JP4135758B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming system, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and a program .

  In recent years, with the spread of image forming apparatuses having a copying function, such as personal computers, printers, and copying machines, copying of documents has become extremely simple. Documents include copyrighted manuscripts or manuscripts that are prohibited from unauthorized duplication such as “copy prohibited”, “restricted duplication”, “confidential”, etc. (hereinafter also referred to as “confidential manuscript”) In such a situation, it is necessary for an image forming apparatus having a copying function to have a function for preventing misuse of confidential documents.

  For example, in Patent Document 1, copying prohibition information is recorded on a document, and copying is prohibited when copy prohibition information is detected together with image information of the document.

  In Patent Document 2, confirmation information embedded in image information is extracted and compared with confirmation information input by an operation unit. Based on the comparison result, output of image information is controlled.

JP 2000-165575 A JP 2004-336806 A

An object of the present invention is to provide an authorized medium that can release restriction information set on a printed material, an image forming apparatus that can release restriction information set on a printed material using the authorized medium , an image forming system, and a program. To do.

In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to claim 1 of the present invention includes restriction information for restricting execution of processing, permission information for permitting execution of processing restricted by the restriction information, and the permission information. Generating means for generating at least identification information to be given to each of the permitted medium and the printed matter, and a synthesizing means for synthesizing the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed matter on the input image, The input image is formed with the printed material in which the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed material are combined as a background image, and the identification information to be given to the permitted medium and the printed material and the permission information, respectively. Image forming means for forming an image with a plurality of permission media, and the permission information is processed by the restriction information by obtaining permission information described in the plurality of permission media. It employs a configuration which is information capable of releasing the execution restriction.

The invention according to claim 2 is the invention according to claim 1, wherein the identification information, the restriction information, and the permission information that are given to the printed matter and the permission medium , respectively , are encoded. the identification information given to the printed material has been encoded, the first pattern image representing said restriction information encoded, the identification information given to the printed material has been encoded, encoded the authorized medium Pattern information generating means for generating a second pattern image representing the encoded identification information and the encoded permission information, and the combining means includes the input image and the first image And a background image including a pattern image of the image, wherein the image forming unit is configured to combine the input image and the background image, and the printed pattern in which the second pattern image is recorded. Permission You can adopt a configuration which is means for forming an image of the body.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, the generation unit may employ a configuration in which the number of pages of the input image is included in the permission information .

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects, the generation unit generates information for specifying a process that is permitted to be executed, and the permission medium includes the information. The included configuration can be adopted.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the generation unit generates information for designating a page of a printed material that is permitted to be processed. A configuration including the information can be employed.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the generation unit generates restriction information for restricting copying of the permitted medium as the restriction information, and stores the restriction information in the permitted medium. Can adopt a configuration including the restriction information.

The invention described in claim 7 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , further comprising a copy operation receiving unit that receives an operation of the number of copies of the permitted medium, wherein the image forming unit is configured to operate the copy operation. A configuration can be adopted in which the number of permitted media set by the receiving means is output.

The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the transfer paper for transferring the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed material , the printed material, and the permission medium . A sheet feeding stage operation accepting unit for accepting an operation of a sheet feeding stage of a sheet feeding unit that feeds identification information to be given and transfer paper to which the permission information is transferred; A configuration in which the permission medium is transferred onto a different transfer paper can be employed.

The invention according to claim 9 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the generation means generates authentication information for identifying a user who is permitted to execute the process, and the printed matter. Can employ a configuration including the authentication information.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided reading means for reading image data of a printed matter whose processing is restricted and an authorized medium that permits processing on the printed matter, and information encoded from the image data read by the reading means. And a first determination unit that determines whether the encoded information includes a predetermined number of pages of identification information of the permitted medium when the encoded information is detected. And the other page according to the permission information detected from the page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected and the identification information detected from other pages other than the page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected. And a second determination unit that determines whether or not to permit the processing of the image data.

According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, in the tenth aspect of the invention, the identification of the permitted medium is performed when the first determination unit determines that the encoded information includes identification information of the permitted medium. And a third determination unit that determines whether or not the image data including information is image data of a predetermined page first read by the reading unit, and the second determination unit first reads the image data by the reading unit. When it is determined that the image data of the predetermined page is the image data of the permitted medium, it is possible to adopt a configuration for determining whether or not to permit the processing for the image data of the other page.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer device that generates image information to be printed and transmits the image information to an image forming apparatus that forms an image, restriction information that restricts execution of processing, and processing that is restricted by the restriction information. Generation means for generating at least permission information for permitting execution, identification information to be assigned to each of the permission medium and the printed matter on which the permission information is recorded, and the restriction information and the printed matter are added to the input image information. A combination means for combining identification information to be performed, the printed material in which the restriction information and identification information to be given to the printed material are combined as a background image with the input image information, and the permitted medium and the printed material. and an image forming apparatus having image forming means for forming an image of a plurality of authorization medium identification information and the permission information is formed to impart respectively, the permission information You can adopt a configuration which is information capable of releasing the execution restriction of processing by the restriction information by permission information described in the plurality of authorization medium is aligned.

The invention according to claim 13 is encoded from a reading device that reads image data of a printed material whose processing is restricted and an authorized medium that permits processing on the printed material, and image data that is read by the reading device. Detection means for detecting information, and when the encoded information is detected, the encoded information includes identification information for a predetermined number of pages of permitted media that permits processing on the printed matter whose processing is restricted. Detected from a page other than the page from which the identification information of the permitted medium is detected, and the permission information detected from the page from which the identification information of the permitted medium is detected. A configuration having an image forming apparatus that includes a second determination unit that determines whether or not to permit processing of the image data of the other page according to the identification information can be employed.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to the thirteenth aspect, the image forming apparatus determines that the encoded information includes identification information of the permitted medium in the encoded information. The image data including the identification information of the permitted medium includes third determination means for determining whether or not the image data of the predetermined page read first by the reading means, and the second determination means includes the second determination means, When it is determined that the image data of the predetermined page read first by the reading unit is the image data of the permitted medium, it is possible to adopt a configuration for determining whether or not to permit the processing for the image data of the other page.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer with restriction information for restricting execution of processing, permission information for permitting execution of a process restricted by the restriction information, a permission medium on which the permission information is recorded, and a printed matter . Means for generating at least identification information to be assigned to each, means for synthesizing the restriction information and identification information to be given to the printed matter with the input image information, and the restriction information with the input image information. and said printed matter synthesized as identification information and the background image to be imparted to the printed matter, an image of a plurality of allowed media in which the identification information and the permission information is formed to impart each of said printed matter and the authorization medium The permission information is made to function as a means for forming the image forming means, and the permission information includes the permission information described in the plurality of permission media, so You can adopt a configuration which is information capable of releasing.

According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the computer causes the reading means to read image data of a printed matter whose processing is restricted and an authorized medium that permits processing on the printed matter, and the encoding is performed from the read image data. Means for detecting the encoded information, and when the encoded information is detected, the encoded information includes identification information of a permitted medium that permits processing on the printed material whose processing is restricted for a predetermined number of pages. Means for determining whether or not it is included, permission information detected from a page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected, and identification information detected from a page other than the page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected Accordingly, it is possible to employ a configuration that functions as means for determining whether or not to permit processing of the image data of the other page.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, when the computer determines that the encoded information includes identification information of the permitted medium, image data including the identification information of the permitted medium is first read by the reading unit. When the image data of the predetermined page read first by the reading unit is determined to be image data of the permission medium, It is possible to employ a configuration for determining whether or not to permit processing on the image data of the other page.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to generate a printed matter on which restriction information for restricting processing is recorded, and a plurality of permission media that can release the restriction imposed on the printed matter when a plurality of permission information is gathered.

The invention according to claim 2 can encode information and form a pattern image representing the encoded information on a printed material and a permission medium.

The invention according to claim 3 can generate the permission information based on an image of a printed matter.

The invention according to claim 4 can permit only the process specified by the specified information.

The invention according to claim 5 can permit processing of a page designated by the designation information.

The invention according to claim 6 can restrict copying of the permitted medium.

In the invention according to claim 7 , the number of output copies of the permitted medium can be set.

The invention according to claim 8 makes it easier to distinguish between the permitted medium and the printed matter than in the case where the present configuration is not provided.

The invention according to claim 9 can release the set restriction information without having a permission medium.

In the invention according to claim 10, when the identification information of the permitted medium for the predetermined number of pages is detected, the identification information written on the permitted medium is compared with the identification information read from the printed material , and the processing for the read printed material is performed . Can be determined .

According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention , when the image of the permitted medium is read for the first time, it is possible to determine the processing for the printed material read next to the permitted medium.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to generate a printed matter in which restriction information for restricting processing is recorded, and a plurality of permission media capable of releasing the restriction placed on the printed matter when a plurality of permission information is gathered.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, when the identification information of the permitted medium for the predetermined number of pages is detected, the identification information written on the permitted medium is compared with the identification information read from the printed material , and the processing for the read printed material is performed . Can be determined .

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention , when an image of the permitted medium is read for the first time, it is possible to determine processing for a printed matter that is read next to the permitted medium.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to generate a printed matter on which restriction information for restricting processing is recorded, and a plurality of permission media that can release the restriction placed on the printed matter when a plurality of pieces of permission information are gathered.

According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, when the identification information of the permitted medium for a predetermined number of pages is detected, the identification information written on the permitted medium is compared with the identification information read from the printed material , and the process for the read printed material is performed . Can be determined .

According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention , when the image of the permitted medium is read for the first time, it is possible to determine the processing for the printed material read next to the permitted medium.

  Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

First, a detailed configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
In the following description, the image forming apparatus 1 will be described as an example of a multifunction peripheral having a plurality of functions such as a copy, a printer, and a FAX. Is also applicable.
The image forming apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 10, an image output unit 11, an image storage unit 12, a communication interface 13, an operation / display unit 14, a print image generation unit 15, and a system control unit 16. Is connected to a communication bus capable of communicating with each other. Details of each part will be described below.

  First, the configuration of the image reading unit 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The image reading unit 10 includes a document table 31 on which documents are placed one by one, an ADF (automatic paper feeder) 32 that automatically supplies a bundle of documents to the document table 31 one by one, and a charge coupled device (CCD). The image reading unit 33 that optically reads an image of a document at a specified reading magnification by a solid-state imaging device such as)) and each unit of the image input unit 10 are controlled, and information is transmitted to and received from the system control unit 16. And a read control unit 34 for performing Image information read by the image reading unit 10 is subjected to image processing by an image processing unit in the system control unit 16 and stored in the image storage unit 12.

  Next, the configuration of the image output unit 11 will be described with reference to FIG. The image output unit 11 includes a sheet feeding unit 41 that feeds a sheet from a plurality of sheet feeding trays A, B,... To a printing position, and a printing unit 42 that prints an image on the printing sheet by, for example, an electrophotographic process method. And an output control unit 43 that controls each unit of the image output unit 11 and transmits / receives information to / from the system control unit 16. The paper feed trays A, B,... Store papers of different colors, sizes, etc., and the output control unit 43 feeds papers according to the printed matter according to instructions from the system control unit 16. Change the paper tray to be used. For example, printing is executed on different sheets of a process execution permission sheet, which will be described later, and a printed matter to which encoded information is added.

  The communication interface 13 is connected to a communication path such as a LAN (local area network), and receives information transmitted via the LAN. As shown in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a communication path to which a plurality of PCs (personal computers) 2 are connected, and a command (PDL command) interpreted by a page description language created by the PC 2 is received. Received by the communication interface 13. The received PDL command is sent to the print image generation unit 15.

  The operation / display unit 14 includes an operation unit 60 having a numeric keypad and a start key, and a display unit 61 such as a liquid crystal for displaying the state of the apparatus (see FIG. 5). For example, the display unit 61 sets whether or not to embed copy restriction information in the document image (see FIG. 5A) and whether or not to generate a process execution permission sheet (details will be described later). (Refer to FIG. 5A), and when generating a process execution permission sheet, setting of the number of constituent sheets of the process execution permission sheet (see FIG. 5B) and setting of the number of output copies of the process execution permission sheet (see FIG. 5A). 5B), and the setting (see FIG. 5B) of the tray (paper feed stage) for feeding the sheet on which the process execution permission sheet is printed are displayed. The user makes print settings while referring to the displays shown in FIGS.

  When the print image generation unit 15 interprets the PDL command sent via the communication path and executes the drawing process to create the image of each page, the image of each page is associated with each page ID. The image is stored in the image storage unit 12.

Details of the system control unit 16 will be described with reference to FIG.
The system control unit 16 includes a system memory 21 that stores information such as programs and images, a page memory 22 that stores images in units of pages, and each unit of the system control unit 16 based on a program stored in the system memory 21. CPU 23 that controls the entire image forming apparatus 1, an image processing unit 24 that performs image processing such as compression, expansion, and composition of image information, and processing that is restricted by restriction information and restriction information embedded in printed matter Information generating unit 25 that generates permission information that permits execution of the image, visible image information, and the like, an image reading unit I / F 26 that functions as an interface between the image reading unit 10 and the system control unit 16, and an image output unit 27. An image output unit I / F 27 that functions as an interface with the system control unit 16 and an image read by the image reading unit 10 It detects the coded information from the information, and a coding processing section 28 for analyzing the detected encoded information.
The CPU 23 reads a program stored in the system memory 21 and performs control according to this program. By this program control, the first determination means, the second determination means, and the third determination means of the present invention are realized. The program stored in the system memory 21 may be read from a recording medium such as a CD-ROM and stored in the system memory 21, or the program transmitted via the communication path may be stored in the communication interface. 13 may be received and stored in the system memory 21.

In the present embodiment having the above-described configuration, the original image read by the image reading unit 10 or the image information generated by the computer 2 connected via the communication path is limited to the restriction information (in this embodiment, a copy of a printed matter is taken as an example). For the sake of explanation, when the restriction information is also referred to as copy restriction information) and printed out, a process execution permission sheet is generated and outputted in addition to the printed matter. The process execution permission sheet is a sheet used in this embodiment as an example of a permission medium, and is a sheet in which permission information for canceling the print restriction of the printed matter is embedded.
FIG. 7 shows information embedded in the printed material and the process execution permission sheet. In the printed matter shown in FIG. 7A, copy restriction information for restricting copying of the printed matter, identification information for identifying the printed matter, and a page number of each page are encoded and embedded. Further, as shown in FIG. 7B, the process execution permission sheet is formed with a notation indicating that it is a process execution permission sheet and the name of the printed material in a visible image. In addition, an identifier indicating that the sheet is a process execution permission sheet, identification information for identifying a printed matter, restriction information for restricting copying of the process execution permission sheet itself, configuration information of the process execution permission sheet, and execution are permitted. Information indicating the type of processing, setting information of pages that are permitted to execute processing, and information on the total number of pages of the printed material are printed with invisible (invisible to the naked eye) encoded information.
The process execution permission sheet configuration information is information indicating the number of sheets when the process execution permission sheet is composed of a plurality of sheets. When the process execution permission sheet is composed of a plurality of sheets, copying of the printed material is not permitted unless all of the plurality of process execution permission sheets are read by the image forming apparatus.
In this embodiment, since copying is described as an example of processing, “information on processing that is permitted to execute” is information on whether copying is permitted. The process is a process that can be executed by the image forming apparatus 1. For example, various processes such as a transmission process in which image information read by the image reading unit 10 is transmitted by facsimile or email, and conversion to a PDF file are performed. The execution of these processes can be permitted or restricted on the process execution permission sheet.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, the image forming apparatus 1 reads an original document image, prints in which encoded information (information obtained by encoding restriction information and identification information) is embedded, and the above-described process execution permission sheet. Is output. When the image forming apparatus 1 reads the printed material and the process execution permission sheet attached to the printed material as shown in FIG. 8B, the image forming apparatus 1 performs processing on the printed material from the information recorded on the process execution permission sheet. Judge whether execution is possible. The image forming apparatus 1 compares the identification information of the printed material written on the processing execution permission sheet with the identification information embedded as the encoded information in the printed material, and permits the execution of the processing when the information matches. To do. Further, the image forming apparatus 1 restricts the processing (copying) on the printed material when the printed material to which the copy restriction code is added as shown in FIG. 8C is read without the processing execution permission sheet. Does not output an image. At this time, the image forming apparatus 1 discards the image information read by the image reading unit 10 and stored in the image storage unit.

Here, the encoding information embedded in the background tint block image of the printed material will be described with reference to FIG. The restriction information that is encoded and embedded in the printed material includes the following.
(A) Copy restriction information (whether or not to restrict copying)
(B) Condition information (information for permitting copying when the conditions are met)
For example, a password, a user ID number for permitting copying (employee number, etc.), a date and time for canceling copy restrictions, and a machine number of a copier for permitting copying. In particular, in this embodiment, the identification information for identifying the printed matter shown in FIG. 7A and the permission information embedded in the processing execution permission sheet (see FIG. 7B) correspond to the condition information.
(C) ... Latent image information (information on latent image that floats when copied)
For example, latent image character string, font type, font size, latent image character string direction (angle), background tint image color

  The background tint block image includes a latent image IP and a background pattern PB that covers the entire output image O. The background pattern PB and the latent image IP are different from each other. However, the output image O is formed with a pattern having the same pixel area and pixel color per unit area so that it can be seen by the human eye as a uniform gray background. The background pattern may be formed on a part of the output image O.

  The latent image IP is composed of dots that are finer than the other portions so that the image appears to the extent that the latent image IP can be identified by human eyes in the copied printed material.

  The background pattern PB is composed of encoded information, and is composed of a condition code CD representing condition information and a copy restriction code CP for restricting copying.

  The encoded information is recorded on the printed matter with a diagonal pattern PS. In the oblique line pattern PS, the one represented by a half line inclined 45 degrees counterclockwise with respect to the scanning direction D represents bit 0 of the encoded information, and the one inclined 135 degrees represents bit 1 of the encoded information. Note that the copy restriction code CP is composed of one in which the entire oblique line pattern PS represents bit 0 and one representing bit 1. The copy restriction code CP is used to determine that the original is restricted from being copied when two or more types of copy restriction codes CP are detected.

The condition code CD is formed in the synchronization code area AS and the information coding area AC. The synchronous code area AS is an encoding area in which the outer periphery of a rectangular area of an allowable size that surrounds the information encoding area AC is composed of a hatched pattern PS1 that represents bits 1. In the information encoding area AC, identification information for identifying a printed matter and permission information (see FIG. 7B) embedded in the process execution permission sheet are encoded and embedded as a condition code CD.
In addition, a personal identification number, a user ID number that permits copying (employee number, etc.), a date and time when the restriction on copying is released, a machine number of a copying machine that permits copying, and the like may be embedded as the condition code CD.

Next, details of the information generation unit (corresponding to generation means) 25 will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the information generation unit 25 includes a code generation unit 71, an image synthesis unit 72, a visible image generation unit 73, and a process execution permission sheet generation unit 74.
In response to an instruction from the CPU 23, the code generation unit 71 generates encoded information (information obtained by encoding copy restriction information, permission information, identification information, and the like) to be embedded in the printed material and the process execution permission sheet. The visible image generation unit 73 generates a visible image (notation indicating the processing execution permission sheet shown in FIG. 7B and an image of the name of the printed material) to be formed on the processing execution permission sheet according to an instruction from the CPU 23. To do. The process execution permission sheet generation unit 74 synthesizes the encoded information generated by the code generation unit 71 and the visible image generated by the visible image generation unit 73, and the process execution permission sheet shown in FIG. Generate information for. The image combining unit 72 combines the encoded information generated by the code generating unit 71 with the image information stored in the image accumulating unit 12 to generate the printed material information shown in FIG.
The information on the printed matter generated by the image composition unit 72 and the information on the processing execution permission sheet generated by the processing execution permission sheet generation unit 74 are output to the image output unit 11 via the image output unit I / F 27.

Next, details of the code generation unit 71 will be described with reference to FIG. The code generation unit 71 includes a restriction information generation unit 75, a restriction information encoding unit (corresponding to the encoding means of the present invention) 76, a latent image generation unit 77, a pattern storage unit 78, and a pattern image generation unit (pattern of the present invention). 79 ( corresponding to image generating means) .

  The restriction information generation unit 75 receives from the CPU 23 an instruction signal of restriction information (copy restriction information, identification information, permission information) to be input to a printed matter or a process execution permission sheet. When the CPU 23 instructs to embed the copy restriction information in the printed material, the restriction information generating unit 75 generates information for restricting copying and identification information for identifying the printed material to be generated, and the control information encoding unit 76. Output to. When the CPU 23 receives the process execution permission sheet generation instruction, the restriction information generation unit 75 identifies the permission information (see FIG. 7B) to be embedded in the process execution permission sheet and the printed material permitted to execute the process. Information is generated and output to the restriction information encoding unit 76.

  The latent image generation unit 77 generates a latent image according to an instruction from the CPU 23. The latent image information instructing what kind of latent image character is embedded in the pattern image is notified from the CPU 23 to the latent image generating unit 77. Specifically, the latent image information includes information such as a character string of the latent image, a font type, a font size, and a direction (angle) of the latent image character string. Upon receiving the latent image information, the latent image generation unit 77 draws a latent image character string in the specified direction with the specified font type and font size, and generates a binary latent image image. The generated latent image is output to the restriction information encoding unit 76. Note that the resolution of the latent image is a resolution obtained by dividing the resolution of the printer by the size of a pattern to be described later. For example, when the printer resolution is 600 dpi and the pattern size is 12 pixels × 12 pixels, the resolution of the latent image is 50 dpi.

  The restriction information encoding unit 76 encodes copy restriction information, identification information, and permission information. First, when the copy restriction information indicates that a copy of a printed matter is not to be formed by the image forming apparatus, two types of copy restriction codes shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B are generated. Here, the copy restriction codes in FIG. 12A are all characterized in that the code is bit 0, and the copy restriction codes in FIG. When copy restriction information is not input, or when it does not indicate that the printed matter that has been printed out is not to be copied by the image forming apparatus, the two types of codes shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B are generated. Is not done.

  Next, when identification information or permission information is input, an error correction code is applied to the information to generate a condition code as shown in FIG. The code in FIG. 12C represents a bit string of permission information encoded by the arrangement of bit 0 and bit 1. Compared to the case where no condition code is generated, a special bit pattern is formed on the outer periphery of the code in order to facilitate the positioning of the code.

  Next, a plurality of generated codes are repeatedly arranged as shown in FIG. 13A to generate a pattern number array. Here, the hatched rectangle in the figure is the copy restriction code in FIG. 12A, the rectangle in which the line shadow is represented by the vertical line is the copy restriction code in FIG. 12B, and the rectangle in which the line shadow is represented by the dot. Is the condition code in FIG. If no copy restriction code is generated, a condition code is placed in the portion of the copy restriction code in the figure. If no condition code is generated, a copy restriction code is placed in the condition code portion in the figure. At this time, the value of each element of the pattern number array is 0 or 1.

  Next, with reference to the latent image, the pattern number of the element of the pattern number array corresponding to the coordinates of the black pixel in the latent image is changed to 2. If this is performed for black pixels existing in the latent image, the pattern number array is in a state in which the latent image character is drawn with the pattern number 2 on the background in which the copy restriction code and the condition code are arranged. This state is shown in FIG. The black “COPY” portion in the figure indicates the portion where the pattern array number is changed to 2. The pattern number array is output to the pattern image generation unit 79.

  The pattern image generation unit 79 refers to each element of the input pattern number array, reads a pattern corresponding to the pattern number from the pattern storage unit 78, and converts the pattern into a pattern image, thereby generating a background pattern image. . The generated background tint block image is stored in a memory (not shown) in the image composition unit 72.

  The pattern storage unit 78 stores pattern images shown in FIGS. FIG. 16A shows a pattern corresponding to the pattern number [0], FIG. 16B shows a pattern corresponding to the pattern number [1], and FIG. A pattern corresponding to the pattern number [2] is shown. The pattern image is an image obtained by converting a latent image character into an isolated dot pattern by converting it into a hatched pattern corresponding to the bit values of the copy restriction code and the condition code.

A procedure for reading a document image and outputting a printed matter in which a copy restriction code is embedded and a process execution permission sheet will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, the user operates the operation / display unit 14 to input settings such as whether to embed copy restriction information in a document or to output a process execution permission sheet. Screens shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B are displayed on the display unit 61 of the operation / display unit 14 under the control of the system control unit 16. The system control unit 16 displays the screen shown in FIG. 5A on the display unit 61 and inputs a setting as to whether or not to embed copy restriction information and a setting as to whether or not to generate a process execution permission sheet. . When “processing execution permission sheet is present” is set on the screen shown in FIG. 5A, the system control unit 16 displays the screen shown in FIG. 5B on the display unit 61 and sets the processing execution permission sheet. To input. Specifically, the configuration of the process execution permission sheet, the number of output sheets of the process execution permission sheet, the paper feed tray for feeding the paper for generating the process execution permission sheet, and the like are set. The configuration of the process execution permission sheet is information for setting how many sheets the process execution permission sheet is configured. If the number of process execution permission sheets set here is not available, the process execution permission sheet is displayed. Execution of the process is not permitted even if it is read by the image forming apparatus. Further, the number of output copies of the process execution permission sheet can be arbitrarily set. That is, the number of output copies of the printed material and the number of output copies of the process execution permission sheet may not be the same. In addition, the setting of the paper feed tray can be changed from a paper tray for printing a process execution permission sheet to a tray for feeding paper for printing printed matter.

  When the setting of the printed material to be printed and the setting of the process execution permission sheet are input and the start button of the operation unit 60 shown in FIG. 5 is pressed, the system control unit 16 reads the document placed on the document table 31 or the ADF 32. Is started (step S2). The read image information is subjected to image processing by the image processing unit 24 and stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S2).

  When reading of the document placed on the document table 31 or the ADF 32 is completed (step 3 / YES), the system control unit 16 determines whether the setting of the operation / display unit 14 is a setting for printing copy restriction information. (Step S4). If the setting is to print the copy restriction information (step S4 / YES), the system control unit 16 generates identification information for identifying the printed matter on which the read original is printed and the copy restriction information (step S5). ). The generated copy restriction information and identification information are converted into encoded information and combined with the image information read from the image storage unit 12 (step S6). The image information obtained by combining the copy restriction information and the identification information is sent from the system control unit 16 to the image output unit 11, where an image is formed and output as a printed matter (step S7).

  Next, the system control unit 16 determines whether or not the setting input from the operation / display unit 14 is a setting for outputting a process execution permission sheet (step S8). If it is set to “output processing execution permission sheet” (step S8 / YES), the system control unit 16 generates permission information to be formed on the processing execution permission sheet and visible image information ( Step S9). The generated permission information is converted into encoded information and synthesized with visible image information (step S10). The combined information is output from the system control unit 16 to the image output unit 11 (step S11), and the image output unit 11 forms an image. The system control unit 16 inquires of the image output unit 11 about the state, and the process ends when the set number of printed materials and process execution permission sheets are output (step S12 / YES).

A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. This embodiment has the same configuration as the first embodiment shown in FIGS. This embodiment will also be described by taking an example of a multi-function machine having a plurality of functions such as a copy, a printer, and a FAX. However, the present invention can also be applied to an apparatus having a single function of a copy, a printer, and a FAX. is there.
In the present embodiment, a printed material in which encoded copy restriction information is embedded and a process execution permission sheet that permits copying of the printed material are read by the image forming apparatus, and the information recorded on the process execution permission sheet is used. Judge whether to permit copying of printed matter. Specifically, when the identification information of the printed material permitted to execute the processing written in the processing execution permission sheet is compared with the identification information embedded in the printed material with a copy restriction code, and the information matches. Allow execution of the process.

  6 encodes copy restriction information and identification information embedded in the printed material, identification information of the printed material embedded in the process execution permission sheet, and permission information from the image information read by the image reading unit 10. Is detected. The encoding processing unit 28 includes a copy restriction information detection unit 100 and a permission information detection unit 120. The copy restriction information detection unit 100 detects copy restriction information, and the permission information detection unit 120 detects permission information and identification information.

The configuration of the copy restriction information detection unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 shows a detailed configuration of the copy restriction information detection unit 100.
The image information read by the image reading unit 10 is input to the gray scale conversion unit 101 and converted from full color to gray scale. Thereafter, it is binarized by the binarization processing unit 102.

  The binarized image information is input to the noise removal processing unit 103, and noise removal processing is performed. Specifically, a block of pixels to which black pixels are connected is obtained, and each pixel of the block that does not fall within the allowable range of the size of the block of pixels (number of connected pixels) is replaced with a white pixel. The permissible range is set to an appropriate range so that the hatched pattern is not deleted, and other patterns (isolated dot patterns, characters and graphics in the document, etc.) are deleted.

  The image information from which noise has been removed is input to the pattern detection processing unit 104, where two types of oblique line pattern detection processing are performed, and the result is output as image information of 2 bits per pixel. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the position of each pixel in the image information matches the pattern shown in FIGS. Here, when the pattern (A) shown in FIG. 16 is detected, the pixel value 0 is output, and when the pattern (B) shown in FIG. 16 is detected, the pixel value 1 is output, and the pattern is not detected. , Pixel value 2 is output.

  The image information output from the pattern detection processing unit 104 is input to the blocking processing unit 105. The blocking processing unit 105 divides the input image information into blocks having an allowable size and outputs the blocks to the number calculation unit 106. The block size is smaller than half the size of the copy restriction code and the condition code, and is set to a size that includes one or more blocks completely in the code.

  The number calculation unit 106 calculates the number of pixels having a pixel value 0 and the pixel having a pixel value 1 in the block, and outputs the result to the ratio calculation unit 107. Further, the total is output to the determination processing unit 108. The ratio calculation unit 107 calculates the ratio of pixels having a pixel value of 0, and outputs the result to the determination processing unit.

  The determination processing unit 108 performs determination processing based on the total number input from the number calculation unit 106 and the ratio input from the ratio calculation unit 107.

  Here, if the block currently being processed is located inside the copy restriction code of all bits 0, a hatched pattern corresponding to more than the allowable number of bits 0 is detected in the block, and Since the hatched pattern corresponding to bit 1 is hardly detected, the ratio of the hatched pattern corresponding to bit 0 is increased to a value close to 1.0.

  If the block currently being processed is located within the copy restriction code of all 1 bits, a diagonal pattern corresponding to more than the allowable number of bits 1 is detected in the block, and the bit Since the oblique line pattern corresponding to 0 is hardly detected, the ratio of the oblique line pattern corresponding to bit 0 is low and becomes a value close to 0.0.

  If the block currently being processed includes at least a part of the condition code, a diagonal line pattern corresponding to a plurality of bits 0 and a diagonal line pattern corresponding to a plurality of bits 1 are detected in the block. The ratio of the hatched pattern corresponding to is significantly lower than 1.0 and considerably higher than 0.0.

  If the input image information is an image in which copy restriction information is embedded, a copy restriction code with all bits 0 in the block and a copy restriction code with all bits 1 in the block are included in the image. Are embedded in a plurality.

The following determination process is performed using the above characteristics.
If the total number> the first threshold value and the ratio> the second threshold value, the block is determined to be the copy restriction code 0.
If the total number> the first threshold value and (1-ratio)> the second threshold value, the block is determined to be copy restriction code 1.
In cases other than the above, it is determined that the block is not a copy restriction code. Also, the first threshold value is set by adding a margin to the number of theoretical patterns included in the block from the block size and pattern size. The second threshold value is set to a value close to 1.0.

  The determination processing unit 108 separately counts the number of blocks determined to be the copy restriction code 0 and the number of blocks determined to be the copy restriction code 1. If the number of blocks determined to be copy restriction code 0 is equal to or greater than threshold value 3 and the ratio determined to be copy restriction code 0 is a value close to 1.0, the image is determined to be a copy restriction code; The determination result is output to the system control unit 16.

Next, details of the permission information detection unit 120 will be described with reference to FIG.
The image information read by the image reading unit 10 is input to the gray scale conversion unit 121, converted from full color to gray scale, and then binarized by the binarization processing unit 122.

  The binarized image information is input to the noise removal processing unit 123, and noise removal processing is performed. The image information from which the noise has been removed is input to the pattern detection processing unit 124, where two types of oblique line pattern detection processing are performed, and information on the processing results is stored in the buffer memory 125. In this image information, the pixel value at the position where the diagonal line pattern corresponding to bit 0 is detected is 0, the pixel value at the position where the diagonal line pattern corresponding to bit 1 is detected is 1, and other values are 2 The image information is 2 bits per pixel.

  The image information stored in the buffer memory 125 is input to the skew angle detection processing unit 126, and the skew angle is detected. Here, the skew angle of the input image information (the tilt angle of the input image) is obtained. As a specific method, Hough transform is performed on a pixel having only a pixel value of 0 or 1, and the peak of the projection distribution on the angle axis is obtained. The obtained skew angle is output to the code detection unit 127. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-328408 describes a technique for detecting a skew angle using Hough transform. First, filtering processing is performed on an input image, and binarization processing is performed on an image in which the density difference is emphasized by this processing to generate a binary image. Next, a Hough transform is performed on each pixel of the generated binary image, a histogram is created in the Hough space, and coordinates whose frequency is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold in the Hough space are extracted. After grouping the extracted coordinates, representative point coordinates are extracted for each group, and the tilt angle of the image is estimated from the extracted coordinates.

  In addition, image information stored in the buffer memory 125 is read out and input to the code detection unit 127, and detection of a two-dimensional code is performed. Specifically, the image is scanned at the obtained skew angle to extract a pixel value of 0 or 1 (corresponding to 0 or 1 of the bit). A synchronization code is found from the extracted bit string. The synchronization code is defined as a code in which the outer periphery of a rectangular area having an allowable vertical and horizontal size is entirely composed of bits 1. A bit array surrounded by the synchronization code is a two-dimensional code (conditional code). This bit array is rearranged into a one-dimensional bit string and output to the error correction decoding unit 128.

  The error correction decoding unit 128 performs an allowable error correction decoding process on the input bit string and decodes it as condition information. The decrypted permission information and identification information are output to the system control unit 168.

With reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 18, a description will be given of a flow for reading a printed material in which copy restriction information is embedded and a process execution permission sheet and determining whether to permit copying of the printed material. In this flow, a procedure for reading a processing execution permission sheet first and then reading an image of a printed matter will be described.
When the start button provided on the operation / display unit 14 is pressed (step S21 / YES), the image reading unit 10 starts reading the process execution permission sheet and the printed matter placed on the document table 31 or the ADF 32 (step S21). S22). The copy restriction information detection unit 100 and the permission information detection unit 120 detect whether or not the encoded information is included in the image information read by the image reading unit 10. The system control unit 16 determines from the detection results of the copy restriction information detection unit 100 and the permission information detection unit 120 whether the read image information includes encoded information (step S23). When the encoded information is not included (step S23 / NO), the input image information is subjected to image processing and stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S30). If the encoded information is included (step S23 / YES), the system control unit 16 determines whether the image information is that of the process execution permission sheet (step S24). Since the process execution permission sheet includes an identifier indicating that it is a process execution permission sheet, it is possible to determine whether the process execution permission sheet is a process execution permission sheet.
If it is a process execution permission sheet (step S24 / YES), the system control unit 16 extracts the permission information from the encoded information and stores it in the memory in the system control unit 16 (step S25). If it is not a process execution permission sheet (step S24 / NO), it is determined that the image information is read from the printed material, and it is determined whether copy restriction information is embedded (step S26).

  If the copy restriction information is not embedded (step S26 / NO), the read image information is subjected to image processing and stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S30). If the copy restriction information is embedded in the encoded information (step S26 / YES), it is determined whether or not the process execution permission sheet has already been read (step S27). If the process execution permission sheet has not been read (step S27 / NO), the system control unit 16 requests input of an ID and a password (step S29). Then, the ID or password input from the operation / display unit 14 by the user is compared with the password embedded as the encoded information (step S30). If the collation is successful (step S30 / YES), the image information is subjected to image processing and stored (step S31).

  If the process execution permission sheet has been read (step S27 / YES), the system control unit 16 determines whether the processed print is a print permitted to execute the process on the process execution permission sheet. Is determined (step S28). The system control unit 16 compares the identification information recorded on the processing execution permission sheet with the identification information read from the encoded information of the printed material, and determines whether the printed material is permitted to be processed.

  When it is determined that the printed material is not permitted to be processed on the processing execution permission sheet (step S28 / NO), the system control unit 16 requests input of an ID and a password (step S29). Then, the ID and password input by the user are collated with the password embedded as the encoded information (step S30). When the collation is successful (step S30 / YES), the image information is processed and stored. (Step S31).

  If it is determined that the print is permitted to be executed on the process execution permission sheet (step S28 / YES), the image information is processed and stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S31). When the reading of all the documents placed on the document table 31 and the above processing are completed (step S32 / NO), the system control unit 16 determines whether there is an image stored in the image storage unit 12. Determination is made (step S33). If no image can be stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S33 / NO), an error display is displayed on the operation / display unit 14 (step S34), and the process is terminated. If even one image can be stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S33 / YES), the system control unit 16 outputs the stored image information to the image output unit 11 (step S33). S35), the image output unit 11 forms an image. Thereafter, the system control unit 16 inquires of the image output unit 11 about the state, and when the set number of copies is output (YES in step S36), the process is terminated.

  Next, the second processing procedure of the system control unit 16 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The flow shown in FIG. 18 described above is a procedure of first reading the processing execution permission sheet and then reading the image of the printed material. However, in this flow, the order of reading the processing execution permission sheet is not particularly limited. In other words, the process execution permission sheet may be read while the printed image is being read, or the process execution permission sheet may be read after the reading of the printed image is completed.

Note that the processing up to step S47 shown in FIG. 19 is the same as the flow shown in FIG.
The system control unit 16 determines whether or not the copy restriction information is included in the encoded information detected by the encoding processing unit 28 (step S46). If the copy restriction information is not included (step S46 / NO), the system control unit 16 performs image processing on the input image information and stores it in the image storage unit 12 (step S48). If the copy restriction information is included (step S46 / YES), the printed product identification information is acquired from the encoded information and stored in the internal memory of the system control unit 16 (step S47). The image information is subjected to image processing by the image processing unit 24 and stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S48). When the image information is stored, the system control unit 16 determines whether there is a next document on the document table 31 or the ADF 32 (step S49). If it is determined that there is no next document on the document table 31 or the ADF 32 (step S49 / YES), the system control unit 16 determines whether reading of the process execution permission sheet is completed and permission information is stored in the internal memory. (Step S50). If it is determined that the process execution permission sheet has not been read (step S50 / NO), the system control unit 16 deletes all images with copy restriction information from the stored image (step S51). Alternatively, the system control unit 16 may request input of an ID or password, and permit copying when authentication is successful.

If it is determined that the processing execution permission sheet has been read (step S50 / YES), the system control unit 16 deletes all accumulated images of copy restriction information that does not match the identification information set in the processing execution permission sheet ( Step S52). Thereafter, the system control unit 16 determines whether there is a stored image in the image storage unit 12 (step S53). If there is no stored image (step S53 / NO), an error display is displayed on the operation / display unit 14. It is displayed (step S54), and the process is terminated. In step S52 described above, if an image that does not match the identification information of the process execution permission sheet is deleted from the image storage unit 12, and no image is stored in the image storage unit 12, the process execution permission is permitted. A display to the effect that printing is not permitted on the sheet may be displayed on the operation / display unit 14.
If there is even one stored image in the image storage unit 12 (step S53 / YES), the stored image information is output to the image output unit 11 (step S55). After that, the system control unit 16 inquires of the image output unit 11 about the state, and when the number of copies in which the printed matter and the process execution permission sheet are set is output (step S56 / YES), the process is terminated.

  In the second embodiment described above, the blocking processing unit 105 shown in FIG. 15 divides the input image information into blocks having a size smaller than half of the size of the copy restriction code and the condition code. The determination can be performed a plurality of times with one code, and the copy restriction code and the condition code can be determined from the ratio of the determination results. Therefore, the accuracy of code determination can be increased.

In addition, for permission media, permission information for permitting execution of processing restricted by the restriction information is recorded in an invisible digital code, read into the image processing apparatus together with the printed matter on which the restriction information is recorded, and based on the restriction information. It is possible to prevent the restriction information from being falsified by releasing the processing restriction, and it is possible to correctly restrict or release the processing with the set restriction information.

  In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 reads the printed material and the processing execution permission sheet by the image reading unit 10 and determines whether to print the printed material. However, the image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a communication path such as a network. The printed material read by the other image forming apparatus and the process execution permission sheet may be received to determine whether to print the printed material and to perform printing.

  Further, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 14, the copy restriction information is embedded in the image information read by scanning the document and printed out, but the print information generated by the personal computer 2 or the like is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 can also print out the copy restriction information embedded in the print information.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an image reading part. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an image output part. It is a figure which shows the structure of the communication path which connected the image forming apparatus. It is a figure which shows the structure of an operation / display part. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a system control part. (A) is a figure which shows the structure of printed matter, (B) is a figure which shows the structure of a process execution permission sheet | seat. It is a figure which shows the outline | summary of the process using a process execution permission sheet | seat. It is a figure for demonstrating a copy restriction code and copy permission information. It is a figure which shows the structure of an information generation part. It is a figure which shows the structure of a code generation part. It is a figure which shows copy restriction information and condition information. It is a figure which shows a pattern number arrangement | sequence. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a system control unit according to the first embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a copy restriction information detection part. It is a figure which shows an example of the pattern image which determines the read restriction | limiting information. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a permission information detection part. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a system control part. It is a flowchart which shows the other process sequence of a system control part.

Explanation of symbols

1 Image forming apparatus 2 PC
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image reading part 11 Image output part 12 Image storage part 13 Communication interface 14 Operation / display part 15 Print image generation part 16 System control part 21 System memory 22 Page memory 23 CPU
24 Image processing unit 25 Information generation unit 26 Image reading unit I / F
27 Image output unit I / F
28 Encoding processing unit

Claims (17)

Generate at least restriction information for restricting execution of processing, permission information for permitting execution of the process restricted by the restriction information, and identification information to be given to each of the permitted medium and the printed matter on which the permission information is recorded. Generating means;
A synthesizing unit that synthesizes the restriction information and identification information to be given to the printed material on the input image;
Formed on the input image is the printed matter in which the restriction information and identification information to be given to the printed matter are combined as a background image, and identification information to be given to the permission medium and the printed matter, and the permission information, respectively. Image forming means for forming an image with a plurality of permitted media,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the permission information is information that allows the restriction on the execution of processing based on the restriction information to be removed when the permission information described in the plurality of permission media is gathered. Encoding means for encoding the identification information, the restriction information, and the permission information, which are respectively given to the printed matter and the permission medium;
The identification information given to the printed material has been encoded, the first pattern image representing said restriction information encoded, the identification information given to the printed material has been encoded, encoded the authorized medium Pattern image generating means for generating identification information to be given to and a second pattern image representing the encoded permission information ,
The synthesizing unit is a unit that synthesizes the input image and a background image including the first pattern image;
The image forming unit is a unit that forms an image of the printed material obtained by combining the input image and the background image, and the permission medium on which the second pattern image is recorded. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit includes the number of pages of the input image in the permission information. The generation unit generates information for identifying a process that is permitted to be executed,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the permission medium includes the information. The generation unit generates information for specifying a page of a printed material that is permitted to be processed,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the permission medium includes the information. The generation means generates restriction information for restricting copying of the permitted medium as the restriction information,
Wherein the authorization medium, the image forming apparatus according to any one claim of claims 1-5, characterized in that included the restriction information. Having a copy operation accepting means for accepting an operation of the output number of the permitted medium;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming unit outputs the permitted number of copies set by the copy operation receiving unit. Paper feeding means for feeding transfer paper for transferring the restriction information and identification information to be given to the printed material , and transfer paper for transferring the identification information to be given to the printed material and the permission medium and the permission information , respectively. Paper feed stage operation accepting means for accepting the operation of the paper feed stage,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming unit transfers the printed material and the permission medium to different transfer papers. The generation unit generates authentication information for identifying a user who is permitted to execute the process,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print information includes the authentication information. A reading unit that reads image data of a printed material whose processing is restricted and an authorized medium that permits processing on the printed material ;
Detecting means for detecting encoded information from the image data read by the reading means;
First determination means for determining whether the encoded information includes a predetermined number of pages of identification information of the permitted medium when the encoded information is detected;
The image of the other page according to the permission information detected from the page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected and the identification information detected from a page other than the page where the identification information of the permission medium is detected Second determination means for determining whether or not to permit processing on data;
An image forming apparatus comprising: When the first determination unit determines that the encoded information includes identification information of the permitted medium, image data including the identification information of the permitted medium is first read by the reading unit. Having a third determination means for determining whether the image data of the page;
If it is determined that the image data of the predetermined page first read by the reading unit is the image data of the permitted medium, the second determination unit determines whether to permit the process for the image data of the other page. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising: A computer device for generating image information to be printed and transmitting the image information to an image forming device for forming an image;
Generate at least restriction information for restricting execution of processing, permission information for permitting execution of the process restricted by the restriction information, and identification information to be given to each of the permitted medium and the printed matter on which the permission information is recorded. Generating means;
A combining unit that combines the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed material with the input image information;
The input image information includes the printed material obtained by combining the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed material as a background image, the identification information to be given to the permission medium and the printed material, and the permission information, respectively. An image forming apparatus having image forming means for forming an image with a plurality of permitted media formed,
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the permission information is information that allows the execution restriction of the process based on the restriction information to be released when the permission information described in the plurality of permission media is gathered. A reading device that reads image data of a printed material whose processing is restricted and an authorized medium that permits processing on the printed material ;
Detection means for detecting encoded information from the image data read by the reader;
When the encoded information is detected, a determination is made as to whether or not the encoded information includes a predetermined number of pages of identification information of a permitted medium that permits processing on a printed material whose processing is restricted. 1 determination means;
The image of the other page according to the permission information detected from the page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected and the identification information detected from a page other than the page where the identification information of the permission medium is detected An image forming apparatus having a second determination unit that determines whether or not to permit processing on the data;
An image forming system comprising: When the first determination unit determines that the encoded information includes identification information of the permitted medium, the image forming apparatus includes image data including the identification information of the permitted medium as the reading unit. And a third determination means for determining whether or not the image data of the predetermined page read first.
If it is determined that the image data of the predetermined page first read by the reading unit is the image data of the permitted medium, the second determination unit determines whether to permit the process for the image data of the other page. 14. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the image forming system is determined. Computer
Generate at least restriction information for restricting execution of processing, permission information for permitting execution of the process restricted by the restriction information, and identification information to be given to each of the permitted medium and the printed matter on which the permission information is recorded. Means,
Means for combining the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed matter with the input image information;
The input image information includes the printed material obtained by combining the restriction information and the identification information to be given to the printed material as a background image, the identification information to be given to the permission medium and the printed material, and the permission information, respectively. Function as means for causing the image forming means to form images with the plurality of permitted media formed,
The program is characterized in that the permission information is information that allows the restriction on the execution of processing by the restriction information to be released when the permission information described in the plurality of permission media is gathered. Computer
Means for causing the reading means to read image data of a printed matter whose processing is restricted and an authorized medium that permits processing on the printed matter ;
Means for detecting encoded information from the read image data;
Means for determining, when detecting the encoded information, whether or not the encoded information includes a predetermined number of pages of identification information of a permitted medium that permits processing on a printed material whose processing is restricted. When,
The image of the other page according to the permission information detected from the page where the identification information of the permitted medium is detected and the identification information detected from a page other than the page where the identification information of the permission medium is detected A program that functions as means for determining whether or not to permit processing of data. Computer
If it is determined that the encoded information includes identification information of the permitted medium, whether the image data including the identification information of the permitted medium is image data of a predetermined page read first by the reading unit Further function as a means of determining whether or not,
When it is determined that the image data of the predetermined page read first by the reading unit is the image data of the permitted medium, it is determined whether or not to permit the processing for the image data of the other page. The program according to claim 16.

Images