JP2004264888A - Image processing method, image processing system, and image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing method capable of effectively utilizing the function of an image forming device to be digitized while surely protecting the security of image data of a user. <P>SOLUTION: This image processing system comprises a valuable information processor 30 for managing valuable information equivalent to money, and the image forming device 2 connected to the valuable information processor 30 to form an image according to the valuable information. The image forming device 2 stores image data read or inputted in an image data storage means. When the valuable information managed by the valuable information processor satisfies a predetermined condition, the image data stored in the image data storage means are defeated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is applied to a valuable information processing apparatus that manages valuable information equivalent to money, and an image processing system that is connected to the valuable information processing apparatus and configured to form an image according to the valuable information. More particularly, the present invention relates to an image processing method for invalidating stored image data at an optimal timing.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Recently, in a convenience store or the like on a street corner, an image forming apparatus such as a copy machine is installed and provided as a copy service. Then, a plurality of users bring a book original, a sheet original, or the like, and use it casually. In recent years, digitalization of image forming apparatuses has progressed, and a multifunction image forming apparatus having a printer function, a copy function, and a facsimile function for electronically scanning an original image by a scanner device and printing out the image by a laser printer or the like is commercially available. Has been The merits of digitization include high image quality output, free image processing, one-scan multicopy, and electronic data storage of originals. The merits of digitization are proposed to the market as a new document service.
[0003]
In addition, since the digitization of image forming apparatuses is progressing, in order to prevent data read by a scanner and stored on a hard disk or the like from being used by a third party without permission, the stored image data may be used. Techniques for erasing are disclosed (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-59-50660
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-9-223061
[Patent Document 3]
JP-A-9-284572
[Patent Document 4]
JP-A-63-6575
[Patent Document 5]
JP-A-6-4766
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In a store such as a convenience store, since a plurality of people use a common image forming apparatus, it is necessary to securely erase stored image data. However, the image information processing method described in Patent Document 1 or the like erases the image data immediately after reading the image data or after a lapse of a predetermined time after reading the image data, so that one user has already read the image data. There is a problem that a function of reading and copying image data again (a so-called electronic file ring function) cannot be used. Therefore, in stores such as convenience stores, there is an increasing demand for the development of an image processing system capable of effectively utilizing the functions of a digitized image forming apparatus while securely protecting the security of image data of one user. Was.
[0006]
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to store image data when valuable information managed by a valuable information processing device such as a coin vendor satisfies predetermined conditions. Image processing method, image processing system, and image forming apparatus capable of effectively utilizing the functions of an image forming apparatus to be digitized while reliably protecting the security of image data of one user by invalidating Is to provide.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An image processing method according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus configured to process valuable information equivalent to money by a control unit, and an image forming apparatus that includes an arithmetic unit and forms an image according to the valuable information. In the image processing method applied to a processing system, a step of storing image data in an image data storage unit of the image forming apparatus by the arithmetic unit, and a case where valuable information processed by the control unit satisfies a predetermined condition. Invalidating the image data stored in the image data storage means by the arithmetic means.
[0008]
An image processing system according to the present invention includes an image processing apparatus configured to process valuable information equivalent to money, and an image forming apparatus connected to the valuable information processing apparatus and configured to form an image according to the valuable information. In the processing system, the image forming apparatus stores image data in an image data storage unit that stores image data, and stores the image data in the image data storage unit when valuable information managed by the valuable information processing device satisfies a predetermined condition. And invalidating means for invalidating the image data.
[0009]
In the image processing system according to the present invention, the valuable information processing device may include a valuable information detecting unit that detects the valuable information, and the valuable information does not exist when the valuable information detected by the valuable information detecting unit no longer exists. Absence information generation means for generating absence information indicating that the absence information is generated by the absence data generation means when the absence information generation means generates the absence information. The data is invalidated.
[0010]
In the image processing system according to the present invention, the valuable information detection unit includes a money insertion unit that detects information on the inserted amount, and the absence information generation unit includes a remaining amount of the amount detected by the money insertion unit. Is configured to generate the non-existence information when the value becomes zero or when the amount becomes zero due to settlement.
[0011]
In the image processing system according to the present invention, the valuable information detecting unit includes a card reading unit that detects valuable information equivalent to money in a card or an identifier associated with the valuable information, and the non-existence information generating unit includes: When the valuable information in the card detected by the card reading unit becomes zero, when the valuable information associated with the identifier becomes zero, or when the card is ejected from the card reading unit, the absence information is generated. Characterized in that it is configured to
[0012]
The image processing system according to the present invention is characterized in that the image forming apparatus further includes invalidation information display means for displaying information on invalidation of image data by the invalidation means on a display means.
[0013]
In the image processing system according to the present invention, the invalidation processing unit is configured to overwrite a random number or a predetermined numerical value in an area of the image data storage unit in which target image data is stored. It is characterized by having.
[0014]
An image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus for forming an image in accordance with valuable information equivalent to money acquired from the outside, wherein the image data storage means for storing image data, and the valuable information acquired from the outside And an invalidating means for invalidating the image data stored in the image data storing means when the condition (1) is satisfied.
[0015]
In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, when the invalidation unit acquires, from the outside, non-existence information indicating that no valuable information is present when the valuable information is no longer present, the invalidation unit stores the non-existence information in the image data storage unit. It is characterized in that the stored image data is invalidated.
[0016]
The image forming apparatus according to the present invention further includes an invalidation information display unit that displays information on invalidation of the image data by the invalidation unit on a display unit.
[0017]
According to the present invention, an image processing system includes a valuable information processing device that manages valuable information equivalent to money, and an image forming device that is connected to the valuable information processing device and forms an image according to the valuable information. Is done. The image forming apparatus stores the read or input image data in the image data storage unit. Then, when the valuable information managed by the valuable information processing device satisfies a predetermined condition, the image data stored in the image data storage unit is invalidated.
[0018]
Specifically, the valuable information processing device detects information on the amount of money inserted from the money insertion unit, or detects valuable information (or an identifier associated with the valuable information) equivalent to money in the card by the card reading unit. The valuable information is detected by the valuable information detecting means, and when the detected valuable information no longer exists, non-existence information indicating that the valuable information does not exist is generated. When there is no valuable information, for example, when the remaining amount of money becomes zero, when the amount becomes zero due to settlement, when the valuable information in the card becomes zero, it is pre-deposited corresponding to the identifier. This is the case where the amount data has become zero, or the card has been ejected from the card reading section (in the case of a non-contact type card, the case where the card is in the non-reading state).
[0019]
Then, the image forming apparatus invalidates the image data stored in the image data storage unit when the absence information is generated. That is, the image data is invalidated when valuable information satisfies a predetermined condition, such as at the time of settlement when one user's use of the image forming apparatus is completed, or when the balance is zero, so that one user's There is no danger of the image data being abused by a third party, and on the other hand, it becomes possible to effectively utilize the image data stored using functions such as the electronic filing function.
[0020]
Further, according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus displays information relating to invalidation of image data on the display means, so that one user can confirm that the image data is invalidated, The image forming apparatus can be used with confidence.
[0021]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings showing embodiments.
Embodiment 1
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of an image processing system according to the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes an information processing device (hereinafter, referred to as a port terminal) installed in a store such as a convenience store, and a communication network (hereinafter, referred to as the Internet) via a LAN (Local Area Network) S and a router RT in the store. I, and transmits and receives an HTML file, a computer program, image data, and the like to and from the Web server 5 by an HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) protocol.
[0022]
The port terminal 1 has various functions such as purchasing a concert ticket by communicating with the Web server 5 and downloading images from a network album stored in the Web server 5. The image data downloaded via the Internet I or the image data read by a reader of a recording medium such as a memory card provided in the port terminal 1 is also installed in a store as print data, and the LANS and the router RT are transmitted. The print data is transmitted as print data to the image forming apparatus 2 connected via the printer, and printing is performed by inserting predetermined money. The image forming apparatus (hereinafter, referred to as a multifunction peripheral) 2 has a multifunction such as a copy function and a printer function. As one of them, it functions as a printer in response to a request from the port terminal 1.
[0023]
On the other hand, on the condition that a predetermined amount of money is inserted into a valuable information processing device (hereinafter, referred to as a coin vendor) 30 for detecting and managing the inserted money and valuable information stored in the prepaid card, the document is placed on a document table. It functions as a copier that copies the placed document. In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which these devices and networks are built in a store such as a convenience store. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. May be applied. Further, although the multifunction peripheral 2 has a copy function and a printer function, it goes without saying that the multifunction peripheral 2 may have a facsimile function.
[0024]
In addition, a POS terminal PT and a personal computer 4 installed at a cash register are connected to the LANS. The POS terminal PT manages sales data and the like, and transmits the management data managed by batch processing to a server computer (not shown) of the convenience store headquarters via the Internet I. The personal computer is not used by the customer, but is a well-known personal computer used by a manager in the store behind the store to create sales data, shift tables for part-time staff, posters, and the like.
[0025]
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral 2, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the coin vender 30, the control unit of the multifunction peripheral 2, and the port terminal 1. A document table 20 made of a transparent glass body is disposed on the upper surface of the multifunction device 2, and a scanner unit 3 as reading means is disposed below the document table 20. The scanner unit 3 includes an exposure lamp 31, a first reflection mirror 32a, a second reflection mirror 32b, a third reflection mirror 32c, a lens 33, and a photoelectric conversion element 34 using a CCD. 32 a is reciprocated in the horizontal direction on the lower surface of the document table 20, and the image of the document placed on the upper surface of the document table 20 is exposed and scanned by light emitted from the exposure lamp 31. A recognition sensor 35 s for recognizing the size of a document placed on the document table 20 is provided below the document table 20.
[0026]
The light reflected by the exposure lamp 31 forms an image on the light receiving surface of the photoelectric conversion element 34 via the first to third reflecting mirrors 32a to 32c and the lens 33, and the photoelectric conversion element 34 outputs a signal corresponding to the amount of light received on the light receiving surface. Is output. The signal output from the photoelectric conversion element 34 is digitized by the A / D converter 3A of the control unit 50 and stored in a copy data file 553 as image data storage means in a storage unit 55 such as a hard disk. Then, in accordance with an operation signal output from the input unit 53 such as an operation panel, image data is read from the copy data file 553 in the storage unit 55 and output to the optical scanning device 70.
[0027]
Next, the contents of the control unit 50 of the MFP 2 shown in FIG. 3 will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 3, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51 as a calculating means is connected to a RAM (Random Access Memory) 52 via a bus 57, a storage unit 55 such as a hard disk, and a display unit 54 such as a liquid crystal display as a display unit. , And various input keys such as a numeric keypad and a start key, and an input unit 53 as input means including a touch panel provided on the display unit 54 are connected.
[0028]
In addition, an A / D converter 3A that converts a signal from the photoelectric conversion element 34 into a digital signal, a clock unit (not shown) that outputs time information to the CPU 51, and a modulated light based on image data is irradiated on the photoconductor 4C. Auxiliary communication such as an image forming unit 6 for forming an image on the recording paper P, a communication port 56 such as a LAN card for transmitting and receiving information to and from the port terminal 1, and an RS232C port for transmitting and receiving information to and from the coin vendor 30 Port 561 is connected. The CPU 51 is connected to the above-described hardware units such as the control unit 50 via the bus 57, controls the hardware units, and performs various software functions according to the control program 55P stored in the storage unit 55. Execute.
[0029]
The storage unit 55 stores a copy data file 553 as image data storage means for storing image data read by the scanner unit 3 as a second print process (copy process), and a first print process from the port terminal device 1. A print data file 551 as image data storage means for storing print data for printing transmitted as processing (print processing) is stored. Hereinafter, the first print process is referred to as a print process related to the printer function of the multifunction device 2, and the second print process is referred to as a copy process related to a copy function of the multifunction device 2. Further, the storage unit 55 stores first information such as guidance on print processing as first print processing and procedure guidance, and second information such as guidance on copy processing as second print processing and procedure guidance. Is stored. These pieces of guidance information are appropriately read by the CPU 51 and output from the display unit 54 or an audio output unit (not shown). In the following, the first information is referred to as information relating to print processing, and the second information is referred to as information relating to copy processing.
[0030]
Next, the toner developing process will be described. A photoconductor 4C is rotatably supported in the approximate center of the multifunction device 2 in the direction of the arrow, and a charger 5C such as a conductive brush applied to a predetermined voltage, for example, can contact the photoconductor 4C. The surface of the photoconductor 4C is charged to a predetermined voltage by the charger 5C. Then, the image light modulated based on the image data output from the copy data file 553 or the print data file 551 of the control unit 50 is transmitted to the photoreceptor 4C from the optical scanning device 70 covered with the light-shielding case 70. Irradiation forms an electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor 4.
[0031]
The developing tank 7 in which the toner is stored supplies the toner to the surface of the photoconductor 4C through the developing roller 7a to form an electrostatic latent image on the toner image. Thereafter, prior to the rotation of the photoconductor 4C, the recording paper P in the paper feed cassette 100 is fed one by one into the paper transport path by the rotation of the paper feed roller 120 before the rotation. The fed recording paper P is transported by the transport roller 120 to the registration roller 130. The paper feed cassette 100 is provided with a plurality of paper feed cassettes 101, 102, 103,... According to the size of the recording paper P, and the size recognized by the recognition sensor 35s or input by the user through the input unit 53. One paper feed cassette 100 according to the size of the recording paper P is selected.
[0032]
The recording paper P is stopped with its front end in contact with the registration roller 130, and rotates at a predetermined timing to guide the recording paper P toward the photoconductor 4C. Then, the toner image carried on the photoconductor 4C is transferred onto the surface of the recording paper P by the transfer unit 8 to which a predetermined transfer bias is applied. The transferred recording paper P is heated and pressed while passing through the fixing roller 140. Thereby, the toner image is melted and fixed to the lower surface of the recording paper P.
[0033]
The recording paper P on which the toner image is fixed is conveyed by the paper discharge rollers 150, and is discharged to the multi-stage paper discharge tray 110 (111, 112,... 11n. Here, in the case of double-sided copying, after the front side image is formed, after passing through the fixing roller 140, the sheet is conveyed again to the registration roller 130, and the rear side image formation is started at a predetermined timing. The toner remaining on the photoconductor 4C is removed by the cleaning blade C1 of the cleaner C. In the present embodiment, for simplicity of description, the image forming unit 6 for only one color (black) has been described. (Magenta, yellow).
[0034]
Next, the coin vendor 30 will be described. The coin vendor 30 includes a control unit 301 as a control unit, a communication port 303 for transmitting and receiving information to and from the multifunction device 2, a coin insertion unit 302 and a reader / writer 304 (a currency reading unit) as a valuable information detection unit. You. The money input unit 302 is an input port for receiving inserted money, and outputs valuable information (hereinafter referred to as amount data) corresponding to the inserted amount to the control unit. Further, the reader / writer 304 reads and detects money amount data (valuable information) stored in a card 305 such as a magnetic card or an IC card, and outputs the money amount data to the control unit 301. In this embodiment, valuable information equivalent to money will be described as money data, but available frequency data (for example, 10 yen for black-and-white copy and 30 yen for color copy as one number). May be used. Further, in the present embodiment, the coin vender 30 has both the money insertion unit 302 and the reader / writer 304 as the valuable information detecting means, but may have any one.
[0035]
Note that the reader / writer 304 may detect the amount data of the card 305 in a non-contact manner. In this case, when the user brings the card 305 into the vicinity of the reader / writer 304, the money data in the card 305 is read, and when the card is taken out of a predetermined range, the card 305 is in a non-reading state and the contact reader / writer is not read. This is the same state as when the card is ejected from the writer. Also, the card 305 does not always need to store the amount data, but stores only an identifier such as a credit card number and the like, and the Web server 5 such as a credit company based on the identifier as needed. , The user's price data corresponding to the identifier may be read and used.
[0036]
The control unit 301 stores the money amount data output from the money insertion unit 302 or the reader / writer 304 in the RAM 306. When the money amount data is stored in the RAM 306, the control unit 301 outputs the money amount data to the CPU 51 of the control unit 50 of the MFP 2 via the communication port 303. The multifunction device 2 outputs information indicating that copying or printing has been completed to the control unit 301 of the coin vendor 30 every time copying or printing is completed. The control unit 301 reduces the amount data stored in the RAM 306 in accordance with the number of copies or prints, and when the balance becomes zero, generates non-existence information (hereinafter, referred to as an absent flag) indicating that no amount data exists. Generate (set). In addition, even when the inserted money is repaid by the settlement button (not shown) and the settlement processing is performed, the money amount data in the RAM 306 is deleted and the non-existence flag is generated. Further, even when the inserted card is ejected from the reader / writer 304 and the settlement process is performed, the money amount data in the RAM 306 is erased and an absent flag is generated.
[0037]
When the non-existence flag is generated in the RAM 306, the control unit 301 of the coin vendor 30 outputs the non-existence flag to the control unit 50 of the multifunction device 2. In the present embodiment, the money amount data and the non-existence flag stored in the RAM 306 are output from the control unit 301 of the coin vendor 30 to the control unit 50 of the MFP 2, but the present invention is not limited to this. The CPU 51 of the device 2 may access the RAM 306 of the coin vendor 30 at regular intervals and check the generation status of the amount data and the absence flag. The latter will be described in detail in Embodiment 2.
[0038]
Next, the hardware configuration of the port terminal 1 will be described. As shown in the figure, the CPU 11 receives, via a bus 17, a RAM 12, a ROM 15, a communication port 16 such as a LAN card for transmitting and receiving information to and from the MFP 2, a display unit 14 such as a liquid crystal display, a touch panel, a keyboard and the like. The unit 13, the reader 1R, the money input unit 19, and the printing unit 18 are connected. The CPU 11 is connected to the above-described hardware components of the port terminal 1 via the bus 17 and controls them, and executes various software functions according to a control program 15P stored in the ROM 15.
[0039]
A printer driver 151 for the MFP 2 is installed in the ROM 15. When printing is performed using the port terminal 1, the user operates the input unit 13 to record print data downloaded from a network album of the Web server 5 or a CD-ROM, a memory card, or the like inserted into the reader 1 </ b> R. This is executed by outputting the print data read from the medium to the MFP 2. After the print data is output to the multifunction device 2, unique identification information for specifying the print data from the printing unit 18 as identification information output means, for example, a four-digit password or a bar code, is used as the recording paper. It prints on receipt R and outputs it. The output of the identification information is not limited to the method of printing and outputting the receipt information on the receipt R, but the method of simply displaying the identification information on the display unit 14, the infrared communication unit (not shown), or the Bluetooth. Alternatively, the data may be transmitted to a customer's mobile phone (not shown) or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) (not shown) using communication means such as the above.
[0040]
When printing the print data with the MFP 2, the user inputs the identification information printed on the receipt R, inserts a predetermined currency into the coin vendor 30, or inserts the card 305 storing the amount data. Thus, the print data corresponding to the identification information is read from the print data file 551 and printed.
[0041]
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an image of the display unit 54 and the input unit 53. The input unit 53 includes a touch panel 536, a numeric keypad 533, and the like stacked on the display unit 54. The display unit 54 in FIG. 4 displays information on the copy process (first information) and information on the print process (second information) so that the user can simultaneously recognize the information. In the image processing system according to the present invention, when there is no print processing command from the port terminal 1, only information relating to copy processing is displayed, and there is a print processing command from the port terminal and the copy processing is performed. Only when there is no such information, information on the copy process and information on the print process are displayed as shown in FIG.
[0042]
First, a process when a copy processing instruction is received by the MFP 2 will be described. FIG. 5 to FIG. 14 are conceptual diagrams showing the procedure of the copy processing. FIG. 5A is a view showing a standby state of a copy process without a print process command from the port terminal 1. 5A, or when a print processing command is received from the port terminal 1 as shown in FIG. 4, a predetermined amount is inserted from the money insertion unit 302 of the coin vendor 30, or the amount data is When the stored card 305 is inserted into reader / writer 304, the amount data is output to control unit 301, and control unit 301 stores the amount data in RAM 306.
[0043]
When the amount data is transmitted from the control unit 301 to the CPU 51, a color mode screen shown in FIG. 5B is displayed. The user inputs one of black and white, full color, and single color from the touch panel 536. FIG. 6A shows a state in which full color is selected, and FIG. 6B shows a state in which single color is selected. When the single color shown in FIG. 6B is selected, information of a single color such as red and green is further displayed on the display unit 54. The information on the series of copy processing displayed on the display unit 54 is stored in the guidance information file 552, and the CPU 51 reads an appropriate file in accordance with an instruction from the input unit 53 and outputs the read file to the display unit 54. .
[0044]
When the selection of the color mode is completed, a paper selection menu is displayed next as shown in FIG. The user selects the desired paper size from the touch panel 536. Note that the example of FIG. 7B shows a state in which A4 paper is selected. As a result, a guide screen indicating that the copy preparation is completed is displayed as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Here, when the start button 534 of the input unit 53 is pressed, copying is started, and an image indicating that copying is in progress is displayed as shown in FIG. When performing the enlargement / reduction copy, an enlargement / reduction button displayed on the display unit 54 is input from the touch panel 536. By this operation, a screen for setting the magnification is displayed as shown in FIG. When setting the copy density, a button displayed on the display unit 54 as “copy density” is input from the touch panel 536. By this operation, guidance for density setting is displayed as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10A, the user inputs a document type from among “text”, “photo”, “map”, and “automatic” in order to obtain an appropriate density according to the type of the document. Can be done. In addition, the density is displayed stepwise (the density level 5 is the highest and the density level 1 is the lowest) so that the user can select a desired density so that the density can be finely adjusted. I have. In this case, a numerical value corresponding to the density is selected from the touch panel 536 or the numeric keypad 533.
[0045]
When the user operates the convenient copy button 532 shown in FIG. 4, the convenient copy mode shown in FIG. 10B is displayed. In the convenient copy mode, two types of special copies, a frame erasing mode and a reprint mode, can be selected. The frame erase copy is used to erase a shadow generated around a document when a thick document or a document such as a book is copied. A user who wants to erase the frame inputs a frame erase button from the touch panel 536 as shown in FIG. On the other hand, the reprint button is used to repeatedly copy one photo on the same sheet a plurality of times, and as shown in FIG. It is equally divided and copied.
[0046]
As shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5 (a), in the present embodiment, a monochrome copy is 10 yen per sheet, and a full-color or single-color color is 30 yen per sheet (50 yen for A3 paper). Is set. The CPU 51 outputs, to the control unit 301 of the coin vendor 30, amount data corresponding to the copy price in each mode described above each time the copy processing is performed. When receiving the amount data according to the copy price, the control unit 301 subtracts the amount data according to the received copy price from the amount data stored in the RAM 306, and stores the subtracted amount data in the RAM 306. When the amount data of the RAM 306 becomes zero by the subtraction, the control unit 301 generates an absent flag indicating that the amount data is absent in the RAM 306, and outputs the absent flag to the CPU 51.
[0047]
When the CPU 51 receives the non-existence flag from the coin vendor 30, the CPU 51 displays information indicating that the balance has run out on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. Similarly, when the money inserted by the settlement button (not shown) is refunded, or when the inserted card 305 is ejected from the reader / writer 304, the non-existence flag is generated in the RAM 306 and the control unit 301 is not present. The flag is output to the CPU 51. When the non-existence flag is received, the CPU 51 reads out and displays a screen indicating that the inserted money is settled from the guidance information file 552 as shown in FIG. When the card 305 is ejected, a screen indicating ejection of the inserted card 305 is read from the guidance information file 552 and displayed as shown in FIG.
[0048]
As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13A, when the guidance for ending the copy processing after the generation of the non-existence flag is displayed, the CPU 51 invalidates the image data of the copy data file 553. During the invalidation process, information on the invalidation such as the progress status is read from the guidance information file 552 and displayed on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. The invalidation processing may be performed, for example, by overwriting a random number or by overwriting a predetermined numerical value (for example, a continuous value of 0) on an area in which target image data is stored. In the present embodiment, the image data of the copy data file 553 is deleted, but the image data temporarily stored in the RAM 52 is also deleted when the image data is output to the image forming unit 6. You may do so.
[0049]
If the minimum required amount is insufficient when the copying is being performed in the color mode, information indicating that the fee is insufficient is displayed on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. The case where the charge is insufficient is, for example, a case where the minimum required amount of the color copy is set to 30 yen and the amount data stored in the RAM 306 is 20 yen or 10 yen. When the amount data is insufficient, the amount data is transmitted to the multifunction device 2 again by inserting a predetermined amount of money from the money input unit 302 or by inserting a card 305 provided with new amount information. Then, copying can be continued.
[0050]
Subsequently, a process after the print processing command is transmitted from the port terminal 1 will be described. The print data acquired from the Web server 5 or the like is transmitted to the MFP 2 with unique identification information added thereto, and the CPU 51 stores the transmitted print data in the print data file 551 in association with the identification information. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the print data file 551. As shown in FIG. 15, the reception date and time, the file name of the print data, the history, and the like are stored in association with the identification information. The reception date and time field stores information on the date and time when the CPU 51 received the print data from the port terminal 1 and wrote the print data to the print data file 551. The print data (file name) field stores print data such as document data, image data, and html data transmitted from the port terminal 1. In the identification information field, 4-digit unique identification information is stored in association with print data. In the history field, information as to whether or not the print processing has been completed is stored as a history. “Done” indicates that the printing has already been completed, and “None” indicates that the printing process has not been completed yet and that the job is on standby.
[0051]
In the case where the copy processing is not executed, the print processing command is received, and when new print data is stored in the print data file 551, as shown in FIG. , Are displayed evenly around a substantially central portion of the display unit 54. Here, when the user inputs the port terminal button 531, guidance of the print processing is started.
[0052]
FIG. 16 to FIG. 20 are image diagrams showing a guide procedure of the print processing. When the port terminal button 531 is input in a state where the information about the copy process and the information about the print process are displayed, only the first information about the print process is displayed on the display unit 53 as shown in FIG. Is displayed, and a screen requesting input of identification information is displayed first. The user inputs the identification information printed on the receipt R output from the printing unit 18 of the port terminal 1 from the ten keys 533. When the user operates the numeric keypad 533, the identification information is displayed as shown in FIG. When the user has finished inputting the identification information, the user inputs an “OK” button displayed on the display unit 54 through the touch panel 536 as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the input of the identification information from the numeric keypad 533 is received as the identification information receiving means. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a bar code reader is provided in the multifunction peripheral 2 as the identification information receiving means. The barcode, which is the identification information printed on the receipt R, may be read. Alternatively, identification information may be transmitted to and received from a mobile phone (not shown) by using an infrared receiver (not shown) having an infrared communication function or a communication module (not shown) having a Bluetooth function provided in the multifunction peripheral 2. It may be.
[0053]
The CPU 51 searches the print data file 551 based on the input identification information, reads out the corresponding print data, and starts printing. On the other hand, when the corresponding identification information does not exist, guidance information indicating that there is no identification information is displayed on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. Note that information on these print processes is stored in the guide information file 552 similarly to the information on the copy process, and the CPU 51 reads out the corresponding file at an appropriate timing and outputs it to the display unit 54.
[0054]
The CPU 51 calculates the amount of money required to print the print data of the read file, and displays the calculated amount of money as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 18A, the CPU 51 displays the amount of money necessary for printing, and prompts the user to insert money from the money insertion unit 302 or insert the card 305 from the reader / writer 304. The guidance is read from the guidance information file 552 and displayed.
[0055]
After the amount data is output from the control unit 301 to the CPU 51, and after the printing process is started, guide information indicating that printing is being performed is displayed as shown in FIG. 18B, and after printing is completed, FIG. As shown in (a), guidance information indicating that printing has been completed is displayed. When the amount data becomes zero due to settlement or card ejection, the control unit 301 of the coin vendor 30 similarly generates an absence flag of the amount data in the RAM 306 and outputs the absence flag to the CPU 51 of the multifunction device 2. . When the CPU 51 receives the non-existence flag, the CPU 51 invalidates the image data of the print data file 551. During the invalidation process, information on the invalidation such as the progress status is read from the guidance information file 552 and displayed on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG.
[0056]
If the CPU 51 still receives another print processing command, that is, if the print data file 551 has print data with the history “not yet recorded”, as shown in FIG. Display information. On the other hand, when the CPU 51 has not received another print processing command, that is, when there is no print data with a history “unrecorded” in the print data file 551, the display unit 54 displays only information on the copy processing as shown in FIG. I do.
[0057]
The processing procedure of the image processing system according to the present invention in the above hardware configuration will be described using a flowchart. FIGS. 21 and 22 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the invalidation process after the copy process. First, the user inserts money into the money insertion unit 302 or inserts the card 305 into the reader / writer 304 (step S211). The money input unit 302 identifies the money and detects money data according to the inserted money (step S212). The reader / writer 304 detects the amount data stored in the inserted card 305. The amount data is output to the control unit 301, and the control unit 301 performs a process of storing the detected amount data in the RAM 306 (step S213). When the reader / writer 304 is of a non-contact type, the amount data is detected when the card 305 is brought into a predetermined range. If an identifier is detected in place of the amount data, the identifier is output to the multifunction device 2, the multifunction device 2 obtains the amount data from the Web server 5 based on the identifier, and transmits the obtained amount data to the coin vendor 30. Output to
[0058]
The control unit 301 reads out the stored amount data from the RAM 306 at an appropriate timing and outputs the data to the CPU 51 of the MFP 2 (step S214). The CPU 51 reads information related to copy processing from the guidance information file 552 and outputs the information to the display unit 54 as shown in FIGS. The user places a document on the document table 20 or sets the document on an automatic document feeder (not shown). When an original reading signal is input from the input unit 53, the scanner unit 3 is driven to read the original (step S215).
[0059]
The CPU 51 stores the image data digitized by the A / D converter 3A in the copy data file 553 (step S216). The CPU 51 reads all the originals, stores all the image data in the copy data file 553, sequentially reads out appropriate image data and develops the image data in the RAM 52, and outputs the developed image data to the image forming unit 6 to generate an image. The formation is performed (step S217). Then, each time one image is formed, the CPU 51 outputs a subtraction signal of the amount data to the coin vendor 30 (step S218). As the subtraction signal, for example, a subtraction signal corresponding to the copy unit price is output, such as "minus 10" for monochrome copying, "minus 30" for color copying, and the like.
[0060]
The control unit 301 that has received the subtraction signal performs a process of subtracting the amount data stored in the RAM 306 (step S219). When a card is inserted in the reader / writer 304, the amount data of the card in the reader / writer 304 is updated in synchronization with the update of the amount data in the RAM 306. Then, control unit 301 determines whether or not the amount data after subtraction is not zero and is less than a predetermined value (step S2110). In this determination, for example, when a color copy with a unit price of 30 yen is being executed, it is determined whether the remaining amount is not 0 yen and is less than 30 yen. When a monochrome copy with a unit price of 10 yen is being executed, it is determined whether or not the remaining amount is not 0 yen but less than 10 yen.
[0061]
If the amount data is not zero and is less than the predetermined value (YES in step S2110), control unit 301 outputs an insufficient signal indicating that the amount is insufficient to multifunction device 2 (step S2111). For example, a case of 10 yen or 20 yen for color copy and a case of 5 yen for black and white. The CPU 51 of the multifunction device 2 reads guidance information indicating that the fee is insufficient from the guidance information file 552 as shown in FIG. 14 and displays the guidance information on the display unit 54 (step S2112). After the shortage information is displayed, the process proceeds to step S2110 when money is additionally inserted. On the other hand, when the amount data is not zero or less than the predetermined value (NO in step S2110) (for example, when the amount data is 0 yen or 300 yen), control unit 301 determines that the amount data after subtraction stored in RAM 306 is It is determined whether or not it is zero (step S221).
[0062]
When the control unit 301 determines that the amount data is not zero (NO in step S221), the control unit 301 determines whether the settlement button (not shown) has been operated to perform the settlement process or whether the card ejection button (not shown) has been operated and the card 305 has been ejected. A determination is made (step S222). When the settlement button is operated or the card 305 is ejected, the money or the card 305 corresponding to the amount data stored in the RAM 306 is ejected, and the amount data stored in the RAM 306 becomes zero. If the amount data is zero in step S221 (YES in step S221) and if the settlement process or the card is ejected (YES in step S221), the control unit 301 sets an absence flag indicating that the amount information is not present. Is generated (set) in the RAM 306 (step S223). The settlement process in step S222 or the process when the card is not ejected (NO in step S222) will be described later. When the reader / writer 304 is of a non-contact type, when the card 305 is taken out of a predetermined range, the card 305 is in a non-reading state, and is in the same state as the ejection of the card 305 in step S222.
[0063]
The control unit 306 outputs information indicating that the absence flag has been generated to the MFP 2 (step S224). The CPU 51 of the MFP 2 determines whether or not information indicating that the non-existence flag has been generated has been received (step S225). If the information indicating that the non-existence flag has been generated is received (YES in step S225), it is determined that the copy processing of one user has been completed, and the CPU 51 determines that the image data of the copy data file 553 and the RAM 52 Then, all the read image data, including the image data expanded in (1), is invalidated (step S226). During the invalidation processing, information about invalidation is displayed as shown in FIG. Note that the invalidation processing is performed by the CPU 51 using a predetermined random number generation algorithm. However, the CPU 51 generates a random number and overwrites the area where the image data of the copy data file 553 is stored, or continuously outputs “0” or “1”. May be overwritten on the area of the copy data file 553 in which the image data is stored. Note that the data invalidation processing (erase processing) is not limited to the above-described method, and the invalidation (erase) processing may be performed using another known method.
[0064]
If the CPU 51 has not received the information indicating that the non-existence flag has been generated (NO in step S225), and has not performed the settlement process or the card ejection process in step S222 (NO in step S222), Since the user's copy processing has not been completed, the CPU 51 refers to the image data stored in the copy data file 553 and determines whether or not all the image data has been formed (step S227). If it is determined that all the image data has been formed (YES in step S227), the process proceeds to step S221. On the other hand, if it is determined that all the image data has not been image-formed (NO in step S227), the process proceeds to step S217, where the image data relating to the original of the next page is newly read from the copy data file 553, and the image formation is performed. I do. As described above, it is determined whether or not the coin vendor's valuable information satisfies a predetermined condition, that is, whether or not one user has completed the copy process according to the state of the amount data. It is possible to prevent the copy content of the third party from leaking to the third party.
[0065]
Next, the procedure of the invalidation process after printing (image formation) the print data (image data) output from the port terminal 1 will be described. FIGS. 23 to 25 are flowcharts showing the invalidation processing procedure after print data is printed. The user operates the input unit 13 of the port terminal 1 to download image data and the like from the Web server 5 and output this to the multifunction device 2 as print data. When receiving the print command, the port terminal 1 generates print data and unique identification information for specifying the print data, and outputs the generated print data to the MFP 2. The CPU 51 stores the print data transmitted from the port terminal 1 and the identification information for specifying the print data in the print data file 551 as shown in FIG. 15 (step S231).
[0066]
Subsequently, the CPU 51 reads information (first information) relating to the print processing and information (second information) relating to the copy processing from the guidance information file 552, and displays the mutual information as shown in FIG. S232). In the present embodiment, the information about the print processing and the information about the copy processing are uniformly displayed around the substantially central portion of the display unit 54. However, the present invention is not limited to this mode, and the layout can be freely adjusted. You may decide.
[0067]
After the copy processing is started in a state where the information about the copy processing and the information about the print processing are displayed as shown in FIG. 4, the guide information shown in FIGS. The data is read out, displayed on the display unit 54, and the copy processing is executed. Further, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the selection from the port terminal 1 for executing the print processing has been received. Specifically, the CPU 51 determines whether or not an operation signal has been input from the port terminal button 531 shown in FIG.
[0068]
Here, when the selection of the print processing is received (step S233), that is, when the operation signal is received by operating the port terminal button 531, the information regarding the copy processing is excluded (erased) from the display unit 54, and the information regarding the print processing is deleted. Only the information is displayed as shown in FIGS. 15 to 19 (step S234). Note that information relating to the copy processing is excluded, but common information such as information relating to the print processing and time information may be displayed. Accordingly, a user who desires the print processing can efficiently execute the print processing without being confused because information irrelevant to the display unit 54 is not displayed.
[0069]
The CPU 51 displays information prompting input of identification information on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. 16A, and accepts input of identification information from the ten keys 533 (step S235). The user refers to the identification information printed on the receipt R issued by the printing unit 18 of the port terminal 1 and inputs the identification information from the ten keys 533. After receiving the input of the identification information, the CPU 51 searches the print data file 551 based on the input identification information and extracts the corresponding print data (step S236). The CPU 51 reads out the extracted print data on the RAM 52 (Step S237).
[0070]
The CPU 51 calculates the amount of money required for printing in accordance with the number of read print data and displays it on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. Specifically, the unit price per page (for example, 10 yen is multiplied by the number and displayed (step S241). The user inserts the card 305 into the reader / writer 304 or inserts money into the money input unit 302). (Step S242) The money input unit 302 detects the amount data of the inserted money, or the reader / writer 304 reads the amount data stored in the card 305 to detect the amount data (Step S243).
[0071]
The control unit 301 stores the money amount data detected by the money insertion unit 302 or the reader / writer 304 in the RAM 306 (step S244). The control unit 301 outputs the amount data to the CPU 51 of the multifunction device 2 at a predetermined timing (step S245). The CPU 51 determines whether or not the required amount exists (step S246), that is, determines whether or not the amount data output from the coin vendor 30 matches the amount calculated in step S241. If the necessary amount does not exist (NO in step S246), the process of step S246 is periodically repeated until the necessary amount exists. On the other hand, if it is determined that the required amount exists (YES in step S246), the print data read in step S237 is printed (image formation) (step S247).
[0072]
When the formation of one image is completed, the CPU 51 outputs a subtraction signal to the coin vendor 30 (step S248). The control unit 301 that has received the subtraction signal performs a process of subtracting the amount data stored in the RAM 306 (step S249). When a card is inserted in the reader / writer 304, the amount data of the card in the reader / writer 304 is updated in synchronization with the update of the amount data in the RAM 306. Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the amount data after the subtraction is zero (step S251). If the control unit 301 determines that the amount data is not zero (NO in step S251), the control unit 301 determines whether the settlement button (not shown) has been operated to perform the settlement process or whether the card ejection button (not shown) has been operated to eject the card 305. A determination is made (step S252). When the settlement button is operated or when the card 305 is ejected, the money or the card 305 corresponding to the money data stored in the RAM 306 is ejected, and the money data stored in the RAM 306 becomes zero. When the amount data is zero in step S251 (YES in step S251) and when the settlement process or the card is ejected (YES in step S252), the control unit 301 sets an absence flag indicating that the amount information is not present. Is generated (set) in the RAM 306 (step S253). Note that the settlement process in step S252 or the process when the card is not ejected (NO in step S252) will be described later.
[0073]
The control unit 306 outputs information indicating that the absence flag has been generated to the MFP 2 (step S254). The CPU 51 of the MFP 2 determines whether or not information indicating that the non-existence flag has been generated has been received (step S255). If the information indicating that the non-existence flag has been generated is received (YES in step S255), it is determined that the print processing of one user has been completed, and the CPU 51 determines that the print data of the print data file 551 has been printed. Is performed (step S256). That is, a process of erasing the storage area of the print data file 551 in which the print data extracted in step S236 is stored and a process of erasing the storage area of the RAM 52 in which the print data is expanded upon printing. During the invalidation processing, information about invalidation is displayed as shown in FIG. Similarly, the CPU 51 outputs an invalidation signal to the port terminal 1. If the print data corresponding to the print data deleted by the multifunction device 2 is stored in the ROM 15 or the RAM 12, the port terminal 1 similarly executes a process of invalidating the print data.
[0074]
If the CPU 51 has not received the information indicating that the non-existence flag has been generated (NO in step S255), and has not performed the settlement process or the card ejection process in step S252 (NO in step S252), Since the printing process of the user has not been completed, the CPU 51 refers to the print data read in step S237 and determines whether or not all the print data has been image-formed (step S257). If it is determined that all the print data has been formed (YES in step S257), the process proceeds to step S251. On the other hand, if it is determined that all the image data has not been formed (NO in step S257), the process proceeds to step S247, and print data of the next page is formed.
[0075]
After printing of all pages is completed, the CPU 51 determines that the job has been completed, and performs a process of rewriting the information of the history field related to the corresponding print data in the print data file 551 from “not yet” to “done”. If there is no corresponding print data, as shown in FIG. 17B, information prompting to input identification information from the numeric keypad 533 is displayed on the display unit 54 again.
[0076]
As described above, since the identification information is printed on the receipt R and the print data of a plurality of users is managed using the identification information, it is possible to prevent a plurality of users from printing the print data of another person by mistake. It can be prevented. After the process in step S256, the CPU 51 determines whether another print processing command exists in the print data file 551. Specifically, the CPU 51 refers to the history field of the print data file 551, and determines whether or not the history “not yet exists”. If there is another print processing command, that is, if “not yet” exists in the history field, the process proceeds to step S232, and information about the copy processing and information about the print processing are displayed again as shown in FIG. repeat. On the other hand, when there is no other print processing command, that is, when “not yet” does not exist in the history field, only information relating to copy processing is displayed on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG.
[0077]
Embodiment 2
In the first embodiment, the money data or the non-existence flag or the like is output from the coin vendor 30 to the MFP 2. However, as in the second embodiment, the MFP 2 periodically accesses the coin vendor 30 and The existence of data or a non-existence flag may be confirmed. The details will be described below.
[0078]
FIGS. 26 and 27 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the invalidation process according to the second embodiment. First, the user inserts money into the money insertion unit 302 or inserts the card 305 into the reader / writer 304 (step S261). The money input unit 302 identifies the money and detects money data according to the inserted money (step S262). The reader / writer 304 detects the amount data stored in the inserted card 305. The amount data is output to the control unit 301, and the control unit 301 performs a process of storing the detected amount data in the RAM 306 (step S263).
[0079]
The CPU 51 of the MFP 2 periodically accesses the RAM 306 of the coin vendor 30 to determine whether or not the amount data is stored (step S264). If the amount data is not stored (NO in step S264), the process of step S264 is repeated and executed periodically. On the other hand, if it is determined that the money amount data is stored in the RAM 306 (YES in step S264), the CPU 51 reads out information related to the copy process from the guidance information file 552 and outputs it to the display unit 54 as shown in FIGS. I do. The user places a document on the document table 20 or sets the document on an automatic document feeder (not shown). When an original reading signal is input from the input unit 53, the scanner unit 3 is driven to read the original (step S265).
[0080]
The CPU 51 stores the image data digitized by the A / D converter 3A in the copy data file 553 (step S266). The CPU 51 reads all the originals, stores all the image data in the copy data file 553, sequentially reads out appropriate image data and develops the image data in the RAM 52, and outputs the developed image data to the image forming unit 6 to generate an image. The formation is performed (step S267). Then, each time one image formation is completed, the CPU 51 outputs a subtraction signal of the amount data to the coin vender 30 (step S268).
[0081]
The control unit 301 that has received the subtraction signal performs a process of subtracting the amount data stored in the RAM 306 (step S269). When a card is inserted in the reader / writer 304, the amount data of the card in the reader / writer 304 is updated in synchronization with the update of the amount data in the RAM 306. Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the amount data after the subtraction is zero (step S271).
[0082]
If the control unit 301 determines that the amount data is not zero (NO in step S271), the control unit 301 determines whether the settlement button (not shown) has been operated to perform the settlement process or whether the card ejection button (not shown) has been operated and the card 305 has been ejected. A determination is made (step S272). When the settlement button is operated or when the card 305 is ejected, the money or the card 305 corresponding to the money data stored in the RAM 306 is ejected, and the money data stored in the RAM 306 becomes zero. When the amount data is zero in step S271 (YES in step S271) and when the settlement processing or the card is ejected (YES in step S272), the control unit 301 sets an absence flag indicating that the amount information is not present. Is generated (set) in the RAM 306 (step S273). If the settlement process or the card has not been ejected in step S272 (NO in step S272), the RAM 306 holds the subtracted amount data. On the other hand, if the non-existence flag has been generated in step S273, the amount data does not exist in the RAM 306, and the non-existence flag is stored.
[0083]
The CPU 51 of the multifunction device 2 accesses the RAM 306 of the coin vendor 30 after a lapse of a predetermined time, and performs a process of acquiring money amount data (step S274). The control unit 301 of the coin vender 30 outputs the amount data to the MFP 2 in response to the acquisition request (Step S275). The CPU 51 determines whether or not the acquired absence flag has been generated (step S276). If the non-existence flag exists (YES in step S276), it is determined that the copy process of one user has been completed, and the CPU 51 includes the image data of the copy data file 553 and the image data expanded in the RAM 52. Then, all the read image data are invalidated (step S277). During the invalidation processing, information about invalidation is displayed as shown in FIG.
[0084]
When there is no non-existence flag, that is, when the amount data is obtained in step S274 (NO in step S276), CPU 51 determines whether or not the amount data is less than a predetermined value (step S278). That is, in the case of a color copy (unit price of 30 yen), it is determined whether or not the amount data is less than 30 yen, and in the case of a monochrome copy, it is determined whether or not the amount data is less than 10 yen. If it is determined that the amount data is less than the predetermined value (YES in step S278), the CPU 51 reads out the shortage information indicating that the amount data is insufficient from the guidance information file 552 and displays it on the display unit 54 as shown in FIG. (Step S279). Thereafter, in order to determine whether or not the insufficient amount has been added, the process proceeds to step S274, accesses the RAM 306 of the coin vendor 30 again, and acquires the amount data. If it is determined that the amount data is not less than the predetermined value (NO in step S278), since the copying process of one user has not been completed, the CPU 51 refers to the image data stored in the copy data file 553, and It is determined whether all the image data has been formed (step S2710). If it is determined that all the image data has been formed (YES in step S2710), the process proceeds to step S271. On the other hand, if it is determined that all the image data has not been formed (NO in step S2710), the process advances to step S267 to newly read out the image data of the original of the next page from the copy data file 553 and perform image formation. I do. In the present embodiment, the processing procedure relating to the copy processing has been described. However, the same applies to the print processing from the port terminal 1, and therefore detailed description is omitted.
[0085]
【The invention's effect】
As described above in detail, in the present invention, the image forming apparatus stores the read or input image data in the image data storage unit. When the valuable information managed by the valuable information processing device satisfies a predetermined condition, the image data stored in the image data storage unit is invalidated. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the image data stored using functions such as the electronic filing function.
[0086]
Further, according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus displays information relating to invalidation of image data on the display means, so that one user can confirm that the image data is invalidated, The present invention can provide excellent effects such as making it possible to use the image forming apparatus with confidence.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of an image processing system according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a coin vender, a control unit of the multifunction peripheral, and a port terminal.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an image of a display unit and an input unit.
FIG. 5 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 6 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 7 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 8 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 9 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 11 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 12 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 14 is an image diagram showing a procedure of a copy process.
FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of a print data file.
FIG. 16 is an image diagram showing a guide procedure of print processing.
FIG. 17 is an image diagram showing a guide procedure of print processing.
FIG. 18 is an image diagram showing a guide procedure of print processing.
FIG. 19 is an image diagram showing a guide procedure of print processing.
FIG. 20 is an image diagram showing a guide procedure of print processing.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an invalidation process after a copy process.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of invalidation processing after the copy processing.
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating the invalidation processing procedure after printing of print data.
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating the invalidation processing procedure after print data is printed.
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating the invalidation processing procedure after printing of print data.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an invalidation process according to the second embodiment;
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an invalidation process according to the second embodiment;
[Explanation of symbols]
1-port terminal (information processing device)
2 Multifunction machine (image forming device)
30 Coin vendor (valuable information processing device)
305 card
302 Money input unit (value information detecting means)
304 Reader / Writer (Valuable Information Detection Unit, Card Reading Unit)
306 RAM
S LAN (communication network)
I Internet (communication network)
RT router
4 Personal computer
5 Web server
PT POS terminal
3 Scanner section
50 control unit
6 Image forming unit
51 CPU (computing means)
53 Input unit (input means)
54 display unit (display means)
551 print data file (image data storage means)
553 copy data file (image data storage means)
552 guidance information file
18 Printing unit (identification information output means)
R receipt

Claims (10)

An image processing method applied to an image processing system including a valuable information processing device that processes valuable information equivalent to money by a control unit and an image forming apparatus that has an arithmetic unit and forms an image according to the valuable information At
Storing the image data in the image data storage means of the image forming apparatus by the arithmetic means;
When the valuable information processed by the control means satisfies a predetermined condition, the operation means invalidates the image data stored in the image data storage means. In an image processing system configured by a valuable information processing apparatus that processes valuable information equivalent to money, and an image forming apparatus that is connected to the valuable information apparatus and forms an image according to the valuable information,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Image data storage means for storing image data;
An image processing system, comprising: invalidation means for invalidating image data stored in the image data storage means when valuable information managed by the valuable information processing apparatus satisfies a predetermined condition. The valuable information processing device,
Valuable information detecting means for detecting valuable information,
When the valuable information detected by the valuable information detecting means no longer exists, the non-existent information generating means for generating non-existent information indicating that no valuable information exists;
The invalidating means includes:
3. The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein when the absence information is generated by the absence information generating unit, the image data stored in the image data storage unit is invalidated. . The valuable information detection unit includes a money insertion unit that detects information on the inserted amount of money,
The absence information generating means is configured to generate the absence information when the remaining amount of the money detected by the money input unit becomes zero or when the money amount becomes zero due to settlement. The image processing system according to claim 3, wherein: The valuable information detection unit includes a card reading unit that detects valuable information equivalent to money in the card or an identifier associated with the valuable information,
The non-existence information generating means is configured to output the card when the valuable information in the card detected by the card reading unit becomes zero, when the valuable information associated with the identifier becomes zero, or when the card reading unit discharges the card. 4. The image processing system according to claim 3, wherein the system is configured to generate the absence information when the card is read or when the card is in a non-reading state. The image forming apparatus includes:
The image processing system according to claim 2, further comprising an invalidation information display unit that displays information on invalidation of the image data by the invalidation unit on a display unit. The said invalidation processing means is configured to overwrite a random number or a predetermined numerical value in an area of the image data storage means in which target image data is stored. 7. The image processing system according to any one of 2 to 6. In an image forming apparatus that forms an image according to valuable information equivalent to money acquired from outside,
Image data storage means for storing image data;
An image forming apparatus comprising: invalidation means for invalidating image data stored in the image data storage means when valuable information acquired from outside satisfies a predetermined condition. The invalidating means includes:
When the non-existence information indicating that no valuable information is present is acquired from outside when the valuable information is no longer present, the image data stored in the image data storage unit is invalidated. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising an invalidation information display unit configured to display information on invalidation of the image data by the invalidation unit on a display unit.

Images