JP2005085120A - Printing support system, printing support server, printing processing apparatus, printing support method, printing processing method, printing support program and printing processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accurately and safely provide image data digitized from an image to be printed, such as advertisement or content image, as the author who has created the image intends to do. <P>SOLUTION: A printing support server 110 divides image data 1201 into image data 1202 and image data 1203 (S705). The partial divided data 1202 are sent first (S706), and after a settlement confirmation, the other divided data 1203 are transmitted (S708). A printing processing apparatus 120 receives the partial divided data 1202 (S807), and upon the settlement confirmation, receives the other divided data 1203 (S812). The partial divided data 1202 and the other divided data 1203 are composited to restore the original image data 1201 (S813). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a print support system, a print support server, a print processing apparatus, a print support method, a print processing method, a print support program, and a print processing program for printing an image such as an advertisement or a content image.

  Currently, advertisements of various companies are posted or broadcast using media such as street posters, newspapers, and TV commercials. Such company advertisements are created at a high cost, and this tendency is particularly noticeable in mature industries. Famous directors, creators, photographers, artists, talents, etc. are used to create this advertisement. In addition, the content of advertisements is also creative and many are of high quality, and the recent trend is that there are more advertisements that promote the image of companies and products than just ads that explain the content of products.

  Such an advertisement is produced, for example, with the intention of making the advertisement CM stand out and aiming for the advertising effect when watching TV, and the advertisement image itself has become valuable. For example, for a poster on which a famous talent is posted, the poster itself has the value of a valuable product due to the limited number of pages. Since such advertisements are not premised on distribution, they are generally not available, and many people are eager to obtain them.

  Therefore, it is produced in anticipation of the quality of the final image display or printout, and it is produced in a limited manner, so it is not possible to publish advertisement image data simply via a network etc. In order to appropriately convey such advertisements to the user, print quality that can be printed out as intended by the production side is required.

  In addition to such advertisements, content images provided on broadcasts and networks, such as paintings, photographs, gravure, and posters, have the value of valuable products as well as the above-mentioned advertisements. By distributing it on the network, it contributes to increasing the name recognition of the author.

  In addition, due to the recent development of communication environments such as the Internet, there are sites where digital materials such as wallpaper can be downloaded via the Internet (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1 below).

Yahoo! JAPAN, [online], [Search July 28, 2003], Internet <URL: http://download.computers.yahoo.co.jp/download/jcnland/>

  However, assuming that the above-mentioned difficult-to-obtain advertisements and content images can be downloaded without any restrictions as in the prior art of Non-Patent Document 1, a copy or falsification of the downloaded image is required before printing out. May be performed. Therefore, the author who created the advertisement or the content image described above or the server side (hereinafter referred to as “image provider”) that provides the image as data may not be able to print and output as intended. There was a problem that decreased.

  Also, if the above-mentioned advertisement or content image creation side does not print out as intended, the image that the image provider wants to provide cannot be supplied to the user, and the created image and the image provider are protected. There was a problem that could not be planned.

  Also, if the downloaded image is copied or altered before the print output is performed, the user's desired image cannot be acquired, and the user's expectation will be betrayed.

  In order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention converts image data obtained by converting an image to be printed, such as an advertisement or a content image, into data accurately and safely as intended by the author who created the image. It is an object to provide a print support system, a print support server, a print processing apparatus, a print support method, a print processing method, a print support program, and a print processing program that can be supplied.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the printing support system according to the first aspect of the present invention provides printing that supplies image data of an image to be printed from a printing support server to a print processing apparatus via a network. In the support system, the print support server includes an image data dividing unit that divides the image data into a plurality of pieces, and a part of the divided data obtained by the division by the image data dividing unit. A first divided data transmission unit for transmitting to the print processing apparatus; and a plurality of divided data obtained by the division by the image data dividing unit, other divided data other than the partial divided data, Second divided data transmission means for transmitting to the print processing apparatus separately from the divided data, the print processing apparatus including the partial divided data and Divided data receiving means for receiving the other divided data, and image data restoring means for restoring the image data based on the partial data received by the divided data receiving means and the other divided data And.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, image data of an image to be printed can be restored only when a plurality of pieces of divided data transmitted from the print support server are received by the print processing apparatus. As a result, the print processing apparatus can print out an image to be printed.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the print support system according to the first aspect, the image data dividing means divides the image data based on an area of the image data. .

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be transmitted to the print processing apparatus as a plurality of divided data from which part of the image is missing.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the printing support system according to the first aspect is characterized in that the image data dividing means divides the image data based on a color space.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be transmitted to the print processing apparatus as a plurality of divided data with missing colors.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the print support system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the print support server permits the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus. The second divided data transmission unit transmits the other divided data based on a determination result by the print permission determination unit.

  According to the invention of claim 4, a plurality of divided data can be transmitted stepwise to the print processing apparatus.

  The print support system according to the invention of claim 5 is the print support system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the print support server generates an encryption key based on the other divided data, The divided data encryption means for encrypting the part of the divided data with the generated encryption key, and the first divided data transmission means includes a part of the data encrypted by the divided data encryption means. The divided data is transmitted to the print processing apparatus, and the second divided data transmission unit attaches the encryption key to the other divided data, and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached. The print processing device transmits the encrypted partial data separately from the partial data using the encryption key attached to the other divided data. Data recovery And the image data restoring means restores the image data based on a part of the divided data decrypted by the divided data decrypting means and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached. It is characterized by.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, image data of an image to be printed can be restored only when a plurality of pieces of divided data transmitted from the print support server are received by the print processing apparatus.

  A print support server according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is a print support server that supplies image data of an image to be printed to a print processing apparatus that performs printing via a network. A print request receiving unit that receives a print request for an image to be printed; an image data dividing unit that divides image data of the image to be printed that has been received by the print request receiving unit into a plurality of images; and A first divided data transmission unit that transmits a part of divided data among the plurality of divided data obtained by the division by the data dividing unit to the print processing apparatus, and a plurality of pieces of data obtained by the division by the image data dividing unit. Of the divided data, other divided data other than the part of the divided data are separated from the part of the divided data. Characterized in that it comprises a second divided data transmitting means for transmitting, to the.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be divided and transmitted to the print processing apparatus.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the print support server according to the sixth aspect, the image data dividing means divides the image data based on an area of the image data. .

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be transmitted to the print processing apparatus as a plurality of divided data from which part of the image is missing.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the print support server according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the image data dividing means divides the image data based on a color space.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be transmitted to the print processing apparatus as a plurality of divided data with missing colors.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the sixth to eighth aspects, the print support server determines whether or not to permit the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus. The printing apparatus includes a print permission determination unit, and the second divided data transmission unit transmits the other divided data based on a determination result by the print permission determination unit.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of divided data can be transmitted stepwise to the print processing apparatus.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the print support server according to any one of the sixth to ninth aspects generates an encryption key based on the other divided data, and the generated encryption key. The first divided data transmission unit includes the divided data encrypted by the divided data encryption unit, the divided data encryption unit encrypting the part of the divided data. The second divided data transmitting means attaches the encryption key to the other divided data, and sends the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached to the part of the divided data. Separately, the data is transmitted to the print processing apparatus.

  According to the invention of claim 10, a part of the divided data can be encrypted and transmitted to the print processing apparatus.

  The print processing apparatus according to an eleventh aspect of the invention is a print processing apparatus capable of communicating with a print support server that stores image data of an image to be printed via a network and printing the image data. A first divided data receiving means for receiving a part of divided data of the plurality of divided data obtained by dividing the image data from the print support server; and the image data is divided. Second divided data receiving means for receiving, from the print support server, other divided data other than some of the divided data among the plurality of divided data obtained And an image for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data and the other divided data received by the first and second divided data receiving means. Characterized by comprising a data restoring means.

  According to the invention of claim 11, it is possible to restore a plurality of divided data transmitted from the print support server to image data of an image to be printed. Thereby, it is possible to print out an image to be printed.

  A print processing apparatus according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is a print processing apparatus capable of communicating with a print support server that stores image data of an image to be printed via a network and printing the image data. A part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by dividing the image data, and other divided data other than the part of the plurality of pieces of divided data. A first divided data receiving means for receiving from the printing support server what is encrypted with the encryption key generated based on the encryption key, and the other divided data with the encryption key attached to the encrypted one In addition to the divided data of the copy, the encrypted one piece is received by a second divided data receiving means for receiving from the print support server and an encryption key attached to the other divided data. The image data is restored on the basis of the divided data decoding means for decoding the divided data, a part of the divided data decoded by the divided data decoding means, and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached. And an image data restoring means.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the image data can be restored even when a part of the divided data encrypted from the print support server is received.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a print support method for supporting print processing by a print processing apparatus that performs printing, wherein the print request accepts a print request for an image to be printed from the print processing apparatus. Image data division that divides image data of the image to be printed that has been accepted by the acceptance step and the print request acceptance step into a part of the divided data and a part of the divided data other than the part A first divided data transmission step for transmitting the partial divided data to the print processing apparatus; and a second divided data transmitting step for transmitting the other divided data to the print processing apparatus separately from the partial divided data. And two divided data transmission steps.

  According to the invention of claim 13, the image data of the image to be printed can be divided and transmitted to the print processing apparatus.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the print support method according to the thirteenth aspect, the image data dividing step divides the image data based on an area of the image data. .

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be transmitted to the print processing apparatus as a plurality of divided data from which part of the image is missing.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the print support method according to the thirteenth aspect, the image data dividing step divides the image data based on a color space.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be transmitted to the print processing apparatus as a plurality of divided data with missing colors.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing support method according to any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth aspects, wherein whether or not to permit the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus is determined. Including a print permission determining step for determining, wherein the second divided data transmitting step transmits the other divided data based on a determination result obtained by the print permission determining step.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of divided data can be transmitted stepwise to the print processing apparatus.

  A print support method according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the print support method according to any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth aspects, wherein an encryption key is generated based on the other divided data, and the generated encryption key The divided data encryption step encrypts the part of the divided data, and the first divided data transmission step converts the partial divided data encrypted by the divided data encryption step into the print. The second divided data transmission step attaches the encryption key to the other divided data, and sends the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached to the part of the divided data. Separately, the data is transmitted to the print processing apparatus.

  According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a part of the divided data can be encrypted and transmitted to the print processing apparatus.

  The print processing method according to the invention of claim 18 is a print processing method for printing image data of an image to be printed stored in a print support server, wherein the image data is divided. A first divided data receiving step of receiving a part of divided data of the plurality of divided data obtained from the printing support server, and a plurality of divided data obtained by dividing the image data A second divided data receiving step of receiving other divided data other than the partial divided data from the print support server separately from the partial divided data, and the first and second divided data An image data restoring step for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data and the other divided data received by the data receiving step.

  According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the image data of the image to be printed can be restored by the plurality of divided data transmitted from the print support server. Thereby, it is possible to print out an image to be printed.

  According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a print processing method for printing image data of an image to be printed stored in a print support server, obtained by dividing the image data. A part of the plurality of pieces of divided data, which is encrypted by an encryption key generated based on the other pieces of divided data other than the part of the plurality of pieces of divided data A first divided data receiving step for receiving data from the print support server, and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached separately from the encrypted partial divided data. A second divided data receiving step received from the other divided data, a divided data decrypting step of decrypting the encrypted partial divided data with an encryption key attached to the other divided data, An image data restoring step for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data decrypted by the split data decrypting step and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached. To do.

  According to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the image data can be restored even if a part of the divided data encrypted from the print support server is received.

  A printing support program according to a twentieth aspect of the invention causes a computer to execute the method according to any one of the thirteenth to seventeenth aspects.

  According to the twentieth aspect, the printing support method according to any one of the thirteenth to seventeenth aspects can be realized by a computer.

  A print processing program according to a twenty-first aspect of the invention causes a computer to execute the method according to the eighteenth or nineteenth aspect.

  According to the twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the print processing method according to the eighteenth or nineteenth aspect can be realized by a computer.

  According to the present invention, image data obtained by converting an image to be printed, such as an advertisement or a content image, into data can be provided accurately and safely as intended by the author who created the image.

  Exemplary embodiments of a print support system, a print support server, a print processing apparatus, a print support method, a print processing method, a print support program, and a print processing program according to the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. To do.

(Overall configuration of printing support system)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration for explaining a printing support system according to the present invention. The print support system 100 is connected to a print support server 110, one or a plurality of print processing apparatuses 120 via a network 130 such as the Internet, a LAN, and a WAN so as to communicate with each other.

  The print support server 110 includes an image information database 300 and a user information database 400, and distributes various data to the print processing device 120 based on the databases 300 and 400.

  The print processing device 120 (120a to 120n) is a terminal for printing out an image such as the above-described advertisement or content image, and is installed at each user's home, for example. The print processing device 120 includes a group of devices that are adjusted so that images such as advertisements and content images can be printed out as intended by the production side.

  The device group constituting the print processing apparatus 120 includes a dedicated print server 121 for printing out an image, a dedicated printer 122 for printing out an image, dedicated software (not shown), and a network 123 such as a LAN. It consists of the terminal device 124 connected via. As the terminal device 124, a general-purpose personal computer (PC) is used, and a PC already owned by the user can also be used.

  The dedicated software is installed in the print server 121 and the terminal device 124, respectively, prints out an image by executing a program, and manages advertising costs on the user side. On the terminal device 124, an image layout, print settings, creation and management of a print job when an image is printed out, a job transmission to the print support server 110, and the like are performed. On the print server 121, a job list, printer status monitoring, print processing, printer maintenance, and the like are performed.

  The print processing device 120 is adjusted for each print processing device (device group) 120 to be shipped so that an image can be printed out easily and with high quality, and is shipped with a serial number (printer ID). In addition, the dedicated software is adjusted so that all operations performed by the user can be performed as easily as possible.

  For example, a series of procedures are made so that an editing operation such as a layout and a print (print output) process can be easily performed. Driver settings, color adjustments, and the like are adjusted according to the state of the device group at the time of shipment. Thereby, even a person unfamiliar with computer operation can appropriately set the color adjustment of the acquired image, and can print out with high quality in a state intended by the creator.

  Even after installation of the device group at the user's home or the like, the print processing apparatus 120 performs maintenance and repair on the device group and supplies consumables such as ink (or toner) and printing paper based on the assigned serial number. Provide sourcing consistently. As a result, even after the print processing apparatus 120 is installed, the image can be continuously printed out with high quality.

  In addition, the printer 122 constituting the device group of the print processing apparatus 120 prints out an image using an ink jet technique. The ink jet printer 122 uses a technology called Mach Jet (R), applies a voltage to a piezoelectric element to vibrate, and applies pressure to the ink to eject ink like a water gun to form an image. It is something to be made.

  Such a printer 122 is space-saving and inexpensive, and can be printed out with the same quality as a conventional DPE service or minilab due to the configuration of systemized equipment. In addition, since a developing solution etc. are not used, global environment can also be preserved. Note that the printer 122 may be a laser printer using toner.

(Hardware configuration of print support server and print processing device)
Next, the hardware configuration of the print support server 110 and the print processing apparatus 120 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the print support server 110 and the print processing apparatus 120 according to this embodiment.

  The print support server 110 and the print processing apparatus 120 are respectively a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, an HDD (hard disk drive) 204, an HD (hard disk) 205, an FDD (flexible disk drive) 206, a display 207, an I / F (interface) 208, a keyboard 209, a mouse 210, a scanner 211, a printer 212, and a disk drive 213. Each component is connected by a bus 200.

  Here, the CPU 201 governs overall control of the print support server 110 (or the print processing apparatus 120). The ROM 202 stores a program such as a boot program. The RAM 203 is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The HDD 204 controls data read / write with respect to the HD 205 according to the control of the CPU 201. The HD 205 stores data written under the control of the HDD 204.

  The FDD 206 controls reading / writing of data with respect to an FD (flexible disk) 214 that is a detachable recording medium according to the control of the CPU 201. The FD 214 stores data written under the control of the FDD 206, or reads data stored in the FD 214.

  A display 207 displays data such as a document, an image, and function information as well as a cursor, an icon, or a tool box. As the display 207, for example, a CRT, a TFT liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or the like can be adopted.

  The I / F 208 is connected to a network 130 such as the Internet through a communication cable 215, and is connected to other devices via the network 130. The I / F 208 controls an internal interface with the network 130 and controls data input / output from an external device. For example, a modem or a LAN adapter can be adopted as the I / F 208.

  The keyboard 209 includes keys for inputting characters, numbers, various instructions, and the like, and inputs data. Moreover, a touch panel type input pad or a numeric keypad may be used. The mouse 210 performs cursor movement, range selection, window movement, size change, and the like. A trackball or a joystick may be used as long as they have the same function as a pointing device.

  The scanner 211 optically reads an image and takes in the image data into the input processing system. The printer 212 prints image data and document data. As the printer 212, for example, a laser printer or an ink jet printer can be employed. The disk drive 213 controls reading of data with respect to the CD / DVD disk 216 which is a detachable recording medium according to the control of the CPU 201.

(Data contents of image information database)
Next, the data contents of the image information database 300 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the data contents of the image information database 300. The image information database 300 includes an image ID 301, settlement information 302, and image data 303 for each image.

  Here, the payment information 302 is an amount of money to be processed for the user when print image data is printed out. For example, the settlement information 302 can be an amount charged to the user when print image data is printed out. The amount in this case is calculated in advance by the print support server 110. Briefly, a company that provides an advertisement image sets the total amount charged to the user using the print processing device 120 for one advertisement image, and the number of advertisement printouts (corresponding to the number of advertisements). To do.

  With this setting, the print support server 110 calculates a charge amount per advertisement according to (total charge amount) / (print output number of advertisements), and uses the calculated charge amount as the settlement information of the image information database 300. Set to 302. According to this configuration, the billing amount for promoting the advertisement is distributed by a predetermined number of users (synonymous with the number of printed output sheets), and is paid directly to the printed out users.

  Further, the settlement information 302 may be an amount that requires payment to the user when image data is printed out, that is, an image purchase fee. Further, the image data 303 is composed of, for example, bitmap data. Specifically, the image information database 300 realizes its functions by the ROM 202, the RAM 203, the HD 205, the FD 214, the CD / DVD disc 216, etc. shown in FIG.

(Data contents of user information database)
Next, data contents of the user information database 400 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing data contents of the user information database 400. The user information database 400 is configured by information about a user who receives an image for each user.

  That is, the user information database 400 includes a user ID 401, a password 402 for accessing the print support server 110, the user's personal information 403 (address, name, contact information, etc.), and the print processing apparatus 120 held by the user. It is composed of a serial number (printer ID) 404, an image income status 405, and money information 406.

  Here, the image acquisition situation 405 is provided for recording a history of the number of times of printing output by the user for each of a plurality of different (1 to n) images. The image acquisition status 405 includes information of an image ID 405a for each image and the number of times of printing output (number of times printed or number of printed sheets) 405b. In the image acquisition status 405, each time the image data is printed out, the respective acquisition information is recorded as a history as shown in the figure.

  Specifically, the user information database 400 realizes its functions by the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, etc. shown in FIG.

(Functional configuration of the print support server)
Next, a functional configuration of the print support server 110 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the print support server 110 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The print support server 110 includes an image information database 300 illustrated in FIG. 3, a user information database 400 illustrated in FIG. 4, a communication unit 501, an authentication unit 502, an image information extraction unit 503, and a list information generation unit. 504, an image data division processing unit 505, an image data encryption processing unit 506, a transmission control unit 507, and a settlement processing unit 508.

  The communication unit 501 transmits and receives various data via the network 130. Specifically, the communication unit 501 realizes its function by the I / F 208 shown in FIG.

  The authentication unit 502 performs authentication processing when there is an image data acquisition request from the print processing apparatus 120. For example, when there is an image data acquisition request from an arbitrary user, the user ID, password, and printer ID of the user transmitted from the print processing apparatus 120 that made the acquisition request and the user information database 400 are stored. An authentication process is executed based on the user information.

  If the authentication is not successful, authentication NG is output to the print processing apparatus 120. On the other hand, when authenticated, the authentication OK output is performed. Specifically, the authentication unit 502 is executed when the CPU 201 executes a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disk 216, etc. shown in FIG. Realize the function.

  The image information extraction unit 503 extracts image information from the image information database 300. For example, when the authentication unit 502 outputs authentication OK, the image ID 301 and the image data 303 are extracted from the image information database 300. If there is a selection input of the image ID 301, the image data 303 corresponding to the selected image ID 301 is extracted. Specifically, the image information extraction unit 503 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. Realize its function.

  The list information generation unit 504 generates thumbnail images by reducing the image data 303 extracted by the image information extraction unit 503. Then, the generated thumbnail image and list information including the image ID 301 are output to the communication unit 501. Specifically, the list information generation unit 504 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, the RAM 203, the HD 205, the FD 214, the CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. Realize its function.

  The image data division processing unit 505 divides the image data extracted by the image information extraction unit 503 into a plurality of pieces. Specifically, it is possible to divide each area, such as extracting a partial area of the image data. Further, the image data can be divided for each channel represented by the color space. For example, when the color space is expressed by RGB, one piece of image data can be divided into R image data, G image data, and B image data.

  In addition to RGB, various color space expression methods such as CMYK, HSB, and Lab can also be used. Specifically, the image data division processing unit 505 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. By realizing the function.

  The image data encryption processing unit 506 encrypts one or more pieces of divided data among a plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by the division of the image data division processing unit 505 by a predetermined encryption method. Hereinafter, the encrypted divided data is referred to as “encrypted divided data”.

  Here, an example is given about this encryption system. For example, when a partial area of the image data is extracted, an encryption key is generated using the pixel value of the lattice point (pixel) obtained by sampling the extracted partial area as a passphrase. The remaining image data is encrypted with this encryption key.

  In addition, when image data is divided for each channel by color space, an encryption key is generated using a pixel value of a lattice point (pixel) sampled using divided data of any channel as a passphrase. The remaining image data is encrypted with this encryption key.

  Specifically, the image data encryption processing unit 506 is executed when the CPU 201 executes a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. By realizing the function.

  The transmission control unit 507 transmits the divided data obtained by the division of the image data division processing unit 505 to the communication unit 501. In addition, the encrypted divided data and the encryption key obtained by the encryption processing of the image data encryption processing unit 506 are transmitted to the communication unit 501. The transmission control unit 507 controls the transmission order of these various data to be transmitted.

  For example, some of the divided data can be transmitted first, and the other divided data can be transmitted later. Further, when applying encryption processing, a part of the divided data is encrypted with other divided data, and the encrypted divided data is transmitted first. Then, an encrypted key obtained by encrypting a part of the divided data may be attached to other unencrypted divided data and transmitted later.

  In any of the above cases, the subsequent transmission may be controlled to be transmitted only when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Specifically, when an advertisement image is acquired from the print processing device 120, the subsequent transmission is performed only when there is an input from the print processing device 120 that the settlement processing is performed after the end of the previous transmission. Also good.

  Specifically, the transmission control unit 507 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disk 216, or the like shown in FIG. Realize its function.

  The settlement processing unit 508 performs a settlement process for a fee that is generated when an image is acquired when an input for performing the settlement process is received from the print processing apparatus 120. Specifically, the settlement is performed based on the settlement information of the requested image data and the user's money information 406 stored in the user information database 400.

  For example, when charging the user, the settlement information 302 of the requested image data is added to the user's money information 406. Further, when the user is required to pay the fee, the settlement information 302 of the requested image data is subtracted from the user's money information (money balance) 406.

  Specifically, the settlement processing unit 508 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. Realize its function.

(Functional configuration of print processing device)
Next, a functional configuration of the print processing apparatus 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the print processing apparatus 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The print processing apparatus 120 includes a communication unit 601, an input unit 602, a display unit 603, an input / display control unit 604, an image data decoding processing unit 605, an image data restoration unit 606, and a data erasing unit 607. , And a printing unit 608.

  The communication unit 601 transmits and receives various data via the network 130. Specifically, this communication unit 601 realizes its function by the I / F 208 shown in FIG. The input unit 602 performs various types of input data (for example, input of a user ID 401, password 402 or printer ID 404, selection input of an image ID 301, availability of checkout processing, etc.) by a user operation.

  Specifically, the input unit 602 realizes its function by the keyboard 209, the mouse 210, and the like shown in FIG. The display unit 603 displays various data input from the communication unit 601. Specifically, the display unit 603 realizes its function by the display 207 shown in FIG.

  The input / display control unit 604 outputs various input data input from the input unit 602 (for example, input of the user ID 401, password 402 or printer ID 404, selection input of the image ID 301, availability of the adjustment process, etc.) to the communication unit 601. To do. Further, the input / display control unit 604 displays various data such as an HTML file and an XML file output from the communication unit 601 on the display unit 603.

  Specifically, the input / display control unit 604 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. By realizing the function.

  The image data decryption processing unit 605 decrypts a part of the encrypted divided data output from the communication unit 601 with an encryption key attached to the other divided data. Then, the decoded image data is output to the image data restoration unit 606. Specifically, the image data decoding processing unit 605 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. By realizing the function.

  The image data restoration unit 606 restores the original image data by combining a plurality of divided data. Specifically, the divided data obtained by dividing the area is synthesized so that the boundaries of the divided data coincide with each other. Further, the divided data divided by the color space is synthesized by overlapping so that the coordinates of the divided data of each channel coincide. As a result, the image data stored in the print support server can be restored.

  Specifically, the image data restoration unit 606 is executed by the CPU 201 executing a program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, or the like shown in FIG. Realize its function.

  The data erasure unit 607 erases the encrypted image data when no other divided data to which the encryption key is attached has been received. Also, the print image data printed out is deleted. Specifically, the data erasing unit 607 is executed by the CPU 201 executing the program recorded in the ROM 202, RAM 203, HD 205, FD 214, CD / DVD disc 216, etc. shown in FIG. Realize its function.

  The printing unit 608 prints out the image data restored by the image data restoration unit 606. The printing unit 608 realizes its function by the printer 122 shown in FIG. 1 (or the printer 212 shown in FIG. 2).

(Print support processing procedure of the print support server)
Next, the print support processing procedure of the print support server 110 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a print support processing procedure of the print support server 110 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, when a user ID, password, and printer ID are received from an arbitrary print processing apparatus 120 (step S701: Yes), authentication is performed (step S702). This authentication process is performed by referring to the user information database 400. If not authenticated (step S702: No), the process returns to step S701.

  If authenticated (step S702: Yes), thumbnail images of all the image data stored in the image information database 300 are generated, and list information including the thumbnail images, the image ID, and the settlement amount is displayed. This is transmitted to the authenticated print processing apparatus 120 (step S703).

  Next, when an image ID selected by the authenticated print processing apparatus 120 (hereinafter referred to as “selected image ID”) is received (step S704: Yes), the image data corresponding to the selected image ID is displayed as an image. Extracted from the information database 300, and the extracted image data is divided (step S705). Then, the settlement confirmation request information for the settlement processing confirmation request and a part of the plurality of pieces of divided data are transmitted to the authenticated print processing apparatus 120 (step S706).

  When payment check information for payment check request information is received from the authenticated print processing device 120 (step S707: Yes), other divided data is transmitted to the authenticated print processing device 120 (step S708). .

  According to the processing procedure of the print support server 110, since the image data is divided and transmitted via the network 130, even if the image data is acquired by a third party on the network 130, a part of the image or color is missing. Therefore, it is impossible to print out in a complete state, and security can be improved.

  Further, only when payment check is performed, other divided data can be transmitted and restored, and image data can be printed for a user intended by the print support server 110 side.

(Print processing procedure of the print processing device)
Next, a print processing procedure of the print processing apparatus 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a print processing procedure of the print processing apparatus 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, when the user operates the input unit 602, a user ID, a password, and a printer ID are input in the input fields 901 to 903 of the login screen 900 (see FIG. 9) displayed on the display unit 603. In the case (step S801: Yes), the user ID, password, and printer ID are transmitted to the print support server 110 by pressing the login button 904 (step S802).

  When the list information including the thumbnail image, the image ID, and the payment amount is received by the authentication by the print support server 110 as described above (step S803: Yes), the list information is displayed on the display unit 603. (Step S804). FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a list information display screen 1000 displayed by the display unit 603.

  This list information display screen 1000 displays list information described in a markup language such as HTML or XML by a browser. This list information display screen 1000 includes a plurality of pieces of image information 1001 to 1006 (6 pieces in FIG. 10) each including image IDs 1001a to 1006a, settlement amounts 1001b to 1006b, and thumbnail images 1001c to 1006c. It is displayed. The print support server 110 can arbitrarily set the display number of the thumbnail images 1001c to 1006c, and can move to the previous / next page using the page change keys 1010 and 1011.

  The user can select the image ID by operating the mouse as the input unit 602, placing the cursor on the thumbnail image to be printed and clicking the mouse. When an image ID is selected by this operation (step S805: Yes), the selected image ID is transmitted to the print support server 110 (step S806).

  Thereafter, when a part of the divided data corresponding to the selected image ID and the payment confirmation request information are received from the print support server 110 (step S807: Yes), the payment confirmation request information is displayed (step S808). FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display screen 1100 for payment confirmation request information displayed by the display unit 603.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the settlement confirmation request information display screen 1100, selected image information including a selected image ID, a settlement amount, and a thumbnail image is displayed. This example shows a case where the image information 1005 shown in FIG. 10 is selected as the selected image information.

  In addition, the settlement confirmation request information display screen 1100 displays buttons 1101 and 1102 for confirming the approval of the settlement process. Then, when the user operates the mouse as the input unit 602 and presses the “OK” button 1101, the settlement process is confirmed. On the other hand, when the “return to list” button 1102 is pressed, the checkout process is not confirmed.

  If the settlement check is not performed by pressing the “return to list” button 1102 (step S809: No), the received partial data is deleted (step S810). As a result, accumulation of data that is not printed can be prevented, and security can be improved. Then, control goes to a step S804.

  On the other hand, when the payment confirmation is confirmed by pressing the “OK” button 1101 (step S809: Yes), the payment confirmation information is transmitted to the print support server 110 (step S811). Then, when other divided data is received (step S812: Yes), the other divided data and a part of the previously received divided data are combined to restore the image data (step S813).

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the image data restored by the restoration process. Here, as an example, the image data 1201 is image data restored for the image information selected in FIG. Then, by depressing a “print” button 1200, the restored image data 1201 is printed out (step S814). Then, the image data is erased (step S815). As a result, it is possible to prevent a copy of the restored image data and a reprint output in which the settlement check is not performed on the restored image data.

  Next, specific processing of image data in the printing support system 100 will be schematically described. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which image data is supplied by region division when the image information illustrated in FIG. 11 is selected. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which, when the image information illustrated in FIG. 11 is selected, the image data is supplied by division using a color space (for example, RGB). The step numbers in FIGS. 13 and 14 are the step numbers in the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the print support server 110 divides the image data 1201 into image data (partially divided data) 1202 and image data (other divided data) 1203 (step S705). A part of the divided data 1202 is transmitted first (step S706), and after the settlement is confirmed, another divided data 1203 is transmitted (step S708).

  On the other hand, the print processing apparatus 120 receives a part of the divided data 1202 (step S807), and receives another divided data 1203 when the settlement is confirmed (step S812). Then, a part of the divided data 1202 and the other divided data 1203 are combined and restored to the original image data 1201 (step S813).

  According to this, even if only a part of the divided data 1202 is received, the print processing device 120 cannot print in a complete state because a print image is lost. In particular, the other divided data 1203 is used as a characteristic part of the image data 1201 (in this example, the face of a person in the image), thereby preventing print output in a complete state when payment is not confirmed. can do.

  On the other hand, when the settlement is confirmed, the other divided data 1203 can be received, so that the image data 1201 can be restored by the synthesis process. Therefore, the image selected by the user can be printed out in a complete state, and the advertisement and content image as expected by the user can be obtained at home.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 14, in the print support server 110, image data 1201 includes only R (red) image data (partially divided data) 1201R in RGB and G (green) only image data (one). (Partially divided data) 1201G and B (blue) -only image data (other divided data) 1201B (step S705). Some of the divided data 1201R and 1201G are transmitted first (step S706), and after the payment is confirmed, the other divided data 1201B is transmitted (step S708).

  On the other hand, the print processing apparatus 120 receives some of the divided data 1201R and 1201G (step S807), and receives the other divided data 1201B when the settlement is confirmed (step S812). Then, some of the divided data 1201R and 1201G and other divided data 1201B are combined and restored to the original image data 1201 (step S813).

  According to this, the print processing apparatus 120 prints an image of a color different from the selected image even if print output is performed using only some of the divided data 1201R and 1201G. On the other hand, when the settlement is confirmed, the other divided data 1201B can be received, so that the image data can be restored by the synthesis process. Therefore, the image selected by the user can be printed out in a complete state, and the advertisement and content image as expected by the user can be obtained at home.

(Print support processing procedure of print support server using cryptographic processing)
Next, a print support processing procedure of the print support server 110 using encryption processing according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a print support processing procedure of the print support server 110 using encryption processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. The same steps as those shown in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same step numbers, and the description thereof is omitted.

  After the image data is divided (step S705), some of the divided data is encrypted (step S1501). That is, an encryption key is generated using a pixel value of a lattice point (pixel) obtained by sampling other divided data among a plurality of divided data as a passphrase. Then, a part of the divided data is encrypted with this encryption key.

  Then, a part of the encrypted divided data and the payment confirmation request information for the confirmation request for the payment process are transmitted to the authenticated print processing apparatus 120 (step S1502). If payment check information for the payment check request information is received from the authenticated print processing apparatus 120 (step S1503: Yes), the encryption key is attached to the other divided data that is the generation source and authenticated. Is transmitted to the print processing apparatus 120 (step S1504).

  According to the processing procedure of the print support server 110, since the image data is divided and transmitted via the network 130, even if the image data is acquired by a third party on the network 130, a part of the image or color is missing. Therefore, it is impossible to print out in a complete state, and security can be improved.

(Print processing procedure of print processing device using encryption processing)
Next, a print processing procedure of the print processing apparatus 120 using encryption processing according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a print processing procedure of the print processing apparatus 120 using encryption processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same step number is attached | subjected about the step same as the step shown in FIG. 8, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  After the selected image ID is transmitted to the print support server 110 (step S806), the encrypted support data corresponding to the selected image ID (partially encrypted divided data) and the settlement confirmation request are sent from the print support server 110. When the information is received (step S1601: Yes), the payment confirmation request information is displayed as shown in FIG. 11 (step S1602).

  If the settlement check is not performed by pressing the “return to list” button 1102 shown in FIG. 11 (step S1603: No), the encrypted divided data is deleted (step S1604). As a result, accumulation of data that is not printed can be prevented, and security can be improved. Then, control goes to a step S804.

  On the other hand, when the settlement is confirmed by pressing the “OK” button 1101 shown in FIG. 11 (step S1603: Yes), the settlement confirmation information is transmitted to the print support server 110 (step S1605). When other divided data to which the encryption key is attached is received (step S1606: Yes), the encrypted divided data is decrypted with the encryption key (step S1607).

  Then, the decoded partial data and other divided data are combined to restore the image data as shown in FIG. 12 (step S1608). Then, as shown in FIG. 12, by pressing a “print” button 1200, the restored image data 1201 is printed out (step S1609). Then, the image data is erased (step S1610). As a result, it is possible to prevent a copy of the restored image data and a reprint output in which the settlement check is not performed on the restored image data.

  Next, specific processing of image data in the printing support system using this encryption processing will be schematically described. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which the image data is supplied by region division when the image information illustrated in FIG. 11 is selected. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example in which the image data is supplied by division using a color space (for example, RGB) when the image information shown in FIG. 11 is selected. The step numbers in FIGS. 17 and 18 are the step numbers in the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the print support server 110 divides the image data 1201 into image data (partially divided data) 1202 and image data (other divided data) 1203 (step S705). Then, an encryption key 1701 is generated from the other divided data 1203, and a part of the divided data 1202 is encrypted (step S1501). Then, the encrypted partial data 1702 is transmitted to the print processing apparatus first (step S1502), and after the settlement is confirmed, the other partial data 1203 and the encryption key 1701 are transmitted (step S1504).

  On the other hand, the print processing apparatus 120 receives a part of the encrypted divided data 1702 (step S1601), and receives the other divided data 1203 and the encryption key 1701 when the settlement is confirmed (step S1606). Then, a part of the divided data 1702 encrypted by the encryption key 1701 is decrypted (step S1607). The decoded partial data 1202 and the other divided data 1203 are combined and restored to the original image data 1201 (step S1608).

  According to this, even if only a part of the divided data 1202 is received, the print processing apparatus 120 cannot perform printing because the received image data is encrypted. In particular, the other divided data 1203 is used as a characteristic part of the image data 1201 (in this example, the face of a person in the image), thereby preventing print output in a complete state when payment is not confirmed. can do.

  On the other hand, when the settlement is confirmed, the other divided data 1203 can be received, so that the image data can be restored by the synthesis process. Therefore, the image selected by the user can be printed out in a complete state, and the advertisement and content image as expected by the user can be obtained at home.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the print support server 110, image data 1201 includes only R (red) image data (partially divided data) 1201R in RGB and only G (green) image data (one). (Partially divided data) 1201G and B (blue) -only image data (other divided data) 1201B (step S705).

  Then, an encryption key 1800 is generated from the other divided data 1201B, and some of the divided data 1201R and 1201G are encrypted (step S1501). Then, the encrypted partial data (encrypted divided data) 1801R and 1801G are transmitted to the print processing apparatus 120 first (step S1502), and after the payment is confirmed, the other divided data 1201B and the encryption key 1800 are stored. Transmit (step S1504).

  On the other hand, the print processing apparatus 120 receives some of the divided data 1801R and 1801G (step S1601), and when the payment is confirmed, receives the other divided data 1201B to which the encryption key 1800 is attached (step S1606). . Then, the encrypted divided data 1801R and 1801G are decrypted with the encryption key 1800 (step S1607). Then, the decoded partial data 1201R and 1201G and the other divided data 1201B are combined and restored to the original image data 1201 (step S1608).

  According to this, the print processing apparatus 120 cannot print the selected image because it is encrypted even if print output is performed only with some of the divided data 1201R and 1201G. On the other hand, when the settlement is confirmed, the other divided data 1201B can be received, so that the image data can be restored by the synthesis process. Therefore, the image selected by the user can be printed out in a complete state, and the advertisement and content image as expected by the user can be obtained at home.

  As described above, according to the printing support system 100 according to this embodiment, it is possible to restore image data only when other divided data to which an encryption key is attached is received. Therefore, even if a third party acquires any of the divided data until the print processing device 120 receives the divided data by separately transmitting the plurality of divided data to the print processing device 120, It is possible to prevent printing in perfect condition by the three parties.

  As a result, the authors (image data providers) who want to distribute or publish advertisements, pictures, pictures, gravure, posters, and other images through legitimate routes, and prevent acquisition and distribution by third parties. The request of the author (image data provider) that he wants to do can be realized at the same time.

  In addition, advertisements such as street posters are generally difficult to obtain. However, according to the printing support system 100, advertisements that are generally difficult to obtain can be easily obtained at home.

  Further, with regard to advertisements and photographs posted on newspapers, there is a limit to the color reproducibility due to the quality of newspapers. However, according to this printing support system 100, such advertisements and photographs are also limited. High quality printed images can be easily obtained at home.

  In addition, if the user wants to personally use advertisements, paintings, photographs, gravure, posters, etc. that are published in magazines, they must be cut out from the magazines. With this printing support system 100, it is possible to easily obtain a high-quality print image at home without damaging it by clipping or the like.

  Also, if the user wants to personally use advertisements or photographs provided by video such as television commercials, they can be easily obtained by printing at home.

  In the print support server 110 according to the above-described embodiment, it is determined whether or not the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus 120 is permitted based on the settlement check in the settlement processing unit 508. The determination may be made based on the authentication result by the authentication unit 502.

  The print support method or print processing method described in this embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. Further, this program may be a transmission medium that can be distributed via the network 130 such as the Internet.

  As described above, the print support system, print support server, print processing apparatus, print support method, print processing method, print support program, and print processing program according to the present invention are useful for print processing of images such as advertisements and content images. It is.

1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration for explaining a printing support system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a print support server and a print processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the data content of the image information database in the printing assistance server concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the data content of the user information database in the printing assistance server concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the printing assistance server concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the printing processing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the printing assistance processing procedure of the printing assistance server concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the printing processing procedure of the printing processing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the login screen currently displayed on the display part of the printing processing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display screen of the list information displayed on the display part of the printing processing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display screen of the adjustment confirmation request information displayed on the display part of the printing processing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image data which was displayed on the display part of the printing processing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention, and was decompress | restored by the decompression | restoration process. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example which supplies the image data by area division | segmentation, when the image information shown in FIG. 11 is selected. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which the image data is supplied by division using a color space when the image information illustrated in FIG. 11 is selected. It is a flowchart which shows the printing assistance processing procedure of the printing assistance server using encryption processing concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the printing processing procedure of the printing processing apparatus using encryption processing concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example which supplies the image data by area division | segmentation, when the image information shown in FIG. 11 is selected. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example in which the image data is supplied by division using a color space when the image information illustrated in FIG. 11 is selected.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Print support system 110 Print support server 120 Print processing apparatus 130 Network 501 Communication part 505 Image data division | segmentation process part 506 Image data encryption process part 507 Transmission control part 605 Image data decoding process part 606 Image data restoration part 1201 Image data 1202, 1201R 1201G Partially divided data 1203, 1201B Other divided data 1701, 1800 Encryption key

Claims (21)

A print support system for supplying image data of an image to be printed from a print support server to a print processing apparatus via a network,
The print support server includes:
Image data dividing means for dividing the image data into a plurality of parts;
First divided data transmission means for transmitting a part of divided data among a plurality of divided data obtained by the division by the image data dividing means to the print processing apparatus;
A second part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by the division by the image data dividing unit, other than the part of the divided data, is transmitted to the print processing apparatus separately from the part of the divided data. Divided data transmission means,
The print processing apparatus includes:
Divided data receiving means for receiving the partial data and the other divided data;
Image data restoring means for restoring the image data based on the partial data received by the divided data receiving means and the other divided data;
A printing support system comprising:   The printing support system according to claim 1, wherein the image data dividing unit divides the image data based on an area of the image data.   The printing support system according to claim 1, wherein the image data dividing unit divides the image data based on a color space. The print support server includes:
A print permission determining means for determining whether or not to permit the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus;
The print support according to claim 1, wherein the second divided data transmission unit transmits the other divided data based on a determination result by the print permission determination unit. system. The print support server includes:
Generates an encryption key based on the other divided data, and includes a divided data encryption means for encrypting the partial divided data with the generated encryption key,
The first divided data transmission means transmits a part of the divided data encrypted by the divided data encryption means to the print processing apparatus;
The second divided data transmission means attaches the encryption key to the other divided data, and separates the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached from the print processing separately from the partial divided data. To the device,
The print processing apparatus includes:
A divided data decrypting means for decrypting the encrypted part of the divided data with an encryption key attached to the other divided data;
The image data restoring means restores the image data based on a part of the divided data decrypted by the divided data decrypting means and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached. The printing support system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A print support server that supplies image data of an image to be printed to a print processing apparatus that performs printing via a network,
A print request receiving means for receiving a print request for the image to be printed from the print processing apparatus;
Image data dividing means for dividing the image data of the image to be printed that has been accepted by the print request accepting means into a plurality of images;
First divided data transmission means for transmitting a part of divided data among a plurality of divided data obtained by the division by the image data dividing means to the print processing apparatus;
A second part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by the division by the image data dividing unit, other than the part of the divided data, is transmitted to the print processing apparatus separately from the part of the divided data. Divided data transmission means;
A print support server comprising:   The print support server according to claim 6, wherein the image data dividing unit divides the image data based on an area of the image data.   The print support server according to claim 6, wherein the image data dividing unit divides the image data based on a color space. A print permission determining means for determining whether or not to permit the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus;
9. The print support according to claim 6, wherein the second divided data transmission unit transmits the other divided data based on a determination result by the print permission determination unit. server. Generates an encryption key based on the other divided data, and includes a divided data encryption means for encrypting the partial divided data with the generated encryption key,
The first divided data transmission means transmits a part of the divided data encrypted by the divided data encryption means to the print processing apparatus;
The second divided data transmission means attaches the encryption key to the other divided data, and separates the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached from the print processing separately from the partial divided data. The print support server according to claim 6, wherein the print support server transmits the information to a device. A print processing apparatus capable of communicating via a network with a print support server that stores image data of an image to be printed, and for printing the image data,
First divided data receiving means for receiving a part of divided data among a plurality of divided data obtained by dividing the image data from the print support server;
A first receiving unit receives from the print support server, apart from the partial data, a part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by dividing the image data. Two divided data receiving means;
Image data restoring means for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data and the other divided data received by the first and second divided data receiving means;
A print processing apparatus comprising: A print processing apparatus capable of communicating via a network with a print support server that stores image data of an image to be printed, and for printing the image data,
A part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by dividing the image data, based on other pieces of divided data other than the part of the plurality of pieces of divided data. First divided data receiving means for receiving, from the print support server, what is encrypted with the generated encryption key;
Second divided data receiving means for receiving the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached from the print support server separately from the encrypted partial divided data;
A divided data decrypting means for decrypting the encrypted part of the divided data with an encryption key attached to the other divided data;
Image data restoring means for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data decrypted by the divided data decrypting means and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached;
A print processing apparatus comprising: A printing support method for supporting printing processing by a printing processing apparatus that performs printing,
A print request receiving step for receiving a print request for an image to be printed from the print processing apparatus;
An image data dividing step for dividing the image data of the image to be printed, for which the print request has been received by the print request receiving step, into a part of the divided data and another divided data other than the part;
A first divided data transmission step of transmitting the partial data to the print processing apparatus;
A second divided data transmission step of transmitting the other divided data to the print processing apparatus separately from the partial divided data;
A printing support method comprising:   The print support method according to claim 13, wherein the image data dividing step divides the image data based on an area of the image data.   The printing support method according to claim 13, wherein the image data dividing step divides the image data based on a color space. And a print permission determination step for determining whether or not to permit the print processing of the image data in the print processing apparatus,
16. The print support according to claim 13, wherein the second divided data transmission step transmits the other divided data based on a determination result obtained by the print permission determination step. Method. Including a divided data encryption step of generating an encryption key based on the other divided data, and encrypting the part of the divided data with the generated encryption key;
The first divided data transmission step transmits a part of the divided data encrypted by the divided data encryption step to the print processing apparatus,
In the second divided data transmission step, the encryption key is attached to the other divided data, and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached is printed separately from the partial divided data. The print support method according to claim 13, wherein the print support method is transmitted to a processing apparatus. A print processing method for printing image data of an image to be printed stored in a print support server,
A first divided data receiving step of receiving, from the print support server, some divided data among a plurality of divided data obtained by dividing the image data;
A first receiving unit receives from the print support server, apart from the partial data, a part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by dividing the image data. Two divided data receiving steps;
An image data restoring step for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data and the other divided data received by the first and second divided data receiving steps;
A printing processing method characterized by comprising: A print processing method for printing image data of an image to be printed, stored in a print support server,
A part of the plurality of pieces of divided data obtained by dividing the image data, based on other pieces of divided data other than the part of the plurality of pieces of divided data. A first divided data receiving step of receiving, from the print support server, what is encrypted with the generated encryption key;
A second divided data receiving step of receiving the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached from the print support server separately from the encrypted partial divided data;
A divided data decrypting step of decrypting the encrypted part of the divided data with an encryption key attached to the other divided data;
An image data restoring step for restoring the image data based on a part of the divided data decrypted by the divided data decrypting step and the other divided data to which the encryption key is attached;
A printing processing method characterized by comprising:   A printing support program for causing a computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 13 to 17. A print processing program for causing a computer to execute the method according to claim 18.

Images