JP2006203327A - Image processing apparatus, management method of storage medium, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively use a storage medium used for the image processing apparatus such as an MFP. <P>SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 1 usable by a plurality of users includes: a box management section 101 for managing files FL for image processing by storing the files to boxes 5 of the respective users being possessors of the files; a total size calculation section 102 for calculating the total size of the files FL stored in each box 5 being an arrangement object; and a size excess discrimination section 103 for discriminating whether or not the total size exceeds a threshold value. When the discrimination section 103 discriminates that the total size exceeds the threshold value, the box management section 101 deletes any one or the plurality of files FL stored in the boxes 5 of the arrangement objects so that the total size becomes the threshold value or below. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus such as an MFP, a management method for a storage medium used therefor, and the like.

  An image processing apparatus called a multifunction peripheral or MFP (Multi Function Peripherals) equipped with functions such as a copy, a scanner, a FAX, and a network printer is widely used in offices such as government offices or companies, and is shared by multiple users. ing.

  Recently, image processing apparatuses having the function of a document server have begun to spread. According to such a function, each user is assigned a storage area called “box” or “personal box” one by one in a storage medium such as a hard disk, and can store data in his / her storage area. In addition, various functions are provided in the image processing apparatus, and it is considered that the functions will be further increased in the future.

  Therefore, the opportunity for the user to use the image processing apparatus has increased, and the use frequency of the box has increased accordingly. Such a trend is expected to continue in the future.

  However, this causes a problem that unnecessary data remains stored in the box and the storage medium is wasted. Further, if the storage amount of unnecessary data increases, there is a possibility that the free space of the storage medium will be insufficient and necessary data cannot be stored.

  In order to solve such a problem, it is conceivable to use a method as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2. According to the method described in Patent Document 1, when the image forming apparatus receives image data and detects that the capacity of the hard disk is insufficient and the image data cannot be recorded, The image data is transmitted and stored in the hard disk of the image forming apparatus.

According to the method described in Patent Document 2, in a copying apparatus having a memory box, when the memory box becomes full, after the image data stored in the memory box is host computerized, the image data is stored in the memory box Erase from Then, the image data that has been transferred to the host computer is returned to be stored in the memory box again according to the free space in the memory box.
JP 2001-243026 A JP-A-11-234493

  However, the conventional methods as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 cannot solve the problems described above. That is, in the method described in Patent Document 1, if there is no more free space on the hard disk due to unnecessary data being stored, other image formation is possible even if there is data to be stored unless some measure is taken. The device must continue to be substituted.

  In the method described in Patent Document 2, a space can be temporarily created in the memory box. However, since data is returned according to the free space of the memory box, the memory box must always be used effectively. I can't say I can.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to more effectively use a storage medium used in an image processing apparatus such as an MFP than ever before.

  An image processing apparatus according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus that can be used by a plurality of users, and manages data for image processing by storing it in a storage medium in association with the user who is the owner. A total size calculating means for calculating a total size that is a sum of sizes of the data stored in the storage medium and associated with the same user among the data stored in the storage medium, and the calculated total Oversize determining means for determining whether or not the size exceeds a threshold, and the data management means is determined that the total size of the data associated with the same user exceeds the threshold. In such a case, any one or a plurality of the data is deleted so that the total size is equal to or less than the threshold value.

  Preferably, before the data management unit deletes the data, the data is transmitted to another device. Alternatively, some or all of the data to be deleted may be compressed instead of being deleted.

  According to the present invention, a storage medium used in an image processing apparatus such as an MFP can be used effectively.

  1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a network system NS including an image forming apparatus 1 according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1, and FIG. 3 is a storage area of a hard disk 1g. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the file FL, FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the user information database DB1, and FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. It is.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the network system NS includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses 1 according to the present invention, a plurality of terminal apparatuses 2, a communication line 3, and the like. These devices can be connected to each other via the communication line 3. As the communication line 3, an Ethernet (registered trademark), a public line, a dedicated line, or the like is used.

  The image forming apparatus 1 is an apparatus that integrates functions such as copying, network printing, scanner, fax, and document server. Sometimes called a multi-function peripheral or MFP (Multi Function Peripherals).

  The function of the document server is a function that gives each user a logical storage area corresponding to a folder in a personal computer or the like for storing data such as documents (documents). Since such a storage area is called “box” or “personal box”, it is sometimes called “box function”. With such a function, each user can save data such as an image file and a document file in his / her box. Hereinafter, such a storage area of each user is referred to as “box 5”. In the present embodiment, one box 5 is given to one user, and each box 5 is associated with a user ID indicating its owner.

  In addition to the basic functions such as the copy function described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes application functions (application functions) such as a confidential print function, a confirmation print function, and a polling transmission function. ing. When the network printing is performed, the confidential print function temporarily holds the print processing instead of immediately starting the print processing even if the image forming apparatus 1 receives the print data from the terminal device 2. This is a function of starting the printing process when the user correctly inputs a preset password by operating the operation panel of the image forming apparatus 1.

  The confirmation print function is a function of outputting only one copy first when outputting a plurality of copies (printing or copying) of the same document, and outputting the remaining number of copies after the user confirms the finished state. . The polling transmission function is an on-demand function for information by FAX, in which information managed by the image forming apparatus 1 is transmitted as FAX data in response to a request from an external FAX terminal.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a CPU 1a, a RAM 1b, a ROM 1c, an operation panel 1d, a scanner unit 1e, a printing unit 1f, a hard disk 1g, and a network interface 1h.

  The operation panel 1d includes a display and a plurality of operation buttons. When the operation button is pressed, a signal indicating the operation button is transmitted to the CPU 1a. The display includes a screen for giving a message or an instruction to a user who directly operates the image forming apparatus 1, a screen for the user to input setting contents and processing contents, and an image and processing formed by the image forming apparatus 1. A screen showing the result of the is displayed. In the present embodiment, a touch panel is used as the display. Therefore, the display has a function of detecting a position on the touch panel touched by the user with a finger and transmitting a signal indicating the detection result to the CPU 1a. As described above, the operation panel 1 d serves as a user interface for a user who directly operates the image forming apparatus 1.

  In order to allow the user to use the image forming apparatus 1 from a remote location, the terminal apparatus 2 includes a driver for controlling the image forming apparatus 1 and processing conditions for the image forming apparatus 1. The software to specify is installed. As the terminal device 2, a personal computer or a workstation is used.

  The scanner unit 1e includes a document feeding unit, an image reading unit, and the like, such as photographs, characters, pictures, charts, and the like drawn on a document sheet (hereinafter simply referred to as “document”). An image is optically read to generate image data.

  The printing unit 1f includes a paper feed unit, a paper discharge unit, a drive system, and the like, and transmits an image read by the scanner unit 1e, an image of image data transmitted from the terminal device 2, or an external FAX terminal. An image of the received FAX data is printed on paper.

  The network interface 1h is a device for communicating with the terminal device 2 and a FAX terminal. As the network interface 1h, a NIC (Network Interface Card), a modem, a TA (Terminal Adapter), or the like is used.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the hard disk 1g has an area for the box 5 for each user. As described above, the box 5 stores image data, document data, and the like used for image processing in the image forming apparatus 1 as files. Hereinafter, these files stored in the box 5 are referred to as “file FL”.

  The file FL is associated with file attribute information INF relating to the file name, the date and time when it was saved, the date and time last used, the owner, the application function required for use, the size, and the like. As shown in FIG. 4, the file attribute information INF is attached to the header or footer of the file FL. Alternatively, the file attribute information INF of the file FL stored in each box 5 may be collectively managed by a database.

  The hard disk 1g is provided with a user information database DB1 as shown in FIG. One record is given for each user. “User ID” is identification information for identifying users. The “password” is a keyword used for user authentication when logging on to the image forming apparatus 1, and is known only to the user with the user ID.

  “Threshold” means the total amount of data allowed to be stored in the user's box 5. In other words, the total size of the files FL stored in the box 5 is not allowed to exceed the threshold value. When the threshold value is exceeded, processing such as deleting the file FL so that the total value is within the threshold value must be executed promptly. Hereinafter, the processing for keeping the value within the threshold is referred to as “data amount optimization processing”. The data amount optimization process will be described in detail later.

  “Organization mode” indicates a method of executing a data amount optimization process when a threshold value is exceeded. “Manual” means that the user himself / herself specifies the target and method of the data amount optimization processing. “Auto” means that the data amount optimization processing is automatically executed.

  “Move location” indicates a move destination when the file FL is moved (saved) to a storage medium other than the hard disk 1g in the data amount optimization processing. However, if no moving location is set, the user designates it as necessary every time the data amount optimization process is executed.

  The contents of the user information database DB1 can be changed by an administrator in response to a request from the user. Further, when there is an increase or decrease in users (for example, employee transfer in an office where the network system NS is installed), a new record can be added to or deleted from the user information database DB1.

  In addition, the hard disk 1g includes basic functions such as the copy function described above, application functions such as the confidential print function, the user authentication unit 100, the box management unit 101, the total size calculation unit 102, and the size shown in FIG. Programs and data for realizing each function such as the excess determination unit 103, the screen output processing unit 104, the data organization control unit 105, the file transfer unit 106, and the file compression processing unit 107 are installed. A part or all of the program or data may be stored in the ROM 1c. The program and data are loaded into the RAM 1b as necessary, and the program is executed by the CPU 1a. Alternatively, some or all of these functions may be realized in hardware by a processor (control circuit) instead of software.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the processing command screen HG1, and FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the box management screen HG2. Next, processing contents of each unit in FIG. 6 will be described.

  When no one is directly operating the image forming apparatus 1, a logon screen for inputting a user ID and password is displayed on the operation panel 1 d of FIG. 2 as a standby screen. The user who wants to use the image forming apparatus 1 inputs his user ID and password here.

  Then, the user authentication unit 100 in FIG. 6 compares the input user ID and password with the user ID and password of each record stored in the user information database DB1 in FIG. It is determined whether or not the user is a user. That is, user authentication processing is performed.

  If the authentication that the user is an authorized user is obtained, the user can log on to the image forming apparatus 1, and a processing command screen HG1 as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the operation panel 1d. Until the user logs off, the user is allowed to use the image forming apparatus 1. In the processing instruction screen HG1, in the image display area AR, the user will be explained with respect to how to set a document, how to replenish copy paper, or how to deal with an error if necessary. An illustration for the purpose is displayed. In the message display area MR, messages such as instructions or warnings for the user are displayed. That is, the image display area AR and the message display area MR play the same role as a dialog box in a personal computer.

  The user can give an instruction to the image forming apparatus 1 to execute a process desired by the user such as copying, scanning, or FAX transmission by operating the operation panel 1d. When a command is given, each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 generates a job for executing the processing related to the designation and registers it in a queue (queue) in the same manner as in the case of a conventional MFP or the like. Run the job.

  For example, when it is desired to copy a document, the user sets the document paper on the document table, and sets processing conditions such as the paper size, magnification, and color mode (color copy or monochrome copy) as necessary. And give a command by pressing the start button. Then, in the image forming apparatus 1, the job related to the command is registered in the queue, and when the order of the job comes, the printing unit 1 f and the like copy the original according to the processing conditions set by the user. Or, if you want to scan or send a fax, press the “Scan” or “FAX Send” button on the processing command screen HG1 to switch the screen, set the processing conditions as necessary, and click the Start button. Press to give command. Then, the scanner unit 1e, the network interface 1h, and the like scan the document according to the set processing conditions, and transmit the obtained image data to the destination or store it in the storage location.

  The user can organize the files FL stored in his / her box 5 by operating the box management screen HG2 in FIG. This will be described in detail later.

  Further, the user can log on to the image forming apparatus 1 using the terminal device 2 and give a processing command to the image forming apparatus 1. After the logon, the terminal device 2 displays a screen equivalent to the processing command screen HG1, the box management screen HG2, and the like, so that the user may perform operations remotely while viewing these screens.

  Returning to FIG. 6, the box management unit 101 stores the file FL in the box 5 provided in the hard disk 1g, calls the file FL requested by the user from the box 5, deletes the file FL from the box 5, Control processing related to a box and a file is performed such as newly creating a box 5 or deleting an existing box 5.

  The total size calculation unit 102 calculates the total size of all files FL stored in one box 5. The “size” referred to here may be the actual data amount of the file FL, or may be the amount of sectors used for storing the file FL, that is, the size of the file FL on the disk. . Hereinafter, the total size of all the files FL stored in one box 5 is referred to as “file total size”.

  The oversize determining unit 103 refers to the user information database DB1 in FIG. 5 and determines whether the total file size of the box 5 does not exceed the threshold of the box 5.

  The screen output processing unit 104 generates a screen such as a processing command screen HG1 (see FIG. 7) and a box management screen HG2 (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the logged-on user, and performs processing for displaying on the operation panel 1d. . However, when the user logs on from the terminal device 2, a process for transmitting screen data corresponding to these screens to the terminal device 2 is performed.

  The data organization control unit 105 performs box size management unit 101, screen output processing in order to perform data amount optimization processing on the box 5 determined by the size excess determination unit 103 that the total file size exceeds the threshold. Unit 104, file transfer unit 106, file compression processing unit 107, and the like. That is, each unit is caused to execute processing for deleting, compressing, or moving to one of the recording media other than the hard disk 1g from any of the files FL stored in the box 5.

  The file transfer unit 106 executes processing for transferring the file FL designated by the data organization control unit 105 or the user to the terminal device 2 or another image forming apparatus 1. For example, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used as a transfer protocol.

  The file compression processing unit 107 performs compression processing on the file FL designated by the data organization control unit 105 or the user. A known method such as the Huffman coding method is used as the compression processing method. Different compression processing methods may be used depending on the format of the file FL.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the flow of processing of the image forming apparatus 1 when the user logs on, and FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the flow of manual data amount optimization processing.

  Next, the processing content of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described in more detail with reference to a flowchart and the like.

  When the user operates the operation panel 1d of the image forming apparatus 1 or the keyboard of the terminal apparatus 2 and inputs the user ID and password, the user authentication unit 100 authenticates whether or not the user is a regular user. (# 11 in FIG. 9). If not authenticated (No in # 12), the user is prompted to input the user ID and password again, and the process returns to step # 11 to repeat the authentication process based on the re-input user ID and password.

  If authenticated (Yes in # 12), the oversize determining unit 103 refers to the user information database DB1 in FIG. 5 and checks the user's organization mode (# 13). If the organization mode is “manual” (Yes in # 13), the sum of the sizes of the files FL stored in the box 5 corresponding to the user ID of the user (that is, the total file size) is calculated. (# 14).

  If the calculated total file size exceeds the user threshold (see FIG. 5) (Yes in # 15), the data organization control unit 105 makes the total file size equal to or smaller than the threshold. Steps # 16 to # 19 are executed.

  Select the file FL in box 5 so that the total file size falls below the threshold, such as “Exceed the BOX capacity limit. Click the“ Organize disk ”button to organize the file FL.” The screen output processing unit 104 is displayed so that the processing command screen HG1 (see FIG. 7) on which the message to be organized is written in the message display area MR and the “Disk Organizing” button is provided is displayed on the operation panel 1d. Control (# 16). However, if the user is a user of the terminal device 2, the terminal device 2 is controlled to transmit screen data to the terminal device 2 in order to display a screen corresponding to the processing command screen HG 1. The same applies to step # 18 described later.

  In the processing command screen HG1, the “organize disk” button is a shortcut button for calling the box management screen HG2 (see FIG. 8). When the user presses this button (Yes in # 17), the screen output processing unit 104 determines these based on the file attribute information INF (see FIG. 4) of each file FL stored in the user's box 5. The box management screen HG2 (see FIG. 8) including the list LT of the file FL is displayed (# 18). Due to the size of the display surface of the operation panel 1d, the file FL may not be displayed all at once. In this case, the user may press the up arrow button or the down arrow button. Then, the list LT scrolls and other files FL that could not be displayed are sequentially displayed.

  Here, the user designates the file FL to be subjected to the data amount optimization process and its processing method. The data reduction control unit 105 executes processing as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10 according to the designated content (# 19).

  The data organization control unit 105 receives the designation of the file FL at any time during the display of the box management screen HG2 (# 101 in FIG. 10). The user designates the file FL by pressing the line of the file FL in the list LT. The background color of the line of the designated file FL is changed to a color (for example, gray) different from the background color of the line of the undesignated file FL. If you want to cancel the specification, just press the line again.

  When the user presses one of the buttons “order by date”, “order by size”, “by application”, “by name”, and “by registration source” (Yes in # 102), the data is organized. The control unit 105 refers to the file attribute information INF of each file FL and controls the screen output processing unit 104 to re-display the list LT according to the button (# 103).

  For example, when the “order by date” button is pressed, the screen output processing unit 104 rearranges the files FL in the order of registration date, that is, the order stored in the box 5, and redisplays the box management screen HG2. Also, when the “Date Order” button is pressed again, it will be sorted in descending order (in descending order of date values), and when it is pressed again, it will be in ascending order (in descending order of date numbers). . You may rearrange in order of the date and time last used instead of the registration date and time. In the case of other buttons as well, each time the button is continuously pressed, rearrangement in descending order and rearrangement in ascending order are repeated.

  When the “size order” button is pressed, the files FL are rearranged in size order and the list LT is displayed again. When the “name order” button is pressed, the file FL is rearranged in the order of 50 letters or alphabets of the file name (document name), and the list LT is displayed again.

  When the “every application” button is pressed, the files FL are rearranged collectively for each application function, and the list LT is displayed again. For example, when five files FL indicated in the file attribute information INF that the necessary application function is “confidential print” are stored, the five files FL are rearranged so as to be continuous.

  When the “every registration source” button is pressed, the files FL are rearranged collectively for each registration source, and the box management screen HG2 is displayed again. The “registration source” indicates how the file FL is registered (saved) in the box 5. For example, “COPY” means that the file FL is obtained by reading an image of a document when executing a copy process, and is registered in the box 5. “PRINT” means that the file FL is obtained and registered in the box 5 by executing printing (network printing) from the terminal device 2.

  When the “document search” button is pressed (Yes in # 104), the data organization control unit 105 controls the screen output processing unit 104, the box management unit 101, and the like to execute the file FL search process ( # 105). That is, the screen output processing unit 104 displays a screen for inputting search conditions and accepts input of search conditions. The box management unit 101 searches the box 5 for a file FL that meets the input search condition, and the screen output processing unit 104 redisplays the list LT of the searched file FL.

  When the “Preview” button is pressed (Yes in # 106), the box management unit 101 is controlled to call the file FL designated by the user in Step # 101, and the contents are displayed in the image display area AR. The screen output processing unit 104 is controlled (# 107).

  When the “delete” button is pressed (Yes in # 108), the box management unit 101 is controlled to delete the file FL designated by the user from the box 5 (# 109). When the “compress” button is pressed (Yes in # 110), the file compression processing unit 107 is controlled to compress the file FL designated by the user (# 111).

  When the “save to PC” button is pressed (Yes in # 112), control is performed so that the file FL specified by the user is saved (transferred) to a recording medium other than the hard disk 1g (# 113). For example, when the user's box 5 provided in the user's terminal device 2 or another image forming apparatus 1 is used as the save destination, the box management unit 101 is controlled to call the file FL, and the file is stored. The file transfer unit 106 is controlled to transfer the FL to the save destination. Then, the box management unit 101 is controlled to delete the transferred file FL from the box 5. Note that the save destination may be designated one by one by the user, or a movement location (see FIG. 5) designated in advance may be used.

  When the “Close” button is pressed (Yes in # 114), the data amount optimization processing by the data organization control unit 105 is terminated, and the screen output processing unit 104 closes the current box management screen HG2 and performs FIG. The process command screen HG1 is displayed again (# 115).

  Returning to FIG. 9, when any button other than the “Organize Disc” button is pressed on the processing command screen HG1 (No in # 17), each part of the image forming apparatus 1 is pressed as in the conventional case. The process according to is executed (# 21).

  When the organization mode of the user who has been authenticated to be a regular user is “auto” (No in # 13), a message indicating that the file FL should be organized is displayed in the message display area MR as usual. The processing command screen HG1 is displayed (# 20). Even when the total file size is equal to or smaller than the threshold (No in # 15), the processing command screen HG1 is displayed as usual (# 20). Then, as in the prior art, processing corresponding to the pressed button is executed (# 21).

  Note that if the total file size still exceeds the threshold even after the processing of step # 19 is executed, the user may be requested to delete, compress, or transfer the file FL again.

  Regardless of whether the organization mode is “Manual” or “Auto”, the user can open the box management screen HG2 and organize his / her box 5 as necessary.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the flow of processing for box management during activation of the image forming apparatus 1, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the flow of automatic data amount optimization processing.

  While the image forming apparatus 1 is activated, the file FL may be newly stored in the box 5. For example, data generated when executing copy, scan, print processing, or the like is stored in the box 5 as a file FL. Alternatively, data transmitted from the terminal device 2 or the FAX terminal is stored in the box 5 as a file FL. Data may be transmitted from a user other than the owner of the box 5. Therefore, the file total size of the box 5 may exceed the threshold without the user who owns the box 5 knowing it.

  In view of this, the image forming apparatus 1 periodically executes processing as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 in order to keep the total file size of the box 5 as small as possible below the limit capacity (threshold value).

  The total size calculation unit 102 in FIG. 6 extracts the user whose organization mode is “auto” from the user information database DB1 in FIG. 5 (# 31 in FIG. 11), and the box given to the extracted user 5 total file size is calculated (# 32). The oversize determining unit 103 determines whether or not the total file size exceeds the threshold value of the user (# 33). If it exceeds (Yes in # 33), the oversize determining unit 103 controls each unit so that the data amount optimization process of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12 is executed (# 34).

  Based on the file attribute information INF of each file FL stored in the box 5, the file FL having the oldest use date and time (that is, the file FL having the longest unused period) is searched (# 201). ). The file FL is transferred to the moving location set by the user in the user information database DB1 (# 202). Then, the transferred file FL is deleted from the box 5 (# 203). If the value does not fall below the threshold even after deletion (Yes in # 204), the process returns to step # 201, and the oldest file FL is transferred and deleted (# 202, # 203). Files FL that are equal to or less than the threshold value may be obtained first, and these files FL may be transferred and deleted at once.

  Alternatively, in steps # 202 and # 203, the files FL in which the difference between the last use date and the current date and time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (that is, the file FL whose access date and time has passed a predetermined period or more) are collectively stored in the terminal device 2 or the like. It may be transferred and deleted from the box 5.

  Returning to FIG. 11, when other users whose organization mode is “auto” are extracted in step # 31 (Yes in # 35), steps # 32 to # 34 are also performed for the box 5 of these users. Execute the process.

  According to the present embodiment, when the total size of the files FL stored in the box 5 exceeds a threshold, processing for organizing these files FL is executed. Therefore, the hard disk 1g is frequently managed, and the object is to use hard disk resources more effectively than before.

  In addition, since the threshold can be set for each user, the boxes 5 can be arranged flexibly according to the user's business contents. For example, a large threshold is set for a user who frequently uses the image forming apparatus 1 such as a user in a clerical office or a secretary, and a small threshold is set for a user who rarely works in the office. Can be set.

  In the present embodiment, a user whose organization mode is “manual” can use the image forming apparatus 1 even when the total file size of his / her box 5 exceeds the threshold, but deletes the file FL. For example, the image forming apparatus 1 may be restricted so that the image forming apparatus 1 cannot be used unless the inside of the box 5 is arranged so as to be equal to or less than the threshold value. Alternatively, a second threshold value larger than the threshold value may be provided, and the restriction may be performed when the total file size exceeds the second threshold value.

  The configuration of the manual data amount optimization processing screen (see FIG. 8) may be different depending on whether the operation panel 1d is used to log on or the terminal device 2 is used to log on. For example, in the former case, a button is provided for giving a command for deleting and compressing the file FL and saving to a preset moving location (see FIG. 5), and in the latter case, deleting the file FL. In addition, buttons for giving a command for compression and retraction to the terminal device 2 operated by the user may be provided.

  The predetermined type of file FL may be excluded from the data amount optimization process. For example, the file FL obtained by FAX reception may be excluded from the target of auto data amount optimization processing (see FIG. 12). Alternatively, a file FL with a new storage date / time or last use date / time (for example, a file FL stored or used within the last month) may be excluded.

  For security protection, the file FL used for the confidential print function and the encrypted file FL transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 cannot be transferred to the terminal device 2 or another image forming apparatus 1. It may be. Alternatively, these files FL may be encrypted and transferred.

  Files that originally have a high compression rate, such as a file FL in a format such as TIFF or JPEG, may be excluded from compression processing targets.

  In the present embodiment, the data amount optimization processing for the box 5 of the user whose organization mode is “auto” is uniformly performed by the method described with reference to FIG. 12, but a processing method is arbitrarily set for each user. You may be able to do that.

  In the process of FIG. 12, the file FL is deleted from the user box 5 in the order of the last use date and time, but other files FL may be deleted preferentially. For example, if the same file as the file FL is stored in the user's storage area (folder or box) provided in the server machine or other image forming apparatus 1, the file FL is deleted from the box 5. You may make it do.

  In this embodiment, for the user's box 5 whose organization mode is “manual”, the total file size is checked only at the time of logon. However, the user periodically checks while the user is logged on, When it is detected that the total file size exceeds the threshold, a message indicating that the file should be organized may be displayed.

  In the present embodiment, the file FL is associated with the user who is the owner of the file FL by storing the file FL in the user's box 5, but the file FL may be associated with other methods. For example, the user ID of the user may be recorded in the header or footer of the file FL for association. Alternatively, the correspondence relationship may be managed by a database.

  In addition, the entire network system NS, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 or each unit, the processing content, the processing order, the configuration of the database, the execution timing of the organizing process, the type of file to be organized, etc. Can be changed as appropriate.

  The present invention is particularly suitably used for an image processing apparatus such as an MFP that is shared by a plurality of users and often uses a box function.

1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a network system including an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of allocation of the storage area of a hard disk. It is a figure which shows the example of a structure of a file. It is a figure which shows the example of a user information database. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an image forming apparatus. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a process command screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a box management screen. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a processing flow of the image forming apparatus at the time of user logon. It is a flowchart explaining the example of the flow of a manual data amount optimization process. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of processing for box management during activation of the image forming apparatus. It is a flowchart explaining the example of the flow of an auto data amount optimization process.

Explanation of symbols

1 Image forming device (image processing device)
1d Operation panel (notification means, input means, command reception means, display means)
1f Printing unit (printing means)
1g Hard disk (storage medium)
1h Network interface (notification means, command reception means, screen data transmission means)
101 Box management section (data management means)
102 Total size calculation unit (total size calculation means)
103 Oversize discrimination unit (oversize discrimination means)
104 Screen output processing unit (notification means, transmission means, display means, screen data transmission means)
106 File transfer unit (transmission means)
107 File compression processing unit (compression means)
5 boxes (storage area)
FL file (data)

Claims (13)

An image processing apparatus that can be used by a plurality of users,
Data management means for managing data for image processing by storing them in a storage medium in association with a user who is the owner;
A total size calculating means for calculating a total size that is a sum of sizes of data associated with the same user among the data stored in the storage medium;
Oversize determining means for determining whether the calculated total size exceeds a threshold value, and
The data management means, when it is determined that the total size of the data associated with the same user exceeds the threshold, the data management means Delete any one or more,
An image processing apparatus. The storage medium is provided with a storage area for each user,
The data management means performs association between the data and the user who is the owner by storing the data in the storage area of the user,
The total size calculating means calculates the total size of the data associated with the same user by summing the sizes of all the data stored in the storage area of the user,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. The threshold value is set for each user,
The oversize determining means determines the total size of the data associated with the same user based on the threshold of the user.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. The data management means preferentially deletes the data in the order of the date and time last used.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. When it is determined that the total size of the data associated with the same user has exceeded the threshold, notification means is provided to notify the user to that effect,
The data management means deletes the data designated by the user who has received the notification;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. Transmission means for transmitting the data to another apparatus before the data management means deletes the data;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. An input means for the user at the installation location of the image processing apparatus to input characters to the image processing apparatus;
A printing unit provided with a confidential print function that starts a printing process instructed by another device when a correct password is input by the input unit;
The transmission means excludes the data used for the confidential print function from transmission targets;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 6. An image processing apparatus that can be used by a plurality of users,
Data management means for managing data for image processing by storing them in a storage medium in association with a user who is the owner;
A total size calculating means for calculating a total size that is a sum of sizes of data associated with the same user among the data stored in the storage medium;
Oversize determining means for determining whether the calculated total size exceeds a threshold;
A compression unit that compresses any one or more of the data when the total size of the data associated with the same user is determined to exceed the threshold;
An image processing apparatus comprising: An image processing apparatus that can be used by a plurality of users,
Data management means for managing data for image processing by storing them in a storage medium in association with a user who is the owner;
A total size calculating means for calculating a total size that is a sum of sizes of data associated with the same user among the data stored in the storage medium;
Oversize determining means for determining whether the calculated total size exceeds a threshold;
Compression means for compressing the data;
Transmitting means for transmitting the data to another device;
A notification means for notifying the user when it is determined that the total size of the data associated with the same user exceeds the threshold;
From the user who received the notification, a first command that is a command to delete the specified data, a second command that is a command to save the specified data to another device, Or a command receiving means for receiving a third command that is a command to compress the specified data,
When the first command is accepted, the data management means deletes the data indicated in the first command,
When the second command is accepted, the transmission means transmits the data indicated by the second command to another device indicated by the second command, and the data management means , Delete the data,
When the third command is accepted, the compression means compresses the data indicated by the third command,
An image processing apparatus. Display means for displaying a command screen for the user to give one of the first to third commands;
Screen data transmission means for transmitting screen data for displaying the command screen,
When the user at the installation location of the image processing apparatus uses the image processing apparatus, the display means uses the list for designating the data to be deleted or compressed as the command screen, Display a screen provided with a button for selecting one command and a button for selecting the third command;
When the user uses the image processing apparatus by operating a terminal device connected via a network, the screen data transmission means is a target to be deleted, saved, or compressed as the screen data. A list for designating data, a button for selecting the first command, a button for selecting the second command indicating the terminal device as a save destination, and the third command Transmitting screen data for displaying a screen provided with a button to the terminal device;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 9. The display means displays the command screen immediately after the user at the installation location of the image processing apparatus logs on,
The screen data transmission means transmits the screen data immediately after the user logs on by operating the terminal device.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 10. A method of managing a storage medium used in an image processing apparatus that can be used by a plurality of users,
Data for image processing is stored in the storage medium in association with the user who is the owner,
Calculating a total size that is the sum of the sizes of the data stored in the storage medium associated with the same user;
Determining whether the calculated total size exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the total size of the data associated with the same user exceeds the threshold, any one or more of the data is set so that the total size is equal to or less than the threshold. From the storage medium,
And a storage medium management method. A computer program for controlling a storage medium used by an image processing apparatus that can be used by a plurality of users,
Processing for storing data for image processing in the storage medium in association with the user who is the owner;
A process of calculating a total size that is the sum of the sizes of the data stored in the storage medium associated with the same user;
A process of determining whether the calculated total size exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the total size of the data associated with the same user exceeds the threshold, any one or more of the data is set so that the total size is equal to or less than the threshold. Deleting from the storage medium;
A computer program for causing a computer to execute.