JP2014126932A - Information processor, control method thereof, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce complicated operations related to a generation of document data while reducing risks of information leakage by printed document data.SOLUTION: An information processor is characterized in: storing document data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the document data according to an output destination of the document data; determining whether to mask the field included in the document data according to the accepted output destination and the mask information; controlling to mask the field when it is determined to mask the field included in the document data, and not to mask the field, on the other hand, when it is determined not to mask the field included in the document data; and outputting the controlled document data to the accepted output destination.

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a control method therefor, and a program, and more particularly, to a technique for reducing troublesome operations related to creation of form data and reducing a risk of information leakage due to printed form data. .

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, there is a task of printing form data in which a part of a form to be output is masked for each printer, and the form data is subjected to different masking for each printer.

  In this case, for each printer to be output, masked form data (form form) with a different mask pattern is created and stored in advance, and the data is input into an empty field of the form data (form form). (Flowing in) and printing the created form data.

  That is, for example, the form data A is printed by the printer A, and the form data B is printed by the printer B.

  Under such an operation, when the user who prints the form data A prints the form data A on another printer B when the printer A fails, only the person who prints the form data B uses it. Since the form data A is printed on the printer B, there is a risk that information is leaked to the person who prints the form data B when the neglected print occurs.

  For example, the user A in the department A prints the form data A using the printer A in the department A, and the user B in the department B uses the printer B in the department B. This occurs when data B is printed.

  Patent Document 1 proposes a system that masks print data in accordance with user identification information that is logged into a multifunction peripheral to be output.

JP 2011-113153 A

  However, under the operation described above, the form data masked in accordance with the output destination printer must be created in advance (create form data for each mask pattern) and managed, so when the number of forms increases, The operation of creating and managing a masked form becomes complicated.

  Further, when there are a lot of similar form data, there is a problem that correction man-hours increase when the form data is maintained.

  In addition, as described above, when a printer breaks down and is output to another printer as a substitute, the mask position is different, so that information that is not masked may be seen by other users who should not be shown originally. .

  In the system disclosed in Patent Document 1, print data output request corresponding to user identification information logged in to a multifunction peripheral to be output is requested. However, in the case of a multifunction peripheral or printer that does not have a user identification function, the information leakage described above is still performed. Such problems may occur.

  An object of the present invention is to reduce a complicated operation related to creation of form data and reduce a risk of information leakage due to printed form data.

  The present invention provides storage means for storing form data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data in accordance with an output destination of the form data, and the form data stored in the storage means According to the receiving means for receiving the output destination, the output destination received by the receiving means, and the mask information stored in the storage means, the field included in the form data received by the receiving means is masked. And determining means for determining whether to mask the field included in the form data for which the output destination has been received by the receiving means with respect to the field included in the form data. On the other hand, the field included in the form data that has received the output destination by the receiving means If it is determined that the mask is not masked, the mask control means for controlling not to mask the field included in the form data and the form data controlled by the mask control means are received by the receiving means. Output means for outputting to an output destination.

  The present invention also provides a control method for an information processing apparatus comprising storage means for storing form data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data in accordance with an output destination of the form data. The accepting means accepts the output destination of the form data stored in the storage means, and the judging means according to the output destination accepted by the accepting process and the mask information stored in the storage means. A determination step for determining whether to mask a field included in the form data for which the output destination has been received by the reception step, and a mask control unit has received the output destination by the reception step by the determination step. If it is determined that the field included in the form data is to be masked, the field included in the form data is masked. On the other hand, if it is determined that the field included in the form data that has received the output destination is not masked by the receiving step, the mask is controlled so as not to mask the field included in the form data. The control step and the output means include an output step of outputting the form data controlled by the mask control step to the output destination received by the reception step.

  In addition, the present invention can be read and executed by an information processing apparatus including a storage unit that stores form data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data according to an output destination of the form data. An information processing apparatus for receiving an output destination of form data stored in the storage means, an output destination received by the reception means, and mask information stored in the storage means; And determining means for determining whether to mask the field included in the form data for which the output destination has been received by the receiving means, and the determination means includes the output destination in the form data for receiving the output destination. If it is determined that the field to be masked is masked, the field included in the form data is masked. On the other hand, if it is determined that the field included in the form data that has received the output destination is not masked by the receiving unit, the mask control is performed so as not to mask the field included in the form data. And the form data controlled by the mask control means function as output means for outputting to the output destination accepted by the accepting means.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce a complicated operation related to creation of form data and to reduce a risk of information leakage due to printed form data.

1 is a block diagram schematically showing a system configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the information processing apparatus applicable to the client terminal 101 shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a controller unit of the image forming apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a client terminal masks a form and print data is printed by a printer. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process of the mask process of step S407 and step S416. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart of the detailed process of the mask process shown to step S411. It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart which shows the detailed process of step S417. It is a figure which shows an example of the field information set to each field of the form of a form. It is a figure which shows an example of a field information setting screen. It is a figure which shows an example of the search screen displayed on the display part (display apparatus 210) of a client terminal. It is a figure which shows an example of the search result list screen 1100 displayed by step S404. It is a figure which shows an example of a preview screen. It is a figure which shows an example of an output printer switching screen. It is a figure which shows an example of a preview screen. It is a figure which shows an example of a message notification screen.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail according to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a system configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Note that the configurations of the various terminals shown in FIG. 1 are merely examples, and it goes without saying that there are various configuration examples depending on the purpose and application.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an information processing system according to the present embodiment includes client terminals 101 and 102 (hereinafter also referred to as client devices) and a plurality of printers 103, 104 and 105 (hereinafter also referred to as printer terminals). They are connected to each other via an area network (LAN) 100 so that they can communicate with each other.

  The client terminals 101 and 102 are application examples of the information processing apparatus of the present invention.

  The client terminals 101 and 102 are information processing apparatuses that perform form design and a print instruction to each printer.

  The printers 103, 104, and 105 are printers that print the print data received from the client terminal.

  Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus applicable to the client terminals 101 and 102 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus applicable to the client terminal 101 illustrated in FIG.

  Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus applicable to the client terminals 101 and 102 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing a hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus applicable to the client terminals 101 and 102 in FIG.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204.

  Further, the ROM 203 or the external memory 211 has a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) that is a control program of the CPU 201, an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as OS), and a function executed by each server or each PC (information processing apparatus). Various programs and the like to be described later necessary for the realization are stored.

  A RAM 202 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201.

  The CPU 201 implements various operations by loading a program necessary for execution of processing from the ROM 203 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 202 and executing the loaded program.

  An input controller 205 controls input from an input device 209 such as a keyboard (KB) or a pointing device such as a mouse.

  A video controller 206 controls display on a display device 210 such as a CRT display or a liquid crystal display. The display device 210 is used by an administrator as necessary.

  A memory controller 207 is provided in an external storage device (hard disk (HD)), flexible disk (FD), or PCMCIA card slot for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, editing files, various data, and the like. Controls access to an external memory 211 such as a compact flash (registered trademark) memory connected via an adapter.

  A communication I / F controller 208 connects and communicates with an external device via a network (LAN), and executes communication control processing in the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP is possible.

  Note that the CPU 201 enables display on the display device 210 by executing outline font rasterization processing on a display information area in the RAM 202, for example.

  Further, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) on the display device 210.

  Various programs to be described later for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211 and executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 202 as necessary.

  Further, files and various tables used when executing the program are also stored in the external memory 211.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the controller unit that controls the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the controller unit of the image forming apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 316 denotes a controller unit which is connected to a scanner unit 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer unit 312 functioning as an image output device, and is connected to a LAN 100 or a public line (WAN) (for example, PSTN or ISDN). By connecting with, image data and device information are input and output.

  In the controller unit 316, reference numeral 301 denotes a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system.

  A RAM 302 is a system work memory for the CPU 301 to operate, and is also a program memory for recording a program and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

  A ROM 303 stores a system boot program and various control programs.

  An external storage device (hard disk drive (HDD)) 304 stores various programs for controlling the system, image data, and the like.

  An operation unit interface (operation unit I / F) 307 is an interface unit with the operation unit (UI) 308 and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 308 to the operation unit 308.

  The operation unit I / F 307 serves to transmit the information input by the system user from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301.

  Note that the operation unit 308 includes a display unit having a touch panel, and various instructions can be given by a user pressing (touching with a finger or the like) a button displayed on the display unit.

  A network interface (Network I / F) 305 is connected to the LAN 100 (network) and inputs / outputs data.

  A modem (MODEM) 306 is connected to a public line and inputs / outputs data such as FAX transmission / reception.

  Reference numeral 318 denotes an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, and RS-232C.

  Reference numeral 320 denotes an image bus interface (IMAGE BUS I / F), which is a bus bridge that connects the system bus 309 and an image bus 315 that transfers image data at high speed and converts the data structure.

  The image bus 315 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 315.

  A raster image processor (RIP) 310 develops vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image.

  A printer interface (printer I / F) 311 connects the printer unit 312 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  A scanner interface (scanner I / F) 313 connects the scanner unit 314 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  An image processing unit 317 performs correction, processing, and editing on input image data, and performs printer correction, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data. In addition to this, the image processing unit 317 performs image data rotation and compression / decompression processing such as JPEG for multi-valued image data and JBIG, MMR, MH for binary image data.

  The scanner unit 314 illuminates an image on paper as a document and scans it with a CCD line sensor, thereby converting it into an electrical signal as raster image data. The original paper is set on the tray of the original feeder, and when the apparatus user gives a reading start instruction from the operation unit 308, the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner unit 314, and the feeder feeds the original paper one by one to read the original image. Perform the action.

  The printer unit 312 is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper.

  The printing method of the printer unit 312 includes an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum and a photosensitive belt, and an ink jet method in which an ink is ejected from a minute nozzle array to directly print an image on a sheet. Absent.

  The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301.

  The printer unit 312 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has a paper cassette corresponding thereto.

  The operation unit 308 has an LCD display unit, and a touch panel sheet is pasted on the LCD. The operation unit 308 displays an operation screen of the system. When a displayed key is pressed, the position information is displayed on the operation unit I / F 307. To the CPU 301 via

  The operation unit 308 includes, for example, a start key, a stop key, an ID key, a reset key, and the like as various operation keys. Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used when starting a document image reading operation. At the center of the start key, there are two color LEDs, green and red, which indicate whether or not the start key can be used. Further, the stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation in operation. The ID key of the operation unit 308 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is used when initializing settings from the operation unit.

  With the configuration described above, the multi-function peripheral can transmit the image data read from the scanner unit 314 to the LAN, and print out the print data received from the LAN by the printer unit 312.

  Further, the image data read from the scanner unit 314 can be fax-transmitted on the public line by the modem 306, and the image data received by FAX from the public line can be output by the printer unit 312.

  First, the process in which the printer prints the print data generated by the client terminal masking the form will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a client terminal masks a form and prints print data.

  The processing from step S401 to step S419 shown in FIG. 4 is realized by the CPU 201 of the client device loading the program stored in the storage unit such as the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  4 is realized by the CPU 301 of the printer loading a program stored in a storage unit such as the HDD 304 into the RAM 302 and executing it.

  First, in step S401, the client terminal activates an application of the form printing system.

  In step S402, the client terminal displays the search screen 1000 shown in FIG. 10 and accepts input of data (search conditions) to be searched by the user.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a search screen displayed on the display unit (display device 210) of the client terminal.

  The search screen of FIG. 10 has fields (1001, 1002, 1003) for inputting data to be searched.

  Reference numeral 1001 denotes a field for inputting the search condition 1, reference numeral 1002 denotes a field for inputting the search condition 2, and reference numeral 1003 denotes a field for inputting the search condition 3.

  Reference numeral 1004 denotes a search button for receiving a search instruction from the user. When the search button 1004 is pressed by the user, the client terminal searches the data stored in the memory of the client terminal for data that matches the conditions (data) input in 1001 to 1003.

  Here, the data (data group of each data to be input to each of the plurality of fields) to be poured (input) into the empty field of the form of the form is poured (input) into the memory of the client terminal. ) A form form having an empty field (one or a plurality of fields) is associated and stored. That is, in the memory of the client terminal, one form form and one data (one data group) input to the field of the form form are stored in association with each other.

  When data is input to the fields (1001, 1002, 1003) and the search button 1004 is pressed, the client terminal stores data (data group) corresponding to (matches) the input data in the memory of the client terminal. Search from the stored data to be poured (input) into the empty field of the form form. Further, the data input in each field (1001, 1002, 1003) shown in FIG. 10 means that the search condition is an AND condition.

  When the user presses the end button 1005, which is an end button 1005, the process of the application started in step S401 is ended.

In the present embodiment, a form form or form data in which data is input into a field in the form form will be described as form data.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  Next, in step S403, the client terminal flows (inputs) the data that matches the search condition input in step S401 into an empty field of the form form stored in the memory of the client terminal. Search from inside.

  Then, when the corresponding data is searched from the data to be entered (input) into the empty field of the form of the form, the client terminal associates the searched data with the searched data. Information including a form form (form form) is acquired as a search result.

  Then, the client terminal displays a search result list screen 1100 (FIG. 11) including the acquired search results on the display unit of the client terminal (step S404).

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the search result list screen 1100 displayed in step S404.

  1101, 1102, and 1103 shown in FIG. 11 are areas for displaying data obtained as a result of the search in step S 403.

  In FIG. 11, 1101, 1102, and 1103 display data to be input (input) into empty fields of the form of the form obtained as a result of the search. It is also possible to display a form form.

  Reference numeral 1104 shown in FIG. 11 is a preview button. When the preview button 1104 is pressed by the user, the client terminal is created based on the search results (data displayed in 1101, 1102, 1103, and form form) displayed corresponding to the preview button 1104. The generated form data is displayed on the preview screen.

  Reference numeral 1105 shown in FIG. 11 is a print button. When the print button 1105 is pressed by the user, the client terminal is created based on the search results (data displayed in 1101, 1102, 1103, and form form) displayed corresponding to the print button 1105. A print instruction for the print data of the generated form data is issued to the printer.

  Reference numeral 1106 shown in FIG. 11 is a printer selection field. For example, 1106 can select a printer as an output destination in a pull-down format. When the user presses 1106, a plurality of output destination candidates are displayed, and the user can specify the output destination from among them.

Reference numeral 1107 in FIG. 11 is a return button for returning to the display of the search screen (FIG. 10). When the user presses the return button 1107, the client terminal deletes the screen of FIG. 11 and displays the search screen 1000 of FIG.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  Next, the client terminal selects the output destination (printer) designated by the user in the printer selection column 1106, and the form data generated based on the search results displayed in 1101, 1102, and 1103 in FIG. It is accepted as an output destination (printer) (step S405).

  Step S405 is an application example of the first receiving means for receiving the output destination of the form data of the present invention.

  As described above, in step S405, the printer selection column 1106 of the search result list screen 1100 is used to set which printer displays each data displayed as the search result in 1101, 1102, and 1103.

  Next, in step S406, the client terminal prints each data displayed on the search result list screen 1100 directly to the printer designated in step S405, or displays the preview screen 1200 shown in FIG. The selection is accepted by the user.

  Specifically, if the preview button 1104 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S407, and if the print button 1105 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S416.

  Next, the detailed process of the mask process of step S407 and step S416 is demonstrated using FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of detailed processing of the mask processing in step S407 and step S416.

  The processing of each step shown in FIG. 5 is realized by the CPU 201 of the client device loading a program stored in a storage unit such as the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  First, in step S501, the client terminal acquires field information (FIG. 8) set in each field of the form form included in the search result searched in step S403.

  Here, the field information (FIG. 8) is an application example of mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data according to the output destination of the form data.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of field information set in each field of the form form.

  Field information shown in FIG. 8 is set for each field set in the form of the form. In other words, field information (FIG. 8) indicating whether to mask is set for each field included in the form data.

  That is, in step S501, all field information set in all fields set in the form of the form is acquired.

  The field information (FIG. 8) includes field number 801, field name 802, data type 803, number of digits 804, mask printer ID 805, and mask condition 806.

  The field number 801 stores a field number for identifying a field. The field name 802 stores the name of the field. The data type 803 is the type of data input to the field. For example, if the field is a character input field, the character type is stored. If the field is a number input field, the number type is Remembered. The number of digits 804 stores the number of digits of characters or numbers entered in the field. The mask printer ID 805 stores a printer ID as information for identifying a printer that performs mask processing. The mask condition 806 stores the mask condition when the printer identified by the mask printer ID 805 is the output destination. The mask printer ID 807 stores a printer ID as information for identifying a printer that performs mask processing. The mask condition 808 stores the mask condition when the printer identified by the mask printer ID 807 is the output destination. The mask printer ID 809 stores a printer ID as information for identifying a printer that performs mask processing. The mask condition 810 stores a mask condition when the printer identified by the mask printer ID 809 is the output destination.

  As the mask condition, information indicating the setting for painting the data area in black is set as “0”. Also, the information indicating the setting for painting the data area white is set as “1”. Also, information indicating a setting for converting the number of data digits into * and displaying is set as “2”. Also, information indicating the setting for painting the title is set as “3”.

  As described above, the field information shown in FIG. 8 is set for each field and is included in the form form. This field information is set in each field using, for example, the field information setting screen shown in FIG. Is done.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the field information setting screen.

  When creating a form, a field object is set on the form according to the user's instruction, and when the user gives an instruction to set field information for the set field object, the client terminal The field information setting screen shown in FIG. 9 is displayed.

  Then, by inputting field information via the field information setting screen shown in FIG. 9, the input field information is set in the field as field information shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 901 in FIG. 9 denotes a field for inputting a field number. Reference numeral 902 denotes a field for inputting a field name. Reference numeral 903 denotes a field for selecting a data type. Reference numeral 904 denotes a field for setting a printer ID (first unit) of a printer that performs mask processing. Reference numeral 905 denotes a field for setting a mask condition for performing mask processing when printing is performed by the printer set in 904. Reference numeral 906 denotes a field for setting an ID (second unit) of a printer that performs mask processing. Reference numeral 907 denotes a field for setting a mask condition for performing mask processing when printing is performed by the printer set in 906. Reference numeral 908 denotes a field for setting a printer ID (third unit) of a printer that performs mask processing. Reference numeral 909 denotes a field for setting a mask condition for performing mask processing when printing with the printer set in 908. Reference numeral 910 denotes an OK button. When the user presses the OK button, values entered in the fields (901 to 909) are set in the field as field information shown in FIG. Reference numeral 911 denotes a cancel button. When the user presses the cancel button, the screen is closed without setting the values input in the fields (901 to 909) as field information shown in FIG.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  The client terminal repeatedly executes the processing from step S503 to step S505 for each field information acquired in step S501, and executes the processing from step S503 to step S505 for all the field information acquired in step S501. Then, the process shown in FIG.

  First, the client terminal determines the printer ID of the printer selected via the search result list screen in step S405, and the mask printer ID (805, 807, 809) included in the field information currently processed in step S501. Are matched (step S503).

  If it is determined in step S503 that the client terminal matches, the client terminal determines that the field information that is currently processed is set according to the mask condition when the printer determined to match is the output destination. Then, a mask process is executed (step S504).

  Step S504 is an application example of the mask control means of the present invention.

  Specifically, when the mask condition is “0”, the mask process is performed so that the field for which the field information to be processed is currently set is painted black. When the mask condition is “1”, the mask process is performed so that the field for which the field information to be processed is set is painted white. When the mask condition is “2”, mask processing is performed in which the characters in the field in which the field information to be processed is set are converted to * and masked. When the mask condition is “3”, a mask process for filling the title of the field in which the field information to be processed is set is performed.

  In step S503, it is determined whether to mask the field included in the form data received in step S405 according to the output destination received in step S405 and the field information (FIG. 8). It is an application example of 1 determination means.

  Then, the client terminal stores the form on which the mask process has been executed in step S504 as basic mask information in the memory of the client terminal (step S505).

  Then, the client terminal determines whether or not the processing from step S503 to step S505 has been executed for all the field information acquired in step S501, and for all the field information acquired in step S501, If it is determined that the processing from step S503 to step S505 has been executed, the processing shown in FIG. 5 is terminated. If it is determined that the processing from step S503 to step S505 has not been executed for all the field information acquired in step S501, the next processing target field information is set as the processing target. The processing from step S503 to step S505 is executed.

In addition, the client terminal performs an input process between steps S501 and S502 for inputting data to be input into the field of the form form included in the search result searched and acquired in step S403 into the form form included in the search result. To do. Also, this input process can be performed immediately after step S506.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  When the client terminal executes the process of step S407, the process proceeds to step S408, and the form form (form data) that is the basic mask information stored in the mask process of step S407 is displayed on the preview screen (FIG. 12). indicate.

  Specifically, based on the basic mask information stored in the memory in step S407, the mask result (form data masked in the form form) is displayed on the left side (1203) of the preview screen 1200 shown in FIG. Step S408).

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a preview screen.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the form data masked in the form form is displayed on the left side (1203) of the preview screen 1200. The preview screen 1200 includes an output printer switching button 1201, a print button 1202, and a return button 1205.

  When displaying the preview screen 1200, the client terminal determines whether the user has pressed the printer switching button 1201 or the print button 1202 (step S409).

  The print button 1202 is an application example of the print instruction receiving means of the present invention that receives a print instruction.

  If it is determined by the user that the printer switch button 1201 has been pressed (step S409: printer switch), the process proceeds to step S410, and if it is determined that the print button 1202 has been pressed (step S409). : Printing), the process proceeds to step S417.

  In this way, the user can select whether to print the form data from the printer selected in 1105 of the search result list screen 1100 or to change the output destination printer via the preview screen shown in FIG. It becomes possible. As a result, if the printer is switched, the process proceeds to step S410. If the printer is not switched, the process proceeds to step S417.

  When executing the process of step S417 (detailed process is shown in FIG. 7) when printing without performing printer switching, step S701 shown in FIG. 7 is skipped as the detailed process of step S417 (process of step S701). Further, step S702 is also skipped (step S702 is not executed), only the process of step S705 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S419.

  Next, in step S410, the client terminal displays an output printer switching screen 1300 (FIG. 13) in order to switch the output destination.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output printer switching screen.

  Reference numeral 1301 denotes a field for selecting an output destination printer. That is, by selecting an output destination printer in 1301, it is possible to change the setting of the output destination printer selected in 1106 of FIG. 11 to the output destination printer selected in 1301 of FIG. is there.

  Reference numeral 1302 denotes an OK button. When the user presses the OK button, the printer is set to switch to the selected output destination printer. Reference numeral 1303 denotes a return button that closes the screen without saving the selected value.

  The client terminal accepts selection of the printer to be switched by the user via the output printer switching screen (1301) displayed in step S410. When the user presses the OK button 1302, the output destination is set so as to switch to the selected output destination printer. If the cancel button 1303 is pressed, the switching of the output destination selected in 1301 is discarded and the output printer switching screen 1300 is closed.

  Then, the client terminal accepts the selection of the printer to be switched by the user (an output destination different from the output destination accepted in step S405) by the user via the output printer switching screen (1301) displayed in step S410. When the OK button 1302 is pressed and the output destination is set to switch to the selected output destination printer, the process proceeds to step S411.

  Step S410 is an application example of the second accepting unit that accepts another output destination different from the output destination accepted in step S405 (first accepting unit) of the present invention.

  In step S411, the client terminal executes the mask process shown in FIG.

  Next, the detailed process of the mask process of step S411 is demonstrated using FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart of detailed processing of the mask processing shown in step S411.

  The processing of each step shown in FIG. 6 is realized by the CPU 201 of the client device loading the program stored in the storage unit such as the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  First, the client terminal, other than the fields already masked in step S407 (step S504 in FIG. 5) among the field information set in each field of the form data obtained by executing the mask processing in step S407. The field information (FIG. 8) of the field is acquired (step S601).

  The client terminal repeatedly executes the processing from step S603 to step S605 for each field information acquired in step S601, and executes the processing from step S603 to step S605 for all the field information acquired in step S601. Then, the process shown in FIG.

  First, the client terminal displays the mask printer ID (805, 807, 809) included in the field information acquired in step S601 and the output destination printer (switching) selected via the output printer switching screen of FIG. 13 in step S410. It is determined whether the printer ID of the previous printer matches (step S603).

  In step S603, the field determined not to be masked in step S407 according to the output destination received in step S410 and the field information (FIG. 8) indicating whether the field determined not to be masked in step S407 is masked. It is an application example of the 2nd determination means of this invention which determines whether it masks with respect to.

  When it is determined in step S603 that the client terminal matches, the client terminal performs the processing for the field in which the field information currently being processed is set according to the mask condition when the printer determined to match is set as the output destination. Then, a mask process as an additional process of the mask process in step S407 is executed (step S604).

  Step S604 is an application example of the mask control means of the present invention.

  Specifically, when the mask condition is “0”, the mask process is performed so that the field for which the field information to be processed is currently set is painted black. When the mask condition is “1”, the mask process is performed so that the field for which the field information to be processed is set is painted white. When the mask condition is “2”, mask processing is performed in which the characters in the field in which the field information to be processed is set are converted to * and masked. When the mask condition is “3”, a mask process for filling the title of the field in which the field information to be processed is set is performed.

  Then, the client terminal stores the form data additionally subjected to the mask process in step S604 in the memory of the client terminal as additional mask information (step S605).

Then, the client terminal determines whether or not the processing from step S603 to step S605 has been executed for all the field information acquired in step S601, and for all the field information acquired in step S601, If it is determined that the processing from step S603 to step S605 has been executed, the processing illustrated in FIG. If it is determined that the processing from step S603 to step S605 has not been executed for all the field information acquired in step S601, the next processing target field information is set as the processing target. The processing from step S603 to step S605 is executed.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  Next, in step S412, the client terminal displays a preview screen 1400 (FIG. 14). Here, the basic mask information (form data 1403) held in the memory and the additional mask information (the additional masked area is masked with a hatched portion) (form data 1404) are combined in one preview screen 1400. Are displayed (step S413, step S414).

  Steps S413 and S414 are application examples of the display means of the present invention.

  Then, the client terminal accepts pressing of a print button 1402 for printing the form image confirmed on the preview screen 1400 from the selected printer or a return button 1405. If the print button 1402 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S417. If the return button is pressed, the process returns to step S404 (step S415).

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a preview screen.

  Reference numeral 1401 denotes an output printer switching button. When the output printer switching button is pressed, the process returns to step S410 to display FIG. Reference numeral 1402 denotes a print button. Reference numeral 1403 denotes an area for displaying a preview result based on the basic mask information. Reference numeral 1404 denotes an area for displaying a preview result based on the additional mask information. Reference numeral 1405 denotes a return button. When the return button is pressed, the process returns to step S404 to display FIG.

  The print button 1402 is an application example of the print instruction receiving means of the present invention that receives a print instruction.

  Next, the client terminal executes print processing in step S417.

  Detailed processing in step S417 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detailed flowchart of step S417.

  In step S405 or step S410, the client terminal prints information on a print job that is being printed or is scheduled to be printed by a printer that has received an instruction as an output destination (a user indicating a user who has instructed to print a print job that is being output or is scheduled to be output) Information is included) (step S701).

  Step S701 is an application example of the acquisition unit of the present invention that acquires user information indicating a user who has instructed printing of a print job that is being output or is scheduled to be output from the output destination received in step S410.

  In the client terminal, the user information indicating the user who has instructed printing the print job included in the print job information acquired in step S701 matches the user information of the user using the client terminal. In step S405 or step S410, it is determined whether there is a job of a user other than the user who is printing or is scheduled to print using the printer that has received the instruction as an output destination (step S405 or S410). Step S702).

  Step S702 is an application example of the user determination unit of the present invention that determines whether the user information acquired in step S701 includes user information other than the user information of the user who received the print instruction in step S415.

  Here, as the user information of the user who has received the print instruction in step S415, for example, user information input in advance for user authentication is used.

  If it is determined that there is a print job for a user other than the client terminal (step S702: YES), the client terminal proceeds to step S703.

  In step S703, the client terminal displays a message notification screen 1500 shown in FIG. 15 and notifies that an additional mask is applied because the output destination printer is being used by another user.

  When the user presses the OK button 1501 on the message notification screen 1500 shown in FIG. 15, the client terminal proceeds to step S <b> 704 and generates print data based on the additional mask information.

  If it is determined in step S702 that there is no print command from a user other than the client terminal (NO), the client terminal proceeds to step S705.

In step S705, the client terminal creates print data based on the basic mask information.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  When the process of step S416 is executed, the process proceeds to step S418, and print data is created based on the basic mask information.

  And a client terminal will transfer a process to step S419, if the process of step S417 and step S418 is performed.

  In step S419, the client terminal transmits the print data created in steps S417 and S418 to the printer designated as the output destination.

  Step S419 is an application example of the output means of the present invention that outputs the form data subjected to the mask processing in step S407 or step S411 to the output destination received in step S405 or step S410.

  The printer receives the print data sent from the client terminal in step S419, and executes the printing of the print data in step S421.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce a complicated operation related to creation of form data and to reduce a risk of information leakage due to printed form data.

  Further, when the output from the alternative printer is in use by another user, information leakage is prevented by additionally masking a portion to be masked by the corresponding printer.

  According to the present invention, the number of forms to be created can be reduced, and the management and maintenance man-hours of forms can be reduced. In addition, since mask processing is performed depending on the status of the printer, information leakage from printed matter can be prevented. Since the print result image can be confirmed on the screen before printing, failed printing and information leakage can be prevented.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above. However, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program executable by the apparatus, or a storage medium. May be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.

  Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code itself and the storage medium storing the program code constitute the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (basic system or operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. Needless to say, a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is determined based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

101 Client Terminal 102 Client Terminal 103 Printer 104 Printer 105 Printer

Claims (7)

Storage means for storing form data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data according to an output destination of the form data;
Receiving means for receiving the output destination of the form data stored in the storage means;
A determination unit that determines whether to mask a field included in the form data that has received the output destination by the reception unit, according to the output destination received by the reception unit and the mask information stored in the storage unit; ,
If the determination means determines that the field included in the form data for which the output destination has been received by the reception means is masked, the field included in the form data is masked, while the reception means A mask control means for controlling not to mask the field included in the form data when it is determined not to mask the field included in the form data received by the output destination,
Output means for outputting the form data controlled by the mask control means to the output destination received by the receiving means;
An information processing apparatus comprising: The storage means further stores mask information indicating whether to mask each of the fields included in the form data according to the output destination of the form data stored in the storage means,
The determination means, for each field included in the form data that has received the output destination by the receiving means, according to the output destination received by the receiving means and each mask information stored in the storage means The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether to mask. The accepting means is
First receiving means for receiving an output destination of the form data stored in the storage means;
Second receiving means for receiving another output destination different from the output destination received by the first receiving means,
The determination means includes
Whether to mask the field included in the form data received by the first receiving means according to the output destination received by the first receiving means and the mask information stored in the storage means First determination means for determining
In accordance with the output destination received by the second receiving means and the mask information stored in the storage means indicating whether to mask the field determined not to be masked by the first determining means. Second determination means for determining whether to mask the field determined not to be masked by the first determination means;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:   Included in the form data when it is determined by the mask control means that the first determination means masks the field included in the form data that has received the output destination by the first reception means. On the other hand, when it is determined by the first determination means that the field included in the form data received by the first receiving means is not masked, the form is masked. The form data controlled not to mask the field included in the data and the field determined not to be masked by the first determination unit by the second determination unit by the mask control unit Control to mask the fields included in the form data. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising display means for displaying said the form data in accordance with the preview screens. A print instruction receiving means for receiving a print instruction;
Acquisition means for acquiring user information indicating a user who has instructed printing of a print job to be output from the output destination received by the second reception means;
A user determination unit that determines whether the user information acquired by the acquisition unit includes user information other than the user information of the user who received the print instruction by the print instruction reception unit;
Further comprising
When the output unit determines that the user information acquired by the acquisition unit does not include user information other than the user information of the user who received the print instruction by the print instruction reception unit If the mask control means determines that the field included in the form data whose output destination has been received by the first receiving means is masked by the first determining means, the form data On the other hand, when it is determined by the first determination means that the field included in the form data that has received the output destination is not masked by the first determination means. The second receiving means receives the form data controlled not to mask the fields included in the form data. On the other hand, when the user information acquired by the user determination unit includes the user information other than the user information of the user who received the print instruction by the print instruction reception unit. If it is determined, if the mask control unit determines to mask the field determined not to be masked by the first determination unit by the second determination unit, the form data is included in the form data. 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the form data controlled to mask an included field is output to an output destination received by the second receiving unit. 6. A control method for an information processing apparatus comprising storage means for storing form data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data according to an output destination of the form data,
An accepting step for accepting an output destination of the form data stored in the storage means;
The determination unit determines whether to mask the field included in the form data that has received the output destination by the reception step, according to the output destination received by the reception step and the mask information stored in the storage unit. A determination step to
When it is determined by the determination step that the mask control unit masks the field included in the form data that has received the output destination in the reception step, the mask control unit masks the field included in the form data, On the other hand, if it is determined in the receiving step that the field included in the form data that has received the output destination is not masked, a mask control step that controls not to mask the field included in the form data; ,
An output unit that outputs the form data controlled by the mask control step to the output destination received by the reception step;
A control method comprising: A program that can be read and executed by an information processing apparatus including a storage unit that stores form data and mask information indicating whether to mask a field included in the form data according to an output destination of the form data,
The information processing apparatus;
Receiving means for receiving the output destination of the form data stored in the storage means;
A determination unit that determines whether to mask a field included in the form data that has received the output destination by the reception unit, according to the output destination received by the reception unit and the mask information stored in the storage unit; ,
If the determination means determines that the field included in the form data for which the output destination has been received by the reception means is masked, the field included in the form data is masked, while the reception means A mask control means for controlling not to mask the field included in the form data when it is determined not to mask the field included in the form data received by the output destination,
A program for causing form data controlled by the mask control means to function as an output means for outputting to the output destination accepted by the accepting means.

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