JP2005018699A - Printing network system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing network system by which printing is variedly restricted in accordance with the contents of file information, the attribute of a printing candidate, and the like. <P>SOLUTION: The printing network system has a filtering means for receiving printing reservation registering printing information and filtering in a plurality of filtering items the file information fetched by a printing information fetching means, and setting the right and wrong of registration and its set restriction level in printing; and a printing restriction means for implementing printing for the reserved file information, and restricting the printing by means of a printing means in accordance with a given restriction level, provided that the restriction level is provided to the fetched file information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a print network system, for example, to print information such as contents instructed from a personal computer or the like by a printer device having a printer function or a copy function installed in a convenience store or a station.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Recently, a print network system in which a user or a related person registers file information in a print management server, and the user can print out the file information by using a printer device connected to the print management server on the go etc. Is provided.
[0003]
In such a print network system, there is an advantage that many people can use the printer device, but since anyone can use the printer device, there is a possibility that a person who acts illegally by using the printer device may occur.
[0004]
For this reason, Patent Document 1 proposes restricting the use of a printer device (image forming apparatus) used for fraud.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-259107
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the limitation of the printer device (image forming apparatus) is only used for fraudulent acts, and it is not necessarily said that the restriction target is sufficient.
[0007]
For example, even if the file information to be printed is not illegal, it may be preferable to restrict the printing in relation to the person who wants to print, and the printing may be restricted depending on the data structure of the file information. It may be preferable. In particular, when a print applicant prints content (file information) provided by a content provider, it is not completely private use compared to printing file information registered by the print applicant. It is often preferable to limit the system.
[0008]
The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a print network system capable of variously restricting printing in accordance with the contents of file information, the attributes of a print applicant, and the like. .
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve this problem, the print network system of the present invention includes (1) print information fetching means for fetching file information to be printed according to print reservation information from a user, and (2) this print information fetching means. Filtering means for filtering the file information captured by a plurality of filtering items, and setting the permission of registration, the restriction level at the time of printing, and (3) file information whose registration is permitted by this filtering means, Print information storage means for storing the specific information and the restriction level if given, and (4) a printing means for sending a print request in response to a user input and printing the received file information. (5) Based on the received print request, based on the specific information of the file information included in the print request. The print request processing means for fetching the corresponding file information from the print information storage means and giving it to the requesting print means, and (6) a restriction level is given to the file information fetched by the print request processing means. If there is a print restriction, the print restriction means restricts the printing by the printing means in accordance with the assigned restriction level.
[0010]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(A) Embodiment
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a print network system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0011]
(A-1) Configuration of the embodiment
As shown in FIG. 1, the print network system of this embodiment includes a file registration instruction device 2, a content providing server 3, a print on demand server (print management server) 4, a print file database 5, a printer device 6, and a printer controller. 7, a file registration instructing device 2, a content providing server 3, a print on demand server 4, and a printer controller 7 are connected via a communication network 1 such as the Internet. Here, a print file database 5 is provided in association with the print on demand server 4, and a printer device 6 is provided in association with the printer controller 7.
[0012]
In FIG. 1, all elements 2 to 4 and 7 having a function of connecting to a communication network are shown to be connectable via the same communication network 1, but a communication network related to connection between two elements May differ depending on the combination between the two elements.
[0013]
In FIG. 1, each element 2 to 7 is shown one by one. However, a plurality of elements may exist, and a plurality of file registration instruction devices 2, content providing servers 3, printer devices 6, printer controllers 7, etc. It is assumed that it exists.
[0014]
The file registration instruction device 2 corresponds to an information processing terminal related to a user. The file registration instructing device 2 may be a personal computer or a mobile terminal having a data communication function such as a mobile phone. If the communication network 1 is the Internet, it needs to have a browser function. The file registration instruction device 2 causes the print on demand server 4 to register file information to be printed by the printer device 6. The file information to be registered may be transmitted from the file registration instruction apparatus 2 or may be transferred from the content providing server 3 to the print on demand server 4. In the latter case, the content providing server 3 may be accessed from the file registration instruction device 2 and given to the print on demand server 4.
[0015]
The content providing server 3 corresponds to, for example, a server of a content providing company (content provider), and receives content (file information) that the user desires to print by exchanging data with the file registration instruction device 2 or the print on demand server 4. The print on demand server 4 is provided. In the description of operations described later, it is assumed that content (file information) is requested from the print on demand server 4 to the content providing server 3, and the content (file information) is transmitted to the print on demand server 4 at that time. Yes.
[0016]
The print-on-demand server 4 is a server that performs file information filtering, file information registration, charging for file information printing, user management, security management, print history management, and the like, and provides a print service. It is.
[0017]
The print file database 5 is a database that stores file information for printing. In this embodiment, the print file database 5 is controlled by the print on demand server 4.
[0018]
The printer device 6 is a printer installed in a convenience store, a station, or the like, or a device having a print function (multifunction device, FAX, copier, etc.), and prints file information for printing under the control of the printer controller 7. Is.
[0019]
The printer controller 7 corresponds to, for example, an MMK (multimedia kiosk) terminal, controls the printer device 6, and causes the printer device 6 to print out print file information given from the communication network 1 side. The printer controller 7 may be included in the printer device 6 as a function in the printer device 6. One printer controller 7 may control a plurality of printer devices 6 as will be described later. The printer device 6 and the printer controller 7 constitute a printing terminal.
[0020]
Since the file registration instructing device 2 is a portable terminal having a data communication function such as a personal computer or a mobile phone, a detailed description of its configuration is omitted.
[0021]
As shown in FIG. 2, the content providing server 3 includes a control unit 3a that controls the whole, an information output device 3b, an information input device 3c, a database 3d, an information communication unit 3e connected to the communication network 1, and the like.
[0022]
The control unit 3a corresponds to, for example, a CPU, ROM, RAM, software executed by the CPU, etc., and analyzes the communication information received by the information communication unit 3e, or contents (file information) required by the user in the database 3d. For example, the information may be taken out and transmitted from the information communication unit 3e.
[0023]
The information output device 3b corresponds to, for example, a printer, a display, an access unit of an external storage device, and the like, and outputs content, a journal, and the like stored in the database 3d to a maintenance worker or the like.
[0024]
The information input device 3c corresponds to, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, an OCR, an access unit of an external storage device, and the like, and inputs contents to be stored in the database 3d, update information thereof, and the like.
[0025]
The database 3d corresponds to, for example, an external storage device, and stores various contents and journals.
[0026]
The information communication unit 3e corresponds to, for example, a communication board or communication software. The information communication unit 3e receives communication information supplied from the print-on-demand server 4 via the communication network 1 or extracts contents extracted from the database 3d. Or the like to be transmitted to the print on demand server 4.
[0027]
As shown in FIG. 3, the print-on-demand server 4 includes a control unit 4a that controls the whole, a management memory 4b, an information communication unit 4c connected to the communication network 1, a storage unit 4d, and the like.
[0028]
The control unit 4a corresponds to, for example, CPU, ROM, RAM, software executed by the CPU, etc., and analyzes communication information supplied from the information communication unit 4c or performs filtering on received file information (filtering function). The received file information is registered in the print file database 5, the necessary file information is read from the print file database 5 and stored in the storage unit 4d, and the file information is stored in the storage unit 4d. The information is taken out from the storage unit 4d and transmitted from the information communication unit 4c. The control unit 4a performs file registration processing based on the file registration request received from the file registration instructing device 2, and generates a printing identification number required when printing is instructed. The generated printing identification number, The correspondence between the user identification number (or the identification number of the file registration instruction device 2), the print file information specific information, the print file information filtering result, etc. is registered in the print management table 4b2 of the management memory 4b. It is.
[0029]
The management memory 4b corresponds to, for example, an external storage device, and includes a registration location table 4b1, a print management table 4b2, a user management table 4b3, a black list 4b4, and the like. In addition, it manages information on payments to content providers.
[0030]
As illustrated in FIG. 4, the registration location table 4 b 1 stores the storage location information of each file information in the print file database 5 in association with the specific information of the print file information.
[0031]
As illustrated in FIG. 5 and as described above, the print management table 4b2 includes a print identification number, a user identification number (or an identification number of the file registration instruction apparatus 2), and print file information specifying information. The correspondence of the filtering result of the print file information is stored.
[0032]
Here, the filtering result of the print file information is, for example, a result of allowing printing with the printer device 6 without any problem, a result of permitting printing depending on a time zone, and a result of permitting printing on the condition that the approval of the guardian is obtained. (There are different notations before and after approval), the printer device 6 issues an alarm and prints the result.
[0033]
As illustrated in FIG. 6, the user management table 4 b 3 includes an identification number of a user who can receive the printing service in the embodiment (or an identification number of the file registration instruction apparatus 2), a user's name and address, and the like. The information, the date of birth of the user, the e-mail address of the guardian, the billing information for the user, the usage status journal, and the like are stored. In the usage status journal, for example, a journal when file information having some problem in the filtering result is printed is also stored separately from the journal at the time of normal printing.
[0034]
As shown in FIG. 7, the black list 4b4 has a problem from the filtering result or a content provider or user identification number that needs to be marked, information for file registration refusal determination, the number of times of list registration, and release Conditions etc. are stored. The file registration rejection determination information includes statistical information for determining whether or not the content provider or user is rejecting the file registration, whether the file registration can be rejected, or the like.
[0035]
The information communication unit 4c corresponds to, for example, a communication board or communication software, and executes communication with the file registration instruction device 2, the printer controller 7, and the content providing server 3 side.
[0036]
The storage unit 4d corresponds to, for example, a semiconductor memory group, and temporarily stores file information to be transferred to the printer device 6 side. In the case of this embodiment, the storage unit 4d stores reference information (for example, securities image information, obscene keywords, paid sites) required for filtering processing to be described later on file information to be registered. Information etc.) is also stored.
[0037]
The print file database 5 corresponds to, for example, an external storage device and its access configuration, but a detailed description thereof is omitted.
[0038]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of the printer device 6 and the printer controller 7.
[0039]
The printer controller 7 is used as a distributed processing server, and has a control unit 7a for controlling the whole as shown in FIG. The control unit 7a includes a network interface 7b connected to the communication network 1, an HDD (other storage device) 7c that stores print file information as appropriate, and one or a plurality of printer devices 6 that are housed therein. Printer interfaces 7d-1, 7d-2, an operation display unit 7e, and the like that perform communication interfaces via a SCSI bus (which may be a bus that complies with other protocols) are connected.
[0040]
FIG. 8 shows a case where two printer devices 6 can be accommodated by one printer controller 7. The printer device 6 may be a pure printer, a copying machine, or a multifunction machine. FIG. 8 shows the case of a copying machine. The operation display unit 7e may be separated into an operation unit and a display unit, or may be a unit in which an operation unit such as a touch panel and a display unit are combined.
[0041]
On the other hand, the printer device 6 corresponding to the copying machine is also provided with a control unit 6a for controlling the whole. The control unit 6a includes a CPU that controls the operation, a ROM that stores software for the operation of the printer device 6, a RAM that temporarily stores image data and other operational data, and the like.
[0042]
An automatic document feeder (ADF) 6b, a scanner unit 6c, a printer unit 6d, an operation panel 6e, an HDD 6f, and a controller interface 6g are connected to the control unit 6a.
[0043]
The automatic document feeder 6b and the scanner unit 6c are general ones as a copying machine.
[0044]
The printer unit 6d not only prints image data read from the original by the scanner unit 6c but also prints image data (image data of print information) given from the printer controller 7.
[0045]
The operation panel 6e is used as a display input unit that includes a liquid crystal display unit with a built-in touch panel and hard keys such as a numeric keypad. Instructions such as various operations and settings are input by the touch panel and the hard keys, and the liquid crystal display unit The operation guidance and the error content guidance at the time of error are displayed. In the case of this embodiment, instructions such as operations and settings for printing image data of file information are input, and operation guidance and the like are displayed on the liquid crystal display unit.
[0046]
An operation for printing the file information may be performed on the operation display unit 7e of the printer controller 7.
[0047]
The HDD 6f is an external storage device represented by a hard disk in which data to be used for printing is stored. In the case of this embodiment, image data of print information is also stored as appropriate. The image data of the file information may be compressed and stored in the HDD 6f, or may be compressed from the beginning and stored in the HDD 6f as it is, and the compressed image data may be expanded and printed at the time of reading. good.
[0048]
The controller interface 6g is connected to the printer controller 7 via the SCSI bus and exchanges image data of file information.
[0049]
Although omitted in FIG. 7, the printer device 6 or the printer controller 7 is provided with an alarm device for issuing an alarm such as a buzzer or a rotating light.
[0050]
(A-2) Operation of the embodiment
Next, the operation of the print network system having the above configuration will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0051]
(A-2-1) File information registration operation for printing
First, a system operation when a user registers file information to be printed by the printer device 6 will be described with reference to a sequence diagram shown in FIG.
[0052]
The file information to be printed by the printer device 6 may be transmitted by the user from the file registration instruction apparatus 2 or may be extracted from the content providing server 3. The following description will be made assuming that the latter is the latter.
[0053]
The user performs an operation of taking out the file registration Web page related to the print on demand server 4 with respect to the file registration instruction device 2, and the file registration instruction device 2 selects the file registration Web page selected on the communication network 1 side. A transmission request (for example, URL) is transmitted (S1), the print-on-demand server 4 returns a file registration Web page to the file registration instruction apparatus 2 (S2), and the file registration instruction apparatus 2 receives the file registration Web page. Is displayed (S3).
[0054]
The user inputs information for authenticating himself (for example, the user identification number) in a predetermined input field of the file registration Web page to instruct transmission, and the file registration instructing apparatus 2 performs authentication. Information is transmitted (S4), and the print-on-demand server 4 authenticates the user (S5). If the authentication is OK, the print-on-demand server 4 transmits if the file information to be registered is transmitted by the user, and if the file information to be registered is provided by the content providing server 3 Authentication OK information including a message for requesting transmission of specific information is returned (S6), and the file registration instruction apparatus 2 displays the received information (S7).
[0055]
Although omitted in FIG. 9, if the authentication is NG, the print-on-demand server 4 returns that fact. In addition, even if the user is OK from the authentication information from the user, if the file registration is rejected in the black list 4b4, an authentication NG including the fact is returned.
[0056]
FIG. 9 shows a case where the file information to be registered is file information (content) provided by the content providing server 3 as described above.
[0057]
When the user wants to register the content of the content providing server 3 as print file information, the user inputs information specifying the content providing server 3 and the content, and the file registration instruction device 2 specifies the content providing server 3 and the content. The registered file instruction information including the information to be transmitted is transmitted to the print on demand server 4 (S8).
[0058]
At this time, when the print-on-demand server 4 performs the filtering and registration processing shown in detail in FIGS. 10 and 11 and registers the file information (contents), a registration completion notification including the print identification number is displayed. A reply is sent to the file registration instruction device 2 (S9). The file registration instructing apparatus 2 displays a registration completion notification including the received printing identification number (S10). The user records the displayed printing identification number on paper or the like for later printing.
[0059]
Next, the content providing server 3 executed by the print-on-demand server 4 and the processing (S9) when registration file instruction information including information for specifying the content is given are described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. Detailed description.
[0060]
The print-on-demand server 4 that has received the registered file instruction information takes out the content providing server 3 and the information for specifying the content from the information, and sees it from the blacklist information 4b4, from the content providing server 3 (content provider concerned). It is determined whether or not file information is retrieved and registered (S20).
[0061]
If the content providing server 3 cannot retrieve and register the file information, the print-on-demand server 4 notifies the file registration instructing device 2 to that effect (S21) and ends the series of processes.
[0062]
If the corresponding content providing server 3 is allowed to retrieve and register file information, the print-on-demand server 4 sends a content transmission request including content specific information to the content providing server 3 (S22). ), The received content is received (S23).
[0063]
Although omitted in FIG. 10, when a content transmission request is sent, a timer that manages the allowable reception time is started and content cannot be received within that time, or there is no corresponding content. When a reply is received from the providing server 3, the file registration instructing device 2 is notified to that effect, and the series of processing ends.
[0064]
When the content is received, the print on demand server 4 determines whether or not the content is infected with a virus (S24). If it is infected with a virus, it is discarded without being stored in the print file database 5 (S25), the black list 4b4 is set or updated (S26), and the file registration is made to indicate that the content is prohibited from printing. The instruction device 2 is notified (S27), and the series of processing is terminated.
[0065]
Details of the setting or updating process for the black list 4b4 in step S26 are as follows.
[0066]
If the content provider record (field) is not provided in the black list 4b4, the content provider record is provided in the black list 4b4, and the default data for the first virus detection is set. If the blacklist 4b4 is provided with the record (column) of the content provider, if the current virus detection is the predetermined number of consecutive times, or the current virus detection detects the virus for the number of files retrieved. When the ratio of the numbers is equal to or greater than a predetermined ratio, the file information is extracted and updated to a state in which registration is refused. If the current virus detection is less than the predetermined number of consecutive times and the ratio is smaller than the predetermined ratio, only the information for calculating them is updated.
[0067]
Further, when the file information is taken out and the registration is rejected, the number of times such a state is entered (list registration count) is updated, and a release condition based on the number of times is set. For example, if the number of times is less than the first threshold number of times, the number is automatically canceled after a predetermined time. If it exceeds the threshold number of times, no release is permitted (permanent expulsion). Even when the cancellation is made, the record (column) of the content provider is left in the black list 4b4.
[0068]
If the content is not infected with a virus, a print identification number is generated (S28), a record (column) relating to the current print reservation is provided in the print management table 4b2 (S29), and the received content is a print file. Information on the location where the content is stored is registered in the database 5 (S30) and the content is stored in the registration location table 4b1 (S31).
[0069]
Thereafter, it is determined whether or not all or part of the received content is information on securities (for example, banknotes) (S32). For example, an image pattern of securities is prepared and the determination is made by collating with the received content. In addition, you may make it judge using existing apparatuses, such as a banknote determination apparatus.
[0070]
If it falls under securities, “XXX” indicating that it falls under securities is written in the filtering result column of the print management table 4b2 (S33). The writing of a predetermined code in such a filtering result means that the file is posted on the black list as file information. The code “XXX” represents printing with an alarm on the printer device 6 side.
[0071]
Next, it is determined whether or not the user's age is 18 years or older (S34). For example, the age is determined based on the date of birth of the user in the user management table 4b3. If the age of the user is 18 years or older, it is determined whether or not the received content is obscene (S35).
[0072]
For example, an obscene keyword is prepared, and the determination is made based on the file name or the number of collations in the file body, or the number of flesh color pixels is counted, and whether or not the number exceeds a predetermined number is determined. Also, information (such as a URL) of a content provider that distributes obscene content is prepared in advance, and a determination is made as to whether it corresponds. Furthermore, an obscene image pattern is prepared, and it is determined whether it corresponds to it.
[0073]
If the content is of obscene content, “AAA” indicating that the user is 18 years of age or older and the content is of obscene content is written in the filtering result column of the print management table 4b2 (S36). ). If the content is not obscene, the process proceeds to step S42 described later. The code “AAA” represents that printing is permitted only in a predetermined time zone (for example, from 9 pm to 6 am) on the printer device 6 side.
[0074]
Even when the age of the user is less than 18 years old, it is determined whether or not the received content is of obscene content (S37). If the content is of obscene content, “BBB” indicating that the user is under 18 years of age and the content is of obscene content is written in the filtering result column of the print management table 4b2 (S38). ). The code “BBB” represents printing rejection on the printer device 6 side.
[0075]
If the content is not obscene, it is further determined whether or not the received content is for a paid site (S39).
[0076]
If it is a paid site, the e-mail address of the guardian is taken out from the user management table 4b3, and an e-mail inquiring whether or not to approve printing of the current content is sent to the address (S40), Thereafter, “CCC” indicating waiting for approval is written in the filtering result column of the print management table 4b2 (S41). Note that the code “CCC” itself represents printing rejection on the printer device 6 side.
[0077]
The e-mail includes an item that can be easily selected as approval or non-approval, a generated print identification number, a fee, a content outline or a URL, and the like, and a data structure that can be easily returned to the print on demand server 4 It has become.
[0078]
Finally, the print-on-demand server 4 transmits a registration completion notification including the generated print identification number to the file registration instruction apparatus 2 (S42).
The case where the file information to be printed is taken out from the content providing server 3 has been described above, but the illustration is omitted when the user transmits the file information to be printed from the file registration instruction apparatus 2, but the same is true. Perform a filtering process and write a code in the filtering result field as appropriate.
[0079]
(A-2-2) Operation when receiving an e-mail indicating approval / disapproval
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing of the print-on-demand server 4 when a reply e-mail from the guardian is given.
[0080]
When receiving the reply e-mail from the guardian, the print-on-demand server 4 determines whether it is approval or non-approval (approval rejection) (S51).
[0081]
If approved, the print-on-demand server 4 deletes the code “CCC” in the filtering result of the printing identification number field of the print management table 4b2 to make it blank (S52), and ends the series of processing. .
[0082]
On the other hand, when the approval is rejected, the print on demand server 4 rewrites the code “CCC” in the filtering result in the column of the print identification number of the print management table 4b2 to the code “BBB” ( S53), a series of processing ends.
[0083]
(A-2-3) File information printing operation
Next, the operation when printing the registered file information will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG.
[0084]
The user goes to the vicinity of one of the printer devices 6 (and the printer controller 7) at an appropriate timing, operates the operation display unit 7g of the printer controller 7, and instructs the print service mode of the registered file information. Information for authenticating itself is input (S61). At this time, the printer controller 7 transmits information for authentication to the print on demand server 4 (S62), and the print on demand server 4 performs authentication and returns an authentication result to the printer controller 7 (S63).
[0085]
Although omitted in FIG. 13, if the authentication result is NG, the printer controller 7 displays that fact and ends the series of processing. It should be noted that at the time of this authentication, it may be set as an authentication condition that the user is not listed in the black list 4b4. In such printing, user authentication may be omitted.
[0086]
When the authentication result is OK, the user inputs the printing identification number from the operation display unit 7g of the printer controller 7 (note that the printing identification number is stored in the portable terminal and the data transfer function allows Accordingly, the printer controller 7 may send the given print identification number to the print-on-demand server 4 (S64). The print-on-demand server 4 refers to the print management table 4b2 based on the received print identification number, and further refers to the registration location table 4b1, retrieves the corresponding file information from the print file database 5, and stores the storage unit 4d. (S65), and the extracted file information is transmitted to the printer controller 7 together with the code stored in the filtering result and the date of birth of the user (S66). The file information buffered in the storage unit 4d is for responding to a retransmission request or the like during communication.
[0087]
The printer controller 7 (and the printer device 6) performs control to print the received file information on the printer device 6 according to the content of the received code (S67). Thereafter, the printer controller 7 notifies the print-on-demand server 4 of the end of the printing process (S68), and the print-on-demand server 4 deletes the corresponding information from the print management table 4b2 or stores the file information from the storage unit 4d. Processing at the end, such as erasing or updating the journal and billing information in the user management table 4b3, is performed (S69). The charging information is updated only when the file information is printed by the printer device 6. The charge here is a charge for the print service. If the file information is a pay site, the charge is also replaced.
[0088]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of the print control process in step S67 by the printer controller 7 (and the printer device 6).
[0089]
The printer controller 7 determines the code of the received filtering result (S81).
[0090]
If the code is “blank”, the printer controller 7 prints the file information received by the printer device 6 (S82). A code of “blank” means that the file information was not marked by filtering, or that the guardian approval was obtained for the file information that requires parental approval.
[0091]
If the code is "XXX", the printer controller 7 prints the file information received by the printer device 6 (S82) while continuing to issue an alarm until the end of printing (S83). When the code is “XXX”, it means that the file information includes a securities image, and printing is performed while continuing to issue an alarm. It is possible to prevent abuse of securities.
[0092]
Further, if the code is “AAA”, the printer controller 7 determines whether or not the current time belongs to a predetermined time zone (S84). If it does not belong to the predetermined time zone, the received file information is discarded (S85). If it belongs to the predetermined time zone, the file information received by the printer device 6 is printed (S82). If the code is “AAA”, the file information is obscene, and the user is 18 years of age or older, and printing is limited in time, so printing in a situation where there are no minors around is possible. I can expect.
[0093]
Further, if the code is “BBB”, the printer controller 7 determines whether the user is 18 years or older based on the received date of birth (S86). If the user is under 18 years old, the received file information is discarded (S85). The code “BBB” means that the file information is obscene, and the user is less than 18 years old at the time of registration of the file information. If it is, the same processing as described above is performed, and if it is less than 18 years old at the time of printing, the obscene file information is not printed.
[0094]
Furthermore, if the code is “CCC”, the printer controller 7 determines whether the user is 18 years old or older based on the received date of birth (S87). If the user is under 18 years old, the received file information is discarded (S85). The code “CCC” means that the file information is for a paid site, and the user is less than 18 years old at the time of registration of the file information. If it is, the print is approved, and if it is younger than 18 years old at the time of printing, the guardian's approval has not been obtained (if it has been obtained, it has changed to “blank”), so the file information Do not print.
[0095]
If the transmitted file information is compressed or encrypted, the file information is decompressed or decrypted and then given to the printer device 6 for printing. In FIG. 13, printing is simply described as printing. However, when file information is received, printing is performed with setting of the number of copies and setting of attributes such as variable magnification. Alternatively, attribute settings such as setting of the number of copies and variable magnification are set at a timing earlier than this, and printing is performed in accordance with these at the time of reception.
[0096]
As described above, when the printing of the file information is completed, or after the printing is rejected and the file information is discarded, a printing process end notification is transmitted to the print on demand server 4 and the series of processes is completed ( S88).
[0097]
(A-3) Effects of the embodiment
According to the above-described embodiment, not only illegal file information but also valid file information is restricted according to the content of the file information or the attributes of the person who wants to print, or printing is permitted under certain conditions. can do. Since anyone can easily use the printer device of the printing network system, such a restriction is effective.
[0098]
Since securities are printed with warnings, they are printed with the attention of those around them, and a deterrent effect against unauthorized use of printed materials can be expected.
[0099]
Since obscene content cannot be printed under the age of 18, the health of those under the age of 18 can be ensured. Moreover, even if it is 18 years of age or older, printing is permitted only for a limited time period, so that adverse effects on those under 18 years of age can be eliminated as much as possible.
[0100]
Printing of the contents of the paid site is allowed under the approval of the guardian for those who want to print under the age of 18. This prevents a large amount of money from being charged without the guardian's knowledge. can do.
[0101]
(B) Modified embodiment
In the description of the above-described embodiment, various modified embodiments have been referred to, but further modified embodiments as exemplified below can be given.
[0102]
In the above-described embodiment, the printer controller 7 (and the printer device 6) determines whether or not to print file information at the time of printing execution instruction. If the information cannot be printed, the file information may not be sent to the printer controller 7 side.
[0103]
Further, the filtering items are not limited to those of the above-described embodiment, and the aspect of the filtering items of the above-described embodiment may be different from that of the embodiment. For example, the file information capacity may be a filtering item, and if the file information capacity is greater than or equal to a predetermined capacity, printing may be permitted only in a time zone other than the time of congestion. Further, the file information (content) of the pay site may not require the approval of the guardian when the amount is small. Furthermore, when the number of times of printing of securities is large, printing of securities of the user may be prohibited.
[0104]
In the above embodiment, the file information to be filtered is both the content from the content providing server 3 and the file information transmitted by the user, but only the content from the content providing server 3 is to be filtered. You may do it. In addition, if the URL associated with the content providing server 3 indicates that the file information is a store advertisement, a coupon, or the like (by comparison with a URL registered in advance), filtering other than virus detection is performed. May not be executed.
[0105]
The restriction by the filtering result is not limited to that of the above embodiment. For example, for the same filtering result, the restriction may be changed according to the position of the printer device 6 to be printed. A printer device installed at a station may not allow printing of obscene file information regardless of time.
[0106]
If the user desires to retrieve the registered file information from his / her personal computer or the like instead of the public printer device 6 and print it, print control is performed under a restriction different from that of the printer device 6. Also good. For example, even if the content is obscene, printing may be permitted without limiting the time zone, and printing of securities may not be allowed at all.
[0107]
The method for obtaining parental approval is not limited to that of the above embodiment. For example, mail may be used. In addition, an e-mail including an approval password is transmitted to the user's guardian, and when the user inputs the approval password in addition to the print identification number to the printer controller 7, the approval is obtained. You may make it do.
[0108]
The functional grouping of devices such as each server is not limited to that of the above embodiment, and the number of devices is not limited to that of the above embodiment. For example, the content providing server 3 and the print file database 5 may be merged. For example, the content providing server 3 may be responsible for the function of the print on demand server 4.
[0109]
Conversely, different devices may be responsible for a plurality of functions described as being handled by one device in the embodiment. For example, a registration application (print reservation) related to the content may be made to the content providing server 3 and the file information may be registered in the print on demand server 4 via the content providing server 3.
[0110]
In the above-described embodiment, the printing identification number is generated and the printing identification number is input to the printer controller to extract the file information. However, instead of or in addition to this, other information is also obtained. The file information may be extracted. For example, at the time of file registration, the user may input authentication information (for example, a password) and use this information.
[0111]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a print network system capable of variously restricting printing in accordance with the contents of file information, the attribute of a print applicant, and the like.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print network system according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of a content providing server according to the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of a print on demand server according to the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a registration location table according to the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a print management table according to the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a user management table according to the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a black list according to the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of a printer device and a printer controller according to the embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation for registering print file information according to the embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a first flowchart illustrating a filtering process performed by the print on demand server according to the embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating a filtering process performed by the print on demand server according to the embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing upon receipt of a reply mail indicating whether parental approval is permitted according to the embodiment;
FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram illustrating a printing operation of printing file information according to the embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a print control operation of print file information by the printer controller according to the embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 ... communication network,
2 ... File registration instruction device,
3. Content providing server,
4 ... Print on demand server,
5 ... Print file database,
6 ... Printer device,
7: Printer controller.

Claims (7)

Print information fetching means for fetching file information to be printed according to print reservation information from the user;
Filtering the file information captured by the print information capturing means with a plurality of filtering items, setting the permission of registration, the restriction level at the time of printing, and
Print information storage means for storing the file information approved by the filtering means, together with the specific information of the file information, and the restriction level if a restriction level is given,
Printing means for sending a print request in response to user input and printing the received file information;
In response to the received print request, on the basis of the specific information of the file information included in the print request, the corresponding file information is extracted from the print information storage means and given to the print means of the request source. When,
A print restriction unit for restricting printing by the printing unit according to the given restriction level when the restriction level is given to the file information extracted by the print request processing unit. Print network system. Obtain statistical information of registration refusal related to the transmission source of the file information whose registration has been rejected by the filtering means, and when the statistical information is in a predetermined state, it is prohibited to import file information from the transmission source. The printing network system according to claim 1, wherein: One item of the plurality of filtering items in the filtering means is whether or not the file information taken in by the print information taking means is infected with a virus. If the file information is infected, the registration is rejected. The printing network system according to claim 1, wherein the printing network system is a printing network system. One item of the plurality of filtering items in the filtering means is whether or not the file information captured by the print information capturing means relates to a securities image. The print network system according to claim 1, wherein a restriction level is set for executing printing of file information by the printing unit while issuing an alarm. One of the plurality of filtering items in the filtering means is whether or not the content of the file information taken in by the print information taking means is obscene. The print network system according to claim 1, wherein the print network system is set to a restriction level at which printing is permitted or a restriction level at which printing is rejected. One item of the plurality of filtering items in the filtering means is whether or not the user is below a predetermined age and the file information taken in by the print information taking means is from a paid site. The print network system according to claim 1, wherein the print network system is set to a restriction level that permits printing under the approval of a guardian. When a limit level that allows printing is set under the approval of the parent, an email addressed to the parent for inquiring whether or not to approve is sent, and when the response reply email is received, the limit level is cleared. 7. The printing network system according to claim 6, further comprising restriction level rewriting means for rewriting to a restriction level for rejecting printing upon receipt of an approval reply e-mail.

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