JP2005064786A - Image processor, system and method for image processing, device, system, and method for source data management, and device and method for data generation - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processor capable of performing high-precision difference detection and a data generation device which makes it easy to detect modified parts. <P>SOLUTION: When a document P1 is read (source data acquisition part 111), discrimination information for discriminating inputted document data is generated, document data and discrimination information are stored in a document database 84a by correlating them to one another (source data storage control part 113), and a document P2 prepared by adding a bar code P2a representative of discrimination information to contents of the document P1 is printed. When a document P3 having a bar code P3a printed therein is read (detection object acquisition part 121), document data designated by discrimination information shown by the bar code P3a are extracted from the document database 84a (document data extraction part 123). Read document data and extracted document data are compared to detect the difference between both document data, and detection data showing the difference is generated (detection part 125). Thereafter, a document P4 is outputted wherein a part having a difference can be visually recognized (refer to P4a). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for detecting a difference between original data of a printed matter or image data.

  Printed material and image data with recorded characters and images may be deliberately altered or mistakenly contaminated, making it impossible to identify the image. Reliability is particularly important for important printed materials and image data. It is desired to guarantee.

As a method for detecting whether the content of the printed material is the same as that of the original printed material (original) or falsified, a code pattern that can reproduce the original content is added to the margin and the printed material. In order to detect the falsification of the printed matter, the code pattern added to the printed matter is read and the original is reproduced based on the code pattern. In other words, the original is reproduced from the code pattern, and it is possible to detect whether or not it has been tampered by visually comparing the reproduced original and the printed matter to which the code pattern is added (for example, patents). Reference 1).
JP 2002-298120 A

  However, in the above method, in the printed matter to which the code pattern is added, if the code pattern is also altered at the same time so as to match the contents of the altered printed matter, the alteration cannot be detected, so the original guarantee is insufficient. There was a problem.

  In addition, since a person has compared the printed material reproduced from the code pattern with the original printed material to which the code pattern is added, a falsified portion is found, so that the falsified portion is easily overlooked.

  The present invention has been made in view of these problems. An image processing apparatus, an image processing system, an image processing method, an original data management apparatus, and an original data management capable of accurately detecting changes such as writing and enabling original guarantee. It is an object of the present invention to provide a system, an original data management method, a data generation device that facilitates detection of a changed portion, and a data generation method.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, which has been made to achieve such an object, includes original data acquisition means for acquiring original image data as original data, and the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition means. On the other hand, original data storage control means for generating identification information for identifying the original image data and storing it in the storage means in association with the original image data, and the original image data stored in the storage means, An image processing apparatus comprising: a copy image data generation unit that generates copy image data in combination with the corresponding identification information; and a recording unit that records the copy image data on a recording medium. A detection target acquisition unit that acquires detection target image data that is a detection target and the identification information by reading an image formed on the recording medium by a reading unit, and the detection pair Based on the identification information acquired by the acquisition means, original image data extraction means for extracting original image data associated with the identification information from the storage means, and the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction means And detecting means for comparing the image data with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition means and detecting a difference between the two image data.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the original data acquisition unit acquires the original image data, and the original data storage control unit applies the original image to the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition unit. Identification information for identifying data is generated and stored in the storage means in association with the original image data. The copy image data generation means combines the original image data stored in the storage means and the corresponding identification information. Copy image data is generated and recorded on the recording medium by the recording means. Further, the detection target acquisition unit acquires the detection target image data and the identification information to be detected by reading the image formed on the recording medium by the reading unit, and the original image data extraction unit Based on the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit, the original image data associated with the identification information is extracted from the storage unit, and the detection unit detects the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction unit, and the detection target The detection target image data acquired by the acquisition means is compared, and a difference between the two image data is detected.

  That is, a third party has a recording medium on which an image based on the copy image data is formed. The recording medium includes an image based on the original image data stored in the storage means, Identification information for acquiring the original image data from the storage means is formed. Here, when a third party changes the image formed on the recording medium, such as by rewriting, when the detection target image data is acquired by reading the recording medium by the reading unit, the detection target The image data includes the original image data and a portion changed by a third party. Further, the identification information formed together on the recording medium can be obtained by reading, and based on this, the original image data can be obtained from the storage means, and the original image data and the detection target image data can be obtained. By comparing, if there is a change such as an addition to the image on the recording medium, it can be detected on the data. Therefore, it is possible to guarantee the original contents of the recording medium that is the original.

  Further, when a third party changes an image based on copy image data (original image data) recorded on a recording medium, the original image data is changed so as to match the contents of the detection target image data including the changed contents. In order to change, it is necessary to access the storage means in which the original image data for comparison with the detection target image data is stored, and it becomes difficult for the third party to change the original image data. Therefore, unless the original image data stored in the storage means is changed, the change content included in the detection target image data is reliably detected, so that the accuracy of change content detection can be improved.

  Further, as the original data acquisition unit in the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, for example, as described in claim 2, image data stored in advance in the storage unit is specified and acquired as the original image data Means for acquiring image data obtained by reading an image formed on a recording medium by the reading means as the original image data, an image obtained by performing data communication via a public telephone line network Means for acquiring data as the original image data, means for acquiring image data obtained by performing data communication via a network as the original image data, and image data obtained from a connected personal computer as the original image Data acquisition means can be used, and at least one of them can be used .

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the original image data can be obtained from various routes, and the use of the apparatus can be expanded. In addition, the original image data generated in each different route destination is collectively managed by this apparatus, and the original (original) can be guaranteed.

  Further, in the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, when the detection unit detects a difference between the two data, the notification unit that notifies the fact is further provided. You may make it prepare.

According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, when a difference is detected between the original image data and the detection target image data, the user can be surely recognized to that effect.
Further, in the image processing device according to claim 3, as described in claim 4, the notification unit further includes a result data generation unit that generates result data for outputting a detection result by the detection unit. It is desirable to provide.

According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, a portion where a difference is detected can be presented to the user using the result data.
Further, in the image processing device according to claim 4, as described in claim 5, the result data generation means can visually distinguish the portion where the difference is detected from other portions. Thus, it is desirable to generate the result data.

According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, it becomes easy for the user to identify the portion where the difference is detected.
Further, as the result data in the image processing device according to claim 5, for example, as in claim 6, even if the portion where the difference is detected is expressed in a different expression from the other portions. Good. By configuring in this way, it becomes easier to identify a portion where a difference is detected.

  In this case, the different expression may be a different color, a different density, or a different thickness, as described in claims 7 to 9, for example. Furthermore, when the original image data and the detection target data are color image data, the part where the difference is detected is defined as a predetermined color, and the part other than the part where the difference is detected. The color image data may be replaced with single-color data so that the color is a single color other than the predetermined color.

  Further, in the image processing device according to any one of claims 4 to 10, as described in claim 11, a printing unit that prints an image based on the result data, and an image based on the result data. An output comprising at least one of display means for displaying, first communication means for transmitting / receiving the result data via a public telephone line network, and second communication means for transmitting / receiving the result data via the Internet When the output means includes a plurality of means, a means for selecting one of the plurality of means may be provided as the means for outputting the result data.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the user can select whether the result data is printed, displayed, transmitted via the public telephone line network, or transmitted via the Internet. Therefore, it is possible to adopt a result data output method suitable for the usage pattern of the user.

  Further, the identification information in the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 is, as described in claim 12, the identification information is a serial number or a date and time when the identification information was generated. It is desirable to include at least one piece of information to represent.

According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, a plurality of original image data can be reliably distinguished using identification information.
Further, the identification information in the image processing apparatus according to the twelfth aspect may include the serial number of the apparatus as described in the thirteenth aspect.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, even when there are a plurality of the image processing apparatuses, the same identification information is not generated by different apparatuses, and the original image data is reliably obtained by the identification information. Can be recognized.

  An image processing system according to a fourteenth aspect is an image processing system including the respective units of the image processing apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein at least one of the respective units is It is connected to other means via a network.

  According to the image processing system configured as described above, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13. Furthermore, the respective units of the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13 can be arranged in different places as long as they can be connected to a network, and the degree of freedom of arrangement is improved.

  The image processing method according to claim 15 is an original data acquisition step for acquiring original image data as original data, and the original image data for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition step. An original data storage control step of generating identification information for identifying the original image data and storing it in the storage means in association with the original image data, the original image data stored in the storage means, and the identification information corresponding thereto A copy image data generation step for generating copy image data in combination, and a recording step for recording the copy image data on a recording medium, wherein the image processing method is formed on the recording medium. A detection target acquisition step for acquiring detection target image data to be detected and the identification information by reading the image with a reading unit, and the detection target acquisition step. Based on the identification information, the original image data extraction step of extracting the original image data associated with the identification information from the storage means, the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction step, A detection step of comparing the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition step and detecting a difference between the two image data.

By such an image processing method, the same effect as that of the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 can be obtained.
The original data management apparatus according to claim 16 is an original data acquisition unit that acquires original image data serving as original data, and the original image for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition unit. Original data storage control means for generating identification information for identifying data and storing it in the storage means in association with the original image data; the original image data stored in the storage means; and the identification information corresponding thereto And a copy image data generating means for generating copy image data, and a recording means for recording the copy image data on a recording medium.

  According to the original data management apparatus configured as described above, the original data acquisition unit acquires the original image data as the original data, and the original data storage control unit adds the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition unit. On the other hand, identification information for identifying the original image data is generated and stored in the storage means in association with the original image data. The copy image data generation means corresponds to the original image data stored in the storage means and the corresponding information. The copy image data is generated in combination with the identification information to be recorded, and the recording means records the copy image data on the recording medium.

  That is, since the contents of the image recorded on the recording medium are stored in the storage unit as original image data, the original image data can be taken out and used as necessary based on the identification information. And it is suitable when configuring the image processing system according to claim 14.

  An original data management system according to claim 17 is an original data management system comprising the respective means of the original data management device according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the respective means is connected via a network. It is connected to other means.

  According to the original data management system configured as described above, the same effect as that of the original data management apparatus according to claim 16 can be obtained. Furthermore, each means of the original data management apparatus according to claim 16 can be arranged in different places within a network connectable range, and the degree of freedom of arrangement is improved.

  The original data management method according to claim 18 includes an original data acquisition step of acquiring original image data as original data, and the original image for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition step. An original data storage control step of generating identification information for identifying data and storing it in the storage means in association with the original image data; the original image data stored in the storage means; and the identification information corresponding thereto In combination, a copy image data generation step for generating copy image data, and a recording step for recording the copy image data on a recording medium.

By such an original data management method, the same effect as that of the original data management apparatus according to claim 16 can be obtained.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 19 includes: a storage unit that stores original image data serving as original data and identification information for identifying the original image data in association with each other; By referring to the identification information stored in the storage unit based on information indicated by the identification information read by the reading unit, and the reading unit that reads the formed image unit and the identification information unit, The original image data acquisition means for acquiring the corresponding original image data, and the image data of the image portion read by the reading means as detection target image data, and acquired by the detection target image data and the original image data acquisition means And detecting means for comparing the original image data with each other and detecting a difference between the two image data.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the reading unit reads the image portion and the identification information unit formed on the recording medium, and the original image data acquisition unit reads the identification information read by the reading unit. The corresponding original image data is obtained by referring to the identification information stored in the storage unit based on the information indicated by the detection unit, and the detection unit acquires the image data of the image portion read by the reading unit as the detection target image. The detection target image data is compared with the original image data acquired by the original image data acquisition unit, and a difference between the two image data is detected.

  In other words, when an image (image part) based on the original image data stored in the storage means and the identification information part are formed on the recording medium, if there is a change such as addition to the image part, this recorded When the detection target image data is acquired by reading the medium by the reading unit, the detection target image data includes the original image data and the changed portion. Further, it is possible to acquire identification information by reading the identification information part formed together on the recording medium, and based on this, the original image data can be acquired from the storage means. By comparing with the target image data, if there is a change such as writing on the image on the recording medium, it can be detected on the data.

  An image processing system according to claim 20 is an image processing system including the respective units of the image processing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein at least one of the units is connected to another unit via a network. It is connected with the means.

  According to the image processing system configured as described above, an effect similar to that of the image processing apparatus according to claim 19 can be obtained. Furthermore, each means of the image processing apparatus according to claim 19 can be arranged in different places within a network connectable range, and the degree of freedom of arrangement is improved.

  The image processing method according to claim 21 is an image processing method using storage means in which original image data as original data and identification information for identifying the original image data are stored in association with each other. The reading step for reading the image portion and the identification information portion formed on the recording medium, and the information stored in the storage means based on the information indicated by the identification information read by the reading means By referring to the identification information, the original image data acquisition step for acquiring the corresponding original image data, and the image data of the image portion read by the reading step is set as the detection target image data. A detection step of comparing the original image data acquired in the original image data acquisition step and detecting a difference between the two image data.

By such an image processing method, the same effect as that of the image processing apparatus according to claim 19 can be obtained.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 22 is connected to storage means for storing original image data as original data and first identification information for identifying the original image data in association with each other. A detection target acquisition means for acquiring detection target image data to be detected, and second identification information that is attached to the detection target image data and associated with the first identification information; Original image data extraction means for extracting corresponding original image data from the storage means based on the first identification information associated with the second identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition means; and the original image Detection means for comparing the original image data extracted by the data extraction means with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition means and detecting a difference between the two image data , Characterized in that it comprises a.

  According to the image processing apparatus configured as described above, the detection target acquisition unit includes the detection target image data to be detected and the second identification information that is attached to the detection target image data and associated with the first identification information. And the original image data extracting means corresponds to the original image data from the storage means based on the first identification information associated with the second identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition means. The detection means compares the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction means with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition means, and detects a difference between the two image data. .

  Therefore, when image data obtained by copying the original image data is passed to a third party, first identification information is assigned to the original image data, and second identification information associated with the first identification information is assigned to the duplicate data in advance. If the copy data is obtained as detection target image data, when the copy data (detection target image data) is changed or the like, the detection is performed based on the second identification information. One identification information is specified, and original image data associated with the first identification information is acquired from the storage means. Then, by comparing the detection target image data with the original image data, if there is a change in the detection target image data, it can be detected on the data.

  The image processing method according to claim 23 is an image using storage means in which original image data serving as original data and first identification information for identifying the original image data are stored in association with each other. A detection method, a detection target acquisition step of acquiring detection target image data to be detected and second identification information that is attached to the detection target image data and associated with the first identification information; An original image data extraction step of extracting corresponding original image data from the storage means based on the first identification information associated with the second identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition step; A detection step of comparing the original image data extracted by the extraction step with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition step and detecting a difference between the two image data; Characterized in that it comprises.

With such an image processing method, the same effect as that of the image processing apparatus according to claim 22 can be obtained.
An image processing system according to a twenty-fourth aspect includes a plurality of the image processing devices according to any one of the first to thirteenth and nineteenth aspects, and the image processing devices are connected via a network. The identification information is shared with the original image data stored in each storage means.

  According to the image processing system configured as described above, copy image data generated by a certain image processing apparatus can be acquired by another image processing apparatus and compared with the original image data. That is, the inconvenience that the copied image data can be compared with the original image data only by the image processing apparatus that generated the copied image data.

  The data generation device according to claim 25 compares the original image data as the original data with the detection target image data as the detection target, and detects the difference when the difference between the two image data is detected. And a result data generating means for generating detection result output data that makes it possible to visually discriminate between these parts and other parts.

According to the data generating apparatus configured as described above, it becomes easy for the user to identify a portion where a difference is detected between the two image data.
In addition, as the detection result output data in the data generation device according to claim 25, for example, as shown in claim 26, the portion where the difference is detected is shown in a different expression from the other portions. It may be.

  Furthermore, the data generation device according to claim 27 compares the original image data serving as the original data with the detection target image data serving as the detection target, and outputs detection result output data for recognizing the difference. In the data generation apparatus including the data generation means for generating the color image data when the original image data and the detection target image data are color image data, the data generation means The detection result output data is generated by replacing the color image data with single color data so that a portion other than the portion where the difference is detected is a single color other than the predetermined color.

  According to the data generating apparatus configured as described above, the detection result output data is generated in which a portion where the difference is detected is a predetermined color and a portion other than the portion where the difference is detected is a single color other than the predetermined color. It becomes easy for the user to visually identify the portion where the is detected.

  Furthermore, the data generation method according to claim 28 is a detection result output data for comparing the original image data as the original data with the detection target image data as the detection target, and outputting the difference in a recognizable manner. In the case where the original image data and the detection target image data are color image data, a portion where the difference is detected is a predetermined color, and a portion other than the portion where the difference is detected is the predetermined method. The detection result output data is generated by replacing each color image data with single color data so as to have a single color other than a color.

  According to such a data generation method, the same effect as that of the data generation apparatus according to claim 27 can be obtained.

  FIG. 1 shows a facsimile apparatus 2 as an image processing apparatus and a data generation apparatus according to the present invention connected to the Internet and a public line network (ie, public switched telephone network: PSTN), and PCs 12 and 214 are connected to the Internet or a local area network ( 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system 1 connected to a facsimile machine 2 via a LAN so as to be capable of data communication. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the external configuration of the facsimile apparatus 2, and FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal configuration of the facsimile apparatus 2.

As shown in FIG. 1, the facsimile machine 2 includes a line control unit 3 and a communication module 5.
The line control unit 3 corresponds to the first communication means of the present invention, and includes an external connection port 4 (see FIG. 4). The external connection port 4 is in a building (home, office, etc.). An analog line L1 (a so-called telephone line made up of a two-core line and a four-core line) connected to a telephone connection port of the splitter 8 installed in is connected.

  On the other hand, the communication module 5 corresponds to the second communication means of the present invention, and includes a WAN side connection port 6 and a LAN side connection port 7. An ADSL modem 9 is connected to the WAN side connection port 6 via a LAN cable L3. Further, the ADSL modem 9 is connected to a connection port for an ADSL (Asymmetric DSL) modem of the splitter 8 via a LAN cable L2. Has been. As is well known, the ADSL modem 9 can bidirectionally communicate the communication module 5 with a DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) service center that can access the Internet using a telephone line widely used in ordinary homes. It is the signal converter for connecting to. A hub (HUB) 11 is connected to the LAN side connection port 7.

  The hub (HUB) 11 is connected to a printer Pr (an ink jet printer or a laser printer that can be connected to a network) and each LAN terminal such as a PC 12. That is, the hub (HUB) 11 is connected to a local area network (LAN) in the building composed of the above LAN terminals, and the facsimile machine 2, the PC 12, and the printer Pr are mutually bidirectional via the LAN. It is configured to be able to communicate.

  On the other hand, the splitter 8 is a well-known splitter used when using ADSL, and is for a first signal of approximately 4 kHz or less transmitted from a splitter 21 installed on the base station side and a higher frequency ADSL. The transmission signal on which the second signal is superimposed is separated into the first signal and the second signal, the first signal is output to the connection port for the telephone, and the second signal is output to the connection for the ADSL modem. While outputting to a connection port, the signal input from each connection port is superimposed and transmitted to the splitter 21 on the base station side.

  That is, the facsimile apparatus 2 of the present embodiment is configured to be connectable to a subscriber telephone in the public line network using the line control unit 3, and is further connected to a wide area network (via the communication module 5 and the ADSL modem 9). It can be connected to the Internet as a WAN. In addition, the facsimile apparatus 2 operates between a communication apparatus (such as the WWW server 22) in the Internet and each LAN terminal (PC 12, printer Pr) in the LAN by the operation of a router control unit 101 described later of the communication module 5. It is configured to function as a router for routing data to be transmitted / received (IP packet).

  The facsimile apparatus 2 of the present embodiment optically reads an image from a document, converts the image data representing the image into facsimile data, and is an external facsimile apparatus connected to the public network via the analog line L1. A normal function (facsimile for receiving facsimile data transmitted from the external facsimile apparatus 23 via the public line network and the analog line L1 and forming an image based on the facsimile data on a recording sheet. Function), printer function and copy function.

  The printer function means a function for forming an image based on print image data (hereinafter referred to as print data) transmitted from the PC 12, 214, word processor, or the like on a recording paper as a recording medium. The facsimile apparatus 2 receives print data from an external PC via a PC interface (PC I / F) 24 (see FIG. 4), or the PC 12 in the LAN via the communication module 5 or the Internet. When print data is received from the PC 214, an image based on the data is formed on the recording paper. The copy function means a copy function that reads an image from a document using a scanner unit 35 and a recording unit 37, which will be described later, and forms an image on recording paper based on the image data.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the facsimile apparatus 2 having such a function has a handset (H / S) 26 attached to the side of the main body case 25 and an operation panel 27 provided on the front of the upper surface. It has been. The operation panel 27 includes various keys such as a numeric key 271 for inputting the other party's telephone number (FAX number), a start key 272, a selection key 273, a copy original data generation key 274, and a difference detection key 275. An operation key 270 and a liquid crystal display (LCD) 276 for displaying information related to various functions are provided. Then, by operating the selection key 273 according to the screen displayed on the liquid crystal display (LCD) 276, the output method of the difference detection result can be input.

  In addition, a first paper feed tray 29 for storing recording paper to be supplied into the apparatus is provided at the upper rear part of the main body, and is used for placing recording paper on the user. A second paper feed tray 31 is provided for supplying recording paper manually. Further, a document feed tray 33 for placing a document sheet for reading is provided thereon.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the main body controls a scanner unit 35 for reading an image from a document, a recording unit 37 for forming a multicolor image on recording paper, and driving of these units. A substrate (not shown) on which the CPU 39 (see FIG. 4) is mounted is incorporated.

  In the scanner unit 35, a document placed on the document feed tray 33 is detected by a document sensor (not shown), and as indicated by an arrow A in FIG. 3, the feed roller 41, the separation pad 43, and the like. Are fed one by one by a paper feed function, and thereafter conveyed to a reading device 47 by a conveyance roller 45. The reading device 47 reads an image formed on the document. Further, the document after image reading by the reading device 47 is discharged to a first discharge tray 51 provided forward via a discharge roller 49.

  In addition to the above document sensor, the scanner unit 35 is provided with a document front sensor 53 for detecting the leading edge of the document and a document rear sensor 55 for detecting the trailing edge of the document. Based on the detection result from the sensor, each unit in the scanner unit 35 is controlled to adjust the paper feed, and the operation of the scanner unit 35 is realized.

  On the other hand, in the recording unit 37, the recording paper placed on the first paper feed tray 29 or the second paper feed tray 31 is fed from the paper feed roller 57, the separation pad 59, and the like as shown by an arrow B in FIG. Are fed one by one by the paper feeding mechanism. Then, the recording paper is sent to the image forming apparatus 63 via the conveyance roller 61. In the image forming apparatus 63, a multicolor image is formed on the recording paper by a combination of toners of a plurality of colors (cyan, magenta, yellow and black in this embodiment). Further, the recording paper after passing through the image forming apparatus is sent to the fixing device 65 on the downstream side. The fixing device 65 fixes the toner image on the recording paper. Further, the recording paper after passing through the fixing device is discharged through a paper discharge roller 67 to a second paper discharge tray 69 provided on the front surface of the main body.

  The image forming apparatus 63 is configured to operate the laser beam scanning device 71 to irradiate the photosensitive drum with laser light and form an electrostatic latent image on the surface thereof. This laser beam scanning device 71 guides a laser beam emitting unit 77 that emits a laser beam based on image data in accordance with a command from the CPU 39, a laser beam reflecting lens 78, and a laser beam reflected by the lens 78 to a photosensitive drum. A reflection mirror 79 and the like are provided. In addition, the image forming apparatus 63 includes a toner tank 73 for storing toner. The toner supplied from the toner tank 73 is attached to the photosensitive drum after the electrostatic latent image is formed, and the transfer roller 75 causes the recording paper to be recorded. The toner is applied to the photosensitive drum and the toner adhering to the photosensitive drum is transferred to the recording paper. However, the configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 63 illustrated in FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the function of the image forming apparatus 63. That is, the image forming apparatus 63 of this embodiment has a configuration as a well-known image forming apparatus capable of forming a color toner image. As described above, the toner image is formed for each color, and these are formed. A color toner image is formed by superimposing them.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the facsimile machine 2 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the facsimile apparatus 2 of this embodiment. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the data configuration in the RAM 83 (FIG. 5A), an explanatory diagram showing the data configuration in the ROM 81 (FIG. 5B), and an explanation showing the data configuration in the hard disk 84. It is a figure (the figure (c)).

  The facsimile apparatus 2 mainly includes a CPU 39, ROM 81, RAM 83, hard disk (hereinafter referred to as HDD) 84, scanner unit 35, encoder 85, recording unit 37, decoder 87, operation key input detection unit 88, LCD 276, modem. 89, a line control unit 3, a PC interface (PC I / F) 24, a mail control unit 91, and a function expansion interface (function expansion I / F) 93, each connected via a bus 95. Yes. The communication module 5 is connected to the function expansion I / F 93.

  The CPU 39 plays a central role in the control of the apparatus and is configured to control the entire apparatus. For example, the CPU 39 reads a program for control processing recorded in advance in the ROM 81 and executes processing such as transmission / reception of facsimile data according to the program.

  The ROM 81 stores a facsimile function program group 81a (see FIG. 5B) necessary for operating the apparatus as a facsimile apparatus. Specifically, for example, a reception program for causing the recording unit 37 to form an image based on facsimile data received by the line control unit 3 from the external facsimile device 23 is stored in the ROM 81 as the facsimile function program. .

  The ROM 81 stores a printer function program group 81b necessary for operating the apparatus as a printer that prints an image based on print data transmitted from the PC 12, 214 or the like on recording paper or the like. Yes. In addition, in the ROM 81, a recording unit control program 81c called by the above program, other various programs (not shown), and various data necessary for executing the programs are stored in advance.

  On the other hand, the RAM 83 has a work memory 83a (see FIG. 5A) necessary for performing various controls, a page buffer 83b for storing facsimile data and the like, and destination information storage for storing destination information regarding the destination of facsimile data. The unit 83c functions as a part. The destination information storage unit 83c is configured to be able to store a telephone number as destination information related to the destination of facsimile data, and is further configured to be able to store a mail address in association with the telephone number. That is, the facsimile apparatus 2 is configured such that the destination apparatus (external facsimile apparatus 23) can transmit and receive electronic mail via the Internet in addition to transmission and reception of facsimile data via the public line network. In preparation for the case, the destination information can be registered in a form where both the telephone number and the mail address are written together for one address.

  In the HDD 84, as shown in FIG. 5C, a document database 84a, which is a storage area for storing document data and identification information for identifying the document data in association with each other, is secured. Yes. This identification information has a structure in which the manufacturing number of the facsimile apparatus 2 is combined with the date and time when the identification information was generated. For example, the manufacturing number of the facsimile apparatus 2 is “1234” and the identification information generation date and time is 200301. When it is 04:56 on the 23rd of the month, the stored identification information is “123403012456”. The document database 84a corresponds to the storage unit of the present invention.

  The scanner unit 35 corresponds to the reading means of the present invention, and is for reading a document when transmitting facsimile data or copying (copying a document). As described above, the scanner unit 35 of this embodiment acquires a document from the document feed tray 33, reads an image with the reading device 47, and outputs image data as a reading result to the encoder 85 or the like. Has been.

  The encoder 85 is configured to execute encoding processing and output the processed image data in order to convert the image data read by the scanner unit 35 into G3 compressed image data that is a fax format. Has been. On the other hand, the decoder 87 is configured to decode the image data in the fax format and convert it into image data for printing that can be processed by the recording unit 37.

Further, the operation key input detection unit 88 is configured to detect an input from various operation keys 270.
The recording unit 37 corresponds to the printing unit of the present invention, and is configured to function as a so-called color laser printer capable of forming a color image as described above. The CPU 39 executes the recording unit control program 81c. In accordance with an instruction from, a color image based on the image data decoded by the decoder 87 is printed on a recording medium such as recording paper using the image forming apparatus 63, and the printed recording medium is output. It is configured to be.

  Similarly, the LCD 276 provided on the operation panel 27 is provided as a display means for displaying various messages such as a message for guiding an operation procedure to the user and an error message.

The modem 89 is configured to transmit and receive facsimile data to and from the external facsimile apparatus 23 connected to the public line network via the line control unit 3 via the splitter 8.
Further, the line control unit 3 performs operations such as sending a dial signal to the public line network and responding to a call signal from the public line network. For example, the line control unit 3 is connected to an external facsimile machine via the public line network. 23 is communicably connected.

  On the other hand, the PCI / F 24 corresponds to the data input / output means of the present invention, and is used when the PC and the facsimile apparatus 2 are connected via a parallel interface or the like, and receives print data from the PC. It is configured to be.

  The mail control unit 91 realizes transmission / reception of facsimile data by electronic mail, and is configured to transmit / receive electronic mail to / from an external communication device connected to the Internet.

  That is, the mail control unit 91 converts the binary image data in the fax format encoded by the encoder 85 into image data of a text code, and adds header information including a destination mail address to the data. As a result, the image data in the fax format is converted into the image data in the e-mail format that can be transmitted as e-mail, or the image data in the e-mail format received via the communication module 5 via the Internet is faxed. Performs reverse format conversion to format image data. The data that has been reverse-format converted into fax format image data by the mail control unit 91 is decoded into image data that can be output by the recording unit 37 by the decoder 87 and then printed on recording paper.

  In addition, the function expansion I / F 93 is a serial interface such as AIO (analog input / output) or RS232C, and the communication module 5 including the router control unit 101 configured separately can be detachably connected. It is configured.

  The communication module 5 includes a router control unit 101, an interface connection terminal 103 connected to the router control unit 101, and the like. The communication module 5 is connected to the function expansion I / F 93 via the interface connection terminal 103.

  The router control unit 101 is for transmitting and receiving IP packets to and from communication devices (WWW server 22 and PC 214) in the Internet via the ADSL modem 9, and has a well-known IP masquerade function and routing function. Functions as a broadband router.

  That is, the router control unit 101 mutually converts a private IP address used in the LAN by the IP masquerading function and a global IP address used in the WAN (in the present embodiment, the Internet), and by the routing function, The terminal on the side and the communication device (WWW server 22) on the WAN side are connected so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  For example, the router control unit 101 communicates with each LAN terminal (PC 12, printer Pr) in the LAN connected to the LAN side connection port 7, thereby bidirectionally communicating the LAN terminal in the LAN to the Internet. Connect as possible. In other words, for example, the router control unit 101 performs path control and transmits data received from the WWW server 22 in the Internet to the destination LAN terminal.

  In addition, the router control unit 101 can communicate with the CPU 39 on the apparatus main body side via the function expansion I / F 93. That is, each LAN terminal (PC 12, printer Pr) can perform bidirectional communication with the CPU 39 on the apparatus body side via the router control unit 101 and the interface 93. For example, the CPU 39 of the facsimile apparatus 2 can When the print data is acquired from the PC 12 via the unit 101, the printer function program is executed, the recording unit control program 81c is called in the program to control the recording unit 37, and the recording unit 37 receives the print data. A base image is formed on the recording paper.

  Next, the difference detection process executed by the CPU 39 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6A is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration for managing original image data as an original to detect a difference and generating copy image data. FIG. 6B detects a difference. It is a functional block diagram showing the functional structure for doing.

First, a function for reading a document (original) from the scanner unit 35 and generating document data (original image data) as original data will be described with reference to FIG.
The original data acquisition unit 111 corresponds to the original data acquisition unit of the present invention, controls the scanner unit 35, reads the original P1 (original), and acquires original original data (original image data) indicating the contents of the original P1.

  The original data storage control unit 113 corresponds to the original data storage control unit of the present invention. When the original document data is input from the original data acquisition unit 111, the original data storage control unit 113 generates identification information for identifying the original document data. Then, the original document data and the identification information are associated with each other and stored in the document database 84a.

  The copy original data generation unit 115 corresponds to copy image data generation means of the present invention. The copy original data generation unit 115 reads original document data specified by the identification information input from the original data storage control unit 113 from the document database 84a. Copy original data (copy image data) combining original document data and identification information is generated.

  When the copy document data from the copy document data generation unit 115 is input to the recording unit 37, the document P2 (recorded medium) on which the content of the read original document data and the barcode P2a indicating the identification information are printed. ) Is output. This document P2 is circulated to a third party or the like.

The original data acquisition unit 111, the original data storage control unit 113, and the copy original data generation unit 115 are realized as processes executed by the CPU 39.
Next, a function for detecting a change such as an addition to the document P2 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the document P2 that has been returned after being circulated is described as document P3. Therefore, the barcode P2a and the barcode P3a are the same identification information.

  The detection target acquisition unit 121 corresponds to the detection target acquisition unit of the present invention, controls the scanner unit 35, reads the document P3 on which the barcode P3a is printed, and detects target document data (detection target) indicating the content of the document P3. Image data) and identification information indicated by the barcode P3a.

  The original document data extraction unit 123 corresponds to the original document data extraction unit of the present invention, and extracts the original document data specified by the identification information indicated by the barcode P3a from the document database 84a.

  The detection unit 125 corresponds to the detection unit of the present invention, and compares both the original document data input from the original document data extraction unit 123 and the detection target document data input from the detection target acquisition unit 121. A difference in data between the document data is detected, and detection data indicating the difference is generated.

  The result data generation unit 127 corresponds to the result data generation unit of the present invention, and generates result data for recognizing a portion where a difference is detected based on the detection data input from the detection unit 125. .

  Then, when the result data from the result data generation unit 127 is input to the recording unit 37, a document P4 in which a portion where the difference is detected is printed in red and thick is output. That is, as shown in FIG. 6B, for example, if there is a change portion P3b in the document P3, the portion corresponding to the change portion P3b in the document P4 is printed in red and thick as the highlight portion P4a.

The detection target acquisition unit 121, the original document data extraction unit 123, the detection unit 125, and the result data generation unit 127 are realized as processing executed by the CPU 39.
Hereinafter, processing executed by the CPU 39 in order to realize each function shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to a flowchart.

  First, a copy document data generation process executed by the CPU 39 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a copy document data generation process. This copy original data generation process is a process repeatedly executed while the facsimile apparatus 2 is activated (power ON).

  When this copy original data generation process is executed, the CPU 39 first determines in S10 whether or not the copy original data generation key 274 has been pressed. If it is determined that the copy original data generation key 274 is pressed (S10: YES), the process proceeds to S20, and the original set from the scanner unit 35 is read.

  In S30, identification information for identifying the read original document data is generated, and the identification information and the original document data are stored in the document database 84a. As described above, this identification information is determined based on the manufacturing number of the facsimile machine 2 and the date and time when the identification information is generated. The RAM 83 is provided with a timer for storing the current time, and the CPU 39 acquires information on the date and time when the identification information is generated from the timer.

Next, in S40, the original document data stored in the document database 84a and the identification information are combined and stored in the page buffer 83b.
Thereafter, in S50, the data stored in the page buffer 83b is printed by the recording unit 37, and the copy original data generation process is terminated.

Returning to S10, if it is determined that the copy document data generation key 274 has not been pressed (S10: NO), the copy document data generation process is terminated.
The process of S20 is the original data acquisition unit (original data acquisition unit 111) of the present invention, the process of S30 is the original data storage control unit (original data storage control unit 113) of the present invention, and the process of S40 is a copy of the present invention. This corresponds to image data generation means (copy original data generation unit 115).

  Next, the difference detection process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the difference detection process. This difference detection process is a process repeatedly executed while the facsimile apparatus 2 is activated (powered on).

  When this difference detection process is executed, the CPU 39 first determines in S210 whether or not the difference detection key 275 has been pressed. If it is determined that the difference detection key 275 has been pressed (S210: YES), the process proceeds to S220, the document set from the scanner unit 35 is read, and the read detection target document data is stored in the page buffer 83b.

  In S230, the barcode indicating the identification information is detected from the detection target document data stored in the page buffer 83b, and the identification information is acquired from the barcode. In step S240, the identification information barcode data is deleted from the detection target document data stored in the page buffer 83b.

Thereafter, in S250, the original document data specified by the identification information is read from the document database 84a, stored in the work memory 83a, and the process proceeds to S260.
In S260, the detection target document data stored in the page buffer 83b is compared with the original document data stored in the work memory 83a. That is, for all the pixels constituting the detection target document data stored in the page buffer 83b, the difference from the original document data pixels stored in the work memory 84a corresponding to the position of each pixel. Detect if there is any.

  If there is no difference for all the pixels (S270: NO), the process proceeds to S280, “no difference” is displayed on the LCD 276, and the difference detection process is terminated. On the other hand, when a pixel having a difference is detected (S270: YES), the process proceeds to S290, a difference detection result output process is performed, and the difference detection process is terminated.

Returning to S210, if it is determined that the difference detection key 275 has not been pressed (S210: NO), the difference detection process is terminated.
The processing of S220 and S230 is the detection target acquisition means (detection target acquisition unit 121) of the present invention, the processing of S250 is the original image data extraction means (original document data extraction unit 123) of the present invention, and the processing of S260 is the present invention. The detection unit (detection unit 125) and the process of S290 correspond to the result data generation unit (result data generation unit 127) of the present invention.

Next, the procedure of the difference detection result output process in S290 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the difference detection result output process.
When the difference detection result output process is executed, first, in S410, the CPU 39 generates difference document data between the document data stored in the work memory 83a and the document data stored in the page buffer 83b. For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, the original document data stored in the work memory is represented by document data D1, and the detection target document data stored in the page buffer 83b is document data D2. In the case where it is represented, the portion indicated as “amount of money 50,000 yen” in the document data D1 is “amount of money 350,000 yen” in the document data D2. That is, the difference between the two document data is that “3” is added to the left of “5”, and therefore, “3” is added to the position where “3” is added as shown in FIG. Difference document data D3 on which the characters "" are displayed is generated.

Similarly, even when characters existing in the document data D1 are deleted in the document data D2, difference document data D3 is generated as a negative difference.
Then, the process proceeds to S420, and expansion processing is performed on the difference document data D3. The dilation process is a process for replacing the pixels above and below each difference pixel with the same data as the difference pixel for the difference pixels constituting the data of the difference portion.

  That is, the character “3” in the difference document data D3 is formed by a plurality of difference pixels as shown in FIG. 12A, for example, and when the expansion process is performed, as shown in FIG. 12B. Thus, data in which one pixel is thickened above and below the character “3” shown in FIG.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to S430, and it is determined whether or not the document read in S220 is a color document. If it is determined that the original is a color original (S430: YES), the original data stored in the page buffer 83b is converted to monochrome at S440, and the process proceeds to S450. On the other hand, if it is determined that the document is not a color document, that is, a monochrome document (S430: NO), the process proceeds to S450.

  In S450, the pixel after the expansion process of S420 is colored. In this embodiment, the pixel after the expansion process is converted to, for example, red. As a result, as shown in FIG. 12C, differential document data in which the portion “3” in FIG. 12A is red and thick is obtained.

  In S460, the difference original data converted into red is combined with the original data stored in the page buffer 83b. In the original data stored in the page buffer 83b, the difference data shown in FIG. As shown in the drawing, document data in which the periphery of black “3” is red is obtained.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to S470, and it is determined whether the output method of the document data stored in the page buffer 83b is set to any of printer, FAX, and mail. The output method is preset by an output method setting process described later. If it is determined that the output method is set to the printer (S470: Printer), the process proceeds to S480, the document data stored in the page buffer 83b is printed out from the recording unit 37, and the difference is detected. The result output process ends.

  If it is determined that the output method is set to FAX (S470: FAX), the process proceeds to S490, and the original data stored in the page buffer 83b via the modem 89 and the line control unit 3 is set as the output method setting. The FAX transmission is performed to the transmission destination set in advance by the process, and the difference detection result output process ends.

If it is determined that the output method is set to e-mail (S470: e-mail), the process proceeds to S500, and the document data stored in the page buffer 83b is preliminarily stored in the output method setting process via the communication module 5. E-mail is sent to the set transmission destination, and the difference detection result output process is terminated.
Next, output method setting processing executed by the CPU 39 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the output method setting process. This output method setting process is a process repeatedly executed while the facsimile apparatus 2 is activated (powered on). The output method setting process corresponds to the selection means in the present invention.

  When this output method setting process is executed, the CPU 39 first determines whether or not an output method setting command has been input from the selection key 273 in S610. If it is determined that an output method setting command has been input (S610: YES), in S620, the output method is set on the LCD 276 in the printer, FAX, and mail as shown in FIG. Process to display the screen.

Thereafter, in S630, the CPU 39 waits until a setting input completion signal indicating that the input of the output method setting is completed is input from the selection key 273.
When the setting input completion signal is input, it is determined that the output method setting has been completed (S630: YES), and in S640, it is determined whether or not the output method input from the selection key 273 is a printer. . If it is determined that the output method is a printer (S640: YES), the output method is set to the printer in S650, and the output method setting process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S640 that the output method is not a printer (S640: NO), the process proceeds to S660, and it is determined whether or not the output method input from the selection key 273 is FAX. If it is determined that the output method is FAX (S660: YES), the output method is set to FAX in S670, and the process proceeds to S680.

In S680, a process for displaying a screen for inputting the telephone number of the FAX output destination as shown in FIG.
After that, in S690, it waits until a number input completion signal indicating that the input of the FAX telephone number is completed is input from the selection key 273. When the number input completion signal is input, it is determined that the number input is completed (S690: YES), and the input telephone number is set as the FAX output destination telephone number in S700, and the output is performed. The method setting process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S660 that the output method is not FAX (S660: NO), the process proceeds to S710 and the output method is set to mail. In step S720, a process for displaying a screen for inputting an address of a mail transmission destination as shown in FIG.

  Thereafter, in S730, the process waits until an address input completion signal indicating that the address input is completed is input from the selection key 273. When the address input completion signal is input, it is determined that the address input is completed (S730: YES), and in S740, the input address is set as the mail transmission destination address, and the output method setting is performed. End the process.

Returning to S610, if it is determined that the output method setting command has not been input (S610: NO), the output method setting process ends.
In the facsimile apparatus 2 of the present embodiment configured as described above, original document data is acquired (S20), identification information for identifying the original document data is generated and associated with the original document data in the document database 84a. (S30), the original document data stored in the document database 84a and the corresponding identification information are combined to generate copy document data (S40). Then, by copying the copy original data (S50), the copy original data is distributed to the outside in a form recorded on paper. Thereafter, when examining whether the contents of the copy manuscript data on the externally distributed paper have been changed such as addition, the paper is collected and the recorded content is read from the scanner unit 35. Detection target document data to be detected and identification information are acquired (S220 and S230), and based on the identification information, original document data associated with the identification information is extracted from the document database 84a (S250). The extracted original document data is compared with the acquired detection target document data, and a difference between the two document data is detected (S260).

Therefore, if there is a change such as writing, it can be removed from the data.
In addition, when a third party changes the content recorded on the paper, the original document data is stored in order to change the original document data so that it matches the content of the detection target document data including the changed content. It is necessary to access the original document database 84a, and it becomes difficult for a third party to change the original document data. Therefore, as long as the original document data stored in the document database 84a is not changed, the change contents included in the detection target document data are reliably detected, so that the accuracy of difference detection can be improved.

Further, since the facsimile apparatus 2 generates result data in which the portion where the difference is detected is red and thick (S290), the user can easily identify the portion where the difference is detected.
Further, the facsimile apparatus 2 may allow the user to select whether the result data is to be printed, transmitted via the public telephone line network, or transmitted via the Internet by the processing of S470 in FIG. The output method of the result data suitable for the user's usage mode can be adopted.

  Further, since the identification information includes the manufacturing number of the facsimile apparatus 2 and the date and time when the identification information was generated, a plurality of identification information in the facsimile apparatus 2 can be distinguished, and a plurality of facsimile apparatuses 2 can be distinguished. Even if it exists, the same identification information is not generated by different apparatuses, and the original image data can be reliably recognized by the identification information.

As mentioned above, although one Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the said Example, A various aspect can be taken.
For example, in the above embodiment, the detection of a change in a document on which characters are printed has been described. However, a change in an image on which a picture or a photograph is printed may be detected.

  In the above-described embodiment, when a difference in data between both document data is detected, the difference portion is printed so as to be recognizable. However, for example, only a difference is notified to the surroundings by voice or light emission. You may make it provide an alerting | reporting means.

  The identification information may be stored not only in the form of the barcode P2a but also by using a steganography technique or a morphological filter so that the identification information does not appear to be added at first glance. At this time, the identification information is provided with redundancy and is recorded on the entire recording surface, so that the identification information can be surely obtained even when a part of the recording medium becomes dirty.

In the above embodiment, the difference portion is printed in red. However, the difference portion is not limited to red as long as the difference portion can be recognized.
In the above embodiment, the difference portion is printed in different colors. However, the difference portion may be printed in a different density, and can be printed in an identifiable manner by underlining, shading, inversion, or the like. May be.

  In the above embodiment, the output of the difference detection result is selected from the printer, the FAX, and the mail. However, the display means of the present invention has a screen sufficiently large to display the difference detection result. The display means, printer, FAX, and mail may be selected.

  In the above embodiment, the identification information has a structure in which the manufacturing number of the facsimile apparatus 2 and the date and time when the identification information is generated are combined. However, the identification information is a combination of the manufacturing number of the facsimile apparatus 2 and the serial number. It may be of a structure.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the original is read from the scanner unit 35, the read original data and the identification number are associated with each other and stored in the original database 84a, and the copy original data in which the original data and the identification information are combined is generated. The document data stored in the document database 84a is designated, the designated document data is acquired from the document database 84a, and the designated document data and the identification number are associated with each other. The document data may be stored in the document database 84a and copy document data in which specified document data and identification information are combined.

  Alternatively, when facsimile data is received from the facsimile apparatus 23 via the line control unit 3, the facsimile data and the identification number are associated with each other and stored in the original database 84a, and a copy original in which the facsimile data and the identification information are combined. Data may be generated.

  Alternatively, when mail is received from the PC 214 via the communication module 5, the mail data and the identification number are stored in the original database 84a in association with each other, and copy original data in which the mail data and the identification number are combined is generated. You may do it.

  Alternatively, when the document data is acquired from the PC 12 via the LAN, the acquired document data and the identification number are associated with each other and stored in the document database 84a, and copy document data in which the document data and the identification information are combined is generated. You may do it.

  In the above-described embodiment, the document database 84a is provided in the facsimile apparatus 2 and the difference detection result is output from the recording unit 37 in the facsimile apparatus 2. However, the facsimile apparatus 2, the PC 12, and the printer Pr are provided. The document database may be secured in the HDD of the PC 12 connected via a LAN, or the difference detection result may be output from the printer Pr. That is, a document database as a storage unit of the present invention, a recording unit as a printing unit of the present invention, a scanner unit as a reading unit of the present invention, and the like may be connected via a network.

  In the above embodiment, the image processing system includes one facsimile apparatus 2 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention. However, a plurality of facsimile apparatuses 2 and one document database are connected via a network. The plurality of facsimile apparatuses 2 may store and extract document data and identification information by accessing the document database.

  Further, a plurality of facsimile apparatuses 2 are connected via a network, and each facsimile apparatus 2 mutually accesses a document database of each facsimile apparatus 2 so as to store and extract document data and identification information. It may be.

  In the above embodiment, the facsimile apparatus 2 generates and detects copy original data, but the recording unit 37, original database 84a, and original data acquisition unit shown in FIG. 111, an original data management device including a CPU 39 that realizes the functions of the original data storage control unit 113 and the copy original data generation unit 115, a detection target acquisition unit 121, an original document data extraction unit 123, The CPU 39 that realizes the functions of the detection unit 125 and the result data generation unit 127 may be communicably connected to an image processing apparatus that includes the scanner unit 35 controlled by the detection target acquisition unit 121. In the case where the original data management device and the image processing device are communicably connected, the image processing device may include a document database 84a.

  For example, when the original data management device prints the copy original data generated by the copy original data generation unit 115 on a sheet and circulates it to a third party, the third party mistakenly stains the sheet. When a part of the print content becomes unclear, the identification information printed on the paper is read, and based on this, the original document data stored in the document database 84a is extracted and reproduced. The original data can be easily managed.

1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an external configuration of a facsimile apparatus. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a facsimile apparatus. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of a facsimile machine. Explanatory drawing showing the data structure in ROM, RAM, and HDD. The functional block diagram showing the function of CPU for the difference detection data production | generation and a difference detection. 9 is a flowchart showing a copy document data generation processing procedure. The flowchart which shows a difference detection process procedure. The flowchart which shows a difference detection result output process sequence. The flowchart which shows an output system setting process sequence. The figure explaining the comparison method of manuscript data. The figure explaining the difference detection result output method. The figure explaining an output system setting screen.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image processing system 2, 23 ... Facsimile apparatus, 3 ... Line control part, 5 ... Communication module, 22 ... WWW server, 24 ... PCI / F, 27 ... Operation panel, 35 ... Scanner part, 37 ... Recording part, 39 ... CPU, 81 ... ROM, 81a ... facsimile function program group, 81b ... printer function program group, 81c ... recording unit control program, 83 ... RAM, 83a ... work memory, 83b ... page buffer, 84 ... HDD, 84a ... manuscript database, 85 ... encoder, 87 ... decoder, 88 ... operation key input detector, 89 ... modem, 91 ... mail controller, 93 ... function expansion I / F, 101 ... router controller, 214 ... PC, 270 ... operation keys, 276 ... LCD.

Claims (28)

Original data acquisition means for acquiring original image data as original data;
Original data storage control means for generating identification information for identifying the original image data for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition means and storing the identification information in association with the original image data in the storage means When,
Copy image data generation means for generating copy image data by combining the original image data stored in the storage means and the identification information corresponding thereto;
Recording means for recording the copy image data on a recording medium;
An image processing apparatus comprising:
A detection target acquisition means for acquiring detection target image data to be detected by reading the image formed on the recording medium with a reading means; and the identification information;
Based on the identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition means, original image data extraction means for extracting original image data associated with the identification information from the storage means;
Detection means for comparing the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction means with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition means, and detecting a difference between the two image data;
An image processing apparatus comprising: The original data acquisition means includes
Means for designating image data stored in advance in the storage means and obtaining the original image data;
Means for obtaining image data obtained by reading an image formed on a recording medium by the reading means as the original image data;
Means for acquiring, as the original image data, image data obtained by performing data communication via a public telephone network;
Means for acquiring image data obtained by performing data communication via a network as the original image data;
Means for acquiring image data obtained from a connected personal computer as the original image data;
At least one of
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the fact when the detection unit detects a difference between the two data. 4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the notification unit further includes a result data generation unit that generates result data for outputting a detection result by the detection unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the result data generation unit generates the result data so that a portion where the difference is detected can be visually distinguished from other portions. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the result data generation unit generates the result data so that a portion where the difference is detected is represented by a different expression from the other portions. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the result data generation unit generates the result data so that a portion where the difference is detected is indicated by a color different from that of the other portions. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the result data generating unit generates the result data such that a portion where the difference is detected is indicated by a density different from that of the other portions. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the result data generation unit generates the result data such that a portion where the difference is detected is indicated by a thickness different from that of the other portions. . In the case where the original image data and the detection target data are color image data, the result data generating means uses a predetermined color for a portion where the difference is detected and a color other than the predetermined color for a portion other than the portion where the difference is detected. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the result data is generated by replacing color image data with single color data so as to have a single color. Printing means for printing an image based on the result data; display means for displaying an image based on the result data; first communication means for transmitting and receiving the result data via a public telephone line; and Output means comprising at least one of second communication means for transmitting and receiving result data;
When the output means includes a plurality of means, as the means for outputting the result data, a selection means for selecting one of the plurality of means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising: The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification information includes at least one of a serial number or information indicating a date and time when the identification information is generated. The image processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the identification information includes a serial number of the apparatus. An image processing system comprising the means of the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
An image processing system, wherein at least one of the means is connected to other means via a network. An original data acquisition process for acquiring original image data as original data;
An original data storage control step of generating identification information for identifying the original image data for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition step and storing the identification information in association with the original image data in the storage means When,
A copy image data generation step of generating copy image data by combining the original image data stored in the storage means and the identification information corresponding thereto;
A recording step of recording the copy image data on a recording medium;
An image processing method comprising:
A detection target acquisition step of acquiring detection target image data to be detected and the identification information by reading an image formed on the recording medium by a reading unit;
An original image data extraction step of extracting original image data associated with the identification information from the storage unit based on the identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition step;
A detection step of comparing the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction step with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition step, and detecting a difference between the two image data;
An image processing method comprising: Original data acquisition means for acquiring original image data as original data;
Original data storage control means for generating identification information for identifying the original image data for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition means and storing the identification information in association with the original image data in the storage means When,
Copy image data generation means for generating copy image data by combining the original image data stored in the storage means and the identification information corresponding thereto;
Recording means for recording the copy image data on a recording medium;
An original data management device comprising: An original data management system comprising the respective means of the original data management device according to claim 16,
An original data management system, wherein at least one of the means is connected to other means via a network. An original data acquisition process for acquiring original image data as original data;
An original data storage control step of generating identification information for identifying the original image data for the original image data acquired by the original data acquisition step and storing the identification information in association with the original image data in the storage means When,
A copy image data generation step of generating copy image data by combining the original image data stored in the storage means and the identification information corresponding thereto;
A recording step of recording the copy image data on a recording medium;
An original data management method characterized by comprising: Storage means for storing original image data serving as original data and identification information for identifying the original image data in association with each other;
Reading means for reading the image portion and the identification information portion formed on the recording medium;
Original image data acquisition means for acquiring the corresponding original image data by referring to the identification information stored in the storage means based on information indicated by the identification information read by the reading means;
The image data of the image portion read by the reading unit is set as detection target image data, the detection target image data is compared with the original image data acquired by the original image data acquisition unit, and An image processing apparatus comprising: detecting means for detecting a difference. An image processing system comprising the means of the image processing apparatus according to claim 19,
An image processing system, wherein at least one of the means is connected to other means via a network. An image processing method using storage means in which original image data serving as original data and identification information for identifying the original image data are stored in association with each other,
A reading step of reading the image portion and the identification information portion formed on the recording medium;
An original image data acquisition step of acquiring the corresponding original image data by referring to the identification information stored in the storage unit based on information indicated by the identification information read by the reading unit;
The image data of the image portion read by the reading step is set as detection target image data, the detection target image data is compared with the original image data acquired by the original image data acquisition step, An image processing method comprising: a detection step of detecting a difference. An image processing apparatus connected to storage means for storing original image data as original data and first identification information for identifying the original image data in association with each other,
Detection target acquisition means for acquiring detection target image data to be detected, and second identification information attached to the detection target image data and associated with the first identification information;
Original image data extraction means for extracting corresponding original image data from the storage means based on the first identification information associated with the second identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition means;
Detection means for comparing the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction means with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition means, and detecting a difference between the two image data;
An image processing apparatus comprising: An image processing method using storage means in which original image data serving as original data and first identification information for identifying the original image data are stored in association with each other,
A detection target acquisition step of acquiring detection target image data to be detected, and second identification information that is given to the detection target image data and associated with the first identification information;
An original image data extraction step of extracting corresponding original image data from the storage means based on the first identification information associated with the second identification information acquired by the detection target acquisition step;
A detection step of comparing the original image data extracted by the original image data extraction step with the detection target image data acquired by the detection target acquisition step, and detecting a difference between the two image data;
An image processing method comprising: A plurality of image processing apparatuses according to any one of claims 1 to 13 and claim 19,
Each of the image processing devices is connected via a network and shares identification information with original image data stored in each storage unit.
An image processing system characterized by that. Comparing the original image data serving as the original data with the detection target image data serving as the detection target, and detecting a difference between the two image data, the part where the difference is detected and the other part are visually A data generation apparatus comprising: result data generation means for generating detection result output data that can be identified. 26. The image according to claim 25, wherein the result data generation unit generates the detection result output data so that a portion in which the difference is detected is represented by a different expression from other portions. Processing equipment. A data generation device comprising data generation means for comparing original image data serving as original data and detection target image data serving as a detection target and generating detection result output data for outputting the difference in a recognizable manner There,
In the case where the original image data and the detection target image data are color image data, the data generation unit is configured to use a predetermined color for a portion where the difference is detected and a single color other than the predetermined color for a portion other than the portion where the difference is detected. A data generation apparatus characterized in that color image data is replaced with single-color data so as to generate the detection result output data. A data generation method for comparing original image data serving as original data with detection target image data serving as a detection target and generating detection result output data for outputting the difference in a recognizable manner,
When the original image data and the detection target image data are color image data, a color image so that a portion where the difference is detected is a predetermined color and a portion other than the portion where the difference is detected is a single color other than the predetermined color. Each of the data is replaced with monochromatic data to generate the detection result output data.
A data generation method characterized by the above.

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