JP3951810B2 - Data processing method, data processing apparatus, program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a data processing method and apparatus for processing predetermined data requested by a client, a program, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program. For example, the present invention relates to improvement of a processing procedure when an image forming process having a copying or printing function is executed as an example of the data processing.
[0002]
[Prior art]
There are many data processing devices that process data requested by clients. For example, an image forming apparatus that outputs a visible image to a predetermined recording medium as a data processing product, such as a copying apparatus, a printing apparatus, and a FAX apparatus, is an example.
[0003]
Here, in the conventional image forming apparatus, the copying operation is permitted by inserting a copy card or key counter for managing the user or a fee corresponding to the number of copies. Further, it has become possible to receive a print request through direct communication between an image forming apparatus and a user terminal by using a wireless communication unit.
[0004]
Nowadays, with the realization of digital copying machines, it has become possible to submit other image forming jobs while a certain image forming job is being executed. For example, during printing of a certain job, it is possible to read a document of another job using a document reading device that is not used in the job. Similarly, print data of another job can be received via a wireless communication unit or the like during printing of a certain job.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when executing the requested data processing after determining whether the device is permitted to use, such as using a copy card, even if a different user tries to submit a job while the preceding job is running, the copy card, etc. Since it cannot be used, there is a problem that processing efficiency is lowered because it is necessary to wait until the preceding job is completed.
[0006]
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a data processing method in which processing efficiency does not decrease even when the requested data processing is executed after determining whether or not use of the device is permitted. An object is to provide an apparatus.
[0007]
It is another object of the present invention to provide a program suitable for realizing the data processing method and apparatus of the present invention by software using an electronic computer and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
That is, the data processing method according to the present invention is a data processing method for executing requested data processing by determining whether or not use of the data processing device is permitted, While using the device used to determine whether or not the data processing device is permitted to use, there is a request for other data processing that is different from the data processing that is subject to use permission and that requires the determination of whether or not use is permitted. When I was demanded to other Data processing can be executed regardless of whether or not the use is permitted, and can be executed on condition that the determination result is acceptable after the preceding process and the subsequent process. The processing on the previous stage related to the requested data processing until the judgment result is acceptable start It was decided to.
[0009]
A data processing apparatus according to the present invention is an apparatus for implementing the data processing method according to the present invention, wherein a request receiving unit that receives a request for data processing, and data processing based on the request received by the request receiving unit. A data processing unit to be executed; a determination unit that determines whether or not the data processing apparatus is permitted to use the data processing received by the request reception unit; and a control unit that controls the data processing unit based on a determination result of the determination unit Prepared.
[0010]
Here, the control unit When a request for other data processing is received that is different from the data processing subject to use permission during processing operation and requires determination of whether or not use is permitted, the other requested data processing is permitted for use. Regardless of the presence / absence judgment result, it can be divided into a process on the front side that can be executed and a process on the back side that can be operated on the condition that the judgment result is acceptable after the process on the front stage side. Involved in data processing The processing on the front side is changed to the data processing section. start If the determination result of the determination unit is acceptable, the processing on the subsequent stage, which is subsequent to the process on the previous stage, is transferred to the data processing unit. start Let
[0011]
The invention described in the dependent claims defines further advantageous specific examples of the data processing method and apparatus according to the present invention. Furthermore, the program according to the present invention is suitable for realizing the image processing apparatus according to the present invention by software using an electronic computer (computer). The program may be provided by being stored in a computer-readable storage medium, or may be distributed via wired or wireless communication means.
[0012]
[Action]
In the above configuration, for example, each individual processing step constituting a job executed by the data processing apparatus is divided into a step that requires permission to use the device for the user and a step that does not. For example, an authentication card such as a copy card is used to determine whether or not to permit use of the apparatus. For example, if the control unit can operate even if the authentication card is not attached, the control unit performs the process until the authentication card is inserted. Control not to.
[0013]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0014]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a data processing apparatus according to the present invention. The data processing apparatus 50 according to the first embodiment has a so-called network printing function for printing out based on image data such as print data acquired via the communication network 9 in addition to the copying function, and a reading function provided in the copying function. This is a multi-function device having a network scanner function or a FAX transmission / reception function for transmitting an image (image data) obtained by reading a document using a computer to a predetermined client device.
[0015]
As shown in the figure, the data processing device 50 includes a main control unit 52 that controls the overall operation of each unit in the data processing device 50, and external devices connected to the communication network 9, that is, client terminals, printer servers, or Web And a communication unit 53 that performs a communication function with the server. The communication unit 53 incorporates a network interface mechanism (for example, a LAN card) for connecting to the communication network 9 by wire or wireless.
[0016]
The data processing device 50 includes a user request receiving unit 54 that receives a request for data processing desired by the user, a data processing unit 56 that executes data processing based on the request received by the user request receiving unit 54, A device use permission management unit 79 that manages (controls) whether or not a user who requests data processing is permitted to use the data processing device 50, and data according to the use permission conditions managed by the device use permission management unit 79. And a data processing control unit 80 for controlling the operation of the processing unit 56.
[0017]
The user request receiving unit 54 receives, for example, the start of a print request from a user, parameter input related to a print job, and the like. Alternatively, a copy operation instruction is accepted. For this reason, the user request receiving unit 54 has, for example, a numeric keypad and a cursor movement key as a user interface unit for inputting information of print data desired by the user (for example, a print job in which confidential printing is designated). A key operation unit 54a having various keys and buttons, and a display unit 54b having a display device such as an LCD or an organic EL. It is good also as a structure of the operation panel 54c which serves as the key operation part 54a and the display part 54b, such as a touch panel. In addition, when a network print function is requested from the user as data processing, the user request receiving unit 54 receives a request for data processing (that is, network printing processing) via the communication unit 53.
[0018]
The data processing unit 56 has a function of inputting a document image in copying, that is, an image reading unit 60 that reads a document image and generates image data, and inputs print data in printing, that is, a client terminal used by a user. An image data input processing unit 58 including an image data receiving unit 62 that receives image data transmitted from the image data, and an image data output processing unit that generates an output image based on the image data acquired by the image data input processing unit 58 64 and an intermediate data holding unit 67 that holds intermediate data that is intermediate data generated by the data processing unit 56.
[0019]
The image data receiving unit 62 receives a print request (print job) transmitted from a client terminal or a printer server via the communication unit 53. The image data receiving unit 62 is provided with a RAM (not shown) that temporarily stores a print job sent from a client terminal or printer server connected to the communication network 9.
[0020]
The image data output processing unit 64 generates a bit map expanded image forming data based on the image data received from the image data input processing unit 58, and the image formation generated by the print processing unit 66. Raster scan-based image forming unit having a data printing unit 68 that forms an image according to printing conditions indicated by a print job based on the data for use (forms an image on a predetermined recording medium; for example, prints on a printing paper) (Print Engine) 69 is provided.
[0021]
The print processing unit 66 receives, for example, print data described in a page description language from the image data receiving unit 62, analyzes the print data, and performs a predetermined process for print output on the print data to generate a bitmap. The developed image forming data is generated. Similarly, the print processing unit 66 generates image forming data that has been bitmap-developed based on the image read by the image reading unit 60.
[0022]
The data printing unit 68 includes a laser light source that emits a light beam, a laser driving unit that controls or modulates the laser light source in accordance with image forming data output from the print processing unit 66, and a light beam emitted from the laser light source. A polygon mirror (rotating polygonal mirror) that reflects toward a member (photosensitive drum) is provided (both are not shown). That is, the data printing unit 68 executes a printing process using an electrophotographic method.
[0023]
The print processing unit 66 generates and renders (develops into raster data) data representing a plurality of, preferably three or four separated colors, in accordance with a well-known technique. For example, at least three (preferably four) YCrCb color systems represented by digital data, such as CMY color system or CMYK color system, are mapped to raster data (image data) separated for print output. Is generated.
[0024]
Further, in such raster data conversion processing, the print processing unit 66 performs undercolor removal (UCR) that reduces the CMY components of the color image, or gray component replacement that partially replaces the reduced CMY components with the K component. (GCR). Further, the print output processing unit may perform color separation linearization or similar processing in order to adjust a toner image of an output image created in response to output data (such as CMYK).
[0025]
The data printing unit 68 reflects the light beam generated by the laser light source on a plurality of surfaces on the polygon mirror to expose the photosensitive member, and forms a latent image on the photosensitive member by scan scanning. When the latent image is formed, the image is developed according to any of a number of methods known in the art, and the color image is transferred to a predetermined medium as a visible image and output as a printed matter.
[0026]
The device use permission management unit 79 is an example of a billing processing unit 72 that executes billing processing for data processing, and a determination unit that determines whether there is device use permission for the data processing received by the user request receiving unit 54. That is, the use permission determining unit 77 that determines whether or not the user who has requested the data processing is permitted to use the data processing device 50, and the contents of the data processing that can be processed by the data processing device 50 (not limited to one). For each processing step of the data processing, a processing procedure management unit 78 for managing whether or not the device use permission is required for the user who has requested the data processing is provided.
[0027]
Here, as described above, the use permission determining unit 77 determines whether or not to permit use of the data processing device 50 that executes the requested data processing for the user who requested the data processing. Yes, the administrator (device manager) who manages the data processing device 50 controls (allows / disallows) device use regardless of the requested data processing content (corresponding to the actual user). Is different. For example, in the case of network printing processing, the user (actual device user) is not an administrator of the data processing device 50 but an operator of a client device located at a position away from the data processing device 50 having a printer function. .
[0028]
The billing processing unit 72 has a billing information management unit 73 that manages whether the user has entered a predetermined amount. The billing processing unit 72 is connected to the price input machine 3 provided in the data processing apparatus 50 as a multifunction machine having a copying function, a printing function, a FAX transmission / reception function, and the like. The information of the already completed price is input to the billing information management unit 73. As the price insertion machine 3, a coin insertion machine or a prepaid card reader may be used. Information such as the number of copies and the paper size set on the operation panel 54 c of the user request receiving unit 54 is also input to the billing information management unit 73.
[0029]
The processing procedure management unit 78 performs a step (hereinafter referred to as a permission-required step) that requires the user to use the device for each detailed processing step constituting the job executed by the data processing device 50, that is, the data processing requested by the user. It is divided into steps that are not so (hereinafter also referred to as permission-unnecessary steps).
[0030]
Based on the result of the billing process for the data processing by the billing processing unit 72, such as whether or not a predetermined amount of charge required for printing has been thrown into the billing machine 3 of the billing processing unit 72, the use permission determining unit 77 A process for determining whether or not the use is permitted is executed. If a sufficient fee for printing all pages has not been input, it may be determined that the permission-required step can be processed for the number of sheets corresponding to the charged fee, for example.
[0031]
The data processing control unit 80 refers to the information from the device use permission management unit 79 and controls the data processing unit 56 based on whether or not the device use for the user who requested the data processing is permitted. For example, with respect to the permission-unnecessary step that can be executed regardless of the determination result of the presence or absence of use permission, the data processing unit 56 is informed until the determination result of the use permission determining unit 77 becomes acceptable. Then, the execution of the permission-unnecessary step (the process on the preceding stage) is permitted.
[0032]
Then, on the condition that the determination result of the use permission determination unit 77 becomes possible, the data processing unit 56 executes a permission required step (second-stage process) that is a process after the permission-unnecessary step (first-stage process). Let For this reason, the intermediate data holding unit 67 determines the intermediate product generated by the permission-unnecessary step (previous-side process) executed by the data processing unit 56 until the determination result of the use permission determining unit 77 becomes acceptable. It holds processed intermediate data as an example.
[0033]
If the result of the charging process for the data processing from the charging process unit 72 indicates that a sufficient charge for printing all pages has not been input, the data processing control unit 80 performs the charging process. The execution range of the steps (processes on the subsequent stage) that require permission to use the device is controlled according to the payment amount indicated by the result. That is, the print output operation of the image forming unit 69 is permitted by the number corresponding to the charged fee.
[0034]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a management table in which the processing procedure rules managed by the processing procedure management unit 78 of the device use permission management unit 79 are collected in the data processing device 50 of the first embodiment. The data processing control unit 80 refers to this management table in order to control the data processing unit 56.
[0035]
In the management table shown in the figure, the first-stage process that can be executed regardless of the determination result of whether or not the apparatus is permitted in association with the contents of data processing that the data processing apparatus 50 can provide to the user (permission unnecessary step). And a process that follows the process on the preceding stage and is managed as a list that summarizes the process (the permission-required step) on the subsequent stage that can operate on the condition that the determination result is acceptable.
[0036]
Here, the permission-unnecessary step and the permission-required step are, roughly speaking, steps that require permission directly for image output such as latent image formation and paper discharge, and before image output such as image reading and data reception. In this process, the process mainly related to data acquisition is a permission-unnecessary step. When the device usage permission for the user is not obtained, the intermediate data holding unit 67 holds the intermediate data that is the data generated in the unnecessary step, and the device usage permission for the user is granted. At that stage, the stored intermediate data is transferred to the functional unit that executes the processing of the permission-required step.
[0037]
For example, as shown in the figure, in the case of a copy processing apparatus that executes a copy process, the document reading process is a permission-unnecessary step and the print output process is a permission-necessary step. This processing procedure is different from a conventionally known mechanism of permitting copying after input of a price or on condition of authentication verification. In other words, in the case where the use of the apparatus is permitted in the conventional copying apparatus, even if a different user (subsequent user) tries to instruct the copying job during execution of the copying job instructed by the preceding user, the preceding user Since the price of is being deposited into the coin insertion machine or the copy card is being inserted into the reader, subsequent users cannot enter their own coins or insert copy cards.
[0038]
Therefore, the subsequent user must wait until the copy job (specifically, the print output process) for the preceding user is completed. For example, if one original is read and 50 sheets are output, the original reading apparatus after reading is empty while the printer function part is performing 50 sheets of output processing (during execution of a print job). Nevertheless, subsequent users cannot use the document reading device.
[0039]
In other words, in the conventional method of permitting use of a device using coin insertion or a copy card, the copying process, which is an example of data processing, is performed for the entire series of copying operations from “reading process to print output process”. Gave a limit. On the other hand, in the processing procedure of the present embodiment, the reading process in the copying operation is excluded from the restrictions on settlement (billing) and authentication processing, and regardless of whether or not there is payment or authentication, that is, regardless of the determination result of availability. Since the reading process can be executed first, the reading process for the subsequent user can be executed in advance during the execution of the print job for the preceding user. It is possible to shorten the waiting time and the entire processing time until the completion of copying.
[0040]
In the case of a reading apparatus that executes a scanning process, the document reading process is a permission-unnecessary step, and the file transfer process is a permission-necessary step. In the case of a FAX apparatus that performs a FAX transmission process, the document reading process is a permission-unnecessary step, and the document data transmission process is a permission-necessary step.
[0041]
Here, in both the scan process and the FAX transmission process, in the conventional mechanism, as in the case of the conventional copy process, when the use of the apparatus is permitted, the scan process is “from the read process to the file transfer process”. The FAX transmission process has been limited to the entire series of processes from “reading process to document transmission process”. In the present embodiment, as in the process of the present embodiment in the copying process, since the reading process can be executed regardless of the determination result of the availability, the subsequent process is performed during the file transfer or document transmission for the preceding user. The reading process for the user can be executed in advance, and as a result, the waiting time of the subsequent user in the scanning process and FAX transmission process and the entire processing time until the completion of each process can be shortened.
[0042]
In the case of a FAX apparatus that performs a FAX reception process, the document data reception process is a permission-unnecessary step, and the print output process is a permission-necessary step. This processing procedure is different from that of confidential reception conventionally known. In other words, in the conventional confidential reception, when the confidential FAX is received, the output is temporarily suspended and the password is collated, and then printed out. The reception process does not require the collation of the personal identification number, and the print output process requires the collation of the personal identification number. It is similar to this embodiment in that it is necessary.
[0043]
However, in the conventional confidential reception, it is necessary to add an attribute flag indicating “confidential FAX” to the FAX data to be transmitted, and when the receiving side detects this attribute flag, the output is temporarily suspended and the code number is temporarily suspended. The print output is permitted after the above verification, and the processing as in this embodiment cannot be performed on all FAX data. In other words, the processing procedure in the FAX reception function of the present embodiment is for the processing procedure when the use of the apparatus is permitted, regardless of the attribute of the FAX data (processing target data of the data processing apparatus 50), that is, the data Regardless of whether or not the output is a FAX document that should suspend the output of the printed product that is the product of the processing, the output processing is always suspended once.
[0044]
In other words, when the request for data processing is FAX reception processing, the print processing is temporarily suspended only for confidential FAX documents in the conventional processing procedure, whereas in the processing procedure of this embodiment, the apparatus When the use is not permitted, the document reception process is executed for all FAX documents, and the print output process is temporarily suspended for all FAX documents.
[0045]
Accordingly, the apparatus administrator can adjust the timing of FAX output. For example, since printing can be suppressed during a certain time period, it is effective as a countermeasure for peak print output. Similarly to the copying process described above, the document data reception process in another (subsequent job) FAX reception process can be executed in advance during execution of an output job of a certain (preceding job) FAX reception process. As a result, the entire processing time until the FAX reception process is completed can be shortened.
[0046]
In addition, in a multifunction machine having a FAX function installed at a store such as a convenience store, there is a mechanism in which the receiving side (requires a store clerk) to make a receiving mode and send to the other party. In such a multifunction device, when another user is using a copy, the sender must wait for transmission. On the other hand, according to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to receive data even when another user is using the copy, so that no extra waiting time is generated at the sender.
[0047]
As a function of adjusting the timing of FAX output, there is a “polling” function as is conventionally known. However, this “polling” function stores the FAX data on the transmission side, and adjusts the transmission timing of the FAX data on the reception side to substantially adjust the timing of the FAX output. As soon as polling is received, the fax is output, so the processing procedure differs from that of the present embodiment.
[0048]
In addition, in order to operate the function of confidential reception by the conventional method, the transmission side apparatus and the reception side apparatus have the same confidential function (generally limited to similar models of the same manufacturer). It is necessary to be). In this embodiment, when there is no permission to use the apparatus, the document reception process is executed for all FAX documents regardless of the attribute of the FAX data, and the output process is always temporarily suspended for all FAX documents. There are no restrictions.
[0049]
In the case of a printing apparatus that executes print processing, print data reception processing and print image creation processing are steps that do not require permission, and print output processing is a step that requires permission. The procedure of this printing process is different from the procedure of the confidential printing function that has been conventionally known. In other words, the conventional confidential printing function, when confidential print data is input to the printer, temporarily suspends the print output and prints it after verifying the addressee's personal identification number. Is unnecessary, and the print output process is similar to the present embodiment in that it requires collation of a password.
[0050]
However, as in the case of confidential FAX, the conventional confidential printing function needs to add an attribute flag indicating “confidential printing” to the print data, and the receiving side outputs when detecting this attribute flag. The print output is permitted after it is temporarily held and collated with a password, and the process as in this embodiment cannot be performed on all print data. In other words, the print processing function of the present embodiment, regardless of whether or not the apparatus is permitted to use, regardless of the print data attribute, that is, whether or not the print data should be deferred from being output as a data processing product. First, reception processing is executed for all print data, and output processing is temporarily suspended.
[0051]
In the confidential printing according to the conventional method, print image data is generated after collation of a personal identification number related to the determination of permission to use the apparatus. On the other hand, in the processing procedure of this embodiment, the personal identification printing is performed. It is also different in that print image data is generated in advance based on received print data regardless of whether or not the number is verified, that is, whether or not use of the apparatus is permitted.
[0052]
In addition, in order to produce an effect similar to that of the above-described embodiment in confidential FAX or confidential printing, it is necessary to set and transmit a confidential flag, and in addition, the receiver is registered in the receiving FAX or determined at the time of transmission. The confidential transmission information to be sent must be notified to the recipient. According to the configuration of the above embodiment, such processing is not necessary.
[0053]
Further, according to the above-described embodiment, the contents of the received document are confirmed by inserting a printing fee for one page, and if it is an unnecessary document or an erroneously transmitted document, the subsequent printing is not performed. Processing is possible. On the other hand, in confidential FAX or confidential printing, all pages are printed by entering a password or the like, and thus such processing cannot be performed.
[0054]
In the case of a printing apparatus that executes URL print processing, print data reception processing, URL data reception processing, and print image creation processing are permission-unnecessary steps, and print output processing is a permission-necessary step. Here, the URL printing process is a process in which a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating the location on the Web server is received and the corresponding information is downloaded from the Web server and then printed. In the case of this URL printing process, the print data designated from the client device is not the actual image itself to be printed, but the data on the Web server indicated by the URL. This is different from the normal printing process in that a process for downloading data is required, but the other points are the same as the printing process described above.
[0055]
Therefore, like the above-described print process, the print output process is a step requiring permission. The URL print processing function according to the present embodiment, when there is no permission to use the device, makes all requests regardless of the URL print data attribute, that is, whether or not the print output of the downloaded data should be suspended. The Web data reception process corresponding to the URL is executed, and the output process is temporarily suspended.
[0056]
FIG. 3 illustrates the processing in the data processing device 50 according to the first embodiment, particularly the function in which the data processing control unit 80 controls the data processing operation in the data processing unit 56 with reference to the management table of the device use permission management unit 79. It is a flowchart to do. Here, the data processing requested by the user is copy processing, and processing for forming an output image in the image data output processing unit 64 of the data processing unit 56 and originals for other jobs in the image reading unit 60. An example of controlling the reading process will be described.
[0057]
When the user request receiving unit 54 receives a copy processing request from the user, the user request receiving unit 54 notifies the data processing control unit 80 to that effect. In response, the data processing control unit 80 starts a copying operation (S100). When the copying operation is started, first, the use permission determination unit 77 and the data processing control unit 80 cooperate to determine whether or not to give the user permission to use the data processing device 50.
[0058]
For example, the use permission determining unit 77 checks the status of the charging process by the charging processing unit 72 (S102). If the necessary amount of money has been inserted, the use permission determining unit 77 notifies the data processing control unit 80 of this in order to give the user permission to use the data processing device 50. In response to this, the data processing control unit 80 permits the data processing unit 56 to perform normal processing, that is, a series of processing from reading processing to printing output processing (S104-YES, S120).
[0059]
On the other hand, if the price has not been inserted, the use permission determination unit 77 informs the data processing control unit 80 to prohibit the use of the data processing device 50 by the user (actually only the output processing is prohibited). Notice. In response to this, the data processing control unit 80 refers to the management table managed by the processing procedure management unit 78 and controls the data processing unit 56 so as to allow the user only the permission unnecessary steps in the copying process. (S104-NO), and waits until the use permission can be confirmed (S108).
[0060]
In response to this, the data processing unit 56 executes a process that does not require permission (S106). In the case of the present embodiment, the image reading unit 60 of the data processing unit 56 executes only the document reading operation, the image holding unit 61 holds the image read by the image reading unit 60, and the image forming unit 69 performs data processing. It waits until an output permission is issued from the control unit 80.
[0061]
Then, when the required price is inserted within a predetermined time, the use permission determining unit 77 notifies the data processing control unit 80 to permit the use of the data processing device 50 by the user. In response to this, the data processing control section 80 issues an output permission to the image forming section 69 to permit execution of a printout process that is a remaining process requiring permission for use, that is, a permission process in the copying process ( S108-YES). In response to this, the data processing unit 56 executes a print output process requiring permission (S110).
[0062]
On the other hand, if the usage permission cannot be confirmed (eg, S108-NO, S112-YES), such as when the required amount of money is not input within a predetermined time or when a cancel instruction is issued by the user (S108-NO, S112-YES) (S114).
[0063]
As described above, according to the data processing apparatus 50 of the first embodiment, for example, even if the price is not input into the price input machine 3 (even if the price is not paid), the process on the preceding stage in the copying process is performed. Can be executed before it is determined that the use of the apparatus is permitted. As a result, even if the price is not entered during execution of a job and the print output process (the process on the subsequent stage) is on hold, the read process for the copy process of another user is executed in advance. As a result, the waiting time of subsequent users can be shortened. Therefore, even when the requested data processing is executed after determining whether or not the device is permitted to be used, the processing efficiency does not decrease.
[0064]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the data processing apparatus according to the present invention. The data processing device 50 according to the second embodiment is provided with an authentication processing unit 74 instead of the accounting processing unit 72 according to the first embodiment. That is, the device use permission management unit 79 includes an authentication processing unit 74 that executes authentication processing for a user who has requested data processing. The authentication processing unit 74 includes an authentication information management unit 75 that manages whether the user is authenticated by the authentication processing unit 74. For example, the authentication processing unit 74 is provided with a card reader 75 that reads an authentication card, a key counter, and the like. In addition, the authentication processing unit 74 includes an authentication information management unit 76 that manages, for example, whether the user is wearing an authentication card for personal authentication.
[0065]
For example, it is assumed that information on the user is recorded on the authentication card, and the authentication information management unit 76 is authenticated on the condition that the card is inserted. Alternatively, a personal identification number is also recorded, and authentication may be performed by comparing with a personal identification number input from the user to the key operation unit 54b.
[0066]
In addition, when the authentication card used has a payment function in addition to personal authentication, the authentication information management unit 76 inputs a predetermined amount based on the amount information indicated on the authentication card. It also has a function as a billing information management unit 73 for managing such information.
[0067]
Based on the result of the authentication process for the user who requested the data processing by the authentication processing unit 74, the use permission determining unit 77 executes a process for determining whether or not the device is permitted to use. For example, when judging the use permission, the authentication process is executed with reference to whether or not an authentication card or a key counter is attached. The data processing control unit 80 controls the data processing unit 56 based on whether or not the user who has requested the data processing is authenticated by the use permission determining unit 77. For example, the data processing unit 56 is controlled so that processing is permitted for the permission-unnecessary step even if the authentication card is not mounted, and processing is not performed for the permission-necessary step until, for example, the authentication card is mounted.
[0068]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the function of the data processing control unit 80 in the data processing device 50 according to the second embodiment controlling the data processing unit 56. The step number of the second embodiment corresponding to the step number S100 of the first embodiment is indicated by S200.
[0069]
As shown in the figure, the basic processing procedure is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the charging process is changed to the authentication process (S202). For example, when the status of the authentication process is confirmed (S202), if the identity is confirmed (authentication is successful), the use permission determining unit 77 notifies the user of permission to use the data processing device 50. Is notified to the data processing control unit 80, and the data processing control unit 80 permits the data processing unit 56 to perform a series of processing (reading processing to normal processing) from reading processing to printing output processing (S204-YES, S220).
[0070]
On the other hand, if the identity cannot be confirmed (if authentication fails), the use permission determination unit 77 notifies the data processing control unit 80 of this fact, and the data processing control unit 80 is managed by the processing procedure management unit 78. The data processing unit 56 is controlled so as to allow the user only the permission-unnecessary step in the copying process with reference to the management table (S204-NO), and waits until the use permission can be confirmed (S208).
[0071]
As described above, also in the data processing apparatus 50 of the second embodiment, for example, even when the authentication process is not performed, it is determined that the use of the apparatus is permitted for the reading process that is the preceding process in the copying process. Can be run before Also, even if a user's identity is not confirmed during execution of a job and print output processing is pending, other users' copy processing can be executed in advance. The waiting time for subsequent users can be shortened.
[0072]
6 shows the configuration of the third embodiment of the data processing apparatus according to the present invention, the client apparatus 30 that issues a data processing request to the data processing apparatus 50 of the third embodiment, and the data processing desired by the client apparatus 30. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the data processing system comprised from the web server 7 which is an example of the data server which provides required data to the data processor 50.
[0073]
What is the basic configuration of the data processing device 50? The same as in the second embodiment. However, authentication processing for each user is performed by communicating with an authentication server 5 which is an example of an authentication processing apparatus prepared outside. The authentication information management unit 76 of the authentication processing unit 74 communicates with the authentication server 5 as the authentication processing device, acquires the result of the authentication processing for the user who has requested the data processing, and the user authenticates with the authentication server 5. It is managed whether it was done. In the figure, the data processing device 50 and the authentication server 5 are shown in a form that is communicably connected directly via an interface cable or the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a local wired LAN (network) is used. It may be in a form that is communicably connected via the network.
[0074]
The client device 30 and the data processing device 50 are connected by a wireless LAN, Bluetooth, or the like. The data processing device 50 executes data processing requested from the client device 30, for example, printing processing, scan printing processing, URL printing, or the like. At this time, the client device 30 connected to the data processing device 50 by these communication means transmits not only the data processing request but also the authentication information to the data processing device 50. In response to this, the data processing device 50 makes an inquiry to the authentication server 5 to confirm authentication of the user.
[0075]
The client device 30 and the data processing device 50 include a system connected by a local LAN (an example of a wired network interface) and a system directly connected by a short-range wireless interface based on the Bluetooth standard. In the illustrated example, three client devices 30 are illustrated, and the client device 30 of the reference child a (hereinafter referred to as the client device 30a including the reference child a) is based on the IEEE802.11b standard. A network interface card (wireless LAN card) for a wireless LAN is incorporated, and is connected to a private network of the wired LAN 9 via a wireless LAN adapter (access point) 32 based on the IEEE802.11b standard. The wired LAN 9 is connected to a data processing device 50 in which a communication unit 53a serving as a wired connection means is provided. For example, a network interface card (LAN card) for a wired LAN is incorporated in the communication unit 53a.
[0076]
Further, the client device 30 of the reference child b (hereinafter referred to as the client device 30b including the reference child b) includes a wired LAN network interface card (LAN card) and is connected to the wired LAN 9. In addition, the client device 30 of the reference child c (hereinafter referred to as the client device 30c including the reference child c) is wirelessly connected based on the Bluetooth standard, which is an example of a wireless connection method that enables a short-distance and inexpensive connection. Therefore, a wireless connection unit based on the Bluetooth standard is provided inside, and similarly, a communication unit 53b which is a wireless connection unit based on the Bluetooth standard is directly wirelessly connected to the data processing device 50 provided therein. Yes.
[0077]
The data processing system 1 shows three client devices 30, one data processing device 50, and two Web servers 7 in the figure, but these numbers are not limited to the illustrated example, and more Things may be connected and configured. Further, the connection form is not limited to the illustrated example, but is, for example, a form in which the data processing apparatus 50 is directly connected via the wireless LAN adapter (access point) 32 based on the IEEE802.11b standard but not via the wired LAN 9. Alternatively, light transmission such as infrared communication (IrDA: Infrared Data Association) may be used.
[0078]
The client device 30 creates or edits a digital document (hereinafter simply referred to as a document), and stores an arbitrary number of image sources such as a personal computer, a color scanner, a digital camera, or a storage medium such as a hard disk. May be included. For example, a terminal device having a communication function for acquiring an image from another device via the wired LAN 9 may be used. In these client device 30 and other devices, an application program for creating a document DOC is incorporated.
[0079]
The data processing device 50 uses the client device 30 to process data received from the user. At this time, if necessary, information corresponding to the URL specified by the user is acquired from the Web server 7 via the Internet network 8, and information corresponding to the acquired URL or data provided from the client device 30 is acquired. Based on the above, the data processing requested by the user is executed.
[0080]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of the data processing system 1 including the data processing device 50 according to the third embodiment.
[0081]
A user who desires data processing uses the client device 30 to issue a processing request to the data processing device 50 (S300). For example, a print request including print target data is transmitted. Upon receiving this processing request, the authentication processing unit 74 of the data processing device 50 requests the client device 30 to transmit authentication data (S302). For example, authentication screen data for inputting a password is transmitted to the client device 30. In response to this, the user inputs authentication information on the screen (in response to the authentication request), and transmits the authentication information to the authentication processing unit 74 (S304).
[0082]
If the authentication information is input within a predetermined time after the transmission of the authentication screen data, that is, when the authentication information is acquired from the client device 30 (S306-YES), the authentication processing unit 74 passes the authentication information to the authentication server 5. An inquiry about authentication confirmation is made (S308). If the authentication server 5 succeeds in the authentication, the use permission determining unit 77 notifies the data processing control unit 80 to give the user permission to use the data processing device 50. In response to this, the data processing control unit 80 permits the data processing unit 56 to perform normal processing, that is, a series of processing from reading processing to printing output processing (S310-YES, S320).
[0083]
On the other hand, when the authentication information is not transmitted from the client device 30 within a predetermined time after the transmission of the authentication screen data and the authentication processing unit 74 cannot acquire the authentication information (S306-NO), or the authentication server 5 fails the authentication. If this is the case (S310-NO), the use permission determination unit 77 notifies the data processing control unit 80 to prohibit the use of the data processing device 50 by the user (actually only the output process is prohibited). . In response to this, the data processing control unit 80 refers to the management table managed by the processing procedure management unit 78 and controls the data processing unit 56 so as to allow the user only the permission unnecessary steps in the copying process. (S312), and waits until the authentication process is successful (S314). In response to this, the data processing unit 56 executes a process that does not require permission (S312).
[0084]
The authentication processing unit 74 waits for re-input of authentication information, and when the authentication information is input within a predetermined time, the authentication processing unit 74 passes the authentication information to the authentication server 5 and inquires and confirms the authentication as in step S308. (S314). When the authentication server 5 succeeds in the authentication, the use permission determination unit 77 notifies the data processing control unit 80 to permit the use of the data processing device 50 by the user. In response to this, the data processing control section 80 issues an output permission to the image forming section 69 to permit execution of a printout process that is a remaining process requiring permission for use, that is, a permission process in the copying process ( S314-YES). In response to this, the data processing unit 56 executes a print output process requiring permission (S316).
[0085]
On the other hand, when the use permission cannot be confirmed, such as when the authentication information is not re-input within a predetermined time, when the authentication fails, or when a cancel command is issued from the user (S314-NO, S318). -YES), the process is stopped (S319).
[0086]
Note that the authentication information may not be transmitted in step S304 but may be transmitted in step S314. For example, when a URL is specified as print target data and the data processing device 50 requests URL print processing for printing data acquired from a predetermined Web server 7, the user prints the number of prints in advance (charge required for printing). I can't know. In such a case, the authentication processing in step S304 is suspended, and the permission processing step is executed by the data processing unit 56 (S312). In step S314 after the data to be printed is obtained and the number of sheets is known. Authentication information can be entered.
[0087]
Alternatively, the data processing unit 56 can execute the permission-unnecessary step to preview the data to be printed (S312), and input authentication information in the subsequent step S314.
[0088]
As described above, the data processing device 50 according to the third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the authentication server 5 that is an external certification authority is used, but there is no essential difference in the processing itself. Therefore, the data processing device 50 of the third embodiment can also enjoy the same effects as those of the second embodiment. Further, if the data processing unit 56 uses the execution of the permission-unnecessary step, the data can be printed after the prior confirmation in the URL printing process. This also applies to the second embodiment.
[0089]
In addition, since authentication processing related to the user is performed by communicating with the authentication server 5 provided outside the data processing device 50, each data processing device 50 only includes a mechanism for managing only the authentication result. It is not necessary to provide a mechanism for performing user management for each device. Therefore, even in a form in which data processing is requested from the client device 30 to the data processing device 50 by wireless communication means or the like, the data processing device 50 can be operated by appropriate user authentication. Management burden for user management is reduced.
[0090]
As in the second embodiment, in the case of a built-in authentication type that includes an authentication mechanism in the image forming apparatus in order to determine which user has requested printing, the program capacity increases, and user management is performed for each apparatus. It can happen that the administrative load for performing In the data processing apparatus 50 of the third embodiment, this problem is solved by adopting the authentication external type.
[0091]
However, in the case of the built-in authentication type of the second embodiment, in a small office or an independent store (such as a chain that is not deployed), by providing an authentication mechanism in the device, an external device is not required and the cost is low. You can enjoy the advantage of being. On the other hand, in the case of the external authentication type of the third embodiment, it is possible to enjoy the advantage that the authentication information can be centrally managed in an office where a large number of devices are connected via a network or in a store with a chain.
[0092]
In the above embodiment, the functional part of the data processing device is described as being configured by hardware. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and so-called electronic calculation such as a CPU (central processing unit) such as a microcomputer or a personal computer is used. The above processing functions can also be realized by software using an apparatus.
[0093]
In this case, an electronic computing device such as a microcomputer or a personal computer includes each functional part such as an accounting processing unit 72, an authentication processing unit 74, a processing procedure management unit 78, or a data processing control unit 80 as software. That is, the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the apparatus reads out and executes the program code from a storage medium (for example, a RAM (not shown)) that records software program codes for realizing each function such as a control function for the data processing unit 56. Thus, the effects described in the above-described embodiments are achieved. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment. The program is not limited to a program provided via a storage medium, but may be a program data downloaded via a wired or wireless communication means.
[0094]
In addition, each function is not only realized by executing the program code read by the computer, but an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on an instruction of the program code is one of the actual processes. It may be a case where each function is realized by performing part or all of the process. Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion card inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion card is based on the instruction of the program code. Alternatively, the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion unit may perform part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized by the processing.
[0095]
As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated using embodiment, the technical scope of this invention is not limited to the range as described in the said embodiment. Various changes or improvements can be added to the above-described embodiment without departing from the gist of the invention, and embodiments to which such changes or improvements are added are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.
[0096]
Further, the above embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims (claims), and all combinations of features described in the embodiments are not necessarily essential to the solution means of the invention. Absent. The above-described embodiments include various stages of the invention, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. Even if some constituent requirements are deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the embodiment, as long as an effect is obtained, a configuration from which these some constituent requirements are deleted can be extracted as an invention.
[0097]
For example, in the first to third embodiments, the image forming function for mainly outputting printed matter has been described as the data processing. However, the contents of the data processing are not limited to those exemplified in the above embodiment.
[0098]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to determine whether a determination result can be obtained in the preceding-stage processing that can be executed regardless of whether or not the device is permitted to be used, and the processing after the preceding-stage processing. It is divided into processing on the latter stage that can operate on the condition that it has been taken, and before the judgment result becomes valid, that is, until the use permission is obtained, the processing on the former stage related to the requested data processing It was decided to execute.
[0099]
Thereby, for example, even if an authentication card or the like is not attached, the preceding stage processing (for example, reading processing) in copying or printing jobs can be executed before it is determined that the use of the apparatus is permitted. Therefore, even if the subsequent-stage processing for the preceding user is pending, the preceding-stage processing can be executed in advance for the job of another user, and as a result, the subsequent user waits. Time can be shortened. Therefore, even when the requested data processing is executed after determining whether or not the device is permitted to be used, the processing efficiency does not decrease.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a data processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a management table in which processing procedure rules managed by a processing procedure management unit of the data processing apparatus according to the first embodiment are collected.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a function of the data processing control unit according to the first embodiment controlling the data processing unit.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a function of the data processing control unit according to the first embodiment controlling the data processing unit.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of a data processing system including a third embodiment of the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a data processing system including a data processing apparatus according to a third embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Data processing system, 2 ... Network printing system, 3 ... Payment machine, 5 ... Authentication server, 7 ... Web server, 30 ... Client device, 50 ... Data processing device, 52 ... Main control part, 53 ... Communication part, 54... User request receiving unit 56... Data processing unit 58... Image data input processing unit 60... Image reading unit 62 62 Image data receiving unit 64 64 Image data output processing unit 66. ... Intermediate data holding unit, 68 ... Data printing unit, 69 ... Image forming unit, 72 ... Billing processing unit, 73 ... Billing information management unit, 74 ... Authentication processing unit, 75 ... Card reader, 76 ... Authentication information management unit, 77 ... Use permission determination unit, 78 ... Processing procedure management unit, 79 ... Device usage permission management unit, 80 ... Data processing control unit

Claims (20)

A data processing method for executing requested data processing by determining whether or not use of a data processing device is permitted,
Other data processing that is different from the data processing that is the subject of the use permission while using the device that is used to determine whether the use of the data processing device is permitted or not, and that requires the determination of the presence or absence of the use permission When there is a request, the other data processing that has been requested can be executed regardless of the determination result of the use permission, the preceding-side processing, and the processing after the preceding-stage processing, and the determination result It is divided into the processing on the latter stage side that can operate on the condition that
A data processing method comprising: starting the processing on the preceding stage related to the requested other data processing before the use of the device used for the determination ends . Whether the output indicated by the other requested data processing indicates whether or not the output of the product obtained by the subsequent processing should be suspended, should the output be retained 2. The data processing method according to claim 1, wherein the subsequent processing related to the requested other data processing is suspended until the determination result becomes valid regardless of whether or not. During the determination result after the data processing is required until the variable, when the other data processing is requested, starting the the front-side processing related to the requested other data processing The data processing method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein:   3. The data processing method according to claim 1, wherein the process of determining whether or not to permit the use of the apparatus is executed based on a result of an authentication process for a user who has requested the data process.   3. The data processing method according to claim 1, wherein the process for determining whether or not the apparatus is permitted is executed based on a result of a charging process for the data process. A data processing device that executes the requested data processing by determining whether or not the device is permitted to be used,
A request receiving unit for receiving the data processing request;
A data processing unit for executing data processing based on the request received by the request receiving unit;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the data processing apparatus is permitted to use the data processing received by the request reception unit;
A control unit for controlling the data processing unit based on the determination result of the determination unit,
When the control unit receives a request for other data processing that is different from the data processing that is the object of the use permission during the processing operation and requires the determination of the use permission or not, the requested other The subsequent stage that can be operated on condition that the determination result is acceptable, the preceding process that can be executed regardless of the determination result of whether or not the use is permitted, and the process after the preceding process The processing on the preceding stage related to the requested other data processing is started by the data processing unit, and on the condition that the determination result of the determination unit is acceptable, the requested other A data processing apparatus characterized by causing the data processing unit to start the processing on the subsequent stage related to the data processing. The control unit is an attribute indicated by the requested data processing, and an attribute indicating whether or not the output of the product obtained by the subsequent processing should be held should hold the output. The subsequent processing related to the requested data processing is suspended in the data processing unit until the determination result of the determination unit becomes acceptable regardless of whether or not 6. A data processing apparatus according to 6. 7. A storage unit that holds processed data generated by the preceding process executed by the data processing unit until the determination result of the determination unit becomes acceptable. 7. 8. A data processing apparatus according to 7. The request receiving unit receives the data processing request from a predetermined user,
The data processing unit executes data processing received by the request receiving unit, and presents processed data or an output based on the processed data to the predetermined user. The data processing apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 8. A processing procedure management unit that associates and stores the upstream processing that can be executed regardless of the determination result of the use permission and the downstream processing that can operate on the condition that the determination result is acceptable The data processing device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the data processing device is provided. Wherein the control unit, the request receiving unit is de chromatography data processing the determination result of the determining unit after receiving a request for until the variable, the request receiving unit receives a request for other data processing 11. The method according to claim 6, wherein the data processing unit is caused to start the processing on the preceding stage related to the other data processing received by the request receiving unit. Data processing equipment. An authentication processing unit that executes an authentication process for a user who has requested the data processing;
The determination unit starts processing for determining whether or not to permit use of the device based on a result of authentication processing for a user who has requested the data processing by the authentication processing unit. The data processing device according to any one of 11. An authentication information management unit that acquires a result of authentication processing for the user who requested the data processing by communicating with a predetermined authentication device that executes authentication processing for the user who requested the data processing;
The determination unit, based on a result of an authentication process for a user who has requested the data processing acquired by the authentication information management unit, executes a process for determining whether or not to permit the use of the device. Item 12. The data processing device according to any one of Items 6 to 11. A billing processing unit that executes billing processing for the data processing;
12. The determination unit according to claim 6, wherein the determination unit executes a process for determining whether or not to permit the use of the device based on a result of a charging process for the data processing performed by the charging processing unit. The data processing apparatus according to item 1. The data processing according to claim 14, wherein the control unit controls an execution range of the processing on the latter stage side according to a payment amount indicated by a result of a charging process for the data processing performed by the charging processing unit. apparatus. The data processing device according to any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the data processing unit includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a predetermined recording medium as the processing on the subsequent stage side. . The data processing according to any one of claims 6 to 16, wherein the data processing unit includes an image reading unit that generates image data by reading a document as the process on the preceding stage. apparatus.   The said data processing part has an image data receiving part which receives the image data transmitted from the client terminal which the said user uses as the said front | former stage side process, Any one of Claim 6 to 16 characterized by the above-mentioned. A data processing apparatus according to claim 1. A program for executing the requested data processing by determining whether or not the device is permitted to be used,
Computer
A request receiving unit for receiving the data processing request;
A data processing unit for executing data processing based on the request received by the request receiving unit;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the data processing apparatus is permitted to use the data processing received by the request reception unit;
While functioning as a control unit for controlling the data processing unit based on the determination result of the determination unit,
The controller, I the use permission of the target data processing and different data processing der during processing operation, when receiving a request for another data processing which requires determination of the presence or absence of the use permission was requested the A subsequent stage capable of performing other data processing regardless of the determination result of whether or not the use is permitted, and a process subsequent to the preceding stage process, which is operable after the determination result is acceptable The processing on the preceding stage related to the other requested data processing is started by the data processing unit, and the request is made on condition that the determination result of the determination unit is acceptable . A program for causing the data processing unit to function to start the subsequent processing related to other data processing . A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing requested data processing by determining whether or not to permit use of the device,
Computer
A request receiving unit for receiving the data processing request;
A data processing unit for executing data processing based on the request received by the request receiving unit;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the data processing apparatus is permitted to use the data processing received by the request reception unit;
While functioning as a control unit for controlling the data processing unit based on the determination result of the determination unit,
When the control unit receives a request for other data processing that is different from the data processing subject to use permission during processing operation and requires the use permission determination, the other requested The subsequent stage that can be operated on condition that the determination result is acceptable, the preceding process that can be executed regardless of the determination result of whether or not the use is permitted, and the process after the preceding process The processing on the preceding stage related to the requested other data processing is started by the data processing unit, and on the condition that the determination result of the determination unit is acceptable, the requested other A storage medium storing a program for causing the data processing unit to start the subsequent processing related to the data processing .

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