JP4282502B2 - Image processing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention temporarily stores image data input via an image reading unit such as a scanner, a communication line such as a LAN or the Internet, and records the stored image data on a recording medium such as copy paper, or a facsimile. The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus for performing image processing by transmitting to the outside by communication or further transmitting to the outside by data communication, and more particularly to an image processing apparatus for improving security of image data once stored.

  Conventionally, an original to be copied is optically scanned and read as image data, the image data is temporarily stored in a storage medium, and image data of an arbitrary original is repeatedly read out from the storage medium corresponding to a desired number of copies. An image processing apparatus having an electronic filing function for printing out on a copy sheet is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In an image processing apparatus having such an electronic filing function, for example, by using FAT (File Allocation Table), designation of a storage position on a storage medium when storing image data and storage on the storage medium when reading image data are performed. It manages the designation of position. According to the FAT, an information number is assigned to each piece of information stored in the storage medium, and a reference value of the FAT is determined based on this information number, whereby the storage position of each image data on the storage medium is specified.

  The FAT is updated every time printout of image data to be managed is completed. Further, when the contents of the FAT are erased or updated, it becomes impossible for the image processing apparatus to read the image data stored in the storage medium specified by the FAT. Therefore, the use of FAT reduces the risk of information leakage and ensures the security of image data.

  However, with the progress and spread of information processing technology in recent years, even when the contents of the FAT are erased or updated, the image data itself stored in the storage medium (such as a hard disk) is erased. Unless this is the case, for example, a malicious third party may remove the storage medium (for example, a hard disk) itself from the apparatus and take it out, read the image data stored in the storage medium, and acquire it illegally.

  Therefore, the following techniques have been proposed in consideration of image data security against information leakage or unauthorized use.

  For example, an image processing apparatus that uses the apparatus after personal authentication (see Patent Document 2), an image processing apparatus that can embed specific information in output image data and track the path of the image data (patent Reference 3), an image processing apparatus that encrypts image data and stores it in a storage medium (see Patent Document 4), and is automatically deleted when image data stored in the storage medium becomes unnecessary An image processing apparatus (see Patent Document 5) and the like. According to these techniques, it is possible to prevent leakage or unauthorized use of image data remaining in the apparatus.

On the other hand, it is possible to prevent information leakage from the electronic filing function or illegal use of the image data by executing an erasing process on the image data or erasing the image data stored in the memory. Data security kits have been commercialized. Such a data security kit can be applied to the electronic filing function described above. Therefore, it is possible to equip various apparatuses with a so-called retrofit as well as an image processing apparatus having such an electronic filing function. Is possible.
JP-A-6-178041 JP-A-7-28365 JP 2000-187419 A JP-A-1-256068 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-223061

  However, when an image processing apparatus having a conventional electronic filing function is equipped with the data security kit as described above, the existing electronic filing function is given priority. Accordingly, there arises a problem that the operation of the electronic filing function for outputting the image data stored in the storage medium as described above to the image processing unit such as the image forming unit prevents the image data from being erased by the data security kit. .

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and data for protecting image data input by a so-called document filing function and stored in a storage means such as a hard disk. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus that harmonizes the document filing function and the data security function by restricting a part of the document filing function when the security function is enabled.

  In the present invention, when image processing means such as a printer performs image processing on image data stored in image data storage means such as a hard disk, image data is read from the image data storage means and processed by the image processing means. Image processing configured to operate image data so that the image data stored in the data storage means is stored as it is in the image data storage means when the image processing means performs image processing on the image data. The main object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of changing the operation of the image data as described above.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the image data stored in the image data storage means is subjected to image processing by the image processing means, the image data stored in the image data storage means is replaced with random data. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of changing operations and improving security.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of changing the operation of image data so as to forcibly erase the image data stored in the image data storage means and improving security. .

  In the present invention, when the image data stored in the image data storage means is image-processed by the image processing means, the operation of the image data is changed so that the image data is forcibly deleted from the image data storage means. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus with improved security.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of changing the operation of the image data so as to forcibly erase all the image data stored in the image data storage means and improving the security. And

  Further, according to the present invention, image data to be image-processed by the image processing means is temporarily stored in the image data storage means, and when this image data is image-processed by the image processing means, it is immediately deleted from the image data storage means. Thus, an object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus with improved security.

  Further, the present invention provides an image processing that can improve the convenience or improve the security by reducing the security according to the use environment by switching the operation or stopping of the operation changing means by the switching means. The purpose is to provide a device.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus that forms image by recording image data on a recording medium, specifically, prints out as specific image processing.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus that transmits image data to the outside by facsimile communication as specific image processing.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus that transmits image data to the outside through data communication as specific image processing.

An image processing apparatus according to the present invention comprises image processing means for processing input image data and image data storage means for storing the image data, and the image data processed by the image processing means is processed as the image data. have a filing function of maintaining in a state of being stored in the storage means, the reprocessing capable Nashitea Ru image processing apparatus by the image processing means image data stored in said image data storage means, the filing function when said security function to automatically erase the image data processed by the image processing means and operate together, encryption for encrypting image data to be maintained in said by filing function is stored in the image data storing means and comprising a means, a decoding means for decoding the time of re-processing the image data encrypted by the dark Goka means, The image data storage means stores the image data encrypted by the encryption means, and automatically erases the image data by the security function when the image data is processed by the image processing means. The first storage unit set to, and the image data stored in an encrypted state in the first storage unit are stored, and the image data is erased by the security function or encrypted until an erasure instruction is given characterized Rukoto to have a second storage unit that maintains the image data in the state.

In the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the input to and stored image data in the image data storage means and the operation of outputting the image data is read by the image data storing means stores the by filing function, the image data When the protection means is operating, it is not completely prohibited, but only a part of its functions are restricted.

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the invention described above, further comprising characterized Rukoto means for erasing the image data stored in the encrypted state from the image data storage means.

In such an image processing apparatus of the present invention, the image data stored in an encrypted state is erased from the image data storage means .

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention is the invention described above, further comprising characterized Rukoto a means for replacing the image data stored in the encrypted state at random data.

In such an image processing apparatus of the present invention, the operation changing unit changes the operation of the image data so that the image data stored in the encrypted state is replaced with random data.

  The image processing apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that, in each of the above-described inventions, the image processing apparatus further includes a switching unit that switches operation or stop of the operation changing unit.

  In such an image processing apparatus of the present invention, in each of the above-described inventions, the operation changing means is switched on or off by the switching means.

  The image processing apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that, in each of the above-described inventions, the image processing means records image data on a recording medium to form an image.

  In such an image processing apparatus of the present invention, in each of the above-described inventions, image processing is performed in which image data is recorded on a recording medium to form an image, specifically, a printout.

  The image processing apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that, in each of the above-mentioned inventions, the image processing means transmits image data to the outside by facsimile communication.

  In such an image processing apparatus of the present invention, image processing for transmitting image data to the outside by facsimile communication is performed in each of the above-described inventions.

  The image processing apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that, in each of the above-mentioned inventions, the image processing means transmits image data to the outside by data communication.

  In such an image processing apparatus of the present invention, in each of the above-described inventions, image processing for transmitting image data to the outside by data communication is performed.

  As described above in detail, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the image data is input and stored in the image data storage means by the filing function, and the image data stored in the image data storage means is read out. The operation of the image data by the output image data operation means is not completely prohibited when the image data protection means is operating, but only a part of the functions are restricted. A data processing apparatus that is easy to use in harmony with the data security function and that ensures data security is realized.

  According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the image data is manipulated so that the image data is stored in the image data storage means such as a hard disk in the apparatus even after the image data is processed by the image processing means. Even when it is originally configured, the operation of the image data is changed to be different from the original operation so that the security of the image data stored in the image data storage means is improved.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the input image data is once encrypted and decrypted when processed, so that security is maintained.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the input image data is encrypted by the encryption means and decrypted by the decryption means when processed, so that security is maintained.

  Furthermore, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, since the image data stored in the image data storage means such as a hard disk in the apparatus is replaced with random data, even if the image data storage means itself is taken out. Security is maintained.

  Furthermore, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, since the image data stored in the image data storage means such as a hard disk in the apparatus is forcibly deleted, it is assumed that the image data storage means itself is taken out. However, since image data cannot be reproduced, security is maintained.

  Furthermore, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the image data stored in the image data storage means such as a hard disk in the apparatus is forcibly erased after the image data itself is image processed by the image processing means. Therefore, security of image data with high confidentiality is maintained.

  Furthermore, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, all the image data stored in the image data storage means such as a hard disk in the apparatus is forcibly deleted, so even if the image data storage means itself is taken out. Even so, security is maintained because the image data cannot be reproduced.

  Furthermore, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, image data to be subjected to image processing by the image processing means is temporarily stored in the image data storage means, and the image temporarily stored in the image data storage means. Since the data is immediately deleted from the image data storage means when the image data itself is image-processed, even when image data with high confidentiality is processed, even if the image data storage means itself is taken out The security of highly confidential image data that is not stored in the image data storage means is maintained.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, since the operation changing means is switched on or off by the switching means, security can be increased or security can be lowered to improve convenience according to the use environment. Is possible.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the security of the image data used for the image processing for recording the image data on the recording medium to form an image, specifically, for printing out, is maintained.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the security of the image data used for the image processing for transmitting the image data to the outside by facsimile communication is maintained.

  Further, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the security of the image data used for the image processing for transmitting the image data to the outside by data communication is maintained.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of an embodiment in which an image processing apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a digital multi-function peripheral.

  In addition to having a copy function, the digital multifunction peripheral 20 as an image processing apparatus of the present invention is connected to an external device such as a personal computer via a communication cable or a telephone line, and receives images received from these external devices. It also has a printer function that uses data, a network scanner function, a FAX function, and the like. In other words, the digital multi-functional peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention has, as an image processing function, a function of recording image data on a recording medium and printing out, a function of transmitting to the outside by facsimile communication, and an external by data communication. A function to transmit data to

  The digital multifunction device 20 mainly includes an image reading unit 2, an operation panel 4, an image forming unit 6, a device control unit 8, a communication unit 10 that is an interface for communicating with the outside, and a nonvolatile storage device. A hard disk (HD) 12 and a management unit 14 are provided. The hard disk 12 functions as image data storage means.

  The image reading unit 2 reads an image of a document by an optical image reading unit such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 2a. The image data of the original read by the image reading unit 2 is stored in a page unit (one original unit) in a memory 6a, which is a volatile storage device such as a RAM, and the number of read originals (number of pages). Is stored in the management unit 14.

  The communication unit 10 is connected to an external device such as a personal computer via a network NW such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network) as a communication line, and performs data communication with these external devices. , Send and receive image data. Although not shown, the communication unit 10 includes a modem and an NCU (Network Control Unit), and is configured to be capable of facsimile communication. The modem is connected to the public switched telephone network PSTN via the NCU. The NCU is hardware for performing line control operations for closing and opening a line with the analog public telephone exchange network PSTN, and connects a modem to the public telephone exchange network PSTN as necessary.

  When image data is input from the image reading unit 2 or the communication unit 10, the image forming unit 6 stores an image from a volatile memory 6a such as a RAM for storing the image data and the image data stored in the memory 6a. A printing unit (LSU: Laser Scanning Unit) 6b to be formed is provided. In the present embodiment, the printing unit 6b is configured by an LSU (laser scanning unit), but may be a printer device such as an ink jet system.

  The management unit 14 includes a ROM that stores a control program for the device control unit 8, a RAM that stores information set on the operation panel 4, information on the operation of each component of the apparatus, and the like. However, it may be a rewritable nonvolatile storage medium such as a flash memory or an EEPROM.

  Next, a configuration example of the operation panel 4 including the input unit 4a and the display unit 4b will be described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG.

  As described above, the operation panel 4 includes the input unit 4a and the display unit 4b. The display unit 4b is configured by a dot matrix type liquid crystal panel, and can display information to be notified to the user as the digital multi-function peripheral 20 in detail. In addition, a transparent touch panel is provided on the screen of the liquid crystal panel of the display unit 4b, and input corresponding information is input as instruction information by operating the touch panel according to information displayed on the liquid crystal panel. It also functions as a part of the part 4a.

  In addition, the input unit 4a is further provided with a key group adjacent to the liquid crystal panel, a start key 16 for instructing a copy start, and a clear all (CA: all canceling) for interrupting the process being executed. ) Key 17, clear key 18 for clearing the contents of the designated mode, ten key 22 for designating the number of copies, mode switching keys 23a, 23b, 23c, user setting key 24, and the like.

  Further, by operating the job status key 23d, it is possible to check the current job processing status and the past printing status after printing is completed.

  The device control unit 8 is configured by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the operation panel 4, the image forming unit 6, the communication unit 10, the HD 12, and the like according to a control program stored in the management unit 14 in advance. The operation of each device constituting the digital multi-function peripheral 20 is controlled. In addition, the device control unit 8 notifies the display unit 4b of information related to the state of the digital multifunction device 20 and the user according to instructions and information input by the user by operating each key of the input unit 4a provided on the operation panel 4. Output power information etc.

  Furthermore, the device control unit 8 inputs image data, specifically, input of image data from the image reading unit 2 and input of image data from the outside via the communication unit 10, a memory 6a for input image data, It also functions as image data operation means for performing operations such as input / output to / from the hard disk 12.

  The HD 12 stores image data input from the image reading unit 2 and the communication unit 10 and to be imaged by the image forming unit 6, and image data to be transmitted to the outside through the communication unit 10 by facsimile communication or data communication. However, details will be described later.

  In the digital multifunction machine 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention, each function of a copy function, a printer function, a network scanner function, or a FAX function is set by operating the input unit 4a, and information regarding the set function is stored in the management unit. 14 is stored. Based on the information stored in the management unit 14, the device control unit 8 controls the operation of each component of the apparatus, performs processing corresponding to each function, and also stores the image data memory 6 a and the hard disk 12. Perform input / output operations between

  Hereinafter, each operation when the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention is used as a copier, a printer, a network scanner, or a FAX will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of image data by the device control unit 8 when the copy function is set in the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention.

  When the digital multifunction device 20 is used as a copying machine by the function setting of the input unit 4a described above, the device control unit 8 inputs the image data of the original read by the image reading unit 2 (step S1), and the volatile It is temporarily stored in the memory 6a (step S2) and simultaneously stored in the HD 12 (step S3). When a plurality of (multiple pages) originals are read by the image reading unit 2, the above-described processing from step S1 to step S3 is repeated by the number of originals (number of pages).

  Next, the device control unit 8 stores the HD 12 when an image is formed based on information such as density and paper size set in advance by operating the operation panel 4 (YES in step S4). The image data is read out and temporarily stored in the memory 6a (step S5), and the image data stored in the memory 6a is output to the printing unit 6b for printing (step S6).

  When printing a plurality of sheets (a plurality of pages) of image data stored in the HD 12, the operations from step S4 to step S6 are repeated for the number of documents to be imaged by the printing unit 6.

  The processing in the case where the above-described function as a copier is set is performed by the device control unit 8 controlling the operation of each component unit of the apparatus based on the control program stored in the management unit 14. Executed.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of image data by the device control unit 8 when the printer function is set in the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention.

  As described above, the communication unit 10 is connected to the network NW by a communication cable or the like. Accordingly, image data can be received by data communication from the personal computers PC1 and PC2 connected on the network. When the communication unit 10 receives image data from the personal computers PC1 and PC2, the device control unit 8 inputs it (step S11), temporarily stores it in the memory 6a (step S12), and simultaneously stores it in the HD 12 (step S11). S13).

  Next, the device control unit 8 stores the HD 12 when forming an image based on information such as density and paper size set in advance by operating the operation panel 4 (YES in step S14). The image data is read out and stored in the memory 6a (step S15), and the image data stored in the memory 6a is output to the printing unit 6b for printing (step S16).

  Note that the processing when the printer function is set is executed by the device control unit 8 controlling the operation of each component of the apparatus based on the control program stored in the management unit 14. Is done.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of image data by the device control unit 8 when the network scanner function is set in the digital multifunction machine 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention.

  The image data of the original read by the image reading unit 2 is transmitted from the communication unit 10 to any personal computer PC1, PC2 via the network NW. As in the case of the copy function described above, the device control unit 8 inputs the image data read by the image reading unit 2 (step S21), temporarily stores it in the volatile memory 6a (step S22), and simultaneously stores it in the HD 12 as well. Store (step S23). The device control unit 8 reads out the image data stored in the HD 12 and stores it in the memory 6a (step S24), and establishes communication with, for example, the personal computer PC1 set by operating the operation panel 4 (step S25). YES), the image data stored in the memory 6a is output to the communication unit 10, and is transmitted from the communication unit 10 to the personal computer of the transmission destination via the network NW (step S26).

  The processing when the function as the network scanner described above is set is performed by the device control unit 8 controlling the operation of each component of the apparatus based on the control program stored in the management unit 14. Executed.

  Further, the communication unit 10 is connected to the public switched telephone network PSTN in addition to the network, and the same process is performed by the device control unit 8 even when the digital multi-function peripheral 20 is used as a FAX apparatus.

  Here, the digital multifunction peripheral 20 having an HD as a storage medium for storing image data has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is not limited to this when the apparatus is removed from the apparatus main body or when the power is shut off. The present invention can be similarly applied to a case where a non-volatile memory capable of holding previously stored image data, a memory having a backup function, or another storage medium using a magnetic storage medium is provided.

  Next, an electronic filing function that functions using the HD 12 provided in the digital multifunction machine 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention will be described.

  In FIG. 1, the HD 12 is divided into two data storage areas, a first storage unit 121 and a second storage unit 122. The image data stored in the first storage unit 121 is read and stored in the memory 6a, and further output to the printing unit 6b to be printed on a recording medium such as printing paper. When an image is formed in this way, history information based on the order in which printing processing was performed or the date and time, and the image data itself are stored in the first storage unit 121.

  When it is necessary to form an image again from the same image data even though the printing process of the image data stored in the first storage unit 121 is once performed due to insufficient setting of the number of copies or a paper jam. In this case, information related to printing is set by operating the operation panel 4, or information related to printing is set in the personal computers PC1, PC2, etc. connected to the network, and the setting information is transmitted to the digital multifunction peripheral 20. Based on the respective settings, the image data stored in the first storage unit 121 without being erased is output again to the image forming unit 6 to form an image.

  The second storage unit 122 also stores the image data stored in the first storage unit 121 for each data format (hereinafter referred to as a file format), or for each function such as a copy, printer, network scanner, or FAX. It is an area for organizing and storing. Since the image data is organized and stored in the second storage unit 122 after a certain period after the image data is input to the digital multi-function peripheral 20, the second storage unit 122 is used to form an image of such image data. Image data is read from the storage unit 122 and temporarily stored in the memory 6a. The image data stored in the memory 6a is output to the printing unit 6b and printed on a recording medium such as copy paper.

  The first storage unit 121 has a smaller storage area than the second storage unit 122. Accordingly, when there is not enough free space (storage area) to store data in the first storage unit 121, for example, the image data stored in the first storage unit 121 is deleted from the oldest based on the history information. The image data may be updated with the newly input image data, or the image data after a predetermined time has elapsed after being stored in the first storage unit 121 may be automatically deleted.

  On the other hand, the image data stored in the second storage unit 122 is organized and stored as described above. The image data stored in the second storage unit 122 is not deleted unless information for instructing deletion is set by operating the operation panel 4. However, when the storage capacity of the second storage unit 122 reaches the limit capacity, this is displayed on the display unit 4b to notify the user. As a result, the user can operate the operation panel 4 to make settings to increase the storage capacity by deleting image data, adding an HD, or replacing the HD with a larger storage capacity, etc. A new free storage area can be secured and added. The second storage unit 122 includes, for example, a plurality of folders divided for each file format of the image data, and organizes and stores the image data according to the type.

  As described above, the digital multifunction machine 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention has an electronic filing function, and when the printing process of the first storage unit 121 or the printing process of the second storage unit 122 is executed. The image data stored in the HD 12 is output to the image forming unit 6 and stored in the first storage unit 121 for each image data. Further, when an image is formed after a certain period, the image data stored in the first storage unit 121 is organized and stored in the second storage unit 122, and the image data stored in the second storage unit 122 is stored. Is output to the image forming unit 6 in response to a request for print processing, and an image is formed.

  Hereinafter, in the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, when the data security kit is retrofitted, or when the data security kit is preliminarily installed in a non-operating state but is set to be switched at a certain time to operate. Will be described.

  In the above-described case, it is possible to stop part or all of the above-described functions of the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention. Specifically, the device control unit 8 is the first storage unit of the HD 12. It becomes possible to stop part or all of the original operations of 121 and the second storage unit 122. In other words, the device control unit 8 normally functions as an image data operation unit, but functions as an operation change unit that changes the operation of the image data when the security kit is operating.

  Accordingly, in the state where the security kit is operating, for example, regarding the image data for which the printing process has been completed, whether the file management information (FAT data) of the HD 12 stored in the management unit 14 is immediately erased when the printing process is completed. The image data stored in the memory 6a is deleted, or the image data stored in the HD 12 is updated with randomly configured bit data or byte data to delete the image data (hereinafter referred to as deletion). It is possible to ensure the security of the image data by executing an erasing process after encryption and temporary storage so that it is difficult to decipher.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration when the data security kit is installed in the digital multifunction machine 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention. Compared to the configuration shown in FIG. 9a, 9b and a decoding unit 9c are newly added as functional blocks. In order to encrypt the image data while the encryption unit 9a transfers the image data received by the communication unit 10 to the memory 6a, the encryption unit 9b transfers the image data read by the image reading unit 2 to the memory 6a. In order to encrypt the image data in the middle, the decrypting unit 9c decrypts the original image data by decrypting the encrypted image data stored in the memory 6a to the printing unit 6b of the image forming unit 6. Each is equipped to restore.

  The encryption units 9a and 9b and the decryption unit 9c may be option boards that perform encryption and decryption in hardware, or plug-in software that performs encryption and decryption in software. Also good. It is also possible to add plug-in software and cause the device control unit 8 to execute an erasing process. When plug-in software is used, plug-in software is added by adding a ROM storing plug-in software to the management unit 14 or storing plug-in software received via the network NW in the management unit 14. It is possible.

  Image data input from the communication unit 10 through the image reading unit 2 or the network NW is encrypted by the encryption unit 9b or 9a of the data security kit and stored in the memory 6a. When the encrypted image data stored in the memory 6a is output to the printing unit 6b, the image data is decrypted by the decrypting unit 9c and restored to the original image data.

  When the encrypted image data stored in the memory 6a is stored in the HD 12, it is stored as it is encrypted. The encrypted image data stored in the HD 12 is automatically deleted by the device control unit 8. Accordingly, in the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the image data after the image processing is secured.

  Since the configuration other than the above is the same as the configuration example shown in FIG.

  Next, the display state of the display unit 4b in each process of executing image data erasure processing according to the security level when the copy function is set will be described with reference to the schematic diagrams of FIGS. In this description, since the erasure process is executed after encryption and temporary storage, encryption is also executed when the erasure process is executed. As for the addition of the encryption / decryption process and the erasure process, both processes can be added, or one process can be added.

  7 shows the case where the digital multifunction device 20 is not equipped with a data security kit, FIG. 8 shows the case where the digital multifunction device 20 is equipped with a data security kit, and FIG. 9 shows the digital multifunction device 20 shown in FIG. FIG. 10 shows the case where the “image data erasing process” is functioning, and FIG. 11 shows the case where the icon IC at the lower left of the display screen is pressed with a finger in the state where the data security kit is installed. In the state, the display state of the screen of the display unit 4b when the portion of the icon IC at the lower left of the display screen of the digital multifunction device 20 is pressed with a finger is shown.

  The screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 7 operates the “electronic filing function” which is an existing function of the digital multifunction peripheral 20, and the image data after the printing process is stored in the HD 12 (first storage unit 121). Which indicates that.

  In the screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 8, a data security kit capable of operating the “image data erasing process” function is installed in the digital multi-function peripheral 20, and the “image data erasing process” function is activated. In order to make it easier for the user to understand that “image data erasure processing” is effective, a “padlock” indicating that “image data erasure processing” is available is displayed at the lower left of the display screen. Is displayed.

  Even when the icon IC at the lower left of the display screen is pressed (touched) in the display state of the display unit 4b in FIG. 8, the “image data erasing process” is not operating (when the apparatus is on standby) ), The display screen shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display unit 4b. In the approximate center of the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 9, version information about the title and the data security kit is displayed in a window.

  The “image data erasing function” is treated as an option on the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as a “data security kit” and is displayed as a “data security kit” during the window display of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. Has been. Accordingly, it is possible to confirm the contents and version of the “data security kit” and “image data erasing function” on the screen shown in FIG.

  Further, in the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 10, when the “image data erasing process” is in operation, for example, when the job is finished or the job is cleared, the HD 12 (the first storage unit 121 and / or the second data) When the data stored in the storage unit 122) is being erased, a message indicating that data is being erased is displayed in a window at the approximate center of the display screen.

  When the part of the icon IC at the lower left of the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 10 is pressed (touched) with a finger, the “image data erasing process” is performed at the approximate center of the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. The message “Data area is being erased” indicating that the image data erasure process stored in the HD 12 (the first storage unit 121 and / or the second storage unit 122) is being executed and its progress status are level. Is displayed. Thereby, the operation status of the image data erasing process by the “image data erasing process” can be confirmed.

  If the image data stored in the HD 12 (the first storage unit 121 and / or the second storage unit 122) is being deleted by the “image data deletion process”, is the icon IC blinked? Alternatively, by displaying the icon IC in a form different from the normal display form such as changing the color of the icon IC, the user can intuitively understand that the “image data erasing process” is in operation. This is more effective.

  Next, operation settings relating to the “image data erasing process” will be described with reference to schematic diagrams of display screens of the display unit 4b in FIGS.

  12 shows detailed settings in the “image data erasing process” operation, FIG. 13 shows a data erasure confirmation window when FIG. 13 shows a data erasure confirmation window, and FIG. FIG. 15 shows the display screen of the display unit 4b in the “automatic data erasure count at the end of job” setting screen.

  On the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 12, “all” for giving an instruction to forcibly erase the data stored in the HD 12 (the first storage unit 121 and the second storage unit 122) at an arbitrary timing. “Erase data area” key K11, and “Automatic erasure at power-on” key K12 set to execute the erasure process of all data stored in the HD 12 each time the digital multifunction device 20 is turned on. Is displayed. When the “automatic erasing at power-on” key K12 is pressed (touched), a check mark “re” is displayed in the attached check box.

  Further, on the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 12, an “all data area erase count” key K13 for setting the number of “all data area erase” erase processing, an “automatic erase at power-on” erase process After the image data stored in the “automatic erasing count at power-on” key K14, HD12 (first storage unit 121 and / or second storage unit 122) for setting the number of times is printed, the image An “automatic erasure count at the end of job” key K15 for setting the number of times of erasing the data only from the HD 12 is displayed.

  These “all data area erasure count” key K13, “automatic erasure count at power-on” key K14 and “automatic erasure count at job end” key K15 are positioned immediately to the right of each by operating each key. The set number of times is displayed. However, the default setting values are “1” for both “all data area erase count” key K13 and “automatic erase count at job end” key K15, and “automatic erase count at power-on” key K14. “0 (however, it is changed to“ 1 ”in the figure)”.

  When the number of erasing processes suitable for the security level is set by operating each key as described above, the image data stored in the HD 12 (the first storage unit 121 and / or the second storage unit 122) is stored. When the data becomes unnecessary, the data erasure process is repeatedly executed as many times as the set number of erasure processes. Therefore, it is possible to set the number of erasing processes according to the required security level according to the installation location of the digital multi-function peripheral 20 that is the image processing apparatus of the present invention. In addition, the operation of executing the erasure processing of all image data stored in the HD 12 at an arbitrary timing by operating the “Erase All Data Area” key K11, for example, prints out important data with a very high security level. This is very effective when you want to erase immediately.

  When the erasing process of all the image data stored in the HD 12 is executed by pressing (touching) the “erase all data area” key K11 on the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, a confirmation window W11 is displayed in the approximate center of the display screen of the display unit 4b. In this confirmation window W11, the “do not erase” operation button B11 and the “deletion” operation button B12 are displayed. Therefore, when the “deletion” operation button B12 is pressed (touched), the HD 12 is stored. The erasing process of the data being started is started.

  When the erasing process of the data stored in the HD 12 is actually started as described above, as shown in FIG. 14, a window W12 for displaying the progress of the process on a level on the display screen of the display unit 4b. Is displayed.

  In the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 12, the “all data area erasure count” key K13, the “automatic erasure count at job end” key K15, or the “automatic erasure count at power-on” key K14 is pressed. When touched, the display screen of the display unit 4b displays a setting screen for “all data area erasure count”, “automatic erasure count at job end”, or “automatic erasure count at power-on”. . FIG. 15 shows a display screen of the display unit 4b when the “all data area erasure count” key K13 is pressed (touched) as an example.

  As shown in FIG. 15, for example, when the “all data area erasure count” key K13 is pressed (touched), an “up” key K16 and a “down” key K17 are displayed. Thus, it is possible to arbitrarily set the number of erasure processes. Note that the above-described case is also described when the other “automatic erasing count at job end” key K15 or “automatic erasing count at power-on” key K14 is pressed (touched) on the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. It is possible to arbitrarily set the number of erasure processes in the same manner as when the “all data area erasure count” key K13 is pressed (touched).

  However, regarding the “automatic erasure at the end of job” process, the digital multifunction device 20 is equipped with a data security kit regardless of whether or not the “automatic erasure count at the end of job” key K15 is pressed (touched). Thus, the “image data erasing function” is automatically set when the operation becomes possible, in other words, the default “1” is set as the number of times of automatic erasure.

  The setting of various functions of the data security kit described above is required at the installation location of the digital multifunction device 20 in a state where the data security kit is installed in the digital multifunction device 20 and the “image data erasing function” is operable. It is preferable to be performed according to the security level. Further, by pressing (touching) the “all data area deletion” key K11, it is possible to delete all data stored in the HD 12 as necessary. It is also possible to stop the erasure process by setting the number of erasures to “0”. Note that the operation panel (switching means) 4 can accept, for example, settings related to execution / stop of encryption, similarly to settings related to execution / stop of erasure processing. Information related to the various display screens described above is stored in the management unit 14 and displayed on the display unit 4 b under the control of the device control unit 8. The setting information received on the various display screens (operation panel 4) described above is stored in the management unit 14 under the control of the device control unit 8.

  Note that the digital multi-function device 20 can perform the same processing as when it is used as a copier, even when used as a printer, network scanner, or FAX.

  Next, with respect to a series of procedures for erasing the HD 12 image data of the digital multifunction peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus of the present invention, FIG. 16 and FIG. This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the power of the digital multi-function device 20 is turned on (ON), the device control unit 8 first checks the state of each device constituting the apparatus (step S31). If there is no abnormality as a result of the check (YES in step S32), the device control unit 8 starts warming up each device so that the digital multi-function device 20 can perform a predetermined operation (step). S33).

  On the other hand, if an abnormality is confirmed as a result of checking each device (NO in step S32), the device control unit 8 performs a predetermined error process corresponding to the confirmed abnormality (step S34). As an example of the error processing, if an abnormality has occurred in the display unit 4b, a window including a message confirming the occurrence of the abnormality in the display unit 4b and requesting the user to confirm the error is displayed. Such processing is possible.

  At the start of the warm-up described above (step S33), the device control unit 8 next checks whether or not “automatic erasing mode at power-on” for initializing the HD 12 at power-on is set (ON). (Step S35). As described above, the “automatic erasing mode at power-on” is set by pressing (touching) the “automatic erasing mode at power-on” key K12 in the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG.

  If the “automatic erasing mode at power-on” is set (YES in step S35), the device control unit 8 starts initialization of the HD 12 (step S36) and the image data stored in the HD 12 A window indicating that it is being erased (progress status) is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 4b (step S37). At this time, the device control unit 8 executes the erasing process of the data stored in the HD 12 by the number of times of the erasing process set in advance on the display screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. Thus, the initialization process is repeated (step S38). By this processing, all image data stored in the HD 12 is erased.

  If the HD 12 data erasure process has been completed (YES in step S38), or if the “automatic erasing mode at power-on” has not been set (ON) (NO in step S35), the device control unit 8 displays After the display screen of the unit 4b is set to the display state of the basic screen, it waits until the warm-up of each device is completed (NO in step S39), and when the warm-up of each device is completed (YES in step S39), the job setting (Step S40).

  When the document is placed at the set position of the image reading unit 2 and the copy start key 16 is turned on after setting the copy function for the document during the standby state in step S40 (YES in step S41) The original is optically scanned by the CCD 2a of the image reading unit 2 (step S42), and the device control unit 8 temporarily stores the image data obtained as a result in the memory 6a in units of pages. Then, the device control unit 8 transfers the image data stored in the memory 6a to the HD 12, stores it in the first storage unit 121 (or the second storage unit 122 in some cases), and manages the image data stored in the HD 12 Information (FAT data) is stored and managed in the management unit 14 (step S43).

  The device control unit 8 reads the image data stored in the HD 12 as described above from the first storage unit 121 of the HD 12 in accordance with the timing of image formation (printout) and stores it in the memory 6a or the second storage unit 122. To the first storage unit 121 and further stored in the memory 6a in units of pages to prepare print data (step S44). When the necessary image data is stored in the memory 6a, the device control unit 8 transfers the image data to the printing unit 6b (LSU: laser scanning unit) and prints it out (step S45).

  When it is confirmed that the image data has been printed out in this way, the device control unit 8 updates the management data (FAT data) stored in the management unit 14 with respect to the image data as the processing is completed (step S46). In addition, when a series of print processes are completed, an erasure process is executed on the storage area of the HD 12 of the image data used for the series of print processes (step S47). Even in this case, the device control unit 8 executes the erasing process of the image data stored in the HD 12 as many times as the number of erasing processes set in advance on the setting screen of the display unit 4b shown in FIGS. Thus, the initialization process is repeated (step S48). Thereafter, the digital multi-function peripheral 20 enters a standby state again (step S49).

  Note that the digital multi-function peripheral 20 as the image processing apparatus according to the present invention can operate image data even when used as a printer, a network scanner, or a FAX, in the same manner as when used as a copier. .

1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment when an image processing apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a digital multi-function peripheral. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of an operation panel when the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a digital multifunction peripheral. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of image data by a device control unit when a copy function is set in a digital multi-functional peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of image data by a device control unit when a printer function is set in a digital multi-function peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of image data by a device control unit when a network scanner function is set in a digital multi-functional peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration when a data security kit is installed in a digital multi-function peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display state of a screen of a display unit when a data security kit is not installed when setting a copy function of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display state of a screen of a display unit when a data security kit at the time of setting a copy function of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention is installed. The display state of the screen of the display unit when the data security kit at the time of setting the copy function of the digital multi-function peripheral as the image processing apparatus of the present invention is equipped with the finger pressed on the lower left icon part of the display screen is shown. It is a schematic diagram. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a display state of a screen of a display unit when a data security kit at the time of setting a copy function of a digital multi-functional peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention is installed and “image data erasure processing” is functioning. is there. The display unit when the icon part at the lower left of the display screen is pressed with a finger in the state shown in FIG. 10 when the data security kit at the time of setting the copy function of the digital multi-function peripheral as the image processing apparatus of the present invention is installed It is a schematic diagram which shows the display state of this screen. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a display screen of a display unit for detailed setting in an “image data erasing process” operation when setting a copy function of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a display screen of a display unit when a data erasure confirmation window is displayed in an “image data erasure process” operation when setting a copy function of a digital multi-functional peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. The display screen of the display unit when the level display of the progress status of the data erasing operation on the hard disk in the “image data erasing process” operation at the time of setting the copy function of the digital multi-function peripheral as the image processing apparatus of the present invention It is a schematic diagram. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a display screen of a display unit of an “automatic data erasing count at the end of each job” setting screen when setting a copy function of a digital multi-functional peripheral as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure when a copy function as an image processing is set for a series of procedures for erasing image data of a digital multi-function peripheral hard disk as an image processing apparatus of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure when a copy function as an image processing is set for a series of procedures for erasing image data of a digital multi-function peripheral hard disk as an image processing apparatus of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

2 image reading unit 4 operation panel 6 image forming unit 6a memory 8 device control unit 9a, 9b encryption unit 9c decryption unit 10 communication unit 12 hard disk 14 management unit 20 digital multifunction device

Claims (7)

An image processing means for processing input image data and an image data storage means for storing the image data are stored, and the image data processed by the image processing means is stored in the image data storage means. have a filing function for, in the reprocessing capable Nashitea Ru image processing apparatus by the image processing means image data stored in said image data storage means,
When the filing function and the security function for automatically erasing the image data processed by the image processing unit operate together , the image data maintained in the state stored in the image data storage unit by the filing function is encrypted. And encryption means for decrypting and decrypting means for decrypting the image data encrypted by the encryption means, wherein the image data storage means is encrypted by the encryption means When storing the image data and processing the image data by the image processing means, the first storage unit set to automatically delete the image data by the security function, and the first storage unit The image data stored in an encrypted state is stored, and is erased by the security function or until an erasure instruction is given The image processing apparatus according to claim Rukoto to have a second storage unit that maintains the image data in Goka state.   2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for erasing image data stored in an encrypted state from the image data storage means.   2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for replacing the image data stored in an encrypted state with random data. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises switching means for switching the operation or stop of said encryption means. Wherein the image processing means, the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1, wherein the 4 that records the image data on a recording medium is adapted to form an image. Wherein the image processing means, the image processing apparatus according to one claim 1, wherein the 4 that you have to be transmitted to the outside by facsimile communication of image data. Wherein the image processing means, the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1, wherein the 4 that you have to be transmitted to the outside by communication image data.

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