JP2005067157A - Image recorder - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image recorder capable of protecting an image-recorded material from injurious use of the information by the other person and efficiently recording an image. <P>SOLUTION: This image recorder 1 comprises an upper unit 2, a paper discharge tray section 3, a lower unit 4, and a door 5 provided to a side wall 50. The door 5 and the side wall 50 surround to hide the paper discharge tray section 3 from the front and side faces, and the upper unit 2 covers the discharge tray section 3 from the upper portion so that an image-recorded material accommodated in the paper discharge tray 3 is hardly picked up. The image recorder 1 authenticates a user by using a fingerprint. When the user is one who transmits the recording instruction of the recorded material accommodated in the paper discharge tray 3, the upper unit 2 and the paper discharge tray section 3 are lifted so that picking-up of the recorded material can be carried out. When the user is a manager, the locked door 5 is unlocked so that the manager can open the door 5 and pick up the recorded material from the paper discharge tray section 3. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image recording apparatus capable of protecting a recorded matter on which an image is recorded from unauthorized use of information.

  As a method for recording an image using an image recording apparatus, in recent years, an image recording apparatus and a transmission apparatus such as a personal computer (PC) are connected to a communication network, and an image is transmitted from the transmission apparatus to the image recording apparatus via the communication network. A method is often used in which data is transmitted and an image recording apparatus outputs an image. Image data obtained by digitizing an image can be conveniently processed via a communication network such as storage and output, but operations such as copying, falsification, and external transfer of image data are easy. For this reason, when processing confidential image data such as a document describing a business secret, it is necessary to take measures to protect the image data from unauthorized use of information such as leakage of confidential information or falsification of information. In an environment where a transmission device and an image recording device are connected to a communication network, the positions of the transmission device and the image recording device are often separated from each other. For this reason, the recorded matter is discharged from the image recording apparatus until the user instructs to record the image by operating the transmission device, and the user removes the recorded matter recorded on the recording sheet from the image recording device. It will be left as it is. In particular, when recording a large amount of images such as a plurality of documents, the user goes to take out the recorded material when the image recording is completed. become longer. At this time, there is a possibility that an unspecified number of people other than the user who instructed the image recording may take away the recorded material, leading to illegal use of information.

Therefore, when the image recording device receives the image data transmitted from the transmission device, the image data is stored without recording the image, and the user directly operates the image recording device to record the image data. An image recording apparatus has been developed that protects recorded images from unauthorized use by recording an image after inputting. In Patent Document 1, a password is transmitted together with image data from a transmission device to an image recording device, and the image recording device is provided with means for a user to directly input a password and store the received image data and wait However, a technique for recording an image when a user directly operates to input a correct password is disclosed.
JP-A-60-25385 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-218552 JP 2002-207332 A

  As disclosed in Patent Document 1, an image recording apparatus that records an image after a correct password is input starts recording an image after accepting a user's direct operation until the image recording is completed. The user needs to stand by in the vicinity of the image recording apparatus. For this reason, there is a problem that the user is restricted in time and efficiency is low. Further, if the user leaves the vicinity of the image recording apparatus while the image is being recorded because the user does not like the waiting time, there is still a risk of unauthorized use of information.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to store a recorded matter on which an image is recorded in a state in which it is difficult to take out and perform user authentication. In addition, by allowing only the user who is permitted to take out the recorded material, it is possible to protect the recorded material from unauthorized use of information by others, and to record the image efficiently. Another object of the present invention is to provide an image recording apparatus that can perform the above-described process.

  An image recording apparatus according to the present invention comprises: a recording unit that records an image on a record carrier; and an accommodating unit that accommodates a recorded matter in which the image is recorded. A plurality of taking-out means that can be taken out of the storage unit and a user's identification information are stored by distinguishing whether or not the user can use any of the plurality of taking-out means. Storing means, receiving means for receiving identification information, means for determining whether or not the received identification information matches any of the identification information stored in the storage means, and the received identification information When it matches any of the identification information stored in the storage means, the means for permitting use by the user related to the received identification information and the plurality of acquisitions according to the identification information of the user permitted to use the identification information. Of means out, characterized in that it comprises means for identifying a retrieval means for the user can be used.

  In the present invention, a recorded matter in which an image is recorded on a record carrier is accommodated in an accommodating portion, and a fingerprint or the like is used in an image recording apparatus provided with a plurality of extraction means for taking out the accommodated recorded matter to the outside. The identification information of the user is stored, the use of the image recording apparatus is determined based on the identification information received from the user, and the user can use the information based on the stored identification information. Identify the means.

  The image recording apparatus according to the present invention further includes a shielding part that surrounds the housing part.

  In the present invention, the image recording apparatus includes a shielding portion that surrounds the storage portion, and makes it difficult to take out the recorded matter stored in the storage portion.

  The image recording apparatus according to the present invention further comprises means for externally receiving an image recording instruction and transmission source information relating to a transmission source of the recording instruction, and the recording unit records an image according to the received recording instruction. Accordingly, the storage means stores means for storing user identification information corresponding to the transmission source information, and a recorded matter in which an image is recorded in accordance with the received recording instruction in association with the received transmission source information. Means for storing accommodation information indicating that it is accommodated in the accommodation portion, and a moving means for moving the accommodation portion to the outside of a region surrounded by the shielding portion as the take-out means. The identification unit determines whether the identification information received by the reception unit matches the identification information stored in the storage unit corresponding to the transmission source information associated with the accommodation information. When the means, and the identification information received and the identification information matches, characterized in that it comprises a means for permitting the use of the mobile unit.

  In the present invention, the image recording apparatus stores the identification information of the user in association with the transmission source of the recording instruction of the recorded image, and the identification information received from the user is stored in the storage unit. When the image data relating to the recorded material is associated with the transmission source of the image data, that is, when the user is a user who has instructed recording of the recorded material of the stored image, Is moved outside the area surrounded by.

  In the image recording apparatus according to the present invention, the shielding unit includes a door that can be opened and closed, and a locking unit that locks the door in a closed state, and the door locked by the locking unit is used as the take-out unit. Unlocking means for unlocking, the storage means includes means for storing identification information of an administrator who is a predetermined user, and the specifying means is configured such that the identification information received by the receiving means is the storage means. Means for determining whether or not it matches the identification information of the administrator stored in the memory, and means for permitting the use of the unlocking means when the received identification information matches the identification information of the administrator. It is characterized by providing.

  Further, according to the present invention, the image recording apparatus is provided with a door that can be opened and closed in the shielding part, stores the identification information of the administrator, and unlocks the locked door when the user is the administrator. Lock to open.

  In the present invention, a recorded matter in which an image is recorded on a record carrier is accommodated in the accommodating portion, a user is authenticated using the identification information, and a predetermined user for taking out the recorded matter from the accommodating portion for a predetermined user. Make the removal means usable. This prevents others other than the defined user from taking out the recorded matter from the storage unit.

  Further, in the present invention, there is provided a shielding part for enclosing the accommodating part, and in order to make it difficult to take out the recorded matter accommodated in the accommodating part, other than the user before the user comes to take out the recorded matter. It is difficult for a person to take out the recorded image, and the recorded image is protected from unauthorized use.

  Further, in the present invention, when the user is authenticated and the user is a user who has instructed to record the recorded matter of the image stored in the storage unit, the storage unit is surrounded by the shielding unit. It is possible to move outside a certain area, and the recorded matter can be taken out. Since it is difficult for a person other than the user who transmitted the image recording instruction to take out the recorded material, the recorded image material can be protected from unauthorized use. Also, since the recorded image is protected from unauthorized use while the image is recorded and until the user comes to pick up the recorded material, the image recording is performed to protect the recorded material from unauthorized use of information. Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to wait on the side of the image recording apparatus until the process is completed, and the image can be recorded efficiently.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, a door that can be opened and closed is provided in the shielding part, the identification information of the administrator is stored, and when the user is an administrator, the locked door is unlocked and the shielding part is stored. Can be opened. By opening the shielding part, it becomes possible to take out the recorded matter of the image accommodated in the accommodating part, and the administrator periodically checks the image recording apparatus and takes out the recorded matter that is left unattended. As a result, it is possible to prevent the left recorded matter from interfering with the operation of the image recording apparatus. Since it is impossible for a person other than the administrator to open the shielding part, the present invention is excellent, such as protecting the recorded matter of the image from unauthorized use of information and improving the safety of the image recording apparatus. Has an effect.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.

  FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing the external appearance of the image recording apparatus of the present invention. The image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention includes a double door 5 that is provided on the side wall 50 and can be opened in the front direction. FIG. 1A shows a state in which the door 5 is closed. (B) has shown the state by which the door 5 was open | released. The image recording apparatus 1 includes a lower unit (recording unit) 4 that records an image on a recording sheet that is a record carrier, and an operation unit 23 and a fingerprint sensor 27 that are positioned above the lower unit 4 and that receive operations from a user. And an upper unit 2 provided. Further, the image recording apparatus 1 is disposed between the upper unit 2 and the lower unit 4, and includes a discharge tray including a plurality of discharge trays that store recorded matter on which recording images are recorded and discharged from the lower unit 4. A paper tray unit (accommodating unit) 3 is provided. The paper discharge tray unit 3 includes a plurality of paper discharge trays, each of which can store a recorded material, stacked in the vertical direction. The plurality of paper discharge trays includes a top tray 32 positioned at the top, and a plurality of lower trays 33, 33,... Stacked below the top tray 32.

  When the door 5 is closed, the side wall 50 and the door 5 surround the paper discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 as shown in FIG. 1A, and are shielding means according to the present invention. Further, when the door 5 is opened, the paper discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 appear as shown in FIG. 1B. The door 5 is closed and locked during normal use. In addition, the door 5 includes a window 51 formed of a semitransparent member in the vertical direction at a portion that comes into contact when the double doors are closed. The user can view a part of the paper discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 through the window 51.

  FIG. 2 is a front view of the image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention. The upper unit 2 is supported by a first shaft 31 provided on the back surface of the image recording apparatus 1. The first shaft 31 is movable up and down, and the upper unit 2 is configured to be able to contact and separate from the lower unit 4 as the first shaft 31 moves. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2 (a), the upper unit 2 is in a proximity state close to a predetermined distance from the paper discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 whose front surfaces are covered by the door 5, as shown in FIG. As shown in b), it can be separated from the paper discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 by a longer distance. Further, the paper discharge tray unit 3 is supported by a second shaft 32 provided on the back surface of the image recording apparatus 3, and is in a state surrounded by the door 5 when the upper unit 2 is in the proximity state. ing. Similar to the first shaft 31, the second shaft 32 can move up and down. The sheet discharge tray 3 is configured to be movable up and down between the upper unit 2 and the lower unit 4 according to the movement of the second shaft 32 when the upper unit 2 is separated. When the upper unit 2 is lifted and separated from the lower unit 4, the paper discharge tray 3 is lifted from a position surrounded by the door 5 as shown in FIG. 2B, and is shown in FIG. It is possible to move outside the area surrounded by the door 5.

  FIG. 3 is an external perspective view showing a method for taking out the recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray section 3. In a normal state, as shown in FIG. 1A, the upper unit 2 is in a close proximity and covers the paper discharge tray 3 from above, and the door 5 is closed and the paper discharge tray 3 is closed. Surrounding. For this reason, it is difficult to take out the recorded material stored in the paper discharge tray section 3. In particular, when the recorded material is stored in the lower tray 33, the user visually confirms the presence or absence of the recorded material. It is also difficult to do. As shown in FIG. 3A, when the upper unit 2 is separated from the lower unit 4 and the discharge tray unit 3 is lifted and moves outside the area surrounded by the door 5, The paper tray unit 3 can be viewed. In this case, the recorded matter stored in the lower tray 33 can be visually checked, and the user can visually check and take out the recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3. Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, when the upper unit 2 is close to the lower unit 4 and the door 5 is opened, the paper discharge tray unit 3 can be viewed from the front. Become. In this case as well, the recorded material stored in the lower tray 33 can be visually checked, and the user can take out the recorded material stored in the paper discharge tray section 3. As described above, in the image recording apparatus 1 according to the present invention, as a method for enabling the user to take out the recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3, the upper unit 2 that is normally close to the lower unit 4 and There are a method of raising the paper discharge tray section 3 and moving the paper discharge tray section 3 to the outside of the area surrounded by the door 5 and a method of opening the door 5.

  FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention. The upper unit 2 includes an image reading unit 22 that scans and reads a recorded matter on which an image is recorded, and generates image data obtained by converting the read image into electronic data. The image reading unit 22 is composed of a contact unit for covering the recorded material, a light emitting unit for irradiating the recorded material with light, a light receiving unit for reading reflected light from the image, a light guiding unit for guiding reflected light from the image to the light receiving unit, and the like. ing. The lower unit 4 includes a plurality of paper feed trays 401, 401,... For storing recording sheets for recording images according to size and orientation, and an image forming unit 43 for forming images and recording them on the recording sheets. And. The image forming unit 43 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging member that charges the photosensitive drum, a laser beam scanning unit that writes an electrostatic latent image on the charged photosensitive drum, and an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum. The developing unit includes a developing unit, a transfer unit that transfers the developed developed image onto a recording sheet, and a fixing unit that fixes the image transferred onto the recording sheet. In the figure, an example is shown in which the image forming unit 43 is arranged above the paper feed trays 401, 401,..., And CMYK photosensitive drums and developing units are arranged in tandem to form a color image. . In the lower unit 4, the recording paper is sent from the paper feed tray 401 to the image forming unit 43, the image is recorded on the recording paper in the image forming unit 43, and the recording paper on which the image is recorded is discharged from the lower unit 4. The paper is discharged to the tray unit 3 and stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3 as a recorded material.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention. The upper unit 2 includes a control unit 21 including a CPU that performs calculations and a RAM that stores temporary information associated with the calculations. Connected to the control unit 21 is an image reading unit 22 that scans and reads an image recorded on a sheet and generates image data obtained by converting the read image into electronic data. In addition, a fingerprint sensor 27 that reads a user's fingerprint and an operation unit 23 that receives an operation from the user are connected to the control unit 21. The operation unit 23 includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal panel that displays information necessary for operation, and an input unit such as a touch panel or a numeric keypad on which information such as a control command is input by a user operation. The control unit 21 also includes a registration unit 24 that stores registration information in which fingerprint information of a user who is permitted to use the image recording apparatus 1 is registered, and an authentication unit 25 that authenticates the user. It is connected. The authentication unit 25 compares the registration information stored in the registration unit 24 with the fingerprint information read by the fingerprint sensor 27 to authenticate the user. An upper interface 26 connected to the lower unit 4 is further connected to the control unit 21. The control unit 21 exchanges information with the lower unit 4 via the upper interface 26.

  The lower unit 4 includes a control unit 41 including a CPU that performs a calculation and a RAM that stores temporary information associated with the calculation. A ROM 45 that stores a control program for controlling the image recording apparatus 1 is connected to the control unit 41, and the control unit 41 is configured according to the control program stored in the ROM 45. Control. The control unit 41 is connected to a management unit 46 that is a memory for storing management information for managing processing performed by the image recording apparatus 1. The control unit 41 refers to the management information stored in the management unit 46 and controls the image recording apparatus 1 based on the referenced information. The management unit 46 and the registration unit 24 of the upper unit 2 function as a storage unit according to the present invention. The control unit 41 includes a communication unit 44 connected to an external communication network N such as a LAN, a hard disk or a nonvolatile memory, a storage unit 47 that stores image data, and temporarily stores the image data. An image memory 431 that stores the image is formed, and an image forming unit 43 that forms an image from image data stored in the image memory 431, records the formed image on a recording sheet, and outputs the image is connected.

  A plurality of PCs 6, 6,... Are connected to the communication network N. The communication unit 44 receives the image data transmitted from the PC 6 via the communication network N, the storage unit 47 stores the received image data, and the image forming unit 43 uses the image data received by the communication unit 44. An image can be formed and output. In addition, the management unit 46 stores history information indicating a history of the output image. The control unit 41 is also connected to a lower interface 42 connected to the upper interface 26 of the upper unit 2 using a flexible cable or the like provided through the first shaft 31. The control unit 41 exchanges information with the upper unit 2 via the lower interface 42. The control unit 21 transmits the image data generated by the image reading unit 22 of the upper unit 2 to the lower unit 4, and the image forming unit 43 forms an image from the image data, whereby the image forming apparatus 1 makes a copy of the image. It can be carried out. Further, the image recording apparatus 1 can store the image data generated by the image reading unit 22 in the storage unit 47 and transmit the stored image data to the PC 6 from the communication unit 44 via the communication network N.

  Further, the control unit 41 is connected to an elevating unit 48 that moves the first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32 in the vertical direction to move the upper unit 2 and the paper discharge tray unit 3 up and down. The elevating unit 48 uses a method of moving the first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32 in the vertical direction by rotating a pinion meshed with the racks included in the first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32 with a motor, and an electric actuator. The first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32 are moved in the vertical direction, or the ball screw incorporated in the first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32 is rotated by a motor to move the first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32. The upper unit 2 and the paper discharge tray unit 3 supported by the first shaft 31 and the second shaft 32 are moved up and down by a method such as a method for causing the first and second shafts 31 and 32 to move up and down. The control unit 41 controls the operation of the elevating unit 48 according to the control program stored in the ROM 45 and functions as a moving unit according to the present invention. Furthermore, a lock unit 49 that locks and unlocks the door 5 is connected to the control unit 41.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of the lock unit 49. Both doors of the double door 5 are provided with protrusions 52 each having a coffin hole on the side facing the lower unit 4. The lower unit 4 has an insertion slot into which the protrusions 52 and 52 are inserted. 491,491. When the door 5 is closed, the protrusions 52 and 52 are inserted into the insertion ports 491 and 491 as shown in FIG. The lock portions 49 are provided inside the lower unit 4 and are located on both sides of the insertion ports 491 and 491. FIG. 6B shows the unlocked state of the lock portion 49, and FIG. 6C shows the locked state. The lock portion 49 includes flanges 492 and 492 that are expanded and contracted by a solenoid. In the unlocked state, the locks 492 and 492 are shortened as shown in FIG. On the other hand, in the locked state, as shown in FIG. 6 (c), the lock portion 49 extends the ridges 492, 492 and inserts them into the ridge holes of the projections 52, 52 inserted into the insertion ports 491, 491. Then, the door 5 is locked. The control unit 41 controls the operation of the lock unit 49 according to a control program stored in the ROM 45, and functions as a locking unit and an opening unit according to the present invention.

  FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the contents of registration information stored in the registration unit 404. Each of the PCs 6, 6,... Connected to the communication network N is associated with the IP address that is the transmission source information according to the present invention, and the name of the user of each PC 6 and the fingerprint information that is the identification information according to the present invention. Is registered. By registering the user's fingerprint information in advance at a department that uses the image recording apparatus 1, the image recording apparatus 1 can authenticate the user. Further, information indicating whether each user has administrator authority is registered in association with the user's fingerprint information. A user having administrator authority is permitted to operate as an administrator.

  FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the content of history information stored in the management unit 410. In association with the IP address of the PC 6 that is the transmission source of the image data output as an image, the date and time when the image data was received, and to which discharge tray of the discharge tray unit 3 the recorded matter on which the image was recorded was discharged And information indicating whether or not the user has taken out the recorded matter is recorded. The information of the extraction that has not been extracted is used as the accommodation information according to the present invention. In addition to the IP address, other information that can identify the PC 6 such as a Mac address may be used as the transmission source information according to the present invention.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure of image output processing performed by the image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention. In a standby state where no processing is performed, the image recording apparatus 1 surrounds and conceals the paper discharge tray unit 3 with the door 5 locked, and the upper unit 2 is close to the lower unit 4. When the PC 6 transmits image data and an image output instruction to the image recording apparatus 1 through the communication network N by the user's operation, the image recording apparatus 1 uses the communication unit 44 to output the image data from the PC 6 and the image output. And the IP address of the transmission source PC 6 (S11). As a result, the image recording apparatus 1 feeds the recording paper by the paper feed tray 401 in a state where it is difficult to take out the recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3 by the upper unit 2 and the door 5. The forming unit 43 forms an image from the received image data, records the image on a recording sheet, discharges the recorded matter on which the image is recorded on the recording sheet, and outputs the image to the discharge tray unit 3 (S12). Next, the control unit 41 of the image recording apparatus 1 stores, in the management unit 46, history information that records the output history of the image as if the output recorded image has not been taken out (S13). The process is terminated. The recorded matter discharged from the lower unit 4 is stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3 in a state where it is difficult to take out the recorded matter by the upper unit 2 close to the lower unit 4 and the closed door 5. When the printed matter is discharged to the paper discharge tray unit 3 in step S12, if it is discharged to the lower tray 33, it is more difficult to take out the recorded matter, and safety is improved. The image recording apparatus 1 stands by in a state where the recorded matter is stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3.

  FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are flowcharts showing a procedure of processing performed by the image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention at the time of taking out a recorded matter of an image. FIG. It is the schematic diagram which showed a mode that the thing was taken out. The user who has transmitted the image data from the PC 6 to the image recording apparatus 1 comes to the image recording apparatus 1 where it is difficult to take out the recorded matter, and as shown in FIG. Is received by the fingerprint sensor 27 of the image recording apparatus 1. The image recording apparatus 1 receives the fingerprint of the user by the fingerprint sensor 27 (S201), and authenticates the received fingerprint information and the fingerprint information registered in the registration information stored in the registration unit 24. In contrast, it is determined whether or not the received fingerprint information matches with any fingerprint information registered in the registration information within a predetermined error range, thereby authenticating the user (S202). ). If the fingerprint information that matches the received fingerprint is not registered in the registration information and the user authentication has failed (S202: NO), the control unit 21 displays an error message on the display means of the operation unit 23. Output (S203), the process is terminated. In this case, the user cannot use the image recording apparatus 1.

  If the fingerprint information that matches the received fingerprint is registered in the registration information in step S202 and the user has been successfully authenticated (S202: YES), the authentication unit 25 refers to the registration information and receives it. Whether or not the user is an administrator by determining whether or not information indicating that the administrator authority is associated with the fingerprint information is recorded in the registration information. Is determined (S211). When the registration information includes information indicating that the administrator authority is present and the user is an administrator (S211: YES), the control unit 21 of the upper unit 2 causes the user to Information indicating that it is an administrator is transmitted to the lower unit 4 via the upper interface 26, and the control unit 41 of the lower unit 4 controls the operation of the lock unit 49 to unlock the door 5 (S212). . At this time, the administrator can open the door 5. In addition, the fact that the unlocking of the door 5 is permitted is displayed on the display means of the operation unit 23, and after the unlocking instruction is received by the operation unit 23 from the user, the door 5 is unlocked. Also good. Next, the control unit 41 determines whether the door 5 is opened using a contact sensor or the like (S213). If the door 5 is opened (S213: YES), the door 5 is opened. A warning indicating that the door 5 is opened is output by outputting a warning indicating that the door 5 is open, or by warning the user that the door 5 is opened (S214). ). At this time, as shown in FIG. 12B, the administrator can visually check and take out the recorded matter stored in any one of the paper discharge trays of the paper discharge tray section 3. Further, the administrator can perform maintenance on the image recording apparatus 1 such as correction of a paper jam or supply of recording paper. The manager who finished the work closes the door 5. Next, the control unit 41 determines whether or not the door 5 is closed (S215). If the door 5 is not closed (S215: NO), the control unit 41 repeatedly determines whether the door 5 is closed at predetermined time intervals. If the door 5 is closed (S215: YES), output of a warning for the door 5 being opened is stopped (S216). In step S213, when the door 5 has not been opened (S213: NO), the control unit 41 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the door 5 was unlocked without being opened ( S217) If the predetermined time has not yet elapsed (S217: NO), the process returns to step S213. When the predetermined time has elapsed in step S217 (S217: YES) and after step S216 is completed, the control unit 41 controls the operation of the lock unit 49 to lock the door 5 (S218). The process is terminated.

  In step S211, information indicating that the administrator authority is not recorded in the registration information, and if the user is not an administrator (S211: NO), the control unit of the upper unit 2 21 transmits the contents of the registration information relating to the accepted fingerprint to the lower unit 4 via the upper interface 26. The control unit 41 of the lower unit 4 compares the contents of the registration information received from the upper unit 2 via the lower interface 42 with the history information stored in the management unit 46 and associates it with the received fingerprint information. For the IP address registered in the registration information, it is determined whether or not an output history in which the extraction information is not yet recorded is recorded in the history information (S221). When the output history is recorded (S221: YES), the control unit 41 controls the operation of the elevating unit 48, the upper unit 2 is raised (S222), and the discharge tray unit 3 is further raised. (S223). Since the discharge tray unit 3 moves upward and moves outside the area surrounded by the door 5, at this time, as shown in FIG. The recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray can be visually observed and taken out. It is indicated on the display means of the operation unit 23 that the upper unit 2 and the discharge tray unit 3 are allowed to be raised, and an instruction to raise the upper unit 2 and the discharge tray unit 3 from the user is displayed. The upper unit 2 and the paper discharge tray unit 3 may be lifted after being received. Next, the control unit 41 receives an instruction to end the removal of the recorded material from the user, or waits until a predetermined time elapses after the discharge tray unit 3 is lifted. The end of removal is monitored (S224). When the removal of the recorded material is not completed (S224: NO), the control unit 41 continues monitoring (S224). When the removal of the recorded material is completed (S224: YES), the control unit 41 By controlling the operation of the elevating unit 48, the upper unit 2 and the paper discharge tray unit 3 are lowered and the upper unit 2 returns to the state close to the lower unit 4 (S225). Next, the control unit 41 updates the history information stored in the management unit 46 to a state where the recorded matter has been taken out (S226), and ends the process. In step S224, a process of detecting that the recorded matter has been taken out from the paper discharge tray unit 3 may be performed using a contact sensor or the like.

  When the output history is not recorded in step S221 (S221: NO), the control unit 41 controls the operation of the elevating unit 48 and the upper unit 2 moves up (S231). Since the user at this time is not the user who instructed the image recording, the paper discharge tray unit 3 does not rise, and the user cannot take out the recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3. Since the upper unit 2 is raised, the operation unit 23 and the image reading unit 22 are close to the user, and the user transmits a copy or image data to the upper unit 2 as shown in FIG. Can be operated.

  Next, the control unit 21 of the upper unit 2 sets a recorded image in the contact unit of the image reading unit 22 and inputs a copy instruction to the operation unit 23. The received operation is monitored (S232). When an operation for copy processing is received (S232: YES), the control unit 21 transmits image data generated by the image reading unit 22 reading the image to the lower unit 4, and the control unit of the lower unit 4 The image forming unit 43 forms an image from the image data received from the upper unit 2 and performs a copy process (S233). The recorded matter of the image by the copying process is discharged to the top tray 32 of the paper discharge tray unit 3. Since the upper unit 2 is raised, the user can easily take out the recorded matter discharged to the top tray 32.

  When the operation for the copy process is not accepted (S232: NO), the control unit 21 instructs and transmits the image data to be transmitted to the outside from the image data stored in the storage unit 47. An operation received from the user for transmitting image data, such as inputting the designation of the previous PC 6 to the operation unit 23, is monitored (S234). When an operation for transmitting image data is accepted (S234: YES), the control unit 21 gives an instruction for transmitting image data such as the name of the selected image data and the IP address of the destination PC 6. The control unit 41 of the lower unit 4 transmits the image data selected from the image data stored in the storage unit 47 to the designated PC 6 in accordance with the instruction received from the upper unit 2. The image data is transmitted from the communication unit 44 via the communication network N, and image data transmission processing is performed (S235). After the copy process is completed in step S233, after the transmission process is completed in step S235, and when an operation for transmitting image data is not accepted in step S234 (S234: NO), control is performed. The unit 21 monitors the reception of an end instruction by the user's operation at the operation unit 23 (S236). When the end instruction is not received (S236: NO), the control unit 21 returns the process to step S232, and when the end instruction is received (S236: YES), the control unit 21 displays the end instruction at the bottom. Then, the control unit 41 of the lower unit 4 controls the operation of the elevating unit 48 so that the upper unit 2 is lowered and the upper unit 2 returns to the state close to the lower unit 4 (S237). After the upper unit 2 is lowered, the control unit 41 ends the process.

  As described above in detail, the image recording apparatus 1 according to the present invention includes the upper unit 2, the paper discharge tray unit 3, the lower unit 4, and the door 5 provided on the side wall 50. The tray unit 3 is concealed from the front and side surfaces, and the upper unit 2 covers and conceals the paper discharge tray unit 3 from above, making it difficult to take out the recorded matter of the image stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3. . When the image recording apparatus 1 authenticates a user using a fingerprint and the user transmits a recording instruction of a recorded matter stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3, the upper unit 2 is a lower unit. 4, the user can easily take out the recorded matter of the image stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3 because the paper discharge tray unit 3 moves outside the area surrounded by the door 5. It becomes possible. In addition, when the user is not the user who transmitted the image recording instruction, the paper discharge tray unit 3 does not move, so that a person other than the user who transmitted the image recording instruction takes out the recorded matter. Is prevented. Further, the image recording apparatus 1 is in a state in which it is difficult to take out the recorded material stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3 by the upper unit 2 and the door 5 while the image is recorded. Since it is difficult to remove the recorded image until it comes out, it is difficult for anyone other than the user to take out the recorded matter of the image, and even if the user is not on the side of the image recording apparatus 1 Things are protected from unauthorized use. This eliminates the need for the user to wait on the side of the image recording apparatus until image recording is completed in order to protect the recorded material from unauthorized use of information. Thus, the recorded matter can be removed from unauthorized use of the information by taking out the recorded matter, and the image can be recorded efficiently.

  Furthermore, the image recording apparatus 1 of the present invention authenticates the user using a fingerprint, and when the user is an administrator, unlocks the locked door 5 and opens the door 5 by the administrator. Make it possible. By opening the door 5, it becomes possible to take out the recorded matter of the image stored in the paper discharge tray unit 3, and the administrator periodically inspects the image recording apparatus 1 and opens the door 5. By taking out the recorded material left on the paper discharge tray unit 3, it is possible to prevent a large amount of recorded material from interfering with the operation of the image recording apparatus 1. If the user is not an administrator, the door 5 remains locked and cannot be opened, preventing others other than the user from taking out the recorded material, and recording images from unauthorized use of information. The object can be protected and the safety of the image recording apparatus can be further increased.

  In the present embodiment, the upper unit 2 is provided and the copying process is possible. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper unit 2 may be omitted. Also in this case, the recorded matter stored in the lower trays 33, 33,... Of the paper discharge tray 3 is difficult to take out, and the recorded matter of the image can be protected. Further, a form in which a paper discharge tray unit 3 is provided on the side of the lower unit 4 and a door 5 surrounding the paper discharge tray unit 3 may be provided.

  In the present embodiment, the door 5 is a double-open door. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the door 5 is integrated with the single-open door or the side wall 50 of the image recording apparatus 1. Other forms such as a door that opens and closes may be used. Moreover, although the door 5 showed the form which has the vertical window 51, a part of recorded matter can be confirmed, such as a window which is not provided with a semi-transparent member, a window which has a slit in an oblique direction, or a round window. The form provided with the other window may be sufficient. In addition, the door 5 is configured to enclose the discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 together. However, the door 5 is not limited to this, and the door 5 is configured to enclose the discharge tray unit 3 and the lower unit 4 individually. Also good. FIG. 13 is a front view of the image recording apparatus 1 having another form of door 5. The door 5 includes an upper door 52 and a lower door 53. The upper door 52 surrounds the paper discharge tray section 3 from the front, and the lower door 53 surrounds the lower unit 4 from the front. Also in this embodiment, by adopting a configuration in which the upper door 52 is locked and unlocked by the lock portion 49, the recorded matter of the image can be protected from unauthorized use and the present invention can be realized. Further, the lower door 53 is configured to be openable and closable without locking, so that a user other than the administrator can open the lower door 53 to correct a paper jam or supply recording paper. 1 can be maintained, and convenience is improved.

  In this embodiment, as a method for determining a user, a method for authenticating a user using a user's fingerprint, which is identification information according to the present invention, is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this. , A method of authenticating a user using other types of identification information other than a fingerprint indicating the physical characteristics of the user such as a palm print or a voice print, and an ID and a password registered in advance as the identification information are received from the user Using other methods such as a method, a method of authenticating a user using a contact or non-contact type IC card recording ID information as identification information, a method of identifying a user using a camera, etc. The form which detects a user may be sufficient.

1 is an external perspective view showing an external appearance of an image recording apparatus of the present invention. 1 is a front view of an image recording apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an external perspective view illustrating a method for taking out recorded matter stored in a paper discharge tray. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of an image recording apparatus of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function structure of the image recording device of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structural example of a locking part. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the example of the content of the registration information which the registration part has memorize | stored. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the example of the content of the history information which the management part has memorize | stored. 3 is a flowchart showing a procedure of image output processing performed by the image recording apparatus of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of processing performed by the image recording apparatus of the present invention when an image recorded matter is taken out. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of processing performed by the image recording apparatus of the present invention when an image recorded matter is taken out. It is the schematic diagram which showed a mode that the user took out the recorded matter of an image from an image recording device. It is a front view of the image recording apparatus provided with the door of another form.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image recording apparatus 2 Upper unit 21 Control part 23 Operation part 24 Registration part 25 Authentication part 27 Fingerprint sensor (accepting means)
3 Discharge tray section (container)
4 Lower unit (recording unit)
41 Control unit 46 Management unit 48 Lifting unit (moving means)
49 Locking part (locking means, unlocking means)
5 door 50 side wall 6 PC
N communication network

Claims (4)

In an image recording apparatus comprising: a recording unit that records an image on a record carrier; and a storage unit that stores a recorded matter in which the image is recorded.
A plurality of taking-out means for making it possible to take out the recorded matter housed in the housing portion to the outside of the housing portion;
Storage means for distinguishing and storing user identification information as to whether or not the user can use any of the plurality of extraction means;
Receiving means for receiving identification information;
Means for determining whether or not the received identification information matches any of the identification information stored in the storage means;
Means for permitting use by the user related to the received identification information when the received identification information matches any of the identification information stored in the storage means;
An image recording apparatus comprising: means for specifying a take-out means that can be used by the user among the plurality of take-out means according to identification information of a user who has permitted use.   The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a shielding portion surrounding the housing portion. Further comprising means for receiving from outside the image recording instruction and transmission source information relating to the transmission source of the recording instruction;
The recording unit is adapted to record an image according to the received recording instruction,
The storage means
Means for storing user identification information corresponding to the source information;
Means for storing accommodation information indicating that a recorded matter in which an image is recorded in accordance with the received recording instruction is contained in the accommodation unit in association with the received transmission source information;
As the extraction means,
A moving means for moving the accommodating portion to the outside of the region surrounded by the shielding portion;
The specifying means is:
Means for determining whether or not the identification information received by the receiving means matches the identification information stored in the storage means corresponding to the transmission source information associated with the accommodation information;
The image recording apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a unit that permits the use of the moving unit when the identification information matches the received identification information. The shielding part is
A door that can be opened and closed;
Locking means for locking the door in a closed state,
As the extraction means,
Comprising unlocking means for unlocking the door locked by the locking means;
The storage means includes means for storing identification information of an administrator who is a predetermined user,
The specifying means is:
Means for determining whether or not the identification information received by the reception means matches the identification information of an administrator stored in the storage means;
The image recording apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a unit that permits use of the unlocking unit when the received identification information matches the identification information of the administrator.

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