JP2009182753A - Image processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing device for providing high security and preventing the device from being used by an unidentified person, by confirming the existence of a user continuously after user identification. <P>SOLUTION: The image processing device includes a biological information reader 6 for reading a vein pattern of a finger of a hand of the user as biological information, performs user authentication by collating the biological information obtained from the information reader 6 with data registered beforehand, and when the user is identified, permits execution of various functions in the image processing device 1. Moreover, when the user continuously keeps putting the finger on the information reader 6, and thereby the information reader 6 is continuously in a biological-information readable state, the execution permitted state for the various functions is maintained in the image processing device 1. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus having at least one of an image forming function for forming an image based on input image data and an image reading function for reading an original and generating image data.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image processing apparatus called a multifunction peripheral or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) is known. Such an image processing apparatus has recently been used in a network environment. For example, image data obtained when a document is read by the image processing apparatus can be output to another computer via the network, or image processing can be performed. The apparatus can access a computer on a network, read out and output image data stored therein, and the like. Under such circumstances, an image processing apparatus is required to have a high security function in order to prevent information leakage using the image processing apparatus.

  Conventionally, as a technique for improving the security of an image processing apparatus, for example, a technique for performing fingerprint authentication by reading a user's fingerprint and permitting use of various functions in the image processing apparatus according to the authentication result is known (Patent Literature). 1). According to such a technique, various functions of the image processing apparatus cannot be used unless the user is specified by fingerprint authentication, so that the possibility that the image processing apparatus is used by an unspecified person is reduced.

JP 2005-123699 A

  However, in Patent Document 1, it is necessary for the user himself / herself to perform a logout operation after the user specified by fingerprint authentication uses the image processing apparatus. Therefore, when the user forgets to log out, the state in which various functions of the image processing apparatus can be used continues, and the image processing apparatus may be used by an unspecified person thereafter. . Therefore, it cannot be said that the technique of Patent Document 1 realizes perfect security.

  Conventionally, an image processing apparatus that automatically performs logout processing when a predetermined time elapses after the user logs in to the image processing apparatus without operating the operation panel is commercially available. According to such an image processing apparatus, even if the user forgets to log out, the logout process is automatically performed after a predetermined time has elapsed, and thereafter the image processing apparatus is prevented from being used by an unspecified person. be able to. However, even in this case, an unspecified person can use the image processing apparatus before the predetermined time has elapsed. For example, in an office environment where users using the image processing apparatus frequently change. It cannot be said that sufficient security is ensured.

Therefore, the present invention has been made for the purpose of solving the above-mentioned conventional problems, and after specifying a user, the presence of the user can be confirmed continuously, so that it is more sophisticated than before. An image processing apparatus that realizes security and is not used by an unspecified person is provided.

  In order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 1 is an image processing apparatus comprising: an image forming unit that forms an image based on input image data; and an image reading unit that reads an original and generates image data. User authentication is performed by checking image processing means having at least one, biometric information reading means for reading biometric information from a specific part of the user, and biometric information obtained from the biometric information reading means with data registered in advance, When the user can be specified, the function related to the image processing unit is permitted to be executed, and the function related to the image processing unit is continued when the biological information reading unit continues to read the biological information. And a control means for maintaining the execution permission state.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect, the control unit repeatedly acquires the biological information from the biological information reading unit even after permitting the execution of the function related to the image processing unit. It is characterized by performing user authentication each time.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus according to the first or second aspect, after the control unit permits execution of a function related to the image processing unit, the biological information reading unit reads biological information. When the state becomes impossible, the execution permission state of the function relating to the image processing means is terminated.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus according to the third aspect, the control means relates to the image processing means when the biological information reading means cannot read the biological information. When the function execution permission state is ended, the state of the work interrupted along with the end of the function is stored as interrupt work data in a predetermined storage unit, and then again based on the biological information obtained from the biological information reading unit. When the same user is specified, the suspended work data is read from the storage means and returned to the suspended work state.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the image processing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the control unit is configured to perform the image processing when the biological information reading unit cannot read the biological information. When the execution permission state of the function relating to the means is terminated, the execution of the job is interrupted even if the job designated by the image processing means is being executed.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an execution key operable by a user for starting execution of a job in the image processing means. Whether the biometric information reading unit continues to be able to read the biometric information after the control unit permits the execution of the function relating to the image processing unit and at least until the execution key is operated. It is characterized by repeatedly performing such determination.

  According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when the user authentication can be performed by collating the biometric information obtained from the biometric information reading unit with the pre-registered data and the user can be specified, the image processing unit The function of the image processing apparatus is allowed to be executed by an unspecified person to permit the execution of the function related to the image processing unit and to maintain the function execution permission state related to the image processing unit when the biometric information reading unit continues to be able to read the biometric information. It can be prevented from being used, and high security is realized.

  In particular, according to the image processing apparatus of the second aspect, the biometric information is repeatedly obtained from the biometric information reading unit and the user authentication is performed each time after the execution of the function related to the image processing unit is permitted, so that higher security is realized. Is done.

  According to another aspect of the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when the execution of the function relating to the image processing means is permitted and the biological information reading means becomes unable to read the biological information, the function relating to the image processing means is provided. Since the execution permission state ends, it can be prevented that the image processing apparatus is subsequently used by an unspecified person.

  According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when the biometric information reading unit becomes unable to read the biometric information, the image processing apparatus is interrupted when the execution permission state of the function related to the image processing unit is terminated. When the same user is identified again based on the biological information obtained from the biological information reading means, the interruption work data is read from the storage means. Since the suspended working state is restored, the operability of the image processing apparatus is improved.

  According to another aspect of the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when the biometric information reading unit becomes unable to read the biometric information, the image processing unit can terminate the function execution permission state related to the image processing unit. Even if the specified job is being executed, the execution of the job is interrupted, so that higher security is realized.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the sixth aspect, the biometric information reading unit continues to be able to read the biometric information until at least the execution key is operated after the execution of the function related to the image processing unit is permitted. The security level is high until the execution key is operated, and the specified job is executed continuously after the execution key is operated. become.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the member which is mutually common in some embodiment demonstrated below, and the description which repeats about them is abbreviate | omitted.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an image processing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. The image processing apparatus 1 is a so-called multifunction device or MFP, and has a plurality of functions such as a copy function, a FAX function, a printer function, and a scanner function. For example, the image processing apparatus 1 can be connected to a network such as a LAN. It can also be connected to a communication network such as a telephone line. The image processing apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 30 provided in the upper part of the apparatus main body 1a, and an image forming unit 40 provided in the inner center and the lower part.

  The image reading unit 30 is an image reading unit that reads a document and generates image data, and operates when, for example, the copy function, the FAX function, or the scanner function of the image processing apparatus 1 is used. The image reading unit 30 includes a scanner unit 32 provided on the upper part of the apparatus main body 1a, and a document conveying unit 31 that can rotate around a horizontal axis defined on the upper part of the apparatus main body 1a. The document transport unit 31 is used with the upper portion of the scanner unit 32 closed, and automatically transports the documents one by one to the scanner unit 32. The scanner unit 32 reads each original document conveyed by the original document conveyance unit 31 and generates image data. The scanner unit 32 can also read the original placed directly on the reading glass 32a and generate image data. For example, when the copy function is used in the image processing apparatus 1, the scanner unit 32 reads an original to generate image data, and outputs the image data to the image forming unit 40. When the FAX function or the scanner function is used, the scanner unit 32 reads an original to generate image data, and outputs the image data to the outside of the image processing apparatus 1. In the present embodiment, the document reading unit 31 is provided in the image reading unit 30, but the document transfer unit 31 is not essential.

  The image forming unit 40 is an image forming unit that forms an image based on input image data, and operates when, for example, the copy function, the FAX function, or the printer function of the image processing apparatus 1 is used. The image forming unit 40 includes a paper feed unit 41 that supplies paper serving as an image forming medium, and a printer unit 42 that forms an image on the paper supplied from the paper feed unit 41. For example, when the copy function is used in the image processing apparatus 1, the printer unit 42 forms an image on a sheet supplied from the sheet feeding unit 41 based on image data input from the image reading unit 30 and performs print output. . When the FAX function or the printer function is used, the printer unit 42 forms an image based on image data input from the outside of the image processing apparatus 1 and performs print output.

  A working table 4 is provided on the side surface of the apparatus main body 1 a of the image processing apparatus 1 at substantially the same height as the image reading unit 30. The working table 4 is used as a temporary work space by the user, and for example, a document to be read or a printed sheet can be temporarily placed thereon.

  On the front side of the apparatus main body 1a of the image processing apparatus 1, an operation panel 7 is provided as operation input means for performing various settings and operations when the user uses the image processing apparatus 1. The operation panel 7 includes a display unit 71 for displaying various kinds of information, and a touch panel 72 is provided on the front surface of the display unit 71. Around the display unit 71, a plurality of operation keys 73 such as an execution key 73a for instructing the image processing apparatus 1 to execute a job are arranged.

  A flat support 8 is attached to the side of the operation panel 7, and the biological information reader 6 is installed on the upper surface of the support 8. Although the support base 8 is attached to the left side of the operation panel 7 in the illustrated example, it can also be attached to the right side. For example, the user can operate the operation panel 7 with the dominant arm of the operation panel 7. It is attached to either one of the left and right side parts. Further, the support plate 8 may be attached so as to protrude to the front of the operation panel 7, or may be installed in a shelf shape below the operation panel 7.

  The biometric information reader 6 is a biometric information reader that reads biometric information from a specific part of the user. In this embodiment, the biometric information reader 6 is configured as a vein pattern reader that reads a vein blood vessel pattern from the finger of the user's hand. The biometric information reader 6 includes a recess 6a for placing a user's finger to be read, and this recess 6a serves as a reader for reading the finger vein pattern. The biometric information read by the biometric information reader 6 is output to the inside of the apparatus main body 1a, and the image processing apparatus 1 authenticates the user. That is, in the present embodiment, in the user authentication, vein authentication is performed to determine whether or not the vein pattern read by the biometric information reading device 6 matches the vein pattern of the user registered in advance in the image processing device 1.

  As described above, vein authentication uses a biometric feature called a vein pattern to authenticate a user. Therefore, when authentication is performed by reading features that appear in the user's appearance, such as fingerprint authentication or face authentication. Compared to the above, there is less psychological resistance given to the user, and there is an advantage that counterfeiting is extremely difficult. Therefore, the image processing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is easy to use and can perform user authentication at a high security level.

  The biometric information reading device 6 may read the vein pattern of the user's palm, but in that case, the size of the device increases. Therefore, in terms of downsizing the apparatus, it is more preferable to use an apparatus that reads the vein pattern of the finger of the user's hand as described above.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the apparatus main body 1 a of the image processing apparatus 1 is provided with a CPU 10, a memory 20, and a data communication unit 50 in addition to the image reading unit 30 and the image forming unit 40 described above. The image reading unit 30 and the image forming unit 40 constitute an image processing unit 1b in the image processing apparatus 1, and the image processing unit 1b performs various types of image processing in a copy function, a FAX function, a printer function, and a scanner function. . The data communication unit 50 includes a communication interface 51, and is connected to a network or a communication network to exchange data with an external device (for example, a computer or a FAX device).

  The biological information reader 6 includes a light projecting unit 61 disposed on the side surface of the recess 6a and an imaging unit 62 disposed on the bottom surface of the recess 6a, and the user having the light projecting unit 61 disposed in the recess 6a. Infrared light is irradiated from the side surface of the finger and light that passes through the finger and travels toward the bottom surface of the recess 6 a is incident on the imaging unit 62. The biological information reader 6 is always supplied with power from a power source (not shown) of the apparatus main body 1a, so that the light projecting unit 61 continuously irradiates infrared light, and the imaging unit 62 can always detect infrared light. It has become. The information output by the imaging unit 62 includes two types of information. One is specific part detection information that is continuously output in a state where the specific part (finger of the hand) of the user is disposed in the recess 6a. One is biometric information that reads and outputs a vein pattern of a specific part of the user when a reading command is received from the CPU 10. Therefore, the biological information reading device 6 constantly monitors whether or not the user's specific part is arranged in the recess 6a, and outputs the specific part detection information when the user's specific part is detected, and also in the recess 6a. While the user's specific part is arranged, the output state is maintained. In the meantime, when a reading command is received from the CPU 10, the biometric information reader 6 reads the vein pattern in response to it and outputs biometric information. The biological information is image data obtained by imaging a vein pattern, but the specific part detection information does not need to be image data, and may be simple on / off information.

  The memory 20 is a storage unit that stores various types of information, programs, and the like, and stores user management data 21 in this embodiment. The user management data 21 is data for managing users who can use the image processing apparatus 1 in order to improve the security of the image processing apparatus 1. In the user management data 21, biometric information registration data 21a and function registration data 21b are associated with each other and registered in advance for each user who is permitted to use the image processing apparatus 1. The biometric information registration data 21a is data in which biometric information read by the biometric information reading device 6 at the time of user registration is registered in advance. The function registration data 21b is data in which functions of the image processing apparatus 1 that can be used by registered users are registered in advance. For example, one user can use only the copy function of the image processing apparatus 1, but another user can use the copy function and the scanner function, and another user can use all the functions of the image processing apparatus 1. In the function registration data 21b, functions permitted for each user are registered.

  The CPU 10 is a control unit that controls the operation of the image processing apparatus 1, and functions as the control unit 11, the function execution unit 12, and the job execution unit 13 by executing a predetermined program.

  The control unit 11 inputs the user's biometric information (vein pattern) from the biometric information reading device 6 to authenticate the user, permits the execution of various functions in the image processing apparatus 1 based on the authentication result, and The presence of the user is continuously monitored based on information obtained from the information reading device 6, and the execution permission state of various functions is terminated when the presence of the user cannot be detected. The control unit 11 further functions as a specific part detection unit 11a and a biological information recognition unit 11b. Based on the specific part detection information input from the biological information reader 6, the specific part detector 11a constantly monitors whether or not the user's specific part is disposed in the recess 6a of the biological information reader 6. Thus, the presence of the user is detected. When the specific part detection unit 11a detects the presence of the user, the biometric information authentication unit 11b functions at least once in response thereto. The biometric information authenticating unit 11b sends a read command to the biometric information reading device 6 in a state where the specific site of the user is disposed in the recess 6a of the biometric information reading device 6, and the specific site of the user to the biometric information reading device 6 The biometric information is acquired by reading the vein pattern of the biometric information, and the biometric information is authenticated, that is, the user is authenticated by collating the acquired biometric information with the biometric information registration data 21a stored in the memory 20. It is configured. When the biometric information acquired from the biometric information reading device 6 matches any one of the biometric information of a plurality of users included in the biometric information registration data 21a, the registered user of the matched biometric information is specified.

  When the user is specified in this way, the control unit 11 outputs an execution permission command for various functions in the image processing apparatus 1 to the function execution unit 12 and outputs user information of the specified user. Note that if the user cannot be identified as a result of user authentication, the execution permission command and user information are not output from the control unit 11 to the function execution unit 12.

  The function execution unit 12 is configured to manage and control execution states of various functions in the image processing apparatus 1, and can use various functions in the image processing apparatus 1 when receiving an execution permission command from the control unit 11. To a different state. The function execution unit 12 receives user information together with an execution permission command from the control unit 11, and reads function registration data 21b from the memory 20 based on the user information. Then, the function registered in the function registration data 21b is specified for the specified user, and an execution permission state in which the function can be executed in the image processing apparatus 1 is set. Along with this, the function execution unit 12 updates the display screen of the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 from the initial screen, and operates an operation guidance screen (for example, for operating a function that is in the execution-permitted state in the image processing apparatus 1. A menu screen, a setting screen, and the like), and inputs from the touch panel 72 and the operation buttons 73 are received, and the input information is reflected in the permitted function. Thereby, for example, in the case of a copy function, setting of the number of copies, selection setting of duplex / single-sided copy, and the like are possible. When the execution key 73a is operated, a job execution command is sent to the job execution unit 13. The function execution unit 12 is configured to be able to grasp and manage the job execution status in the job execution unit 13 after sending a job execution command to the job execution unit 13.

  The job execution unit 13 controls each of the image reading unit 30, the image forming unit 40, and the data communication unit 50 based on the job execution command received from the function execution unit 12, thereby specifying the job specified in each unit. It is a means to execute. For example, in the case of a copy function, the image reading unit 30 is instructed to start reading a document, and image data output from the image reading unit 30 is given to the image forming unit 40 to cause the image forming unit 40 to perform print output. . When reading of all the originals is completed in the image reading unit 30 and print output based on the image data of all the originals is completed in the image forming unit 40, execution of the designated job ends normally.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when a user is specified based on the biometric information acquired from the biometric information reading device 6, a specific function permitted for the user in the image processing device 1 is in an execution-permitted state. The user can use the specific function. On the other hand, the control unit 11 continues to detect the presence of the user even after the specific function is permitted to be executed in the image processing apparatus 1, and at that time when the presence of the user cannot be detected. An execution prohibition command is sent to the function execution unit 12 in order to end the execution permission state of the specific function. Specifically, the specific part detection unit 11a monitors specific part detection information that is continuously turned on in a state in which the user's specific part is disposed in the recess 6a of the biological information reader 6, and this specific It is determined that the user no longer exists when the part detection information is turned off, and an execution prohibition command is sent to the function execution unit 12.

  When the function execution unit 12 receives the execution prohibition command from the control unit 11, the function execution unit 12 stops the execution of the function that is in the execution permitted state, and returns the operation state of each function to the initial state. Thereby, for example, even if the setting screen of the function that has been in the execution-permitted state is displayed on the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 and the user is in the middle of setting work for the setting screen, the display screen is the initial screen. Will return. When the function execution unit 12 receives an execution prohibition command from the control unit 11, the function execution unit 12 sends a job execution prohibition command to the job execution unit 13.

  When the job execution unit 13 receives a job execution prohibition command from the function execution unit 12, the job execution unit 13 stops the job execution. When the job execution unit 13 receives the job execution prohibition command, nothing is performed when the job is not being executed. On the other hand, when the job execution unit 13 receives a job execution prohibition command and the job is being executed, the job being executed is stopped. For example, when the job execution unit 13 receives a job execution prohibition command, a job for copying 10 originals is being executed, and print output (copy output) from the first sheet to the fifth sheet has been completed. If the print output process for the sixth and subsequent sheets has not yet started, the print output process for the sixth and subsequent sheets is not performed, and the job is terminated. If a job execution prohibition command is received during the print output process for the fifth sheet, for example, after the print output process for the fifth sheet is completed, the print output process for the sixth and subsequent sheets is performed. End the job without doing

  Therefore, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment can use the functions permitted to the user only when the user puts the registered finger in the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading apparatus 6, and the user can read the biological information. When the finger is removed from the device 6, the function cannot be used, and even if the job is being executed, the job is completed. Thus, extremely high security is realized.

  Next, the operation of the image processing apparatus 1 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed mainly by the control unit 11 and the function execution unit 12 of the CPU 10 in the image processing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment. The specific part detection unit 11a of the control unit 11 monitors whether or not the biological information reader 6 has detected the user's specific part based on information input from the biological information reader 6 (step S100). When the specific part detection information is input to the detection unit 11a (YES in step S100), the biometric information authentication unit 11b sends a read command to the biometric information reading device 6, and the biometric information reading device 6 specifies the user. The biometric information obtained by reading the part is input (step S101).

  Then, the biometric information authenticating unit 11b reads the biometric information registration data 21a from the memory 20, and compares the biometric information input from the biometric information reading device 6 with the biometric information registration data 21a to identify the user (step S102). ). If the user can be identified here (YES in step S103), the function execution unit 12 functions, reads the function registration data 21b from the memory 20, and determines the functions permitted for the identified user. This is performed (step S104).

  And the specific part detection part 11a of the control part 11 functions again, and it is determined whether the biometric information reader 6 has detected the user's specific part (step S105). When the specific part of the user is detected, the function execution unit 12 enters the function permitted for the identified user, and the user uses the permitted function of the image processing apparatus 1. (Step S106). If the function of the image processing apparatus 1 is already in the execution-permitted state, the process of step S106 is a process that continues that state as it is. Thereafter, as long as the biometric information reading device 6 detects a specific part of the user, the loop processing of steps S105 and S106 is repeated, and the execution permission state of the function permitted for the user is continued. Note that the processing procedure may be such that the positions where the processing of steps S105 and S106 are performed are interchanged.

  If it is determined in step S105 that the user's specific part has not been detected, it is determined that the user has left the image processing apparatus 1, execution of the function in the execution-permitted state is prohibited, and the function execution unit 12 executes the function. Is stopped and when the job is being executed in the job execution unit 13, the execution of the job is stopped halfway (step S107). Then, the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 is displayed as an initial screen (step S110), and the process ends.

  If the user cannot be specified in the determination in step S103, a warning screen indicating that the user cannot be specified is displayed on the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 (step S108). And it waits until it stops detecting a specific part of a user (Step S109), and when a user lifts a finger from living body information reading device 6, display part 71 of operation panel 7 is returned to an initial screen display (Step S110). The process ends.

  When the process of this flowchart is completed, the process is started again from step S100, and when the specific part of the user is detected, the above-described process is repeatedly executed. Note that the display mode of the initial screen may be any mode, for example, a mode in which the display of the display unit 71 is turned off.

  Further, after the function permitted by the user in step S106 is set in the execution permitted state, the process returns to step S101 as shown by the broken line in FIG. 3, and the biometric information is repeatedly acquired from the biometric information reading device 6 and the user authentication is performed each time. You may comprise as follows. In this case, as long as the user's pre-registered finger is placed in the concave portion 6a of the biometric information reading device 6, user authentication is repeatedly performed in the image processing device 1, so that higher security is realized.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes the biological information reading device 6 that reads biological information from a specific part of the user, and the biological information obtained from the biological information reading device 6 is registered in advance. When the user is authenticated by collating with the information registration data 21a and the user can be specified by the authentication, the specified user is logged in to the image processing apparatus 1, and the function in the image processing apparatus 1 is performed. And the execution permission state of the function of the image processing apparatus 1 is continued only when the biological information reading device 6 continues to be able to read the biological information from the specific part of the user. It is configured. Therefore, after the user is specified, the execution permission state of the function of the image processing apparatus 1 is continued while continuously checking the presence of the user, so that the unspecified person cannot use the image processing apparatus 1. An image processing apparatus with a high security level is realized.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is in a state in which it is impossible to read the biological information from the specific part of the user in the biological information reading apparatus 6 after permitting the execution of the function in the image processing apparatus 1 ( That is, when the user removes his / her finger from the concave portion 6a of the biometric information reading device 6, the function execution permission state in the image processing device 1 is terminated, so the user needs to perform a logout operation to terminate the login state. In addition, the operability is improved, and it is possible to prevent the image processing apparatus from being kept in a usable state due to forgetting to perform the logout operation. Thereafter, the image processing apparatus 1 can be prevented from being used by an unspecified person. It becomes like this. In particular, when the user removes his / her finger from the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading device 6, the image processing device 1 immediately ends the function execution permission state, so that the user who uses the image processing device frequently changes. Even in an office environment or the like, it is possible to prevent the image processing apparatus 1 from being used by an unspecified person, thereby ensuring sufficient security.

  In addition, when the user lifts his / her finger from the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading device 6, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment stops the execution of the job even when the job specified by the user is being executed. It is configured to let you. Therefore, for example, it is possible to prevent a print output or the like from being performed after the user leaves the image processing apparatus 1, and the possibility that the output content can be seen by an unspecified person can be reduced. It is a processing device.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment described above, the user can place the finger of one hand in the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading device 6 and use the image processing device 1 with the other hand. After the setting operation of the image processing apparatus 1 is performed by operating the operation panel 7, for example, when the finger is released from the biological information reading device 6 in order to set the document on the document transport unit 31, the display on the operation panel 7 is displayed at that time. The screen returns to the initial screen, and the previous setting work is wasted. In this case, after setting the document on the document transport unit 31, the user needs to start setting work again from the beginning with the finger placed in the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading device 6 again. In addition, when the job is being executed, the execution of the job is terminated halfway as the finger is removed from the biometric information reading device 6, so that the user desires to execute the job completely. Therefore, it is necessary to reset the job after the time when the execution of the job is interrupted and to instruct the execution of the job again.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the execution permission state of the function in the image processing apparatus 1 ends when the user lifts the finger from the biometric information reading device 6, the work state interrupted with the end is stored in the memory 20. After that, when the same user logs in again, the work state interrupted last time is read from the memory 20 and reflected, and the work can be continued from the time of the previous work interruption to improve the operability. The form which can do is demonstrated. In this embodiment, the external configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 is the same as that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 4, the same members as those described in the first embodiment (FIG. 2) are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted here. The image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that interrupt work data 22 is stored in the memory 20 by the function of the CPU 10. The interruption work data 22 is an operation (including job execution) that is interrupted when the function execution permission state of the image processing apparatus 1 ends when the user lifts his / her finger from the biological information reading apparatus 6. .) Is data in which the working state at the time of interruption is recorded, and is associated with the user. Hereinafter, the function of each unit using the interruption work data 22 will be described.

  The control unit 11 acquires biometric information from the biometric information reading device 6 when the user's specific part is placed in the concave portion 6a of the biometric information reading device 6, and collates the biometric information with the biometric information registration data 21a. User authentication. As a result, when a user is specified, an execution permission command for various functions in the image processing apparatus 1 is output to the function execution unit 12 and user information of the specified user is output.

  Thereby, the function execution unit 12 specifies a function permitted for the specified user based on the function registration data 21b, and an execution permission state in which the function can be executed in the image processing apparatus 1. To do. At this time, the function execution unit 12 accesses the memory 20 based on the user information and checks whether or not the interrupting work data 22 corresponding to the specified user is stored. If the interrupted work data 22 corresponding to the user specified here is found, the interrupted work data 22 is read out and reflected in the function in the execution permitted state. For example, when the work is interrupted during the setting operation on the setting screen of the operation panel 7, the display state of the operation panel 7 is returned to the setting screen during the operation based on the interrupted work data 22. Therefore, the work before the interruption is not wasted, and the user can continue the work before the interruption, thereby improving the operability. If the job is interrupted while the job is being executed, the function execution unit 12 identifies an unexecuted job based on the interrupted work data 22, and the job execution unit 13 specifies a job after the interruption. Outputs the job execution command to be executed. As a result, the job execution unit 13 executes the job after the interruption, so that it is not necessary for the user to reset the job and the operability is improved.

  Further, the control unit 11 continues to detect the presence of the user even after a specific function is permitted to be executed in the image processing apparatus 1. In order to end the execution permission state of the function, an execution prohibition command is sent to the function execution unit 12. When the function execution unit 12 receives the execution prohibition command from the control unit 11, the function execution unit 12 stops the execution of the function that has been in the execution permitted state. At this time, the function execution unit 12 converts the work state of the function that has been in the execution-permitted state into data, and stores it as the interrupted work data 22 in the memory 20. For example, when the execution of the function is stopped during the setting operation on the setting screen of the operation panel 7, the screen state and the setting state at that time are converted into data and stored as the interrupting work data 22. When the execution of the function is stopped during the execution of the job, the job being executed and the execution status of the job at that time are converted into data and stored as the interrupted work data 22.

  As described above, when the function execution unit 12 receives the execution prohibition command from the control unit 11, the function execution unit 12 stops the execution of the function that has been in the execution-permitted state, and converts the work state of the function that has been in the execution-permitted state into data. By storing the interrupted work data 22 in the memory 20, when the same user again places a specific part (a finger of the hand) in the recess 6 a of the biological information reading device 6, the image processing apparatus 1 prompts the user again. The permitted function is allowed to execute, and the previously interrupted work state is restored, so that the work can be continued.

  FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed mainly by the control unit 11 and the function execution unit 12 of the CPU 10 in the image processing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 5, the processes of steps S200 to S204 are the same as the processes of steps S100 to S104 of FIG. That is, when the specific part detection information is input from the biological information reading device 6 to the control unit 11 (YES in step S200), the control unit 11 reads the biological information obtained by reading the specific part of the user from the biological information reading device 6. Obtaining (step S201), the biometric information is collated with the biometric information registration data 21a (step S202). As a result, when the user can be specified (YES in step S203), the function execution unit 12 reads the function registration data 21b from the memory 20 and determines the functions permitted for the specified user. Is performed (step S204).

  Thereafter, in the present embodiment, the function execution unit 12 performs an interrupted work return process (step S205). FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a detailed processing procedure of the interrupted work return processing (step S205). First, the function execution unit 12 accesses the memory 20 and checks whether or not the interrupted work data 22 corresponding to the identified user is stored (step S220). If interrupted work data 22 corresponding to the specified user is stored (YES in step S221), the interrupted work data 22 is read from the memory 20 (step S222), and the interrupted work data 22 is stored in each function. The work state at the previous interruption is set as the work state of the image processing apparatus 1 (step S223). As a result, the previously interrupted work in the image processing apparatus 1 is restored. On the other hand, if the interrupted work data 22 corresponding to the specified user is not stored, NO is determined in step S221, and initial states of various functions are set as the work state of the image processing apparatus 1 (step S224). Thereby, a new work is set in the image processing apparatus 1, and the user can use various functions from the initial state. Thereafter, the interrupted work return process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 5, when the interrupted work return process (step S <b> 205) ends, the specific part detection unit 11 a of the control unit 11 functions to determine whether or not the biological information reader 6 has detected the specific part of the user. (Step S206). When a specific part of the user is detected, in the function execution unit 12, the function permitted for the identified user is in the execution permitted state, and the user uses the permitted function of the image processing apparatus 1. (Step S207). At this time, if there is a work interrupted at the previous work, the work state at the time of the interruption is restored, and each function is allowed to be executed. For example, if the previous work was interrupted in the middle of the setting operation on the setting screen of the operation panel 7, the display state of the operation panel 7 returns to the setting screen in the middle of the operation and continues from the previous working state. Operation becomes possible. If the job being executed was interrupted during the previous work, the function execution unit 12 outputs a job execution command for executing the remaining job to the job execution unit 13, and the image processing apparatus In 1, the remaining jobs are executed. When performing the process of step S207, if the function of the image processing apparatus 1 is already in the execution-permitted state, step S207 is a process of continuing that state as it is.

  Thereafter, as long as the biometric information reading device 6 detects a specific part of the user, the loop processing of steps S206 and S207 is repeated, and the execution permission state of the function permitted to the user is continued. In the present embodiment, the processing procedure may be such that the positions where the processing in steps S206 and S207 are performed are interchanged.

  If it is determined in step S206 that the user's specific part has not been detected, it is determined that the user has left the image processing apparatus 1, execution of the function in the execution permission state is prohibited, and the function execution unit 12 executes the function. Is stopped and when the job is being executed in the job execution unit 13, the execution of the job is stopped halfway (step S208). In the present embodiment, when there is a work to be interrupted when the execution-permitted state function is stopped, the work state at the time of the interruption is converted into data to generate the interrupted work data 22, and the interruption is performed. The work data 22 is stored in the memory 20 (step S209). If there is no work that is interrupted when the function is stopped, such as when the user has not performed any operation on the function that is in the execution-permitted state, the interrupt work data 22 is not generated, and the step The process of S209 is skipped. Then, the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 becomes the initial screen display (step S212), and the process ends.

  If the user cannot be specified in step S203, a warning screen indicating that the user cannot be specified is displayed on the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 (step S210), and the user is specified. Wait until no part is detected (step S211), and when the user lifts the finger from the biological information reader 6, the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 is returned to the initial screen display (step S212), and the process is terminated. .

  Also in this embodiment, when the process of the flowchart of FIG. 5 is completed, the process is started again from step S200, and when the user's specific part is detected, the above-described process is repeatedly executed. Therefore, when the user releases his / her finger from the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading device 6 in order to perform a two-hand operation such as setting a document on the document conveying unit 31 during the setting operation on the operation panel 7, the setting is performed. The operation is temporarily interrupted, and the display screen of the operation panel 7 returns to the initial screen. However, after the two-hand operation is finished, the specific finger is again placed in the concave portion 6a of the biological information reading device 6 to be interrupted in the image processing apparatus 1. The operating state is restored, and the operation panel 7 displays a screen that reflects the setting details during the operation. Therefore, it is not necessary to re-set the settings that were set before the two-hand operation, and the setting operation can be continued. Will be able to.

  Also in this embodiment, the processing after the function permitted by the user in step S207 is set to the execution-permitted state is returned to step S201 as indicated by the broken line in FIG. The user authentication may be performed each time. In this case, as long as the user's pre-registered finger is placed in the concave portion 6a of the biometric information reading device 6, user authentication is repeatedly performed in the image processing device 1, so that higher security is realized. However, in this case, in order to prevent the work state interrupted last time in the interrupted work return process (step S205) from being repeatedly reflected in the image processing apparatus 1, the interrupted work is restored from the memory 20 in the interrupted work return process (step S205). When the data 22 is read and reflected, it is preferable to delete the interruption work data 22 from the memory 20.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment executes the functions of the image processing apparatus 1 while identifying the user and continuously confirming the presence of the user, as in the first embodiment. Since the permission state is continued, an unspecified person cannot use the image processing apparatus 1, and an image processing apparatus with a high security level is realized.

  In addition, in the present embodiment, after the function permitted by the user in the image processing device 1 is set to the execution-permitted state, the biometric information reading device 6 becomes unable to read the biometric information of the user. The state of work interrupted when the function execution permission state in the image processing apparatus 1 is terminated is stored in the memory 20 as the interrupt work data 22, and then the biometric information obtained from the biometric information reading device 6 is stored. When the same user is specified again based on the above, the interrupted work data 22 is read from the memory 20 and returned to the previously interrupted work state. Therefore, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment does not require the user to set the work state before the interruption again, and the operability when using various functions is improved.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment described above, when the interrupted work data 22 corresponding to the user specified by the user authentication is stored in the memory 20, the interrupted work data 22 is always reflected, and the previously interrupted work is It is executed continuously. However, the user may not always want to continue from the work state that was interrupted last time. For example, when copying of a plurality of documents is completed, when all the documents have been read but the print output (copy output) has not been completed, and the user notices an error in the document, the user uses the biometric information reader 6. If the finger is removed from the recess 6a, the print output is interrupted. In such a case, the user may not wish to continue the interrupted print output.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, a mode will be described in which the user himself / herself can select whether or not to continuously execute the previously interrupted work state based on the interrupted work data 22. The external configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 in this embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1, and the functional configuration is the same as that in FIG. The main processing procedure executed by the CPU 10 in this embodiment is the same as the flowchart of FIG. 5 described in the second embodiment, but details of the interrupted work return processing (step S205) are the same in this embodiment. This is different from the second embodiment. Details of the interrupted work return process (step S205) in the present embodiment will be described below.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a detailed processing procedure of the interrupted work return processing (step S205) in the present embodiment. In this process, first, the function execution unit 12 accesses the memory 20 and checks whether or not the interrupting work data 22 corresponding to the user specified by the user authentication is stored (step S230). If interrupted work data 22 corresponding to the specified user is stored (YES in step S231), the interrupted work data 22 is read from the memory 20 (step S232).

  The function execution unit 12 displays a work continuation confirmation screen on the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a work continuation confirmation screen G1 displayed on the operation panel 7 at this time. As shown in FIG. 8, buttons B1 and B2 that can be operated alternatively by the user are displayed on the work continuation confirmation screen G1. The button B1 is a button operated by the user when the user wants to continue the previously interrupted work, and the button B2 is a button operated by the user when the user does not want to continue the previously interrupted work. Therefore, the user can select and set the work state in the image processing apparatus 1 by determining whether or not to continue the work interrupted last time and operating one of the buttons B1 and B2. .

  The function execution unit 12 determines which of the buttons B1 and B2 is selected by the user via the operation panel 7 (step S234), and when the operation is continued (that is, when the user operates the button B1). Reflects the interruption work data 22 read from the memory 20 to each function, and sets the work state at the previous interruption as the work state of the image processing apparatus 1 (step S235). As a result, the previously interrupted work in the image processing apparatus 1 is restored.

  On the other hand, when the work is not continued (that is, when the user operates the button B2), NO is determined in step S234, and the suspended work data 22 read from the memory 20 is discarded and stored in the memory 20. The interrupted work data 22 is deleted (step S236), and the initial state of various functions is set as the work state of the image processing apparatus 1 (step S237). As a result, the stored state of the interrupted work data 22 is canceled, and a new work is set in the image processing apparatus 1 so that the user can use various functions from the initial state.

  Further, as a result of checking whether or not the interrupting work data 22 corresponding to the user specified in step S230 is stored, if the interrupting work data 22 is not stored, NO is determined in step S231. Then, the initial state of various functions is set as the working state of the image processing apparatus 1 (step S237).

  When the process of step S235 or S237 is performed, the interrupted work return process (step S205) of the present embodiment is completed, and then the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment has the same functions and effects as those of the first and second embodiments, and the interrupt work data 22 is stored in the memory 20. In this case, since it is configured to allow the user to select whether to reflect the work state at the time of the previous work interruption based on the interrupted work data 22, the interrupted work can be continuously performed, It is also possible to redo the work from the beginning by discarding the interrupted work.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the first to third embodiments described above, when the finger is removed from the biological information reading device 6, the image processing device 1 interrupts the execution of the job even while the job is being executed. Therefore, although it can be said that each embodiment described above achieves a very high level of security, on the other hand, for example, when copying a large amount of documents, the user instructs the start of a copy operation (start of job execution). Even after the execution key 73a is operated, the finger cannot be released from the biological information reading device 6 until all the print output (copy output) is completed, and there is a possibility that other work cannot be performed for a long time. .

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, a mode in which the execution of the instructed job can be completed without interrupting the execution of the job at least after an instruction to start execution of the job is given. The external configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 in this embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1, and the functional configuration is the same as that in FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed mainly by the control unit 11 and the function execution unit 12 of the CPU 10 in the image processing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 9, the processing of steps S300 to S306 is the same as the processing of steps S100 to S106 of FIG. That is, when the specific part detection information is input from the biological information reading device 6 to the control unit 11 (YES in step S300), the control unit 11 reads the biological information obtained by reading the specific part of the user from the biological information reading device 6. The biometric information is acquired (step S301), and the biometric information is collated with the biometric information registration data 21a (step S302). As a result, when the user can be specified (YES in step S303), the function execution unit 12 reads the function registration data 21b from the memory 20 and determines the functions permitted for the specified user. Is performed (step S304). Then, it is determined whether or not the biometric information reading device 6 has detected a specific part of the user (step S305), and if the specific part of the user has been detected (YES in step S305), it is specified. The function permitted to the user is placed in the execution permitted state, and the user can use the permitted function of the image processing apparatus 1 (step S306). If the function of the image processing apparatus 1 is already in the execution-permitted state, the processing in step S306 is processing that continues that state as it is.

  In this embodiment, after step S306, the function execution unit 12 determines whether or not the user has operated the execution key 73a via the operation panel 7 (step S307). If the user has not operated the execution key 73a, the process returns from step S307 to step S305. Therefore, the loop processing of steps S305 and S306 is repeatedly executed when the biometric information reading device 6 detects a specific part of the user and the user does not operate the execution key 73a. The execution permission state of the permitted function continues. In the present embodiment, the processing procedure may be such that the positions for performing the processing in steps S305 and S306 are interchanged.

  When the execution permission state of the function is continued in the image processing apparatus 1, if the user operates the execution key 73a to start execution of the job, the determination in step S307 is YES, and the loop processing in steps S305 and S306 is performed. Exit. Therefore, after that, even if the user removes his / her finger from the biological information reading device 6, the execution state of various functions does not stop in the image processing device 1. The function execution unit 12 outputs a job execution command to the job execution unit 13 in response to the operation of the execution key 73a, and executes the job specified by the user (step S308). Thereafter, the function execution unit 12 waits until the job execution unit 13 finishes executing the job (step S309). When the job execution is completed, the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 is displayed as an initial screen display (step S313). ), The process is terminated.

  If the specific part of the user is not detected by the determination in step S305, it is determined that the user has left the image processing apparatus 1, and the function in the execution permission state is prohibited from being executed, and the function execution unit 12 executes the function. Stops (step S310). In the present embodiment, since the job is not executed in step S310, the execution of the job does not stop halfway. Thereafter, the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 is displayed as an initial screen (step S313), and the process ends.

  If the user cannot be specified in step S303, a warning screen indicating that the user cannot be specified is displayed on the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 (step S311). The system waits until no part is detected (step S312). When the user removes his / her finger from the biological information reader 6, the display unit 71 of the operation panel 7 is returned to the initial screen display (step S313), and the process is terminated. .

  Also in this embodiment, when the process of the flowchart of FIG. 9 is completed, the process is started again from step S300, and when the user's specific part is detected, the above-described process is repeatedly executed.

  As described above, in the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, at least the execution key 73a is operated after a user is identified as a result of performing user authentication and various functions of the image processing apparatus 1 are permitted to be executed. In the meantime, the biometric information reading device 6 is configured to repeatedly determine whether or not the biometric information can be read from the specific part of the user. If the finger is removed from the device 6, the execution permission state of various functions is completed, so that an unspecified person cannot use the image processing device 1, and an image processing device with a high security level is realized. If the user releases the biometric information reading device 6 after operating the execution key 73a, the execution of the job is not interrupted and the execution is performed up to the end of the job designated in the image processing apparatus 1. Therefore, after the user operates the execution key 73a, the user can perform another work by removing his / her finger from the biological information reading device 6, and the operability and convenience of the image processing apparatus 1 are further improved. .

  In the present embodiment as well, when the user releases his / her finger from the biological information reading device 6 until the execution key 73a is operated, the execution permission state of various functions of the image processing device 1 is terminated. As described in the second embodiment, the work interruption data 22 is stored in the memory 20, and then, when the same user is specified again, the work interruption data 22 is read from the memory 20 and interrupted last time. You may comprise so that a working state may be returned. At that time, as described in the third embodiment, the user may be allowed to select whether or not to restore the previously interrupted work state.

(Modification)
As mentioned above, although several embodiment regarding this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the thing of the content mentioned above, A various modification is applicable to this invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the biological information reading device 6 is installed beside the operation panel 7 has been described. However, the installation position of the biological information reading device 6 is not limited to the side of the operation panel 7, and the image processing device 1 is installed. On the other hand, it can be installed at an arbitrary position. Moreover, you may employ | adopt a structure like FIG. FIG. 10 is a view showing a modified example of the biological information reader 6. The biometric information reading device 6 in FIG. 10 includes a main body 6b that includes the light projecting unit 61 and the imaging unit 62 described above, and a cable 6c that is connected to the apparatus main body 1a of the image processing apparatus 1. The main body 6b can be attached to the finger of the user's hand using a clip structure or a band member, and the cable 6c is long enough for the user to perform a two-hand operation around the image processing apparatus 1. ing. By configuring the biometric information reading device 6 so that the biometric information reading device 6 can be attached to the user's finger in this way, the user can perform a two-handed operation while wearing the biometric information reading device 6. The operability is further improved.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, the case where the biometric information reader 6 reads the vein pattern of a user's finger | toe as biometric information was illustrated. However, in the present invention, the biological information is not limited to the vein pattern, and other information such as a fingerprint may be read as the biological information. However, when authentication is performed by reading features that appear in the user's appearance such as fingerprints, the psychological resistance given to the user increases, and counterfeiting becomes relatively easy. In terms of ensuring, a configuration in which a vein pattern is read as biological information as described in the above embodiment is more preferable.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the image processing apparatus 1 illustrated the form provided with both the image reading part 30 and the image formation part 40 as the image processing means 1b, this invention is limited to such a form. It may be provided with either one of the image reading unit 30 and the image forming unit 40.

1 is a perspective view illustrating an external configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed by the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is the block diagram which showed the functional structure of the image processing apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process sequence performed by the image processing apparatus of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process sequence of the interruption work return process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process sequence of the interruption work return process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the work continuation confirmation screen displayed on the operation panel in 3rd Embodiment. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed by the image processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. It is a figure which shows the modification of a biometric information reader.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image processing apparatus 1b Image processing means 6 Biological information reader (Biometric information reading means)
10 CPU (control means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Control part 11a Specific site | part detection part 11b Biometric information authentication part 12 Function execution part 13 Job execution part 20 Memory (storage means)
21 User management data 21a Biometric information registration data 22 Interruption work data 30 Image reading unit (image reading means)
40 Image forming unit (image forming means)

Claims (6)

An image processing means having at least one of an image forming means for forming an image based on input image data and an image reading means for reading an original to generate image data;
Biometric information reading means for reading biometric information from a specific part of the user;
When user authentication is performed by collating biometric information obtained from the biometric information reading unit with pre-registered data and a user can be specified, execution of a function related to the image processing unit is permitted. Control means for maintaining the execution permission state of the function relating to the image processing means when the biometric information reading means continues to be able to read the biometric information;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit repeatedly acquires biometric information from the biometric information reading unit and performs user authentication each time after permitting execution of a function related to the image processing unit. .   If the control means permits the execution of the function related to the image processing means and then the biometric information reading means becomes unable to read the biometric information, the control means sets the execution permission state of the function related to the image processing means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is terminated.   The control means, when the biometric information reading means has become incapable of reading biometric information, when ending the execution permission state of the function related to the image processing means, work interrupted along with the end If the same user is identified again based on the biological information obtained from the biological information reading means, the interruption work data is read from the storage means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the image processing apparatus returns to the interrupted work state.   When the biometric information reading unit is incapable of reading biometric information, the control unit sets the job designated by the image processing unit when ending the execution permission state of the function related to the image processing unit. 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein execution of the job is interrupted even when the operation is being executed. The image processing means further includes an execution key operable by a user for starting execution of a job,
Whether the biometric information reading unit continues to be able to read the biometric information after the control unit permits the execution of the function related to the image processing unit and at least until the execution key is operated. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination is repeatedly performed.

Images