JP2018113727A - Information processing device, compound machine, information processing system and information processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To securely receive and deliver a document image with a simple operation when sending the document image to the other party under communication with a voice phone or the like or when receiving the document image from the other party under communication with a voice phone or the like.SOLUTION: An information processing device connected to a different information processing device through a communication line includes a display processing part for displaying a first button for starting printing by a printer of the different information processing device side, and a second button for starting printing by a printer of an own information processing device side, on the screen of the own information processing device side.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1-2

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a multifunction peripheral, an information processing system, and an information processing method.

  It is widely performed to perform a predetermined procedure by communicating with a communication terminal of the other party. For example, customers make reservations for travel and event tickets with travel agencies and event companies. In this way, the reservation using the communication terminal is realized, for example, when a customer accesses a website of a travel agency or an event company and makes a reservation on the website. However, when making a reservation, there is a problem that it takes time to obtain necessary information by referring to a timetable or a pamphlet, or troublesome keyboard input, and a problem that an unnecessary ticket is reserved due to incorrect input. Arise.

  In order to solve such a problem, it may be possible to call a travel agency directly to arrange a ticket. However, when a call is made directly to a travel agency, confirmation cannot be made with reference to a document or the like, so there is a possibility that an erroneous order due to a mistake in hearing may occur.

  Therefore, in order to prevent such an erroneous order, it is possible to send necessary documents by facsimile (FAX) or electronic mail (E-mail) while making a call. However, in this case, it is necessary to write a head letter with the address and the like, which is troublesome. In addition, it is possible that a transmission destination number or a mail address of a transmission destination is erroneously input, and the transmission is made to the wrong transmission destination.

  Techniques for solving such various problems are described in, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2.

  In this regard, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-244504) discloses a conference system capable of transmitting audio and video bidirectionally and simultaneously transmitting image data such as a document via a remote communication terminal. Have been described. By utilizing such a conference system, it is easy to exchange image data such as documents. However, the conference system described in Patent Document 1 has a drawback that it takes time to set a server that can be accessed as a storage location of image data every time the talker changes, and an operation when receiving image data such as a document. There is also.

  On the other hand, in Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2004-502347) and Patent Document 3 (International Publication No. 2005/053298), the user who is talking on the phone without having to input an e-mail address or a fax number is used. A communication system capable of transmitting image data is described.

JP 2006-244504 A JP-T-2004-502347 International Publication No. 2005/053298

  By using the communication system described in Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3 described above, it is possible to prevent a situation in which a transmission destination number or a mail address of a transmission destination is erroneously input and transmitted to the wrong transmission destination. it can.

  However, in the communication systems described in Patent Literature 2 and Patent Literature 3, when an image is sent from a third party other than the certain communication partner during a communication with the certain communication partner, the certain communication is performed during that time. There arises a problem that image data cannot be transmitted to or received from the other party. Further, there arises a problem that an image sent from a third party is mistaken for an image sent from a certain other party. And there exists a subject that smooth communication will be inhibited from having these problems.

  Therefore, in view of the above problems, the present invention reliably ensures simple operations when sending a document image to a communicating party such as a voice call or receiving a document image from a communicating party such as a voice call. An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus, a multifunction peripheral, an information processing system, and an information processing method capable of delivering a document image.

According to the present invention,
An information processing apparatus connected to another information processing apparatus via a communication line,
On the screen of the local information processing device side,
A first button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the other information processing apparatus side;
A second button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the information processing apparatus side;
There is provided an information processing apparatus comprising a display processing unit for displaying the message.

  According to the present invention, there is provided an information processing system comprising the above information processing apparatus and the other information processing apparatus.

Furthermore, according to the present invention,
An information processing method in an information processing apparatus connected to another information processing apparatus via a communication line,
On the screen of the local information processing device side,
A first button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the other information processing apparatus side;
A second button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the information processing apparatus side;
There is provided an information processing method characterized by having a display processing step for displaying.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a computer to function as the information processing apparatus.

  According to the present invention, when a document image is sent to a communicating party such as a voice call, or when a document image is received from a communicating party such as a voice call, the document image is surely delivered by a simple operation. Can be performed.

It is a block diagram showing the whole fundamental composition of Example 1 etc. of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a basic configuration of a multifunction machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an image diagram illustrating an implementation example of a multifunction machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart (1/2) showing operation | movement of Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart (2/2) showing operation | movement of Example 1 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 1 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart (1/3) showing operation | movement of Example 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart (2/3) showing operation | movement of Example 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart (3/3) showing operation | movement of Example 2 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 2 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 2 of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the whole fundamental structure of Example 3 etc. of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the basic composition of the multifunctional machine in Example 3 etc. of this invention. It is an image figure showing the implementation example of the multifunctional machine in Example 3 etc. of this invention. It is a flowchart (1/3) showing operation | movement of Example 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart (2/3) showing operation | movement of Example 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart (3/3) showing operation | movement of Example 3 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 3 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 3 of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the whole fundamental structure of Example 4 etc. of this invention. It is an image figure showing the implementation example of the multifunctional machine in Example 4 etc. of this invention. It is an image figure showing the implementation example of the multifunctional machine in Example 4 etc. of this invention. It is a flowchart (1/3) showing operation | movement of Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart (2/3) showing operation | movement of Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart (3/3) showing operation | movement of Example 4 of this invention. It is an image figure showing an example of the display in Example 4 of this invention.

  First, an outline of an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The embodiment of the present invention is an outline of a communication system in which two multifunction devices including a scanner / printer / communication device (IP phone / video call, etc.) are communicably connected to each other. While the document is being scanned, a document image read by the scanner of one MFP can be automatically printed without any special operation on the printer of the other MFP. It is to pass documents smoothly without being conscious of something.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<Example 1>
First, Example 1 which is a specific example of the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a basic configuration of the entire communication system according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 10, the present embodiment includes a first multifunction device 100 and a second multifunction device 200. The first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 are connected in a communicable state via the Internet 1000.

  The first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 include equivalent functional blocks. Specifically, the first multifunction device 100 includes a touch panel display 110, an IP (Internet Protocol) telephone 120, a scanner unit 130, a printer unit 140, and a communication control unit 160. The first multifunction device 100 also includes a multifunction device control unit 150 that controls these units.

  Similarly, the second multifunction device 200 includes a touch panel display 210, an IP (Internet Protocol) telephone 220, a scanner unit 230, a printer unit 240, and a communication control unit 260. The second multifunction device 200 also includes a multifunction device controller 250 that controls these components.

  The first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 include functional blocks such as a power supply in addition to the functional blocks shown in the drawing, but are not illustrated because they are not the gist of the present embodiment.

  Subsequently, each functional block included in the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1-2, which is a diagram illustrating a basic configuration of the first multifunction device 100. To do. In this example, each functional block included in the first multifunction device 100 is described as an example. However, each functional block included in the second multifunction device 200 is also included in each functional block included in the first multifunction device 100. It shall have the same function.

  Referring to FIG. 1-2, the touch panel display 110 includes a touch panel 111 and a display 112. The display 112 is realized by a liquid crystal display, for example, and the touch panel 111 is provided on the surface of the liquid crystal display. The touch panel display 110 provides a user interface to the user by displaying operation keys and icons for operation and the state of the first multifunction device 100 on the display 112. The touch panel display 110 receives an operation from the user through the touch panel 111.

  Referring to FIG. 1-2, the IP telephone 120 includes a microphone 121, a transmission voice data conversion unit 122, a speaker 123, and a reception voice data conversion unit 124. Voice communication compliant with IP can be realized by cooperation of each unit included in IP telephone 120. The communication partner is, for example, the second multifunction device 200 connected via the communication control unit 160 and the Internet 1000. Specifically, the user's analog voice is collected by the microphone 121. The collected analog audio signal of the user is converted (including compression processing) into digital audio data compliant with a file format such as MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) by the transmission audio data conversion unit 122, and is transmitted to the communication control unit 160. Is output.

  On the other hand, a digital audio data signal in a file format such as MPEG received from the communication partner is converted into an analog audio signal by the received audio data converter 124 and output to the speaker 123. Then, the speaker 123 outputs the analog audio signal input from the received audio data conversion unit 124 as a physical signal to the user.

  Further, referring to FIG. 1-2, the scanner unit 130 includes an image reading unit 131 and a transmission image data conversion unit 132. The image reading unit 131 scans an image on a medium such as paper in accordance with a user operation or the like, reads the image on the medium, and outputs it as image data to the transmission image data conversion unit 132. The transmission image data conversion unit 132 converts the image data input from the image reading unit 131 into digital image data compliant with a file format such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) data (including compression processing), and the communication control unit 160 and / or the printer unit 140.

  Further, referring to FIG. 1B, the printer unit 140 includes an image forming unit 141 and a received image data converting unit 142. The received image data conversion unit 142 converts digital image data conforming to a file format such as JPEG data input from the transmission image data conversion unit 132 or the received image data storage unit 167 into image data for printer, and forms an image. Output to the unit 141. Such printer image data is described in a page description language (PDL: page description language, also called printer language). The image forming unit 141 forms a toner image on a medium such as paper based on the printer image data input from the received image data conversion unit 142.

  Further, the multifunction device control unit 150 illustrated in FIG. 1B controls each functional block in the first multifunction device 100 as described above. Each functional block in the first multifunction device 100 including the multifunction device control unit 150 may be realized by hardware. However, the hardware is obtained when the arithmetic processing device performs arithmetic processing based on software. You may make it implement | achieve by controlling.

  Further, referring to FIG. 1-2, the communication control unit 160 includes a transmission voice data storage unit 161, a voice data transmission unit 162, a reception voice data storage unit 163, a voice data reception unit 164, a transmission image data storage unit 165, and image data. A transmission unit 166, a received image data storage unit 167, and an image data reception unit 168 are included.

  Further, the transmission audio data storage unit 161 temporarily stores the digital audio data input from the transmission audio data conversion unit 122.

  Furthermore, the audio data transmission unit 162 is a protocol that is an H.264 protocol that is a protocol established by the ITU-T (International Telecommunication Union Telecommunication Standardization Sector) for the digital audio data stored in the transmission audio data storage unit 161. It transmits through the Internet 1000 using a communication protocol such as H.323.

  Furthermore, the received audio data storage unit 163 temporarily stores digital audio data received by the audio data receiving unit 164 described below.

  Further, the audio data receiving unit 164 receives digital audio data through the Internet 1000.

  Further, the transmission image data storage unit 165 temporarily stores the digital image data input from the transmission image data conversion unit 132.

  Further, the image data transmission unit 166 transmits the digital image data stored in the transmission image data storage unit 165 through the Internet 1000 in accordance with an image transfer protocol such as PTP / IP (Picture Transfer Protocol over Internet Protocol).

  Further, the received image data storage unit 167 temporarily stores digital image data received by the image data receiving unit 168 described below.

  Further, the image data receiving unit 168 receives digital image data through the Internet 1000.

  The transmission destination and the reception source of each transmission unit included in these communication control units 160 are any devices connected to the Internet 1000, for example, the second multifunction device 200.

  Each transmission / reception unit included in the communication control unit 160 may be communicably connected by means other than the Internet. For example, voice transmission / reception may be realized by a general analog telephone and an analog line. Further, as described above, transmission and reception may be performed in accordance with different communication protocols. For this reason, different identifiers may be used as identifiers used by the transmission / reception units to identify the transmission destination. For example, a transmission / reception unit using an IP address and a transmission / reception unit using a telephone number may be mixed. In such a case, it is assumed that a database is constructed by associating an IP address and a telephone number assigned to the same multi-function machine serving as a communication destination. The MFP control unit 150 and each transmission / reception unit specify the communication destination by referring to this database, so that the image data can be reliably transmitted to the other party performing the voice communication.

  Then, the first multifunction device can transmit and receive audio data and image data to and from the second multifunction device 200 by the operation of each unit described above.

  Although not illustrated in FIG. 1B, the first MFP 100 may be connected to a LAN (Local Area Network) installed in the office, for example. Then, for example, image data may be received from another device (for example, a personal computer) via the LAN, and the received image data may be printed.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 3-1 and 3-2 and the image diagrams shown in FIGS.

  Here, the present embodiment is a basic configuration of the present invention, and is a configuration in which a mode for limiting a printing target (hereinafter referred to as “occupied connection mode” as appropriate) is provided. Then, the communication source issues a connection request in the exclusive connection mode, and after permitting connection in the exclusive connection mode at the communication destination, a scan icon and a communication end icon are displayed on both the transmission destination and transmission source screens. Then, the scanned text is transmitted when the scan icon is pressed. On the side that received the text and the like, only the text received from the partner side connected in the exclusive connection mode is output. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing one example of a specific implementation example of the present embodiment.

  First, a communication connection request icon is displayed on the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction device 100 (step S1). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction peripheral 100 in this step is shown in the upper left of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection request icon of the first multifunction device 100 has been touched (step S2). If it is not touched, it stands by (No in step S2, step S1). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S3 (Yes in S2). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first MFP 100 in this step is shown in the lower left of FIG. 4, and in this explanation, the “ticket reservation” icon functions as a communication connection request icon.

  In step S3, the fact that a communication connection request has been received from the first multifunction device 100 is displayed on the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 (step S3). In addition, a communication connection start icon is displayed on the touch panel display of the second multifunction device 200 (step S4). Display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 at the normal time before step S3 and step S4 are performed. Is shown in the upper left of FIG. In addition, a display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 when Step S3 and Step S4 are performed is the lower left of FIG.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the communication connection start icon of the second multifunction device 200 has been touched (step S5). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S5, step S3 and step S4). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S6.

  Next, the telephone of the first MFP 100 and the IP telephone 120 and the IP telephone 220, which are the telephones of the second MFP 200, are connected by telephone (step S6).

  Then, the first MFP 100 and the second MFP 200 are connected for communication in the “occupied connection mode” (step S7). Thereafter, until the communication connection between the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 is terminated, printing other than steps S12 and S13 described later is prohibited.

  Next, a scan icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction device 100 (step S8). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction peripheral 100 in this step is shown in the upper right of FIG.

  Further, a scan icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 (step S9). A display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 in this step is the upper right of FIG.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the first multifunction device 100 has been touched (step S10). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S11 to make another determination (No in step S10). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S12. In step S12, an image is read by the scanner unit 130 of the first multifunction device 100, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 240 of the second multifunction device 200 (step S12).

  Further, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the second multifunction device 200 has been touched (step S11). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S14 to make another determination (No in step S11). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, an image is read by the scanner unit 230 of the second multifunction device 200, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 140 of the first multifunction device 100 (step S13).

  Further, it is determined whether or not the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 is touched (step S14). If there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the communication connection between the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 is terminated (step S15). On the other hand, when it is not touched (No in step S14) and when step S12 and step S13 are finished, the process returns to step S8 to perform the determination of step S10, step S12, and step S14 again. continue.

  As described above, the image read by one multifunction device can be output by the other multifunction device when in the exclusive connection mode. Further, when in the exclusive connection mode, it is possible to print only the image read by the partner multifunction machine.

  As a result, even if the multifunction printer is used by a plurality of people as a network printer, it is possible to prevent complication of printed images by connecting in the exclusive connection mode.

  Furthermore, since the document image can be reliably delivered via the printer of the other party's MFP by using the exclusive connection mode, it is necessary when sending by fax or e-mail. ) It is not necessary to attach a head letter, and there is an effect that wasteful paper consumption can be suppressed.

  In addition, it is possible to reliably transmit the document image to the other party currently performing voice communication, and it is possible to prevent the document image from being erroneously transmitted to another destination.

<Example 2>
Next, the operation of the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 6-1 to 6-3 and the image diagrams shown in FIGS. Since the configuration of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 10 and 1-2, the description of the configuration of the second embodiment is omitted.

  In this example, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, a dedicated connection mode release icon is also displayed. Then, the exclusive connection mode is canceled when the dedicated connection mode cancel icon is pressed. However, the voice connection is continued even when the exclusive connection mode is canceled. In other words, the configuration is such that only the printer function is opened to other users connected to the multifunction machine via the LAN, for example.

  First, a communication connection request icon is displayed on the touch panel display of the first multifunction device 100 (step S21). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction peripheral 100 in this step is shown in the upper left of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection request icon of the first multifunction device 100 has been touched (step S22). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S22, step S21). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S23 (Yes in S22). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction peripheral 100 in this step is shown in the lower left of FIG. 7, and in this explanation, the “ticket reservation” icon functions as a communication connection request icon.

  In step S23, a message indicating that a communication connection request has been received from the first multifunction device 100 is displayed on the touch panel display of the second multifunction device 200 (step S23). Further, a communication connection start icon is displayed on the touch panel display of the second multifunction device 200 (step S24). Display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 at the normal time before step S23 and step S24 are performed. Is shown in the upper left of FIG. Further, a display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multi-function peripheral 200 when Step S23 and Step S24 are performed is the lower left of FIG.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the communication connection start icon of the second multifunction device 200 has been touched (step S25). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S25, step S23 and step S24). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S26.

  Next, the telephone of the first MFP 100 and the IP telephone 120 and the IP telephone 220, which are the telephones of the second MFP 200, are connected by telephone (step S26).

  Next, an exclusive connection mode icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display of the first MFP 100 (step S27). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction peripheral 100 in this step is the upper right of FIG.

  Also, the exclusive connection mode icon and the communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display of the second multifunction device 200 (step S28). A display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 in this step is shown in the upper right of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 has been touched (step S29). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S30 (No in step S29). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S41, and the communication connection between the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 is terminated (step S41).

  In step S30, it is determined whether any of the communication connection start icons of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 is touched (step S30). If it is not touched, it stands by (No in step S30, step S27 to step S29). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S31.

  Then, the first MFP 100 and the second MFP 200 are connected for communication in the “occupied connection mode” (step S31). Thereafter, unless the “occupied connection mode” is canceled, printing other than steps S35 and S37 described later is prohibited until the communication connection between the first MFP 100 and the second MFP 200 is completed.

  Next, a scan icon, an exclusive communication mode cancel icon, and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 110 of the first multifunction device 100 (step S32). A display example of the touch panel display 110 of the first MFP 100 in this step is shown in the lower right of FIG.

  Further, a scan icon, an exclusive communication mode cancel icon, and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 (step S33). A display example of the touch panel display 210 of the second multifunction device 200 in this step is shown in the lower right of FIG.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the first multifunction device 100 has been touched (step S34). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S36 to make another determination (No in step S34). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S35. In step S35, an image is read by the scanner unit 130 of the first multifunction device 100, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 240 of the second multifunction device 200 (step S35).

  Also, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the second multifunction device 200 has been touched (step S36). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S38 to make another determination (No in step S36). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S37. In step S37, an image is read by the scanner unit 230 of the second multifunction device 200, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 140 of the first multifunction device 100 (step S37).

  Further, it is determined whether or not the dedicated communication mode cancel icon of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 is touched (step S38). If there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S39. In step S39, the exclusive communication mode of the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 is canceled (step S39). However, the process is repeated from step S26 while the voice connection is continued. On the other hand, if the dedicated communication mode release icon of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 is not touched, the process proceeds to step S40 to make another determination (No in step S38).

  In step S40, it is determined whether the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 has been touched (step S40). If there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S41. In step S41, the communication connection between the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 is terminated (step S41). On the other hand, when it is not touched (No in step S40), and when step S35 and step S37 are completed, the process returns to step S32 to perform the determination of step S34, step S36, step S38, and step S40 again. To continue processing.

  As described above, the exclusive connection mode can be canceled according to the user's operation even after the exclusive connection mode has been entered.

  In this way, by canceling only the exclusive connection mode during a call, it becomes possible to copy and print other than the document image sent from the other party, so the work of other people who use the network printer is significantly stagnated. The effect that it can prevent is made.

  In addition, as a method of canceling only the exclusive connection mode, there are a method of canceling by pressing an interrupt key used at the time of interrupt copying in a general multifunction device, and a plurality of scan keys for reading an image with a scanner (for example, For example, a key to be printed by the printer of the other party, a copy key used at the time of copying in a general multifunction machine, a method of temporarily releasing the key by pressing the copy key, and the like can be considered.

  Also, when canceling only the exclusive connection mode, it is necessary to clarify whether the image printed by the printer unit of the multifunction device is an image sent from the other party, so It is desirable that the user of the multi-function peripheral can recognize that only the exclusive connection mode has been canceled.

<Example 3>
Next, Example 3 will be described. In the third embodiment, the configurations of the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 are changed to be the first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400. A specific difference from the first embodiment is that in this embodiment, a camera is further added to the configuration of the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200, and in the first embodiment, an IP telephone (IP telephone 120) is added. And the microphone and speaker included in the IP telephone 220) are installed in the casings of the first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400, thereby realizing video communication.

  Such a configuration will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 9-1 and 9-2.

  FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating a basic configuration of the entire communication system according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 9A, the present embodiment includes a first multifunction device 300 and a second multifunction device 400. The first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400 are connected in a communicable state via the Internet 1000.

  The first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400 include equivalent functional blocks. Specifically, the first multifunction device 300 includes a touch panel 311, a camera 312, a display 314, a microphone 316, a speaker 318, a scanner unit 320, a printer unit 330, and a communication control unit 350. The first multifunction device 300 also includes a multifunction device control unit 340 that controls these units.

  Similarly, the second MFP 400 includes a touch panel 411, a camera 412, a display 414, a microphone 416, a speaker 418, a scanner unit 420, a printer unit 430, and a communication control unit 450. The second multifunction device 400 also includes a multifunction device control unit 440 that controls these units.

  The first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400 include functional blocks such as a power supply in addition to the functional blocks shown in the drawing, but are not illustrated because they are not the gist of the present embodiment.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 9B, which is a diagram showing a basic configuration of the first multifunction device 300 in the present embodiment, each functional block included in the first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400. There,
In particular, differences from the functional blocks included in the first multifunction device 100 and the second multifunction device 200 will be described in more detail. In this example, each functional block included in the first multifunction device 300 will be described as an example. However, each functional block included in the second multifunction device 400 is also included in each functional block included in the first multifunction device 300. It shall have the same function.

  Referring to FIG. 1-2, a touch panel display 300 functioning as a video communication terminal includes a touch panel 311, a camera 312, a transmission video data conversion unit 313, a display 314, a reception video data conversion unit 315, a microphone 316, and a transmission audio data conversion unit. 317, a speaker 318, and a received audio data converter 319.

  Here, the touch panel 311, the display 314, the microphone 316, the transmission audio data conversion unit 317, the speaker 318, and the reception audio data conversion unit 319 operate in the same manner as the functional blocks of the same name included in the first multifunction device 100. Detailed description is omitted.

  The camera 312 captures a user and acquires image data of a moving image or a still image (hereinafter referred to as “video data” as appropriate). Then, the camera 312 outputs the acquired video data to the transmission video data conversion unit 313.

  The transmission video data conversion unit 313 converts the video data input from the camera 312 to generate digital video data, and outputs the generated digital video data to the transmission video data storage unit 351.

  The received video data conversion unit 315 converts the digital video data stored in the received video data storage unit 353 into a format that can be output by the display 314, and outputs the converted video data to the display 314.

  As with the touch panel display 110 in the first embodiment, the touch panel display 310 provides a user interface to the user by displaying operation keys and icons for operation, the state of the first multifunction device 300, and the like. To do. The touch panel display 310 receives an operation from the user through the touch panel 311.

  On the other hand, the touch panel display 310 displays video captured by a communication destination camera at the time of video communication, and video such as a conversation partner and necessary documents is displayed as a moving image or a still image. .

  Furthermore, the scanner unit 320, the printer unit 330, and the multifunction peripheral control unit 340 include functional blocks that are equivalent to those of the first multifunction peripheral 100 and the second multifunction peripheral 200, and have the same functions, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  The communication control unit 350 includes a transmission video data storage unit 351, a video data transmission unit 352, a reception video data storage unit 353, a video data reception unit 354, a transmission audio data storage unit 355, an audio data transmission unit 356, and a reception audio data storage unit. 357, an audio data reception unit 358, a transmission image data storage unit 359, a transmission image data transmission unit 360, a reception image data storage unit 361, and an image data reception unit 362.

  The transmission video data storage unit 351 temporarily stores the digital video data input from the transmission video data conversion unit 313.

  The video data transmission unit 352 converts the digital video data stored in the transmission video data storage unit 351 to H.264. It transmits through the Internet line using a communication protocol such as H.323. The transmission destination is, for example, the second multifunction device 400.

  The video data receiving unit 354 receives digital video data through the Internet 1000. This digital video data is, for example, video data of the user of the second multifunction device 400 taken by the second multifunction device 400. The received digital video data is output to the received video data storage unit 353.

  The received video data storage unit 353 temporarily stores the digital video data input from the video data receiving unit 354.

  The other functional blocks included in the communication control unit 350 are operated in the same manner as the functional blocks of the same name included in the first multifunction device 100, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 11A to 11C and the image diagrams shown in FIGS.

  In this embodiment, as described above, communication is performed not by simply performing voice communication but by transmitting and receiving a moving image of a user who uses each MFP. Such communication is referred to herein as video communication. By performing video communication, it is possible to communicate more smoothly between users who use each multifunction device. Note that FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating one example among specific implementation examples of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, by providing a camera, a microphone, and a speaker around the display that the user refers to, the user who uses each MFP can communicate as if facing the other user. It becomes possible to take.

  First, a communication connection request icon is displayed on the touch panel display 310 of the first multifunction device 300 (step S51). A display example of the touch panel display 310 of the first multifunction device 300 in this step is shown in the upper left of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection request icon of the first MFP 300 has been touched (step S52). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S52, step S51). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S53 (Yes in S52). A display example of the touch panel display 310 of the first multifunction device 300 in this step is shown in the lower left of FIG. 12, and in this explanation, the “ticket reservation” icon functions as a communication connection request icon.

  In step S53, a message indicating that a communication connection request has been received from the first multifunction device 300 is displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S53). In addition, a communication connection start icon is displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S54). The table of the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 at the normal time before step S53 and step S54 are performed. An example is shown in the upper left of FIG. In addition, a display example of the touch panel display 410 of the second multi-function peripheral 400 when Step S53 and Step S54 are performed is the lower left of FIG.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the communication connection start icon of the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S55). If it is not touched, it stands by (No in step S55, step S53 and step S54). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S56.

  In step S56, the sound input to the microphone 316 of the first multifunction device 300 is output from the speaker 418 of the second multifunction device 400, and the sound input to the microphone 416 of the second multifunction device 400 is simultaneously output. And output from the speaker 318 of the first multifunction device 300. This establishes a call connection between the users of both MFPs (step S56).

  Next, an exclusive connection mode icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 310 of the first multifunction device 300 (step S57). A display example of the touch panel display 310 of the first multifunction device 300 in this step is the upper right of FIG.

  Further, the exclusive connection mode icon and the communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S58). A display example of the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 in this step is shown in the upper right of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S59). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S60 (No in step S59). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S70, and the communication connection of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 is terminated (step S70).

  In step S60, it is determined whether any of the communication connection start icons of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 is touched (step S60). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S60, steps S57 to S59). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S61.

  Then, the first MFP 300 and the second MFP 400 are connected for communication in the “occupied connection mode” (step S61). Thereafter, unless the “occupied connection mode” is canceled, printing other than steps S66 and S68 described later is prohibited until the communication connection between the first MFP 300 and the second MFP 400 is completed.

  Further, an image input to the camera 312 of the first multifunction device 300 is displayed on the display 414 of the second multifunction device 400, and at the same time, an image input to the camera 412 of the second multifunction device 400 is displayed as the first image. Displayed on the display 314 of the MFP 300. As a result, the video data is transmitted and received between the users of both MFPs (step S62).

  Next, a scan icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 310 of the first MFP 300 (step S63). A display example of the touch panel display 310 of the first MFP 300 in this step is shown in the lower right of FIG. In this regard, in this embodiment, unlike the first and second embodiments, the video data of the user of the second multifunction device 400 is displayed. For example, when the user of the second multifunction device 400 is a travel agency, video data of an employee in charge of the travel agency, a pamphlet provided by the employee, and the like are displayed.

  Further, the scan icon and the communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S64). A display example of the touch panel display 410 of the second MFP 400 in this step is shown in the lower right of FIG. In this regard, in this embodiment, unlike the first and second embodiments, the video data of the user of the second multifunction device 400 is displayed. For example, when the user of the first multifunction device 300 is a customer who has applied for a travel agency, the customer's video data and the like are displayed.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the first multifunction device 300 has been touched (step S65). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S67 to make another determination (No in step S65). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S66. In step S66, an image is read by the scanner unit 320 of the first multifunction device 300, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 430 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S66).

  Further, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S67). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S69 to make another determination (No in step S67). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S68. In step S68, the image is read by the scanner unit 420 of the second multifunction device 400, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 330 of the first multifunction device 300 (step S68).

  Further, it is determined whether or not the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S69). If there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S70. In step S70, the communication connection between the first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400 is terminated (step S70). On the other hand, when it is not touched (No in step S69) and when step S66 and step S68 are completed, the process returns to step S63 to perform the determination of step S65, step S67, and step S69 again. continue.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, for example, video data captured by a camera can be transmitted and received between users of both MFPs. As a result, since a video call in which voice and video are bidirectionally transmitted can be performed, there is an effect that communication can be performed more smoothly than in the case where communication is simply performed by voice.

<Example 4>
Next, Example 4 will be described. In the third embodiment, a predetermined format conforming to a format such as a document file (for example, an image file conforming to the jpeg format or PDF (Portable Document Format)) stored in each multifunction device or in a file server connected to each multifunction device. The document file) is displayed on the display of the multifunction device of the communication partner in accordance with the operation of the user. Accordingly, it is possible to print a pamphlet, an order form, or the like with a high transmission frequency with the multifunction machine on the other side or the multifunction machine used by itself without reading it with a scanner each time it is transmitted.

  In the present embodiment, after the document data read by the other scanner is displayed on the display, printing is performed after confirming with the user whether printing is necessary. This prevents unnecessary printing of documents. For example, when the other user erroneously reads an unnecessary document, it is possible to prevent unnecessary printing.

  Since the present embodiment can be realized with a configuration equivalent to that of the third embodiment, for example, the detailed description of the configuration and each functional block is omitted, but a modification that can be applied to the present embodiment and other embodiments as well. Will be described.

  For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the microphone 316 and the speaker 318 (or the microphone 416 and the speaker 418) may be integrated as a headset. In this case, it is realizable by the structure represented, for example in FIG. By doing so, both hands of the user are freed, so that an action such as scanning can be easily performed.

  Further, the display, the headset, and the camera may be realized separately from the multifunction peripheral. Such a configuration can be realized, for example, by the configuration represented by FIG. In this way, for example, a display installed on a desk can be used.

  Next, the operation of the fourth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 17-1 to 17-3 and the image diagram shown in FIG.

  First, a communication connection request icon is displayed on the touch panel display 310 of the first multifunction device 300 (step S71).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection request icon of the first multifunction device 300 has been touched (step S72). If it is not touched, it stands by (No in step S72, step S71). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S73 (Yes in S72).

  In step S73, a message indicating that a communication connection request has been received from the first multifunction device 300 is displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S73). Further, a communication connection start icon is displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S74). A display example of the touch panel display 410 of the second multi-function peripheral 400 when Step S73 and Step S74 are performed is the upper left of FIG.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the communication connection start icon of the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S75). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S75, step S73 and step S74). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S76.

  In step S76, the sound input to the microphone 316 included in the headset of the first multifunction device 300 is output from the speaker 418 included in the headset of the second multifunction device 400, and at the same time, the second multifunction device. The sound input to the microphone 416 included in the 400 headset is output from the speaker 318 included in the headset of the first multifunction device 300. This establishes a call connection between the users of both MFPs (step S76).

  Next, an exclusive connection mode icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 310 of the first MFP 300 (step S77).

  Further, the exclusive connection mode icon and the communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S78). A display example of the touch panel display 410 of the second MFP 400 in this step is shown in the lower left of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S79). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S80 (No in step S79). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S95, and the communication connection of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 is terminated (step S95).

  In step S80, it is determined whether any of the communication connection start icons of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 is touched (step S80). If it is not touched, it waits (No in step S80, step S77 to step S79). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S81.

  Then, the first MFP 300 and the second MFP 400 are connected for communication in the “occupied connection mode” (step S81). Thereafter, unless the “occupied connection mode” is canceled, printing other than steps S89, S91, and S93 described later is prohibited until the communication connection between the first MFP 300 and the second MFP 400 is completed. To do.

  Further, an image input to the camera 312 of the first multifunction device 300 is displayed on the display 414 of the second multifunction device 400, and at the same time, an image input to the camera 412 of the second multifunction device 400 is displayed as the first image. Displayed on the display 314 of the MFP 300. As a result, the video data is transmitted and received between the users of both MFPs (step S82).

  Next, a scan icon and a communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 310 of the first MFP 300 (step S83).

  Further, the scan icon and the communication connection end icon are displayed on the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S84).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the first multifunction device 300 has been touched (step S85). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S90 to make another determination (No in step S85). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S86. In step S86, an image is read by the scanner unit 320 of the first multifunction device 300, and the read image is displayed on the display 414 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S86).

  In step S87, a print icon is displayed on the display 414 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S87). A display example of the touch panel display 410 of the second multifunction device 400 in this step is the upper right of FIG. In this regard, in this embodiment, unlike the other embodiments, each icon described above is displayed and a file stored in the server is displayed. In addition, an icon such as “print with customer's multifunction device” is also displayed. These displays are utilized in the following operations such as step S92.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the print icon of the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S88). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S90 to make another determination (No in step S88). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S89. In step S89, the image read by the scanner unit 320 of the first multifunction device 300 in step S86 is printed by the printer unit 430 of the second multifunction device 400 (step S89).

  On the other hand, in step S90, it is determined whether or not the scan icon of the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S90). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S92 to make another determination (No in step S90). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S91. In step S91, an image is read by the scanner unit 420 of the second multifunction device 400, and the read image is printed by the printer unit 330 of the first multifunction device 300 (step S91).

  On the other hand, in step S92, it is determined whether or not the print icon icon of the second multifunction device 400 is touched on the customer's multifunction device (step S92). If not touched, the process proceeds to step S94 to make another determination (No in step S92). On the other hand, if there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S93. In step S93, the document file in the server selected by the user and the document file in the second multifunction device 400 are printed by the printer unit 330 of the first multifunction device 300 (step S93).

  Further, it is determined whether or not the communication connection end icon of the first multifunction device 300 or the second multifunction device 400 has been touched (step S94). If there is a touch, the process proceeds to step S95. In step S95, the communication connection between the first multifunction device 300 and the second multifunction device 400 is terminated (step S95). On the other hand, if it is not touched (No in step S94), and if step S89, step S91, and step S93 are completed, the process returns to step S83 to perform the determination of step S90, step S92, and step S94 again. To continue processing.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, for example, video data captured by a camera can be transmitted and received between users of both MFPs. As a result, the document image sent from the communication partner multifunction device is displayed on the display, so that the document image can be confirmed more quickly and smoothly than printing. Accordingly, it is possible to print after confirming the contents of the document, and it is possible to prevent the printing of a document image that does not need to be printed.

In addition, according to the operation described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to print a document file stored in a server or the like on a communication destination multifunction peripheral without scanning from paper. As a result, it is possible to send a document image in a book that is difficult to read with a scanner or a printed matter of several tens of pages such as a pamphlet that requires time to read with a scanner to a call partner on demand. .
<Modification>
Each of the above-described examples is a preferred example of the embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described example alone, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Implementation in the applied form is possible. For example, it can be modified as follows.

  Each of the above-described embodiments includes two multifunction devices. However, this is not intended to limit the number of multifunction devices, and the number of multifunction devices included in each embodiment of the present invention is not limited. In addition, each multifunction device may be connected by a communication means other than the Internet. For example, the multifunction device may be connected to the Internet via a relay device included in the LAN, instead of being directly connected to the Internet. Furthermore, the functional blocks included in each multi-function peripheral are merely examples. For example, some of the functional blocks may be replaced or replaced with other functional blocks.

  Moreover, you may make it combine a part or all of each Example. For example, one system includes an exchange equivalent to the first exchange 100 included in the first and second embodiments and an exchange equivalent to the first exchange 300 included in the third and fourth embodiments. It may be mixed in. Further, for example, the processing of the second embodiment for releasing the exclusive connection mode may be added to the configuration of the third and fourth embodiments.

  Moreover, you may make it deform | transform a part of process of each Example. For example, when you are in the exclusive connection mode, you can not only print the image read by the scanner unit of your own multifunction device to the multifunction device of the communication partner, but also the image read by the scanner unit of your own multifunction device. You may make it print. By doing so, it is possible to output all the transmitted and received images in time series.

  In addition, in step S25 and the like, for example, it is determined whether any of the communication connection start icons of the first multifunction device 100 or the second multifunction device 200 is touched. Alternatively, it is determined whether or not both of the communication connection start icons of the second multifunction device 200 are touched, and the connection is made in the exclusive connection mode on the condition that both are touched (for example, step S31). Also good.

In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the second multifunction device 400 displays a print icon, a list of files such as a server, etc., but the first multifunction device 300 may also display them.
<Specific usage example>
Applications of the above-described embodiments are not limited. For example, a multifunction device installed in an office is a first multifunction device 100 (or first multifunction device 300), and a multifunction device installed in a travel agency is a second. It is conceivable to use the multifunction device 200 (or the second multifunction device 400).

  Then, simply by connecting the office multifunction device to the preset travel company multifunction device in the communication connection mode, the user can communicate with the person in charge of the travel company through the display of the multifunction device, and through the printer. The user can obtain printed materials such as timetables and pamphlets on demand, and the user's name, address, and signature can be sent through the scanner for confirmation.

  For the user, it is possible to save time and trouble to find necessary information such as timetables and pamphlets, to save time for keyboard input operations, and to reduce erroneous orders due to erroneous input. Since there is no need to distribute to the user, there is an advantage that the printing cost can be reduced and the user can be enclosed.

  For multi-function device dealers, it is expected to increase revenues for counter fees and service fees by creating a system that allows travel agencies to pay for printing of timetables and pamphlets and maintenance costs for application software.

  In order to realize such a mechanism, for example, a counter that counts the number of printed sheets is provided in each multi-function peripheral. Also, during the exclusive connection mode connection, even if printing is performed by the customer's multifunction device, the printing counter of the customer's multifunction device is not increased, and the printing counter of the travel company's multifunction device is increased. Then, the multifunction machine dealer may collect a fee from the installation destination of each multifunction machine according to the counter value of the print counter of each multifunction machine.

  Note that each of the above-described multifunction peripherals can be realized by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In addition, the document communication method performed by each of the above-described multifunction peripherals can also be realized by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. Here, “realized by software” means realized by a computer reading and executing a program.

  The program may be stored using various types of non-transitory computer readable media and supplied to the computer. Non-transitory computer readable media include various types of tangible storage media. Examples of non-transitory computer readable media include magnetic recording media (for example, flexible disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (for example, magneto-optical disks), CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD- R, CD-R / W, and semiconductor memory (for example, mask ROM, PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (random access memory)). The program may also be supplied to the computer by various types of transitory computer readable media. Examples of transitory computer readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. The temporary computer-readable medium can supply the program to the computer via a wired communication path such as an electric wire and an optical fiber, or a wireless communication path.

  The present invention can be implemented in various other forms without departing from the spirit or main features thereof. Therefore, each embodiment mentioned above is only an illustration, and should not be interpreted limitedly. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and is not restricted by the text of the specification. Further, all modifications and changes belonging to the equivalent scope of the claims are within the scope of the present invention.

100, 300 First MFP 110, 210, 310, 410 Touch panel display 111, 211, 311, 411 Touch panel 112, 212, 314, 414 Display 120, 220 IP telephone set 121, 221, 316, 416 Microphone 122, 222, 317, 417 Transmission audio data conversion unit 123, 223, 318, 418 Speakers 124, 224, 319, 419 Reception audio data conversion unit 130, 230, 320, 420 Scanner units 131, 231, 321, 421 Image reading units 132, 232 322, 422 Transmission image data conversion unit 140, 240, 330, 430 Printer unit 141, 241, 331, 431 Image forming unit 142, 242, 332, 432 Reception image data conversion unit 150, 250, 340 440 MFP control unit 160, 260, 350, 450 Communication control unit 161, 261, 355, 455 Transmission audio data storage unit 162, 262, 356, 456 Audio data transmission unit 163, 263, 357, 457 Reception audio data storage unit 164, 264, 358, 458 Audio data receivers 165, 265, 359, 458 Transmission image data storage units 166, 266, 360, 460 Image data transmission units 167, 267, 361, 461 Reception image data storage units 168, 268, 362, 462 Image data receiving unit 200, 400 Second multifunction peripheral 312, 412 Camera 313, 413 Transmission video data conversion unit 315, 415 Reception video data conversion unit 351, 461 Transmission video data storage unit 352, 462 Video data transmission unit 353, 463 Received video data Storage unit 354, 464 Video data receiving unit 1000 Internet

Claims (15)

An information processing apparatus connected to another information processing apparatus via a communication line,
On the screen of the local information processing device side,
A first button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the other information processing apparatus side;
A second button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the information processing apparatus side;
An information processing apparatus comprising a display processing unit for displaying a message. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The display processing unit
Displaying a preview of the image read by the document reading device on the information processing apparatus side in a first preview area located adjacent to the first button on the screen;
An information processing apparatus that displays a preview of an image sent from the other information processing apparatus in a second preview area adjacent to the second button on the screen. An information processing apparatus according to claim 2,
An information processing apparatus, wherein each button is activated at least in a state where a preview of an image is displayed in a preview area adjacent to the own button. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3,
An information processing apparatus that prints images having previews displayed in different preview areas by different printing apparatuses. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The information processing apparatus, wherein the display processing unit displays the first button on one end of the screen, and displays the second button on the other end of the screen. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The display processing unit is an information processing apparatus corresponding to a printing apparatus capable of executing printing immediately, and displays the name of the information processing apparatus functioning as the other information processing apparatus on the screen. A characteristic information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first button is a button for printing an image read by a document reading apparatus on the information processing apparatus side by a printing apparatus on the other information processing apparatus side. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The first button is a button for printing an image stored in a server accessible from the own information processing apparatus or a storage unit of the own information processing apparatus by a printing apparatus on the other information processing apparatus side. Information processing apparatus. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
If image data transmission in the exclusive connection mode in which voice communication can be performed between the other information processing apparatus and the own information processing apparatus is selected, predetermined input of an image in the other information processing apparatus starts. The communication period in the exclusive connection mode including the period from when the other information processing device to the transmission of the image data by the predetermined input to the information processing device is received from the other information processing device An information processing apparatus that prohibits output of an image other than the image. The transmission destination device according to claim 9,
In a mode other than the exclusive connection mode, output of an image other than the image received from the other information processing device is permitted. The communication system according to claim 9 or 10,
The transmission destination apparatus, wherein the predetermined input of the image data includes reading of the image by a document reading apparatus.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a multifunction peripheral.   An information processing system comprising the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 and the other information processing apparatus. An information processing method in an information processing apparatus connected to another information processing apparatus via a communication line,
On the screen of the local information processing device side,
A first button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the other information processing apparatus side;
A second button for starting printing by the printing apparatus on the information processing apparatus side;
An information processing method characterized by including a display processing step for displaying.   The program for functioning a computer as an information processing apparatus of any one of Claims 1 thru | or 11.