JP2011130274A - Information processor, information processing system, information processing method, information processing program and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information processor capable of identifying the origin of a copied printed material, even when faithful copying of the printed material is repeatedly performed, an information processing system, an information processing method, an information processing program and a storage medium. <P>SOLUTION: An image data acquiring section 42 acquires image data read from a printed material by an MFP 70. An origin information acquiring section 44 acquires origin information, showing the origin of the printed material based on the image data. A generation section 46 generates identification information which identifies the origin information. An extraction section 48 extracts identification information embedded in the image data. A registration section 50 registers the generated identification information, the origin information and the extracted identification information, in an origin history storing section 32 by relating them to one another. A removal section 52 removes the identification information from the image data. An embedding section 54 embeds the identification information in the image data. A printing instruction section 56 causes the MFP 70 to print the image data, with the identification information embedded therein. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, an information processing program, and a storage medium.

  In recent years, leakage of confidential information from inside the organization has become a serious problem, and efforts are being made for countermeasures against confidential leakage. For example, for information leakage due to electronic documents, electronic data, etc., there are measures using security techniques such as encryption techniques and authentication techniques. Further, there is a countermeasure using information embedding technology for information leakage due to a printed matter on which an electronic document or electronic data is printed.

  As one of countermeasures against confidential leakage using information embedding technology, there is a technology for tracking the origin of printed matter. For example, when printing an electronic document, this technology embeds print information such as a printer name and print date and electronic document information such as a document name and creator of the electronic document as source information, and prints it from the printed matter. By extracting the embedded origin information, the origin of the printed matter is traced.

  By the way, if the printed material in which the source information is embedded is copied, the source information embedded in the original printed material is copied to the copied printed material, but the source information indicating the source of this copy is copied. Is not embedded, so the source of the copy is not known.

  For this reason, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which, when additional information is embedded in image data of a printed matter, the additional information is extracted, new additional information is added to the extracted additional information, and embedded in the image data. It is disclosed. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a technique of reading a content ID from a copy original of a content, specifying an original from the read content ID, and embedding and outputting a new content ID in the specified original.

  However, in the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a case where it is impossible to embed all the additional information necessary for specifying the source because there is a limit on the capacity of the additional information that can be embedded. If it repeats, a part of additional information will be deleted. For this reason, in the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is assumed that the source cannot be specified. In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2, since the original is printed instead of being copied, the handwritten memo, the record, or the stamp stamped on the copy original is not copied.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, and information capable of specifying the origin of a copied printed material even when a faithful copy of the printed material is repeatedly performed. It is an object to provide a processing program and a storage medium.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, an information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes an image data acquisition unit configured to acquire image data read from a printed matter by an image forming apparatus, and the image data Source information acquisition means for acquiring source information indicating the origin of the printed matter based on the information, generation means for generating identification information embedded in the image data that identifies the source information, and extraction processing for the image data Extraction means for extracting the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data, the identification information generated by the generation means, the origin information, and extracted by the extraction means A registration unit for registering the identification information in association with the source history storage unit, and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit. Removing means for removing from the image data, embedding means for embedding the identification information generated by the generating means in the image data, and the image forming apparatus for processing the image data embedded with the identification information generated by the generating means Printing instruction means for causing the printer to print.

  An information processing system according to another aspect of the present invention includes the information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus connected to the information processing apparatus via a network, and the image data acquisition unit includes the image data acquisition unit. The image data transmitted from the forming apparatus is received, and the print instruction unit transmits the image data in which the identification information generated by the generating unit is embedded to the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus Reading means for reading the image data from the printed material, transmitting means for transmitting the read image data to the information processing apparatus, and receiving means for receiving the image data in which the identification information is embedded from the information processing apparatus And printing means for printing the received image data to generate a printed matter.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing method in which an image data obtaining unit obtains image data read from a printed matter by an image forming apparatus, and a source information obtaining unit includes the image data A source information acquisition step for acquiring source information indicating the source of the printed matter based on the above, a generation unit for generating the identification information embedded in the image data, which is information for identifying the source information, and an extraction unit An extraction step for performing extraction processing on the image data and extracting the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data; and the identification information generated by the generation unit. And a registration step for registering the source information and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit in the source history storage unit in association with each other. A removal step in which the removal means removes the identification information extracted by the extraction means from the image data; and an embedding means embeds the identification information generated by the generation means in the image data. The embedding step and the print instructing unit include a print instructing step for causing the image forming apparatus to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generating unit is embedded.

  An information processing method according to another aspect of the present invention is an information processing method executed by an information processing system including an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus connected to the information processing apparatus via a network. The information processing apparatus includes an image data acquisition step in which the image data acquisition means acquires image data read from the printed material by the image forming apparatus, and an origin information acquisition means determines the origin of the printed material based on the image data. A source information acquisition step for acquiring source information, a generation step for generating identification information embedded in the image data, wherein the generation unit is information for identifying the source information, and an extraction unit for the image data An extraction step for extracting the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data; A registration step in which the stage registers the identification information generated by the generation unit, the source information, and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit in association with the source history storage unit; Removing the identification information extracted by the extraction means from the image data; embedding means for embedding the identification information generated by the generation means in the image data; and printing A printing instruction step for causing the image forming apparatus to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generating means is embedded, and the image forming apparatus includes: A reading step of reading image data, a transmitting step of transmitting the read image data to the information processing apparatus, and a receiving unit; The step includes a receiving step of receiving the image data in which the identification information is embedded from the information processing apparatus, and a printing unit that prints the received image data to generate a printed matter. It is characterized by.

  An information processing program according to another aspect of the present invention is for causing a computer to execute the information processing method.

  A storage medium according to another aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable medium storing the information processing program.

  According to the present invention, there is an effect that the origin of a copied printed material can be specified even if faithful copying of the printed material is repeated.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a source history stored in the source history storage unit of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the server apparatus at the time of copy processing performed in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the server device during the tracking process performed in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information processing system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a source / distribution history stored in the source history storage unit of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the server apparatus at the time of copy processing performed in the information processing system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the server device during the tracking process performed in the information processing system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information processing system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the server apparatus at the time of copy processing performed in the information processing system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the server device during the tracking process performed in the information processing system according to the third embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, an information processing program, and a storage medium according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each of the following embodiments, a server device will be described as an example of an information processing device. As an image forming device, at least a printer function, a scanner function, and a copy function among a printer function, a scanner function, a copy function, and a facsimile function will be described. An MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) having a function will be described as an example, but is not limited thereto.

(First embodiment)
First, an overview of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

  When copying a printed matter, the information processing system according to the first embodiment extracts the origin information of the printed matter after copying, the identification information for identifying the origin information, and the image data of the copy source printed matter (original). The identification information for identifying the origin information of the printed matter is registered in the origin history storage unit in association with it. The information processing system removes the identification information for identifying the origin information of the printed matter from the image data of the copy source printed matter, and embeds the identification information for identifying the origin information of the printed matter after the copy, The image data in which the identification information for identifying the image is embedded is printed on a recording sheet to create a printed matter after copying.

  Further, the information processing system extracts identification information for identifying the origin information of the printed matter from the image data of the printed matter after copying, searches the origin history storage unit for the origin information associated with the extracted identification information, and outputs it To do.

  Next, the configuration of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes an MFP 70 that performs a copy of a printed material and reading image data, a server device 10 that manages and tracks the origin of the printed material, and displays a tracking result (origin information). And a PC (Personal Computer) 80 for performing the above. Each device of the information processing system 1 is connected via the network 2. Note that the information processing system 1 may include a plurality of PCs or a plurality of MFPs. The network 2 may be any network regardless of wired or wireless, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a public communication line.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the server device 10 includes a communication unit 20, a storage unit 30, and a control unit 40.

  The communication unit 20 communicates with external devices such as the MFP 70 and the PC 80 via the network 2 and can be realized by an existing communication device such as a communication interface. For example, the communication unit 20 transmits / receives image data to / from the MFP 70 and transmits a tracking result (source information) to the PC 80.

  The storage unit 30 stores various programs executed by the server device 10 and various information used for various processes performed by the server device 10. The storage unit 30 is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), a memory card, an optical disk, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), or the like, magnetic, optical, or electrical. It can be realized by an existing storage device that can store the data. The storage unit 30 includes a source history storage unit 32. Details of the source history storage unit 32 will be described later.

  The control unit 40 controls each unit of the server device 10 and can be realized by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like. Then, the control unit 40 includes an image data acquisition unit 42, a source information acquisition unit 44, a generation unit 46, an extraction unit 48, a registration unit 50, a removal unit 52, an embedding unit 54, and a print instruction. A unit 56, a search unit 58, and an output unit 60 are included.

  The image data acquisition unit 42 acquires image data read from the printed material by the MFP 70. Specifically, the image data acquisition unit 42 acquires mode information indicating whether the mode is the copy mode or the tracking mode, which is information input to the MFP 70 together with the image data read by the MFP 70. Note that the image data read by the MFP 70 and the mode information input to the MFP 70 are transmitted from the MFP 70, received by the communication unit 20, and acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42.

  The source information acquisition unit 44 acquires source information indicating the source of the printed material based on the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42. For example, the origin information acquisition unit 44 acquires the origin information transmitted from the MFP 70 or the PC 80 and received by the communication unit 20. Here, the origin information is information necessary for tracking the origin (copy source) of the printed matter on which the image data is printed (printed matter after copying), and includes the user name, date / time, device number, or print setting. The print information shown is applicable. With this source information, it is possible to track who, when and where the printed material was copied.

  The generation unit 46 generates the identification information embedded in the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 that is information for identifying the source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44. For example, the generation unit 46 refers to the identification information registered in the source history storage unit 32 described later, and the identification information that can uniquely identify the source information, that is, the identification not registered in the source history storage unit 32 Generate information. In the present embodiment, the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 is information such as letters and numbers that can be read by the user.

  The extraction unit 48 performs an extraction process for extracting identification information from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42, and extracts the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data. In the present embodiment, as will be described later, since the identification information is converted into a two-dimensional code such as a two-dimensional code that cannot be read by the user or is difficult to understand (device readable method) and embedded in the image data, The information is converted (returned) and extracted into identification information in a form that can be read by the user. Note that if the origin information is not embedded in the image data, the origin information is not extracted.

  The registration unit 50 associates the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 with the source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44 and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48 in the source history storage unit 32. sign up. However, the registration unit 50 associates the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 with the source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44 if the identification information is not extracted by the extraction unit 48. Register in the source history storage unit 32.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a source history stored in the source history storage unit 32 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the source history storage unit 32 stores identification information, a document / copy category, a user name, a print / copy date, a device number, and document identification information in association with each other. Yes. Here, the “identification information” corresponds to the identification information generated by the generation unit 46, that is, the identification information for identifying the origin information of the printed matter after copying. Further, “user name”, “print / copy date / time”, and “device number” correspond to source information, that is, source information of printed matter after copying. The “document identification information” corresponds to the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48, that is, the identification information for identifying the origin information of the copy-source printed matter.

  The registration unit 50 registers “copy” in the document / copy category when the identification information is extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42. The registration unit 50 registers “document & copy” in the document / copy category when the identification information is not extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42. The registration unit 50 registers “original” in the original / copy category when printing an electronic document transmitted from the PC 80 or the like, that is, when generating and printing image data from the electronic document.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the removal unit 52 removes the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48 from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42.

  The embedding unit 54 embeds the identification information generated by the generating unit 46 in the image data acquired by the image data acquiring unit 42. In the present embodiment, the embedding unit 54 converts the identification information generated by the generating unit 46 into a two-dimensional code or the like and embeds it in the image data (embeds in an unreadable or difficult manner for the user).

  The print instruction unit 56 causes the MFP 70 to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 is embedded. Specifically, the print instruction unit 56 transmits the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 is embedded from the communication unit 20 to the MFP 70 and prints it on recording paper.

  Note that the origin information acquisition unit 44, the generation unit 46, the registration unit 50, the removal unit 52, the embedding unit 54, and the print instruction unit 56 are used when the mode information acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 indicates a copy mode. The above-described processing is performed.

  The search unit 58 searches the source history storage unit 32 for source information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48.

  The output unit 60 outputs the origin information searched by the search unit 58. Specifically, the output unit 60 transmits the origin information searched by the search unit 58 from the communication unit 20 to the PC 80 and displays the information on a display unit (not shown) such as a display of the PC 80. In the case of the example shown in FIG. 2, the output unit 60 may output the document / copy category associated with the source information together with the source information searched by the search unit 58.

  The search unit 58 and the output unit 60 perform the above-described processing when the mode information acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 indicates the tracking mode.

  Although detailed description is omitted, the server device 10 of the present embodiment embeds identification information not only when embedding identification information when copying a printed matter but also when printing an electronic document. That is, the server device 10 of the present embodiment receives an electronic document to be printed and origin information from an external device such as the PC 80, and generates identification information for identifying the image data of the received electronic document and the received origin information. Then, the server device 10 associates the source information and the identification information and registers them in the source history storage unit, embeds the identification information in the image data of the electronic document, and causes the MFP 70 to print the information.

  As described above, the MFP 70 is a multifunction device that performs copying of printed matter and reading of image data. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the MFP 70 includes an input unit 72, a reading unit 74, a communication unit 76, and a printing unit 78. Is provided.

  The input unit 72 performs various inputs such as input of print origin information and mode information based on image data read by the reading unit 74, and is performed by an existing input device such as a key switch, a touch panel, or a card reader. realizable. For example, when the input unit 72 is a card reader, the user inputs a user name or the like as origin information of image data read by the reading unit 74 by causing the card reader to read an IC card such as an employee card. The source information is input when mode information indicating the copy mode is input.

  The reading unit 74 electrically reads image data from a recording paper (printed material) on which image data is printed, and can be realized by an existing reading device such as a scanner.

  The communication unit 76 communicates with an external device such as the server device 10 via the network 2 and can be realized by an existing communication device such as a communication interface. For example, the communication unit 76 includes a user name input by the input unit 72, source information such as the reading date and time of image data by the reading unit 74, or a device number of the MFP 70, mode information input by the input unit 72, and a reading unit The image data read by 74 is transmitted to the server device 10, and the image data transmitted from the server device 10 is received.

  The printing unit 78 generates image by printing the image data received by the communication unit 76 on a recording sheet, and can be realized by an existing printing apparatus such as a printer.

  As described above, the PC 80 is an administrator terminal that displays the tracking result, and receives the origin information transmitted from the server device 10 and displays it on the display unit. Note that the origin information of the image data read by the MFP 70 may be input from the PC 80.

  Next, the operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server apparatus 10 during the copying process performed in the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment.

  First, the origin information acquisition unit 44 acquires origin information indicating the origin of a printed matter (printed matter after copying) based on image data read from the printed matter by the MFP 70 from the MFP 70. (Step S100).

  Subsequently, the image data acquisition unit 42 acquires image data read from the printed material by the MFP 70 and mode information indicating the copy mode (step S102).

  Subsequently, the generation unit 46 generates identification information for identifying the source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44 (step S104).

  Subsequently, the extraction unit 48 performs an extraction process for extracting identification information on the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (step S106).

  When the identification information is extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (Yes in step S108), the registration information 50 is generated by the generation unit 46 because the mode information indicates the copy mode. The information, the origin information acquired by the origin information acquisition unit 44, and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48 are associated and registered in the origin history storage unit 32 (step S110).

  Subsequently, since the mode information indicates the copy mode, the removal unit 52 removes the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48 from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (step S112).

  On the other hand, when the identification information is not extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (No in step S108), the registration information 50 is generated by the generation unit 46 because the mode information indicates the copy mode. The identification information and the source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44 are registered in the source history storage unit 32 in association with each other (step S114).

  Subsequently, since the mode information indicates the copy mode, the embedding unit 54 embeds the identification information generated by the generating unit 46 in the image data acquired by the image data acquiring unit 42 (step S116).

  Subsequently, since the mode information indicates the copy mode, the print instruction unit 56 instructs the MFP 70 to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 is embedded (step S118). As a result, the MFP 70 prints the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 is embedded on the recording paper, and generates a printed matter after copying.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server apparatus 10 during the tracking process performed in the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment.

  First, the image data acquisition unit 42 acquires image data read from a printed matter by the MFP 70 and mode information indicating the tracking mode (step S200).

  Subsequently, the extraction unit 48 performs an extraction process for extracting identification information on the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (step S202).

  When the identification information is extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (Yes in step S204), the mode information indicates the tracking mode, and thus the search unit 58 performs the identification extracted by the extraction unit 48. The source history storage unit 32 is searched for source information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the information (step S206).

  Subsequently, the output unit 60 outputs the origin information acquired by the search unit 58 to the PC 80 (step S208). Specifically, the PC 80 displays the origin information acquired by the search unit 58 on a display unit such as a display.

  On the other hand, when the identification information is not extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (No in step S204), the search and output of the source information are not performed.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, when copying a printed matter, the origin information of the printed matter after copying, the identification information of the origin information, and the identification information of the origin information of the copy source printed matter are registered in association with each other. Then, the identification information extracted from the image data of the printed material of the copy source is removed, and the identification information of the origin information of the printed material after copying is embedded and printed. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the origin information of all copies is registered in the server device, and the identification information of the origin information of the copy is embedded in the printed matter after copying, so that faithful copying of the printed matter is repeatedly performed. Even the source of the printed material that was copied can be specified.

  In the first embodiment, when the identification information is not embedded in the image data of the copy-source printed matter and the identification information is not extracted, the origin information of the printed matter after copying and the identification information of the origin information are displayed. In addition to registering them in association with each other, printing is performed by embedding identification information of the origin information of the printed material after copying in the image data of the printed material of the copy source. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, even when a printed matter in which origin information is not embedded is copied, the origin of the copied printed matter can be specified.

(Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which distribution information indicating a distribution destination of a copied printed material is registered in addition to the origin information. In the following, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and components having the same functions as those in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols as those in the first embodiment. The description is omitted.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the information processing system 101 according to the second embodiment. The information processing system 101 illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a distribution information acquisition unit 145 included in the control unit 140 of the server apparatus 110, a registration unit 150, a search unit 158, an output unit 160, and a storage unit 130. The history storage unit 132 and the input unit 172 of the MFP 170 are different from the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the distribution information acquisition unit 145, the registration unit 150, the source history storage unit 132, the search unit 158, the output unit 160, and the input unit 172 will be described.

  The distribution information acquisition unit 145 acquires distribution information indicating the distribution destination of the printed material based on the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42. For example, the distribution information acquisition unit 145 acquires the distribution information transmitted from the MFP 170 or the PC 80 and received by the communication unit 20. Here, the distribution information is information necessary for tracking the distribution destination of the printed material on which the image data is printed (printed material after copying), and the distribution user name, distribution date and time to which the printed material after copying is distributed, or This applies to the distribution category that indicates the distribution method. With this distribution information, it is possible to trace when, to whom, and how the printed material after copying was distributed. The distribution information acquisition unit 145 performs the above-described processing when the mode information acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 indicates a copy mode.

  The registration unit 150 associates the distribution information with the source information and registers it in the source history storage unit 132.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the origin / distribution history stored in the origin history storage unit 132 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the source history storage unit 132 includes identification information, a document / copy category, a user name, a print / copy date / time, a device number, a distribution category, a distribution user name, a distribution date / time, and the like. Document identification information is stored in association with each other. Here, “distribution category”, “distribution user name”, and “distribution date” correspond to distribution information, that is, distribution information of a printed matter after copying.

  The search unit 158 searches the source history storage unit 132 for source information and distribution information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48.

  The output unit 160 outputs the origin information searched by the search unit 158. Specifically, the output unit 160 transmits the origin information and distribution information searched by the search unit 158 from the communication unit 20 to the PC 80 and displays the information on a display unit (not shown) such as a display of the PC 80.

  An input unit 172 of the MFP 170 inputs distribution information of a printed material based on image data read by the reading unit 74. The distribution information is input when mode information indicating the copy mode is input.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server apparatus 110 during the copying process performed in the information processing system 101 according to the second embodiment.

  The process of step S300 is the same as the process of step S100 in the flowchart of FIG.

  Subsequently, the distribution information acquisition unit 145 acquires distribution information indicating the distribution destination of the printed material (printed material after copying) based on the image data read from the printed material by the MFP 170 from the MFP 170 (step S301).

  Subsequently, the processes in steps S302 to S306 are the same as the processes in steps S102 to S106 in the flowchart of FIG.

  When the identification information is extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (Yes in step S308), the registration information 150 is generated by the generation unit 46 because the mode information indicates the copy mode. The source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44, the distribution information acquired by the distribution information acquisition unit 145, and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 48 are associated with each other in the source history storage unit 132. Register (step S310).

  Subsequently, the process of step S312 is the same as the process of step S112 of the flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, when the identification information is not extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (No in step S308), the registration information 150 is generated by the generation unit 46 because the mode information indicates the copy mode. The identification information, the source information acquired by the source information acquisition unit 44, and the distribution information acquired by the distribution information acquisition unit 145 are registered in the source history storage unit 132 in association with each other (step S314).

  The subsequent processing from step S316 to S318 is the same as the processing from step S116 to S118 in the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server apparatus 110 during the tracking process performed in the information processing system 101 according to the second embodiment.

  The processing from step S400 to S404 is the same as the processing from step S100 to S104 in the flowchart of FIG.

  When the identification information is extracted from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (Yes in step S404), since the mode information indicates the tracking mode, the search unit 158 identifies the identification extracted by the extraction unit 48. The source history storage unit 132 is searched for source information and distribution information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the information (step S406).

  Subsequently, the output unit 160 outputs the origin information acquired by the search unit 158 to the PC 80 (step S408). Specifically, the PC 80 displays the origin information acquired by the search unit 158 on a display unit such as a display.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, since the distribution information of the printed matter after copying is registered in addition to the origin information of the printed matter after copying, the origin of the copied printed matter even if the faithful copying of the printed matter is repeated, and The distribution destination can be specified.

(Third embodiment)
In the third embodiment, an example will be described in which the origin is tracked by identification information input from an external device such as a PC in addition to the tracking of the origin by identification information extracted from image data. In the following, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and components having the same functions as those in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols as those in the first embodiment. The description is omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing system 201 according to the third embodiment. In the information processing system 201 shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 240 of the server device 210 includes an identification information acquisition unit 257, the removal unit 252 and the embedding unit 254, and the PC 280 of the control unit 240 are the first embodiment. This is different from the form information processing system 1. Below, the embedding part 254, the extraction part 248, and the identification information acquisition part 257 are demonstrated.

  The embedding unit 254 has a mode in which the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 can be read by a user such as letters and numbers (human readable method), and a mode in which the user cannot read such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code. Then, it is embedded in the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42. That is, the embedding unit 254 embeds the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 in the image data as it is (embeds in a user-readable manner) and converts the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 into a two-dimensional code or the like. And embedded in the image data (embedd in a manner that is not readable or difficult for the user).

  The removal unit 252 removes identification information embedded in the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (identification information embedded in a mode that can be read by the user and a mode that the user cannot read or that is difficult to understand). .

  The identification information acquisition unit 257 acquires identification information input from an external device such as the PC 280. Specifically, the origin information acquisition unit 44 acquires identification information in a form that can be read by the user, transmitted from the PC 280 and received by the communication unit 20.

  When the identification information is extracted by the extraction unit 248, the search unit 258 displays the source information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the identification information extracted by the extraction unit 248. Search from 32. In addition, when the identification information is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 257, the search unit 258 is associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 257. Information is searched from the source history storage unit 32.

  The PC 280 inputs identification information printed in a user-readable manner on the printed matter after copying, and transmits the identification information to the server device 210.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server apparatus 210 during the copying process performed in the information processing system 201 according to the third embodiment.

  The processing from step S500 to S510 is the same as the processing from step S100 to S110 in the flowchart of FIG.

  Subsequently, the removal unit 252 removes the identification information embedded in the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (step S512).

  Subsequently, the process of step S514 is the same as the process of step S114 of the flowchart of FIG.

  Subsequently, the embedding unit 254 includes a mode in which the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 can be read by a user such as letters and numbers, and a mode in which the user cannot read or difficult to understand such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code. It is embedded in the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 42 (step S516).

  The subsequent processing of step 518 is the same as the processing of step S118 in the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server apparatus 210 during the tracking process when identification information is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 257 performed in the information processing system 201 according to the third embodiment. The operation of the server device 210 during the tracking process when the identification information is extracted by the extraction unit 248 is the same as that in the first embodiment (the flowchart in FIG. 4), and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  First, the identification information acquisition unit 257 acquires identification information input from an external device such as the PC 280 (step S600).

  Subsequently, the search unit 258 searches the source history storage unit 32 for source information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit 46 that matches the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 257 (step S602). ).

  The subsequent processing in step 604 is the same as the processing in step S208 in the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, in addition to tracking the origin based on the identification information extracted from the image data, the origin can be traced based on the identification information input from an external device such as a PC. Convenience can be improved.

(Hardware configuration)
Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the server device according to the first to third embodiments will be described.

  The server device according to the first to third embodiments includes a control device such as a CPU, a storage device such as a ROM and a RAM, an external storage device such as an HDD and a removable drive device, a display device such as a display, a keyboard, It has an input device such as a mouse and has a hardware configuration using a normal computer.

  The information processing program executed in the server device according to the first to third embodiments is an installable or executable file in a CD-ROM, CD-R, memory card, DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), The program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as a flexible disk (FD).

  Further, the information processing program executed by the server device of the first to third embodiments may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. . The information processing program executed by the server device according to the first to third embodiments may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. An information processing program executed by the server device according to the first to third embodiments may be provided by being incorporated in a ROM or the like in advance.

  The information processing program executed by the server devices of the first to third embodiments has a module configuration for realizing the above-described units on a computer. As actual hardware, the CPU reads out an information processing program from the HDD onto the RAM and executes the information processing program, whereby the above-described units are realized on the computer.

(Modification)
In the first and second embodiments, the example in which the identification information is embedded in the image data in a manner that is not readable or difficult for the user has been described. However, the identification information is embedded in the image data in a manner that is readable by the user. Also good. In the third embodiment, the example in which the identification information is embedded in the image data in a mode that can be read by the user and a mode in which the user cannot read or is difficult has been described. It may be embedded in the data. Further, in the third embodiment, it may be possible to select between embedding identification information in a form that can be read by the user and embedding identification information in a form that is not readable or difficult for the user. In this case, the administrator may select from the server device from the viewpoint of security, or the user may select from the MFP or PC from the viewpoint of convenience. Moreover, you may combine the said 2nd Embodiment and 3rd Embodiment.

1, 101, 201 Information processing system 2 Network 10, 110, 210 Server device 20 Communication unit 30, 130 Storage unit 32, 132 Source history storage unit 40, 140, 240 Control unit 42 Image data acquisition unit 44 Source information acquisition unit 46 Generation unit 48 Extraction unit 50, 150 Registration unit 52, 252 Removal unit 54, 254 Embedding unit 56 Print instruction unit 58, 158, 258 Search unit 60, 160 Output unit 70, 170 MFP
72, 172 Input unit 74 Reading unit 76 Communication unit 78 Printing unit 80, 280 PC
145 Distribution information acquisition unit 257 Identification information acquisition unit

JP 2008-092394 A JP 2002-016788 A

Claims (10)

Image data acquisition means for acquiring image data read from the printed matter by the image forming apparatus;
Source information acquisition means for acquiring source information indicating the source of the printed matter based on the image data;
Generating means for generating identification information embedded in the image data, the information identifying the origin information;
Extraction means for performing extraction processing on the image data and extracting the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data;
Registration means for registering the identification information generated by the generation means, the source information, and the identification information extracted by the extraction means in association with the source history storage means;
Removing means for removing the identification information extracted by the extracting means from the image data;
Embedding means for embedding the identification information generated by the generating means in the image data;
Print instruction means for causing the image forming apparatus to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation means is embedded;
An information processing apparatus comprising:   The registration means associates the identification information generated by the generation means with the origin information when the identification information is not embedded in the image data and the identification information is not extracted by the extraction means. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is registered in the origin history storage unit. A distribution information acquisition means for acquiring distribution information indicating a distribution destination of the printed material based on the image data;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit stores the distribution information in association with the source information in the source history storage unit. An information processing apparatus according to claim 1, and an image forming apparatus connected to the information processing apparatus via a network,
The image data acquisition means receives the image data transmitted from the image forming apparatus;
The print instruction unit transmits the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit is embedded to the image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Reading means for reading the image data from the printed material;
Transmitting means for transmitting the read image data to the information processing apparatus;
Receiving means for receiving the image data in which the identification information is embedded from the information processing apparatus;
An information processing system comprising: a printing unit that prints the received image data to generate a printed matter. The reading unit reads image data from a printed matter obtained by printing the image data in which the identification information is embedded,
The transmission means transmits the read image data to the information processing apparatus,
The image data acquisition means acquires the transmitted image data,
The extraction means extracts the identification information embedded in the acquired image data,
Search means for searching for origin information associated with the identification information generated by the generation means that matches the extracted identification information;
Output means for outputting the retrieved origin information;
The information processing system according to claim 4, further comprising: The embedding unit embeds the identification information generated by the generating unit in the image data in a mode in which a user can read and a mode in which the user cannot read or difficult.
It further comprises identification information acquisition means for acquiring identification information input from an external device,
When the identification information is extracted by the extraction means, the search means searches the origin history storage means for the origin information associated with the identification information generated by the generation means that matches the extracted identification information. When the identification information is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, the source history storage unit is searched for the source information associated with the identification information generated by the generation unit that matches the acquired identification information. The information processing system according to claim 5. An image data acquisition step in which the image data acquisition means acquires the image data read from the printed matter by the image forming apparatus;
A source information acquiring step for acquiring source information indicating a source of the printed matter based on the image data;
A generating step for generating identification information which is information for identifying the source information and is embedded in the image data;
An extracting step for performing extraction processing on the image data and extracting the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data;
A registration step in which a registration unit registers the identification information generated by the generation unit, the source information, and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit in association with the source history storage unit;
Removing means for removing the identification information extracted by the extracting means from the image data;
An embedding step for embedding the identification information generated by the generating unit in the image data;
A print instruction step for causing the image forming apparatus to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit is embedded; and
An information processing method comprising: An information processing method executed by an information processing system comprising: an information processing apparatus; and an image forming apparatus connected to the information processing apparatus via a network,
The information processing apparatus includes:
An image data acquisition step in which the image data acquisition means acquires the image data read from the printed matter by the image forming apparatus;
A source information acquiring step for acquiring source information indicating a source of the printed matter based on the image data;
A generating step for generating identification information which is information for identifying the source information and is embedded in the image data;
An extracting step for performing extraction processing on the image data and extracting the identification information when the identification information is already embedded in the image data;
A registration step in which a registration unit registers the identification information generated by the generation unit, the source information, and the identification information extracted by the extraction unit in association with the source history storage unit;
Removing means for removing the identification information extracted by the extracting means from the image data;
An embedding step for embedding the identification information generated by the generating unit in the image data;
A print instruction step for causing the image forming apparatus to print the image data in which the identification information generated by the generation unit is embedded, and
The image forming apparatus includes:
A reading step for reading the image data from the printed material;
A transmission step of transmitting the read image data to the information processing apparatus;
A receiving step for receiving the image data in which the identification information is embedded from the information processing apparatus;
A printing step in which the printing means prints the received image data to generate a printed matter.   An information processing program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to claim 7.   A computer-readable storage medium storing the information processing program according to claim 9.

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