JP4379741B2 - Image processing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, and more particularly to an image processing apparatus that performs processing of reading a document image and storing the read image data in a portable storage device.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image processing apparatus such as a scanner apparatus that performs a series of processes for reading a document image from outside and stores the read image data or a multifunction peripheral having a scanner function includes an HDD (hard disk) provided in the apparatus itself. In addition to storing read image data in a storage unit such as a disk drive), a configuration has been proposed in which a portable storage device such as a flash memory can be connected to store the read image data in the portable storage device. (For example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2006-139502 A

  However, such an image processing apparatus once starts transmission of image data to the portable storage device even when the portable storage device has insufficient free space and cannot store the read image data. Therefore, it was determined that there was not enough free space due to a transmission error due to the storage capacity exceeding the portable storage device. As described above, since the process of transmitting the image data to the portable storage device is once performed, there is a problem that an extra burden is applied.

  In addition, such an image processing apparatus discards the image data and terminates a series of processes when the portable storage device runs out of free space and cannot store the read image data. The user has to delete the data stored in the portable storage device to secure a free space, and then perform the process from reading the original image again. For this reason, there are problems that the operation performed by the user becomes complicated and the efficiency of work is deteriorated because the document image is read twice.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus that can easily and efficiently continue processing without requiring extra processing even when the free space of the portable storage device is insufficient. .

In order to achieve the above object, an image processing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a reading unit that reads a document image, and a temporary storage that stores image data read by the reading unit at least until it is transmitted to a portable storage device. Image processing apparatus comprising: means for connecting to the portable storage device; display means for displaying predetermined information; receiving means for receiving input from the outside; and control means for controlling various processes When the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the control means is stored in the temporary storage means. and the capacity of the image data are emphasizing the already-stored data values or higher capacity obtained by dividing the free space of the portable storage device connected by the connecting means, the portable storage instrumentation Display the stored data stored in the display means, delete the data selected based on the input received by the receiving means from the stored data displayed on the display means, When the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is equal to or larger than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the temporary storage means is connected to the portable storage device connected by the connection means. The image data stored in is transmitted.

According to this configuration, the image processing apparatus includes the reading unit, the temporary storage unit, the connection unit, the display unit, the reception unit, and the control unit. The document image is read by the reading unit, and the read image data is stored by the temporary storage unit at least until it is transmitted to the portable storage device. In addition, the portable storage device is connected by the connection means, predetermined information is displayed by the display means, input from the outside is received by the reception means, and various processes are controlled by the control means. When the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the control means stores the portable storage device in the portable storage device connected by the connection means. The stored data is displayed while the stored data having a capacity equal to or larger than the capacity obtained by dividing the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means by the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is emphasized. The data selected based on the input accepted by the accepting means from the stored data displayed on the display means is deleted. When the free space of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is greater than or equal to the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the control means temporarily stores it in the portable storage device connected by the connection means. The image data stored in the means is transmitted.

Here, “read image data” refers to data obtained by subjecting the read data to color adjustment, color space conversion, binarization and the like in addition to the data itself read by the reading means (scanner). It is also a concept that includes data that has been encoded and encoded into a file format. The “free space of the portable storage device” is the amount of data that can be newly stored without deleting various data stored in the portable storage device. The “capacity” is a free capacity necessary for storing image data in the portable storage device. The “stored data” refers to data that is stored in the portable storage device and has not yet been deleted. In addition, “deleting data” is only required to free a storage area in which data is stored, and the data stored in the storage area may not be actually erased. Here, “highlighted display” means, for example, a display in which white and black are reversed compared to the display of other stored data, a display larger than the display of other stored data, or another display of other stored data. It means that it is displayed in a manner that makes it easier to draw the user's attention, including display etc. in colors different from the stored data.

Further, when the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the already stored data stored in the portable storage device is not transmitted. Accordingly, the transmission of the image data to the portable storage device is started once, and an extra process such as a transmission error due to the storage capacity of the portable storage device being exceeded during the transmission is not performed. No load is applied and the processing time can be shortened. In addition, already stored data that can be stored in the portable storage device is displayed with emphasis when the image data stored in the temporary storage unit is deleted. Therefore, since the user only has to select the stored data to be deleted from the emphasized stored data, the stored data to be deleted can be selected more easily.

  Further, when the free capacity of the connected portable storage device is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, that is, the capacity of the connected portable storage device is insufficient and the temporary storage means When the stored image data cannot be stored in the portable storage device, the stored data of the portable storage device is displayed on the display means, and the received means has received the displayed stored data. Data selected based on the input is deleted. When the free capacity of the portable storage device exceeds the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage unit by deleting the selected data, the image data stored in the temporary storage device is stored in the portable storage device. Sent to. Therefore, even when the free space of the portable storage device is insufficient, the image data can be stored in the portable storage device simply by selecting the data to be deleted from the stored data displayed on the display means. Can do.

  Further, when the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the already stored data stored in the portable storage device is not transmitted. Accordingly, the transmission of the image data to the portable storage device is started once, and an extra process such as a transmission error due to the storage capacity of the portable storage device being exceeded during the transmission is not performed. No load is applied and the processing time can be shortened.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 2 is the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays the stored data in an array corresponding to an attribute of the stored data. It is said.

  According to this configuration, the stored data is displayed in an array corresponding to the attribute of the stored data by the control means. Here, “attributes of already stored data” refer to unique information related to already stored data, and include information such as file type, capacity, creation date / time, update date / time, and storage location.

  In this way, since the data is displayed in an array according to the attributes of the stored data, the user can easily find the stored data to be deleted. Therefore, the user operation can be simplified.

  An image processing apparatus according to a third aspect is the image processing apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the attribute of the stored data is a creation date and time of the stored data.

  According to this configuration, the stored data is displayed by the control means in an array according to the creation date and time of the stored data.

  In this way, since the data is displayed in an array according to the creation date and time of the stored data, for example, data with an old creation date and time can be easily found. Thereby, the user can easily find the stored data to be deleted. Therefore, the user operation can be simplified.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 4 is the image processing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the attribute of the stored data is a storage location of the stored data. .

  According to this configuration, the stored data is displayed by the control means in an arrangement corresponding to the storage location of the stored data. Here, “stored data storage location” does not indicate the location of the physical storage area of the portable storage medium, but is convenient for easy access to data such as folders and directories. This refers to the concept established in.

  Thereby, for example, when the image data read by the reading means is stored in a storage place corresponding to the importance of the image data, the stored image data with lower importance is arranged as deletion candidate data. Can be displayed. Therefore, the user can easily find an arbitrary group of stored image data, and can easily find stored data to be deleted. Therefore, the user operation can be simplified.

  The image processing device according to claim 5 is the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control means displays non-deletable data in the stored data on the display means. Without deleting, the deleteable data is displayed on the display means.

  According to this configuration, the non-deletable data among the already stored data is not displayed on the display unit by the control unit. On the other hand, the deleteable data is displayed on the display means. Here, “non-deletable data” refers to data that is not authorized to execute deletion when the user is authenticated, data that cannot be deleted because the user is not authenticated, and user authentication. This includes any data that cannot be deleted regardless of the presence or absence. Further, “deletable data” includes both data for which an authenticated user has the authority to execute deletion and data that can be deleted even by an unauthenticated user.

  As a result, since the stored data that cannot be deleted is not displayed on the display means, the user can easily find the stored data to be deleted.

  An image processing apparatus according to a sixth aspect is the image processing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the control unit is free of a portable storage device connected by the connection unit. When the capacity is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means and the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means Is displayed on the display means, and when data selected from the already stored data displayed on the display means is deleted, a free space in the portable storage device connected by the connection means displayed on the display means is displayed. It is characterized by updating the capacity value.

  According to this configuration, when the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the portable storage device connected by the connection means by the control means. The available capacity and the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means are displayed on the display means. When the data selected from the already stored data displayed on the display means is deleted, the value of the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means displayed on the display means by the control means is updated. The Here, the “free capacity value” refers to a value obtained by quantifying the free capacity of the portable storage device by, for example, the number of bytes of data.

  Thus, when the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the user is stored in the free capacity and the temporary storage means of the portable storage device. It is possible to grasp the capacity of image data. Therefore, the user can grasp how much the free capacity of the portable storage device is increased and the image data stored in the temporary storage means can be stored in the portable storage device.

The image processing apparatus according to claim 7 is the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control unit is configured to perform the operation based on an input received by the receiving unit. A value obtained by adding the capacity of data designated from the already stored data displayed on the display means and the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is displayed.

  According to this configuration, the control means displays a value obtained by adding the capacity of the data designated from the already stored data displayed on the display means and the free capacity of the portable storage device connected to the connection means. The

  Thereby, the user can grasp the free capacity of the portable storage device when the designated data is deleted from the already stored data stored in the portable storage device. Therefore, the user can easily grasp which stored data is deleted and the image data stored in the temporary storage means can be stored in the portable storage device.

The image processing device according to claim 8 is the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the control is performed when a new portable storage device is connected by the connection means. When the free capacity of the new portable storage device connected by the connecting means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the new portable storage device connected by the connecting means is connected. The already stored data stored in the portable storage device is displayed on the display means, and the data selected based on the input accepted by the accepting means is deleted from the already stored data displayed on the display means. At the same time, when the free capacity of the new portable storage device connected by the connection means is equal to or larger than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the connection means Is characterized by transmitting the image data stored in the temporary storage means to a new portable storage device that is connected.

  According to this configuration, when a new portable storage device is connected by the connection means, the free capacity of the new portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means. At that time, the already stored data stored in the portable storage device newly connected by the control means is displayed on the display means. Further, the data selected based on the input accepted by the accepting means from the already stored data stored in the new portable storage device displayed on the display means by the control means is deleted. When the free capacity of the newly connected portable storage device is equal to or larger than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the image stored in the temporary storage means in the newly connected portable storage device Data is sent.

  Thereby, even when the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the temporary storage means is also replaced when replaced with a new portable storage device. The image data stored in is not discarded. Therefore, even when the portable storage device is replaced and image data is stored in a new portable storage device, the original image does not have to be read again, so that the user's work can be prevented from becoming complicated. .

  Hereinafter, a multifunction machine 1 as an example of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention and a USB memory 2 as an example of a portable storage device connected to the image processing apparatus will be described. The multifunction machine 1 has a scanner function, a printing function, a copying function, a facsimile communication function, an electronic mail communication function, and the like. The USB memory 2 can store various information as a so-called USB memory, and can also store a scanner file (image data) of a document image read by the scanner function of the multifunction device 1.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the multifunction machine 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the multi-function device 1 includes a control unit (CPU: Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an operation unit 104, a notification unit 105, a document reading unit. Unit 106, image processing unit 107, codec (CODER: Coder and Decoder) 108, image memory 109, printer 110, FAX communication unit 111, LAN-I / F (Local Area Network Interface) 112, and USB host controller 113. The units 101 to 113 are communicably connected via a bus 115.

  The CPU 101 controls the operation of each unit of the multifunction machine 1 according to a control program stored in the ROM 102. The ROM 102 stores the control program and the like for the CPU 101 to control the operation of each unit of the multifunction machine 1. The RAM 103 stores various data such as setting information used for the operation of the multifunction device 1 in a readable and writable state.

  Although not shown, the operation unit 104 is a start key for instructing the start of a document reading operation, a numeric keypad for inputting a facsimile number, the number of copies, a cursor key for designating an operation target, and an operation decision. Input keys such as a decision key to be performed are provided. The notification unit 105 is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (LCD) (operation panel) 116 that displays various setting states, operation states of the devices 1 and 6, and LEDs (LEDs that are turned on or off) ( Light Emitting Diode) lamp, speaker that emits a predetermined warning sound, etc. The liquid crystal display device 116 is capable of color display in the present embodiment, and can display a thumbnail of a scanner file (image data).

  An original reading unit 106 reads an image of an original to generate scan data. Although not shown, for example, a flat bed scanner (FBS: Flat) that reads an original placed on a transparent original placing plate is used. Bed Scanner) and an automatic document feeder (ADF: Automatic Document Feeder) that conveys the document to read the document placed on the document tray.

  The image processing unit 107 performs processing such as color adjustment, color space conversion, and binarization on the scan data output from the document reading unit 106. The image processing unit 107 also performs processing for generating a thumbnail of scan data output from the document reading unit 106. The codec 108 encodes (encodes) the scan data processed by the image processing unit 107 and the like, and decodes (decodes) the encoded scanner file (image data). The scan data input to the codec 108 is converted into a scanner file encoded based on the JPEG, MH, MR, MMR, JBIG method, etc., and stored in the image memory 109.

  The printer 110 prints out an image read from the image memory 109 and decoded by the codec 108.

  The FAX communication unit 111 performs facsimile communication of a document image, and includes a modem (MODEM: Modulator-DEModulator) and an NCU (Network Control Unit) (not shown). The modem is, for example, a recommendation V.16 of ITU-T (International Telecommunication Union Telecommunication Standardization Sector). Modulation and demodulation of transmission / reception data according to the 34 standard or the like. The NCU is a line network control device that controls a telephone line to make or cut a call, and is connected to a PSTN (not shown). In addition to the multifunction device 1, a G3 facsimile device or the like is communicably connected to the PSTN, and the multifunction device 1 can perform facsimile transmission / reception of images with the G3 facsimile device or the like.

  The LAN-I / F 112 enables the multifunction device 1 to be connected to a LAN (not shown). A personal computer or the like (not shown) is connected to the LAN, and the MFP 1 can communicate data with the personal computer or the like. The LAN is connected to the Internet via a router (not shown). Accordingly, the multifunction device 1 can perform Internet facsimile communication (e-mail communication) with other multifunction devices.

  The USB host controller 113 implements a USB host controller function. By connecting the USB port 204 of the USB memory 2 to the USB port 114 provided in the USB host controller 113, the multifunction device 1 and the USB memory 2 are communicably connected.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the USB memory 2. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the USB memory 2 includes a storage unit 202 and a USB device controller 203, and the storage unit 202 and the USB device controller 203 are communicably connected via a bus 205.

  The storage unit 202 stores various data received from an external device via the USB port 204 of the USB device controller 203. In the present embodiment, a flash memory is used.

  The USB device controller 203 realizes a USB device controller function, and causes the USB memory 2 to function as a device in communication by USB connection.

  Next, scanner processing will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the scanner process refers to a series of processes from reading an original image to encoding the read scan data into a scan file in a file format such as JPEG and saving the scan file. First, the user sets a document such as a paper medium on the document placing plate of, for example, a flat bed scanner in the document reading unit 106, sets the processing content to scan in the operation unit 104, and sets the scan file. Set the save destination, document size, etc., and press the start key to start the scanner process. As the scan data storage destination, for example, an external storage device configured in a LAN to which the multifunction device 1 is connected via the LAN-I / F 112 can be specified. However, in this embodiment, the USB port 114 is used. A folder in the USB memory 2 connected to is selected.

  In the scanner process, the control unit 101 first reads (scans) a document image by the document reading unit 106 (S101). Then, the control unit 101 performs processing such as color adjustment, color space conversion, and binarization on the scanned scan data by the image processing unit 107, and the codec 108 encodes the data into a file format such as JPEG. A scan file (image data) is generated (S102). At this time, a thumbnail of scan data is also formed at the same time. The generated scan file (image data) and thumbnail are temporarily stored in the image memory 109 (S103), and the process proceeds to step 104. Here, the image memory 109 continues to store the stored scan file until it is transmitted to the USB memory 2 as will be described later.

  Next, the control unit 101 refers to the scan file stored in the image memory 109, and acquires capacity data that is a value indicating the capacity of the scan file (S104). Next, the control unit 101 obtains free space data of the storage destination of the scan file designated at the start of the scanner process. That is, in this embodiment, the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 is acquired (S105). Then, based on the capacity data of the scan file acquired in step 104 and the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 acquired in step 105, it is determined whether or not the capacity of the scan file is equal to or less than the free capacity of the USB memory 2 (S106). .

  If it is determined that the capacity data of the scan file is equal to or less than the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 (S106: YES), the control unit 101 transmits the scan file stored in the image memory 109 to the USB memory 2 to A process of saving in the storage unit 202 of the memory 2 is performed (S107), and the scanner process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the capacity data of the scan file is larger than the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 (S106: NO), a process of displaying the already stored data of the USB memory 2 on the notification unit 105 is performed (S108). That is, the control unit 101 arranges and displays information such as file names of already stored data stored in the storage unit 202 of the USB memory 2 on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the notification unit 105. At this time, the liquid crystal display device 116 displays information such as the file name of the stored data stored in the USB memory, the file capacity (size), the file creation date and time, the file type, and whether or not there is a write authority. The user can designate a file of each stored data by operating the operation unit 104 and operating the touch panel itself of the liquid crystal display device 116. Details will be described later.

  When display processing of already stored data in the USB memory 2 is performed (S108), the user operates the operation unit 104 and the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 to input various processing instructions. When the control unit 101 determines that the instruction input by the user is an instruction to delete the already stored data specified (S109: YES), the controller 101 deletes the already stored data specified by the user (S110). When the stored data is deleted, the process returns to step 105. That is, the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 increased by deleting the stored data is acquired (S105), and it is determined whether or not the capacity data of the scan file acquired in step 104 is equal to or less than the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 (S106). ). When it is determined that the data is less than the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 (S106: YES), the scan file is transmitted to the USB memory 2 (S107), and when it is determined that the data is larger than the free capacity of the USB memory (S106: NO). Further, the stored data in the USB memory 2 is further displayed (S108), and an input of an instruction for deleting the stored data is accepted.

  If the instruction input by the user is not an instruction to delete the specified stored data (S109: NO), it is next determined whether or not the USB memory 2 has been replaced (S111). Specifically, the user operates the operation unit 104 and the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 to turn off the USB memory connection. That is, the multifunction device 1 cannot access the USB memory 2. Then, the user physically removes the USB memory 2 from the USB port 114 of the multifunction device 1 and inserts a new USB port 204 of the USB memory 2 into the USB port 114 of the multifunction device 1. When the new USB memory 2 is recognized by the USB host controller 113 of the multifunction machine 1, it is determined that the USB memory 2 has been replaced.

  If it is determined that the USB memory 2 has been replaced (S111: YES), the process returns to step 105. That is, the free capacity data of the replaced new USB memory 2 is acquired (S105), and it is determined whether the capacity data of the image file acquired in step 104 is equal to or less than the free capacity data of the USB memory 2 (S106). If it is determined that the data is less than the free capacity data of the memory 2 (S106: YES), the image file is transmitted to the USB memory 2 (S107), and if it is determined that it is larger than the free capacity of the USB memory (S106: NO), then the USB The stored data in the memory 2 is displayed (S108), and an input of an instruction for deleting the stored data is accepted.

  As described above, when the stored data in the USB memory 2 is deleted (S110) or the USB memory 2 is replaced (111), and the data stored in the storage unit 202 of the USB memory 2 is updated, the multifunction peripheral is updated. Information such as the file name of already stored data in the USB memory 2 displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the one notification unit 105 is also updated.

  If it is determined in step 111 that the USB memory 2 has not been replaced (S111: NO), it is next determined whether or not the instruction input by the user is an instruction to cancel the scan process (S112). If it is determined that the instruction is to stop the scan process (S112: YES), the scan process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the instruction is not an instruction to cancel the scanning process, the process returns to step 109, and the process (S109, S111, S112) is looped until an instruction is input from the user.

  Next, an example of processing performed by the control unit 101 of the multifunction machine 1 when the capacity of the scan file (image data) is larger than the free capacity of the USB memory 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 12 show the display on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the notification unit 105 of the multifunction machine 1 displayed in the display process of the stored data in the USB memory 2 as shown in step 108 in the flowchart of FIG. It is a drawing.

  When the capacity of the scan file is larger than the free capacity of the USB memory 2, the scan file cannot be stored in the USB memory 2. Therefore, first, the control unit 101 displays the inside of the storage unit 202 of the USB memory 2 in a tree shape as shown in FIG. Then, when the user operates the touch panel of the operation unit 104 and the liquid crystal display unit 116, one folder is selected from a plurality of folders. For example, in this embodiment, folder A is selected.

  When the selection of the folder A is accepted by the operation unit 104 or the like, as shown in FIG. 5, the file name 313 of already stored data, the capacity 314 of already stored data, the creation date 315 of already stored data, as shown in FIG. The file type 316 and the presence / absence of the write authority (deletability 317) are arranged and displayed. In addition, a plurality of information to be described later is displayed on the upper side of the array display of the stored data information, and the cancellation 308, the deletion 309, the exchange 310, and the rearrangement 311 are displayed on the lower side of the array display of the stored data information. Each process is displayed in a selectable manner.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the files with the oldest creation date and time are displayed in order from the top. That is, the file a created at 10: 8: 23 on July 25, 2006 with the oldest creation date and time is displayed in the top row, and then the oldest creation date is July 25, 2006 at 11:23. The file b created in 13 seconds is displayed in the second row. The files c to h are also displayed in order from the oldest creation date and time in the third and subsequent rows.

  The information arrangement of the stored data can be changed by accepting selection of rearrangement. For example, when the touch panel of the liquid crystal display unit 116 accepts selection of the capacitor 314 and the rearrangement 311, as shown in FIG. The stored data can be arranged and displayed in descending order of the capacity of the stored data. That is, the file h having the largest capacity of 630 kb (kilobytes) is displayed in the top row, and the files d, a, e, b, f, c, g are arranged in descending order from the second row. And display. In addition, it is also possible to arrange and display in order of file type of stored data, for example, TIFF file, JPEG file, PDF file, and bitmap file, and the file of stored data is prohibited from being written. It can also be displayed separately for files or files for which writing is permitted. In addition, they can be displayed from the top in the order of creation date and time, or from the smallest stored data file capacity.

  Note that the information of the already stored data file displayed in an array is designated by the cursor key of the operation unit 104 and displayed by the pointer 307. According to FIG. 5, it is displayed by the pointer 307 that the file b is designated. Although not shown, the specification of the file information of the stored data is not limited to specifying only one file, and a plurality of files can be specified at the same time.

  In addition, stored data may not be displayed for data having a predetermined attribute among stored data. For example, it is possible to select not to display information such as a file name of already stored data that does not have delete authority among already stored data. When the touch panel of the liquid crystal display unit 116 accepts an instruction not to display a file for deletion refusal, as shown in FIG. 7, the files a and e that are deletion refusal files are not displayed, and the files are deletion permission files. Display files b, c, d, f, g, and h.

  A plurality of pieces of information are displayed on the display of information such as the file names of already stored data in the USB memory 2 shown in the liquid crystal display device 116, and the original reading unit 106 of the multi-function peripheral 1 reads the information to display the image memory. The capacity 301 of the scan file stored in 109 is also displayed. In FIG. 5 of the present embodiment, 550 kb (kilobytes) is displayed as the scan file capacity 301. Further, below the display of the scan file capacity 301, the free capacity 302 of the USB memory 2 is displayed. In FIG. 5 of the present embodiment, 200 kb is displayed as the free space 302 of the USB memory 2. Further, below the display of the free space 302 of the USB memory 2, the free space of the USB memory 2 that is further required for storing the scan file is displayed as an insufficient capacity 303. In FIG. 5 of the present embodiment, 350 kb is displayed.

  That is, it is displayed that in order to newly store a scan file having a capacity of 550 kb in the USB memory 2 having a free capacity of 200 kb, the free capacity of the USB memory 2 must be increased by 350 kb. In other words, a value obtained by dividing the capacity of the scan file (550 kb) by the free capacity (200 kb) of the USB memory 2 is displayed.

  Next to the scan file capacity 301, the free capacity 302 and the shortage capacity 303 of the USB memory 2, a file name 304 and a file capacity 305 of an already stored data file arbitrarily designated by the user, and a USB when deleted The estimated free space 306 of the memory 2 is displayed. For example, in FIG. 5, since file b is designated, “file b” is displayed as the file name, “240 kb” is displayed as the file capacity, and “440 kb” is displayed as the estimated free space. That is, the capacity of the file b stored in the USB memory 2 is 240 kb, and when the file b is deleted from the USB memory 2, the current free capacity of the USB memory 2 increases from 200 kb to 240 kb, and the capacity of the USB memory 2 increases. Information that the free capacity is 440 kb is displayed.

  Although not shown, there may be a plurality of stored data files arbitrarily designated by the user. When a plurality of stored data files are designated, a plurality of files are written in the file name 304 and a total of the plurality of files is stored in the file capacity 305. The capacity is displayed, and the estimated free capacity of the USB memory 2 when all the files specified in the free capacity estimated 306 are deleted is displayed.

  It should be noted that a file that can save a scan file in the USB memory 2 by deleting only one of the files stored in the USB memory 2 displayed in an array is black and white. Inverted display. That is, a file displayed with black and white reversed is a file having a capacity larger than the above-mentioned insufficient capacity, and the file authority can be deleted. For example, in FIG. 5, the file d and the file h are reversed.

  When deleting a file of already stored data designated from the already stored data stored in the USB memory 2, first, the operation unit 104 is operated to specify a file name of the already stored data to be deleted. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the file b is designated by the display of the pointer 307. Then, the processing content deletion 309 is selected by operating the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116. As described above, when the operation unit 104 and the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 accept the file name of the stored data and the processing content of the deletion, the control unit 101 of the multi-function peripheral 1 stores the previously stored data designated from the storage unit 202 of the USB memory 2. The file b which is data is deleted. When the already stored data is deleted, it is determined whether or not the free space of the USB memory 2 increased by the deletion is greater than or equal to the capacity of the scan file. If it is determined that the data is larger, the scan file is stored in the USB memory 2 as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the free space of the USB memory 2 is less than the capacity of the scan file, the scan file cannot be stored in the USB memory 2 as it is, so the display content of the liquid crystal display device 116 is displayed as shown in FIG. Update. That is, the information of the file b is deleted from the display of the already stored data file stored in the USB memory 2, the capacity 240 b of the file b is added to the free capacity 302 of the USB memory 2, and the file b is deleted from the insufficient capacity 303. Subtract 240 kb which is the capacity of. Therefore, 440 kb is displayed for the free capacity 302 and 110 kb is displayed for the insufficient capacity 303. At this time, the file information of the already stored data of 110 kb or more which is the insufficient capacity and which can be deleted is inverted and displayed. That is, the files c, d, f and h are displayed in black and white reversed.

  Note that when deleting already stored data files, the number of already stored data files to be specified may be one or plural.

  A button 312 for displaying detailed information is arranged on the right side of the liquid crystal display device 116 on which the stored data information is arranged and displayed. Here, when the button 312 for displaying the file name and the detailed information is selected, the detailed information of the file of the stored data is displayed. For example, when the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 receives designation of the file c and selection of detailed information, the detailed information of the file c is displayed as shown in FIG. In this detailed information display, any title, title, creator name, file size, creation date, file type, access authority, write authority, image width, image height, horizontal resolution, The vertical resolution, bit depth, number of frames, and number of pages are displayed, and thumbnails of images are displayed.

  When replacing the USB memory 2, first, the operation unit 104 and the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 are operated to select replacement processing. When the operation unit 104 or the like accepts the selection of replacement processing, the control unit 101 turns off the connection with the USB memory 2 so that it cannot communicate with the USB memory 2. Then, the user physically removes the USB memory 2 from the USB port 114 of the multifunction device 1 and attaches a new USB memory 2 to the USB port 114 of the multifunction device 1. When the control unit 101 detects that a new USB memory 2 is attached, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the free space of the new USB memory 2 is greater than or equal to the capacity of the scan file. Let On the other hand, when it is determined that the free capacity of the USB memory 2 is less than the capacity of the scan file, the inside of the storage unit 202 of the new USB memory 2 is displayed in a tree shape as shown in FIG. Then, when the user operates the touch panel of the operation unit 104 and the liquid crystal display unit 116, one folder is selected from a plurality of folders. When the operation unit 104 or the like accepts the selection of a folder, the control unit 101 arranges and displays information on files of already stored data in the selected folder. For example, when the folder E is selected in FIG. 10, files v, w, x, y, and z, which are already stored data files in the folder E, are displayed in order from the file with the oldest creation date as shown in FIG. Arrange and display.

  As described above, the scan data stored in the image memory 109 is stored until it is transmitted to the USB memory 2. Therefore, even when the free capacity of the USB memory 2 is less than the capacity of the scan data stored in the image memory 109, the scan data stored in the image memory 109 is not discarded. That is, even when the capacity of the connected USB memory 2 is insufficient and the scan data stored in the image memory 109 cannot be stored in the USB memory 2, the scan data stored in the image memory 109 is Not destroyed. Therefore, by increasing the capacity that can be stored in the USB memory 2 by deleting the stored data stored in the USB memory, the scan data can be stored in the USB memory 2 without reading the original image again. .

  Further, when the free capacity of the connected USB memory 2 is less than the capacity of the scan data stored in the image memory 109, that is, the capacity of the connected USB memory 2 is insufficient and is stored in the image memory 109. If the stored scan data cannot be stored in the USB memory 2, the stored data already stored in the USB memory is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the notification unit 105, and the stored data is displayed. Data designated based on the input received by the operation unit 104 is deleted. When the designated data is deleted and the free space of the USB memory 2 exceeds the scan data stored in the image memory 109, the scan data stored in the image memory 109 is transmitted to the USB memory 2. Is done. Therefore, even when the USB memory 2 runs out of free space, simply selecting the data to be deleted from the stored data displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the notification unit 105 and instructing the deletion allows easy scanning. Data can be stored in the USB memory 2.

  When the free space of the USB memory is less than the scan data stored in the image memory, the scan data stored in the USB memory is not transmitted. Therefore, the transmission of scan data to the USB memory 2 is temporarily started, and no extra processing such as a transmission error due to the storage capacity of the USB memory 2 being exceeded during the transmission is not performed. Therefore, the USB host controller 113, the USB port 114, and the control No extra load is applied to the unit 101, and the processing time can be shortened.

  Furthermore, when the stored data already stored in the USB memory 2 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the notification unit 105, the stored data can be displayed for each folder in which the stored data is stored, Since the data can be arranged and displayed according to information such as the file name, file capacity, creation date and time, file type, and deletion authority of the stored data, the user can easily find the stored data to be deleted. For example, by arranging and displaying the files with the oldest creation date in order, it is easy to specify and select a file to be deleted based on the creation date. Further, for example, when the scan data read by the document reading unit 106 is stored separately in folders according to importance, stored data with lower importance is arranged and displayed as deletion candidate data. can do. Therefore, the user can easily find a group of arbitrary stored data, and can easily find stored data to be deleted. Therefore, the user operation can be simplified.

  Further, by not displaying the stored data that is not authorized to be deleted on the liquid crystal display device 116 of the notification unit 105, the user can specify the stored data only from the files that can be deleted and select the deletion. It is easy to find stored data to be deleted.

  Further, when the free space of the USB memory 2 is less than the scan data stored in the image memory 109, the user confirms the values displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116, thereby checking the free space of the USB memory and the image memory. The capacity of the scan data stored in 109 can be grasped. Therefore, the user can grasp how much the free capacity of the portable storage device can be increased to store the scan file stored in the image memory 109 in the USB memory 2.

  Further, since the stored data that can be stored in the USB memory 2 is displayed in an emphasized manner if the scan data stored in the image memory 109 is deleted, the user can highlight the already stored data. Since it is only necessary to specify the stored data from the data display and select deletion, the stored data to be deleted can be specified and deleted more easily.

  In addition, the user can check the value displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 to estimate the free space of the USB memory 2 when the designated data is deleted from the stored data stored in the USB memory 2. I can grasp it. Therefore, the user can easily grasp which stored data is deleted and the scan data stored in the image memory 109 can be stored in the USB memory 2.

  Further, when the free space of the USB memory is less than the scan data stored in the image memory 109, the scan data stored in the image memory 109 is not discarded even when the USB memory 2 is replaced with a new one. Therefore, even when the USB memory 2 is replaced and the scan data is stored in the new USB memory 2, the original image does not have to be read again, so that the user's work can be prevented from becoming complicated.

  The above-described embodiment is an example, and the embodiment is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate without departing from the scope of the idea of the present invention. For example, in the present embodiment, when the free space of the USB memory 2 is equal to or less than the scan file capacity, already stored data stored in the storage unit 202 of the USB memory 2 is stored in the liquid crystal image device 116 of the notification unit 105 for each folder. However, it is also possible to arrange and display all the data stored in the USB memory 2 without dividing it into folders.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the USB memory 2 is replaced, the replacement process is selected by operating the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 of the operation unit 104 and the notification unit 105 of the multifunction device 1, and then the multifunction device 1. The USB memory 2 is removed from the USB port 114 and the new USB memory 2 is inserted. However, the operation of selecting the replacement process is eliminated, the USB memory 2 is removed from the USB port 114 of the multifunction machine 1, and a new USB It is also possible to simply insert the memory 2. Also, a plurality of USB ports 114 of the multifunction device 1 may be provided and a plurality of USB memories 2 may be inserted, and the scan data may be stored in one USB memory 2 selected from the plurality of USB memories 2. . In this case, when the USB memory 2 is replaced, the replacement processing is selected by operating the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 of the operation unit 104 and the notification unit 105 of the multifunction device 1 and is inserted into the USB port 114 of the multifunction device 1. Alternatively, a configuration in which replacement processing can be performed by simply selecting one USB memory 2 from the plurality of USB memories 2 without actually removing and inserting the USB memory 2 may be employed.

  The “reading unit” of the present invention corresponds to the document reading unit 106 in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, “image data” of the present invention corresponds to scan data and a scan file. Further, although the “portable storage device” of the present invention corresponds to the USB memory 2 in the present embodiment, it goes without saying that any portable storage medium can be applied to the present invention. The “temporary storage means” of the present invention corresponds to the image memory 109 in the present embodiment, but may be configured to store in the RAM 103, for example, and may be provided inside the image processing apparatus and store image data. That's fine. The “connecting means” of the present invention corresponds to the USB host controller 113 and the USB port 114 in this embodiment. The “display unit” of the present invention corresponds to the notification unit 105 in the present embodiment, and mainly corresponds to the liquid crystal display device 116. The “accepting means” of the present invention corresponds to the touch panel of the liquid crystal display device 116 of the operation unit 104 and the notification unit 105 in the present embodiment. The “control means” of the present invention corresponds to a control unit (CPU) in this embodiment. In addition, the “image processing apparatus” of the present invention corresponds to the multifunction device 1 in this embodiment, but can be applied to any apparatus that has a scanner function and can be connected to a portable storage device. . In addition, the “stored data storage location” of the present invention corresponds to a folder in which the stored data is managed in this embodiment, but is not limited to the folder, and it is easy to access data such as a directory. It may be a place provided for convenience. Further, in the present embodiment, the “selected data” of the present invention refers to data stored in a file that has been designated and deletion of processing contents is selected, and is referred to as “designated data” of the present invention. Means a file name of already stored data.

  The present invention is applicable to, for example, an image storage device that stores read image data in a connected portable storage device.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a multifunction machine 1 as an example of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention. The block diagram which shows the structural example of the USB memory 2 as an example of a portable memory | storage device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a scanner processing routine. FIG. 4 is a tree diagram showing a storage location of already stored data displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 and stored in the USB memory 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing files of already stored data displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 and stored in the USB memory 2 arranged in order of creation date and time. FIG. 4 is a diagram in which files of already stored data displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 and stored in the USB memory 2 are arranged and displayed in descending order of capacity. The figure which displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 other than the file which cannot be deleted among the files of the already stored data memorize | stored in the USB memory. The figure which was displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116, and deleted the file b from the state of FIG. The figure which is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116, and shows the detail of the file c. FIG. 6 is a tree diagram showing a storage location of already stored data stored in the USB memory 2 displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 after the USB memory 2 is replaced. FIG. 11 is a diagram displayed on the liquid crystal display device 116 when the folder E is selected in FIG. 10.

Explanation of symbols

1 MFP (image display device)
2 USB memory (portable storage device)
101 Control unit (CPU)
102 ROM
103 RAM
104 Operation Unit 105 Notification Unit 106 Document Reading Unit 109 Image Memory 113 USB Host Controller 114 USB Port 202 Storage Unit

Claims (8)

Reading means for reading a document image, temporary storage means for storing at least image data read by the reading means until it is transmitted to a portable storage device, connection means for connecting to the portable storage device, and predetermined information An image processing apparatus comprising: a display means to be displayed; a receiving means for receiving input from the outside; and a control means for controlling various processes,
The control means includes
When the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the connection is determined from the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means. Displaying the stored data stored in the portable storage device on the display means while emphasizing the stored data having a capacity equal to or greater than the value obtained by dividing the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the means , While deleting the data selected based on the input received by the receiving means from the already stored data displayed on the display means,
When the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is equal to or larger than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the temporary storage is stored in the portable storage device connected by the connection means. An image processing apparatus for transmitting image data stored in the means.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays the stored data in an array corresponding to an attribute of the stored data.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the attribute of the stored data is a creation date and time of the stored data.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the attribute of the stored data is a storage location of the stored data.   5. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays deleteable data on the display unit without displaying non-deletable data of the stored data on the display unit. An image processing apparatus according to 1. When the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the control means further includes the portable storage connected by the connection means. Display the free space of the device and the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means on the display means,
When deleting data selected from the stored data displayed on the display means,
6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the value of the free capacity of the portable storage device connected by the connection unit displayed on the display unit is updated.   The control means, based on the input received by the receiving means, the capacity of the data designated from the already stored data displayed on the display means and the free space of the portable storage device connected by the connecting means The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a value obtained by adding the capacity is displayed. When a new portable storage device is connected by the connection means,
The control means includes
When the free capacity of the new portable storage device connected by the connection means is less than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the new portable storage device connected by the connection means Display the stored data stored in the display means, delete the data selected based on the input received by the receiving means from the stored data displayed on the display means,
When the free capacity of the new portable storage device connected by the connection means is equal to or larger than the capacity of the image data stored in the temporary storage means, the new portable storage device connected by the connection means The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image data stored in the temporary storage unit is transmitted to the image processing apparatus.

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