returns to the process S10 of waiting for the input of the ID number in the process S10.

If the print data has exceeded the output time limit (No), the deletion of the corresponding print data stored in the storage unit 6 and the deletion of each information of the corresponding ID number in the ID data storage unit 4 are performed. According to the signal output to be instructed, the storage unit 6,
Each data information stored and stored in the ID data storage unit 4 is erased (S29).

In step S10, if an ID number is input as a print data print request (Yes), the input I
The D number is identified and determined (S11). Operate ID number /
The information is sent from the display unit 7 to the ID identification unit 8, and is compared with the ID number of the ID data storage unit 4 to determine whether or not it is present. Processing S11
When there is no corresponding ID number (No), a message indicating that output is not possible is displayed on the operation / display unit 7 to notify the user (S12).

In step S11, if there is a corresponding ID number (Yes), a print data list of the corresponding ID number is displayed on the operation / display unit 7, and a printout is performed by input from the user operation / display unit 7. Is selected (S1).
3). At this time, if there is one print data of the corresponding ID number, the process proceeds to step S14.

The ID identification section 8 outputs each information of the corresponding ID number stored in the ID data storage section 4 and a signal for reading out the print data stored in the storage section 6, based on each information of the ID number from the storage section 6. Reads the print data and decrypts the data.
The print data is decrypted by the decryption unit 9 (S14), and the decrypted print data is subjected to image forming processing from the print output unit 10 and output (S16).

According to the above-described processing, the print data designated as confidential is provided with an output time limit and time is managed, so that the print data is stored in the storage unit 6 of the printer 2 for a long time.
Can be protected without being stored in

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 12, data created by the computer 1 of the terminal device via a network is transmitted by a print request,
The image data is received by the printer 2 connected to the same network, and the image is output. The data received by the printer 2 includes print data and that the print data is designated as confidential.
This is ID information such as a plurality of ID numbers assigned to print data and information including a time limit for changing the ID number.

When storing data from the computer 1, the printer 2 determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information of the received data, and separates the data into ID information and print data. Data storage unit 4 for storing print data, an encryption unit 5 for encrypting print data designated as confidential, a storage unit 6 for storing print data, and an ID number of the storage unit 6 for requesting print of the designated print data. input,
An operation / display unit 7 for displaying information and status information; an ID identification unit 8 for identifying an input ID number from the operation / display unit 7;
A decryption unit 9 for decrypting the encrypted print data, a print output unit 10 for performing image processing of the print data, a control unit 11 for controlling each unit, and an ID for each data reception time and print data set time A time management unit 14 'for performing time management for changing the number.

The operation of the print data storing process of the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment configured as described above will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. 13 with reference to FIG. The fifth embodiment is substantially the same as the operation described in the fourth embodiment, and the ID set in the print data acquired in step S27 in the flowchart of FIG.
In place of the output time limit information based on the information, the I
Time information for changing the D number is obtained (S27 ').

In the print data storing process according to the fifth embodiment, the received data (S1) is divided into print data and ID information (S2), confidential designation is determined (S3), and each information is obtained from the ID information (S3). S27 '), and encrypts the print data (S27).
4) The information is stored in the storage unit 6 (S5), and each piece of information is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with the ID number (S6).

Next, the operation of the output processing of the print data designated as confidential in Embodiment 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 12 based on the flowchart of FIG.

In the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment,
The encrypted print data stored in the storage unit 6 of the printer 2 is printed out in response to a user's instruction from the printer 2 or, if there is no instruction, the secret print data stored in the storage unit 6 The ID number of the specified print data is automatically changed every certain time.

As in FIG. 11 of the fourth embodiment, it is determined whether or not the user has input an ID number from the operation / display unit 7 of the printer 2 as a print request for print data designated as confidential (S10). ).

In processing S10, ID
When the number is not input (No), the time management unit 14 'determines the change time of the ID number for every print data stored in the storage unit 6 based on the time counted at a fixed interval (S30). If it is not the change time of the ID number (N
In o), the process returns to the process of waiting for input of an ID number in process S10. If it is the change time of the ID number of the print data (Yes), the corresponding I number stored in the ID data storage unit 4 is stored.
A signal for changing the D number is output, and the ID number is changed (S31).

In step S10, when an ID number is input as a print request for print data designated as confidential (Y
es) The subsequent processing is the same as the processing described in FIG. 11 of the fourth embodiment. Also, in the case where there is the corresponding ID number in the processing S11 (Yes), the subsequent processing is the same as the processing described in FIG. 11 of the fourth embodiment, and the duplicate description will be omitted.

In the process of changing the ID number, information on the changed ID number is set together with the change time information. For example, the ID number change time is set to a certain time interval, and the ID numbers are sequentially changed to a plurality of preset ID numbers at specified time intervals. Alternatively, addition and subtraction of the numerical value set in the ID number may be performed. In this case, it is necessary to display the time on the operation / display unit 7 of the printer 2 in synchronization with the devices connected on the network. In addition, processing S10
In the state of waiting for the input of the ID number, or when displaying the message indicating that output is not possible in step S12, whether or not the print data designated as confidential is held and the number thereof are displayed.

With the above-described processing, the print data designated as confidential can be changed in time according to the ID number of the print request to protect the confidential print data.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 15, similarly to the fourth and fifth embodiments, data generated by the computer 1 of the terminal device is transmitted by a print request via a network. The data is received by the printer 2 connected on the same network, and is formed and output. The data received by the printer 2 is print data, and ID information such as information that the print data is designated as confidential, a plurality of ID numbers assigned to the print data, and information including the number of times that printout is possible. .

When storing the data received from the computer 1, the printer 2 according to the sixth embodiment determines whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the received ID information.
A data determining unit 3 'for dividing the ID number of D information, the number of output times and print data into three parts, and a time managing unit 14' of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. Since the number of times management unit 15 for managing the number of times of limitation is provided and the other configuration is the same, the duplicate description will be omitted here.

The operation of the print data storing process of the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 16 and FIG.

The operation of the sixth embodiment is almost the same as the operation described in the fourth and fifth embodiments. As shown in FIG. 16, data created by the computer 1 and transmitted by a print request is transmitted to a printer. 2 receives (S1). The data determination unit 3 'separates the print data from the ID number of the ID information included in the received data, the limited number of times, and the print data (S
2 '). It is determined from the ID information whether the print data is designated as confidential (S3).

If it is determined in step S3 that the print data is confidential print data (Yes), the number management unit 15 obtains the number of times that data can be output from the data determination unit 3 '. 'Is acquired (S32). The encryption unit 5 encrypts the print data output from the data determination unit 3 in response to the print data encryption request signal (S4).

The encrypted print data is stored in the storage unit 6 (S 5), and information on the size and address of the print data stored in the storage unit 6 and the output limit count obtained by the count management unit 15. The information is stored in the ID data storage unit 4 in association with the ID number (S6). In the process S3, when the confidentiality is not designated (No), the print data is stored in the storage unit 6 without being encrypted (S7).

Next, the operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 15 based on the flowchart of FIG.

In the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment,
The encrypted print data stored in the storage unit 6 of the printer 2 is printed out in accordance with a user's instruction from the printer 2 side, but the output cannot be performed more than the set number of times.

As in the fourth and fifth embodiments, it is determined whether or not the user has input an ID number from the operation / display unit 7 of the printer 2 as a print request for print data designated as confidential (S10). ). In step S10, if there is no input of an ID number as a print request (No), a state of waiting for input of an ID number is entered.

In step S10, when an ID number is input as a print request for print data designated as confidential (Yes), the input ID number is identified and determined (S11). The ID number is sent from the operation / display unit 7 to the ID identification unit 8 and stored in the ID data storage unit 4.
The number is compared with the ID number to determine whether or not there is a corresponding ID number. If there is no corresponding ID number in this process S11 (No), a message indicating that output is not possible is displayed on the operation / display unit 7 to notify the user (S12).

If there is a corresponding ID number in the processing S11 (Yes), the ID corresponding to the operation / display unit 7 is displayed.
A list of print data of the number is displayed, and print data to be printed out is selected from the displayed print data (S13). When there is one print data, the process proceeds to the next process.

The number-of-times management unit 15 receives the I
Based on the D number, the limit number of the corresponding ID number stored in the ID data storage unit 4 is decremented by "1" (S33). ID
The identification unit 8 stores the corresponding I stored in the ID data storage unit 4.
Based on each information of the D number, the corresponding print data stored in the storage unit 6 is read from the storage unit 6 and output to the decryption unit 9,
The print data is decrypted by the decryption unit 9 (S14), and the decrypted print data is image-formed by the print output unit 10 and output (S16).

Further, the information on the number of times the ID number has been stored, which is stored in the ID data storage section 4, is checked to see if it is "0" (S34). If it is not "0" (No), the process returns to step S10 to respond to the next print request. If it is "0" (Yes), the print data stored in the storage unit 6 and the corresponding ID number of the ID data storage unit 4 are displayed. Each information is erased (S3
5). Further, it is confirmed whether or not another print data designated as confidential and various information are stored in the storage unit 6 and the ID data storage unit 4 (S36). If there is print data designated as confidential (Yes), the process returns to step S10 in a waiting state for the next print request, and if there is no print data (N
o), the next data is waited for to be received, and the process is terminated.

By performing the above-described processing, the number of times that print data designated as confidential is output is limited, the output is prevented from being output more than necessary, and the confidentiality of the print output processing can be secured.

[0100]

As described above, according to the present invention,
In accordance with the input of the ID number of the print request for the print data designated as confidential, the encrypted print data is decrypted and printed out, so that the print data can be protected.

Further, when the printing of the print data designated as confidential is interrupted during printing, the output can be performed during the interruption during reprinting, thereby preventing the duplicate output of the printing requiring the confidentiality and securing the confidentiality. it can.

Further, since normal print data can be changed to print data designated as confidential, efficient processing can be performed without processing reprint requests for print data, and confidentiality can be secured. Can be.

Also, since the ID number can be changed arbitrarily,
Further, security can be improved.

[0104] Further, the print data designated as confidential is provided with an output time limit and time is managed, so that long-time print data can be easily handled without being stored in the storage unit, and confidential. Can provide protection.

Further, the security of the print data can be secured by changing the ID number for making a print request for the print data designated as confidential according to the set time.

Further, there is an effect that a limit is set on the number of times that print data designated as confidential is output, which is prevented from being output more than necessary, and that the confidentiality of the print output can be secured.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a print data storing process of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of outputting and suspending print data designated as confidential according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of print data storage processing of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of print data processing of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of print data storage processing of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential in the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of print data storage processing of the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential in the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of print data storage processing of the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation of output processing of print data designated as confidential in the sixth embodiment;

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Computer 2 Printer 3, 3 'Data judgment part 4 ID data storage part 5 Encryption part 6 Storage part 7, 7'7 "Operation / display part 8 ID identification part 9 Decryption part 10 Print output part 11 Control part 13 ID Data input unit 14, 14 'Time management unit 15 Number management unit

Continued on front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AP07 CL10 HH01 HJ06 HK04 HK11 HK19 HK23 HN06 HN15 HN22 HN23 2C087 AB05 BC07 BC14 BD01 BD53 CB02 CB03 CB17 2C187 CD15 5B021 AA01 DD00 NN18

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer as a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the data. Determining means for determining whether the print data is confidential, based on the received ID information; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be confidential; and storing the print data in the ID information. A large-capacity storage unit for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption unit for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for determining whether the decryption unit can execute a decryption process based on the ID information input from the input unit. Means, and image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, Image forming apparatus characterized by printing out decodes the encrypted print data stored in the storage means by the ID information. 2. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer as a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the data. Determining means for determining whether the print data is confidential, based on the received ID information; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be confidential; and storing the print data in the ID information. A large-capacity storage unit for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption unit for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for determining whether the decryption unit can execute a decryption process based on the ID information input from the input unit. Means, and image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, wherein the input means The interruption of the print data output al,
An image forming apparatus, wherein the decrypted print data of the print output unit is re-encrypted by the encryption unit, and stored in the storage unit in association with ID information different from the ID information. 3. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer which is a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the data. Determining means for determining whether the print data is confidential, based on the received ID information; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be confidential; and storing the print data in the ID information. A large-capacity storage means for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption means for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for judging whether or not the decryption processing can be executed by the decryption means based on the ID information inputted from the input means. Means, and image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, wherein the input means The non-confidential normal print data stored in the selected storage unit is encrypted by the encryption unit in accordance with the ID information input from the input unit, and is stored in the storage unit again. Image forming apparatus. 4. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer as a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the data. Determining means for determining whether the print data is confidential, based on the received ID information; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be confidential; and storing the print data in the ID information. A large-capacity storage means for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption means for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for judging whether or not the decryption processing can be executed by the decryption means based on the ID information inputted from the input means. Means, and image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, wherein the storage means Image forming apparatus and changes the ID information corresponding to the print data confidentiality designation is stored in the ID information input from said input means. 5. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer as a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the data. Determining means for determining whether the print data is confidential, based on the received ID information; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be confidential; and storing the print data in the ID information. A large-capacity storage unit for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption unit for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for determining whether the decryption unit can execute a decryption process based on the ID information input from the input unit. Means, image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, and storage in the storage means And a time management means for managing the output time of the print data, the image forming apparatus characterized by erasing the print data elapsed set time by the time management means from said storage means. 6. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer which is a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the data. Determining means for determining whether the print data is confidential, based on the received ID information; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be confidential; and storing the print data in the ID information. A large-capacity storage unit for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption unit for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for determining whether the decryption unit can execute a decryption process based on the ID information input from the input unit. Means, image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, and Serial and a time management means for managing the change time of the ID information that determines the possibility of execution of decryption processing, the after a set time by the time management unit I
An image forming apparatus, wherein D information is changed. 7. An image forming apparatus which is created by an application program running on a computer as a plurality of terminal devices constituting a network, receives data transmitted in response to a print request, and prints out the print data. Determining means for determining whether or not the print data is designated as confidential based on the ID information received together therewith; encrypting means for encrypting the print data determined to be designated as confidential; A large-capacity storage unit for storing the corresponding print data, a decryption unit for decrypting the encrypted print data, and an identification for determining whether the decryption unit can execute a decryption process based on the ID information input from the input unit. Means, image forming means for forming and outputting print data from the decoding means, and A number management unit that manages the number of times that the print data is output in a densely designated manner, wherein the number of times that the print data is output is erased from the storage unit after the set number of times is counted by the number management unit. Characteristic image forming apparatus.