JP4443490B2 - Copy machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a copying apparatus, and more particularly to a copying apparatus having a function of reading information from an information storage medium such as an IC tag attached to a document.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a copying apparatus that copies image data read from a document onto a recording sheet, document copy prohibition information is added to the document in order to limit the copying of a highly confidential document, for example. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a document in which specific document copy prohibition information is added in advance to a document so that the copy cannot be performed. This is because the document copy prohibition information detecting means detects the document copy prohibition information based on a signal from the document copy prohibition information reading means, and this detection is performed before the paper feed, after the paper feed and before the transfer of the visible image. In this case, it is determined at which time the image has been transferred, and copying of the document is prohibited in accordance with each timing.
JP-A-4-21865

  For example, when a plurality of copies of a confidential manuscript with manuscript copy prohibition information as described in Patent Document 1 is created and the confidential manuscript is distributed to a specific distribution destination, the above manuscript is included in each copy. Since copy prohibition information is added, no more copies of confidential documents can be created at the distribution destination.

  However, for example, if it is necessary to create a new copy from the confidential document with the original copy prohibition information or a copy thereof, the required number of copies can be made from the confidential original without the original copy prohibition information added. It is necessary to perform processing such as creating a necessary number of copies by printing out the electronic data of a confidential document stored in a personal computer or the like. That is, the above-described method of giving document copy prohibition information to a document has a problem that handling is inconvenient for the purpose of prohibiting copying of a confidential document.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and has an information storage medium (IC tag or the like) information added to a recording paper and has a function of reading information on the recording paper on which an original image is formed. By determining whether or not copying is possible according to the copy restriction information read from the medium and recording the new copy restriction information on the information storage medium of a new recording paper for copying the original image, the confidentiality of the copied material can be simplified. An object of the present invention is to provide a copying apparatus that can be managed with reliability.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the first technical means of the present invention uses a recording paper to which an information storage medium is added, reads an original image recorded on the recording paper, and converts the original image to another recording paper. An information reading unit for copying a document image on which a recording sheet on which a document image is formed is copied to another recording sheet, and an information reading unit that reads information from an information storage medium attached to the recording sheet Copying permission determining means for determining permission of copying of the original image based on the information read by the information processing apparatus, and an information storage medium attached to the recording paper for copying the original image when the copying permission determining means permits copying. Copy restriction information writing means for writing copy restriction information for restricting copying under a predetermined condition. The copy restriction information writing means restricts the type of recording paper when the copied original image is further copied. Copy restriction information, writes the additional information storage medium on recording paper for copying a document image, copy restriction information for restricting the type of the recording paper, recording paper information storage medium is added, the back surface of the other The information is permitted to be copied only when the information is one or more of a backing paper, recycled paper, and thin paper having a predetermined thickness or less .

  The second technical means is the information added to the recording paper for copying the original image, in the first technical means, wherein the copy restriction information writing means does not permit further copying of the copied original image. It is characterized by writing to a storage medium.

  According to a third technical means, in the first technical means, the copy restriction information writing means copies copy restriction information for restricting the number of copies that can be made when the copied original image is further copied. It is characterized in that it is written in an information storage medium added to.

  According to a fourth technical means, in the first technical means, when the copy restriction information writing means has a process for creating another copy from the copy obtained by copying the original image as one layer, the copy of the original image is copied. The copy restriction information for restricting the number of permitted hierarchies is written in an information storage medium attached to a recording paper for copying an original image.

According to a fifth technical means, in the first technical means, the copy restriction information writing means records the copy restriction information for restricting the operation mode of the copying apparatus when the copied original image is further copied. It is characterized by writing on an information storage medium attached to paper.

According to a sixth technical means, in the fifth technical means, the information that restricts the operation mode of the copying apparatus is information that permits copying only in a special mode including a test printing mode and a toner saving mode. It is what.

According to a seventh technical means, in the first technical means, when the copy restriction information writing means further copies the copied original image, the copy restriction information that does not permit copying when personal information is included in the original image. The image data is written on an information storage medium attached to a recording paper for copying the original image.

In an eighth technical means, in the first technical means, when the copy restriction information writing means further copies the copied document image based on the information read by the information reading means, The copy restriction information for restricting the time at which copying is permitted is written in an information storage medium attached to a recording paper for copying an original image.

According to a ninth technical means, in the first technical means, the copy permission determining means includes copy restriction information that does not permit further copying of the copied document image in the information read by the information reading means. A new copy of the original image copied according to the copy restriction information is not permitted.

The tenth technical means is that, in the first technical means, when the copy permission determining means includes copy restriction information for restricting the number of copies of the original image in the information read by the information reading means. According to the restriction information, the number of copies allowed is restricted.

First first technical means is the recording in the first technical means, copiers, to determine a paper feed tray for feeding a sheet of copying a document image, the type of the recording paper housed in the paper feed tray A copy discriminating unit that determines whether the information read by the information reading unit includes copy restriction information that restricts the type of recording paper when copying an original image. According to the determination result of the means, copying is not permitted for the recording paper restricted by the copy restriction information.

First and second technical means is the first technical means, if the copy permission determining means, the information is information reading means read includes copy restriction information for restricting the operation mode of the copying apparatus, copy restriction According to the information, a new copy of the document image is not permitted in the operation mode that is not permitted.

Information first third technical means is the first technical means, comprising a personal information determination means for determining whether it contains personal information on the document image, copy permission determining means, the information reading means has read If the original image contains copy restriction information that does not permit copying when the original image contains personal information, it is determined that the original image contains personal information by the personal information discriminating means according to the copy restriction information. In some cases, a new copy of the document image is not permitted.

Technical means of the first 4, in the first technical means, copy permission determining means, the information is information reading means read, period to permit replication, contains the copy restriction information for restricting the time to allow copying In this case, a new copy of the document image is permitted according to the copy restriction information.

First fifth technical means is any one of technical means of the first to 1 4, the information storage medium is an IC tag, a copying apparatus, an interface that enables writing / reading of information for the IC tag It is characterized by having.

  According to the present invention, a function of reading information stored in an information storage medium (such as an IC tag) attached to a recording paper is provided, and information read from the information storage medium of a recording paper on which an original image is formed (such as the number of copies). Copy restriction information), and the new copy restriction information is recorded on the information storage medium of the new recording paper for copying the original image. A copying apparatus that can be managed can be provided.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a copying apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, 1 is a copying apparatus, 20 is a telephone network, 30 is a network composed of a LAN, and 21 is a network. Facsimile devices connected to the telephone network 20, 31 and 32 are terminal devices connected to the network 30, 33 is the Internet, 34 is a facsimile device connected to the Internet, and 35 is a terminal device connected to the Internet. The copying apparatus 1 can send and receive image data by FAX to and from the facsimile apparatuses 21 and 34 and can send and receive image data to and from the terminal apparatuses 31, 32 and 35 by using e-mail or the like. Here, the image data of the present invention is not limited to image data, and includes document data or data composed of an image and a document.

  A typical example of the copying apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is a case where a digital multifunction machine having a plurality of functions of a scanner function, a copy function, a facsimile function, and a printer function is applied. This will be described as 1.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a digital multifunction device 1 includes an image reading unit (ICU: image control unit) 2 that reads a document and inputs image data, a device control unit 3 that controls each function of the digital multifunction device 1, and a user. A communication unit 5 that communicates with an operation unit (OCU: operation control unit) 4 that receives an input, and terminal devices 31 and 32 via a network 30 such as a LAN, and communicates with a facsimile device 34 and a terminal device 35 via the Internet 33. Control information and settings of the image forming unit (PCU: process control unit) 6 that is a data processing means for performing image data print processing, a hard disk (HD) 7 for storing image data, and the digital multi-function peripheral 1 Erase the image data in the HD7 and the management unit 8, which is a memory that stores information That the erasing means 9, and a, a FAX modem 10 for communication with the facsimile device 21 via the telephone network 20.

  The digital multi-function peripheral 1 includes a first paper feed tray 11, a second paper feed tray 12, and a paper discharge tray 13 that are detachably attached to the digital multi-function peripheral 1. As shown in FIG. 2 described later, plain paper (hereinafter referred to as plain paper) without an IC tag as an information storage medium is set in the first paper feed tray 11, and the second paper feed tray 12 is loaded. A sheet with an IC tag added (hereinafter, a recording sheet with an IC tag) is set.

  Hereinafter, each part of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described in detail. First, the image reading unit (ICU) 2 is an input unit that reads a document and inputs image data. For example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 2a as an image reading unit, a document table or an automatic document A document detection sensor 2b that detects a document set on a feeder (ADF) or the like, and an IC tag interface (IC tag I / F) 2c that detects an IC tag attached to the document and reads the information. Yes. The IC tag interface 2c corresponds to the information reading means of the present invention.

  An IC tag attached to a document is a small-sized storage medium configured with an RFID element including an RF (Radio Frequency) circuit, a control circuit, and a memory, and capable of storing various data. Since this IC tag does not normally have a power source, it receives radio waves transmitted from the IC tag I / F 2c and generates electric power by a method such as electromagnetic induction. The RF circuit and the memory are each connected to a control circuit. The RF circuit is an analog circuit for receiving radio waves from the IC tag I / F 2c, and the control circuit is a digital circuit that performs data processing such as modulation processing and demodulation processing via the RF circuit. The memory stores copy restriction information for restricting the copy of the document.

  Further, the IC tag I / F 2c can communicate with the IC tag attached to the document via wireless. The IC tag I / F 2c receives a modulation circuit that performs predetermined modulation processing on a transmission signal, a transmission control unit that transmits a modulated modulated radio wave to the IC tag, and copy restriction information that is returned from the IC tag in response to an RF reaction. A reception control unit that performs a predetermined demodulation process on the received modulated radio wave, and an antenna that performs communication with the IC tag via the transmission control unit and the reception control unit. Based on the copy restriction information read in this way, it is determined whether the original image can be copied.

  The determination as to whether or not the document image can be copied is executed by the copy permission determining means of the present invention. This copy permission determination means is realized by the device control section 3 that controls each unit or element of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 or other predetermined control means (not shown).

  For example, when copying an original image on a recording sheet with an IC tag fed from the second paper feed tray 12, the IC tag writing means 14 writes copy restriction information to be held on the copy to the IC tag. The IC tag writing means 14 corresponds to the copy restriction information writing means of the present invention for writing the copy restriction information on the IC tag of the recording paper.

The operation unit (OCU) 4 includes an input unit 4 a having various input keys and a display unit 4 b such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and inputs an operation to the digital multi-function peripheral 1. And input various settings.
Further, an authentication information input unit for inputting authentication information of a user who uses the digital multifunction device 1 may be arranged in the input unit 4a. There are various user authentication information input methods such as direct input of a user code, ID card information reading input, and user biometric information (such as fingerprint) reading input. The user authentication of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be performed by any one of these methods.

The image forming unit (PCU) 6 is a data processing (output) unit that processes (outputs) image data, and includes a memory 6a that is a page memory, and a printing unit 6b such as an LSU (Laser Scanning Unit). IC tag writing for writing the copy management information read by the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, the paper discharge tray 13, and the IC tag I / F 2c to the IC tag of the recording paper 42 with the IC tag. Means 14.
The image forming unit 6 stores the image data once stored in the memory 6a in the HD 7, and also decodes the image data stored in the HD 7 and sends it to the memory 6a, and transfers it to the printing unit 6b for printing. .

  The HD 7 is storage means for temporarily storing input image data. By configuring the HD 7 as a storage means including a magnetic storage medium, it becomes possible to accumulate a large amount of image data and sequentially process it, and to efficiently process instructions from a plurality of users. .

  The billing device I / F 15 is an interface connected to a billing device (shown in FIG. 3) for billing for copy processing in the digital multi-function peripheral 1. For example, the device control unit 3 controls the charging device so as to charge according to the number of copies, such as 10 yen per copy. As the charging device, for example, a coin type or a card (prepaid card etc.) type can be used. Note that the billing device is not an essential element of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 and is appropriately connected for the purpose of various paid services.

Hereinafter, operations of the copy function, the printer function, the scanner function, and the facsimile function performed by the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will be described.
(Copy function)
When the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment is used as a copying machine, image data of a document read by the image reading unit 2 is output from the image forming unit 6 as a copy.

  The image reading unit 2 includes a CCD 2a, and can electronically read an image of a document set at a reading position. Then, the read image data of the original is completed as output data on the memory 6a and temporarily stored in the HD 7. When there are a plurality of documents, the reading and storing operations are repeated. Thereafter, based on the processing mode instructed from the operation unit 4, the image data stored in the HD 7 is sequentially read out at an appropriate timing and sent to the memory 6a. Then, the image data is transferred from the memory 6a to the printing unit 6b in accordance with the writing timing to the printing unit 6b.

  Similarly, when printing a plurality of read image data, the output data is similarly stored as output data in the HD 7 and sent from the HD 7 to the memory 6a in accordance with the output mode. The data is transferred to the printing unit 6b in accordance with the writing timing to 6b.

(Printer function)
Next, when the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment is used as a printer, the image data received from the communication unit 5 is output from the image forming unit 6 via the memory 6a or the like.
The communication unit 5 is connected to the network 30 using wired or wireless, and receives image data from the terminal devices 31 and 32 which are external devices connected on the network 30. The received image data is sent as output image data to the memory 6a in units of pages and temporarily stored in the HD 7. Then, the image data is sent again from the HD 7 to the memory 6a and transferred to the printing unit 6b in the same manner as when used as a copying machine described above.

(Scanner function)
When the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment is used as a network scanner, the image data of a document read by the image reading unit 2 is transferred from the communication unit 5 to any terminal device 31 or 32 via the network 30. Can be sent. Also here, the original is electronically read by the CCD 2 a provided in the image reading unit 2. Then, the read image data of the original is completed as output data on the memory 6a and temporarily stored in the HD 7. Then, the signal is sent again from the HD 7 to the memory 6a, and is transmitted from the communication unit 5 to the target transmission destination after establishing communication with the transmission destination instructed via the operation unit 4.

(Facsimile function)
The communication unit 5 is connected to the facsimile machine 34 via the network 30 and the Internet 33. Further, the FAX modem 10 may be connected to the facsimile apparatus 21 via the telephone line network 20. The same operation is performed when the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment is used as a facsimile apparatus, and image data can be transmitted to and received from an external device.

  Each component of the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment is controlled by the device control unit 3 and monitors operation instructions from the input unit 4a such as a tablet and a key group provided in the operation unit 4, and a display unit. Information that should be notified to the user, such as information relating to the state of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 via 4b, is accurately displayed. The management unit 8 manages information about each component controlled by the device control unit 3, and the device control unit 3 controls the operation of the entire digital multi-function peripheral 1 based on the information. .

  Next, the copy restriction information related to the present invention will be described. The copy restriction information is stored in an information storage medium (in this example, an IC tag) attached to the recording paper on which the document image is recorded. When copying an original image, the copy restriction information stored in the IC tag is read by the IC tag I / F 2c of the digital multi-function peripheral 1, the contents of the copy restriction information are analyzed, and the original image is copied according to the contents. It is determined whether or not copying is possible.

  Further, when copying an original image according to the content of the copy restriction information read from the IC tag, new copy restriction information is written and held in the IC tag added to the recording paper to be copied. As a result, even when the original image is copied, the copy restriction information is recorded on the IC tag attached to the recording paper. Sex can be secured.

First, an example of processing for reading copy restriction information from an IC tag attached to a recording sheet on which a document image is formed and determining whether or not copying can be performed when a document image is copied will be described below.
Examples of the copy restriction information include, for example, information that does not permit copying of original images, information that restricts the number of copies that can be copied, information that does not permit further copies of original images, and types of recording paper Information that restricts the operation mode of the copying machine, information that does not permit copying when personal information is included in the original image, information that restricts the period during which copying is permitted, or copying information that restricts the time when copying is permitted Etc. can be set.

  For example, when the copy restriction information includes information that does not permit copying of the document image, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 does not permit any copying regardless of the type of recording paper to be copied.

  Further, when the copy restriction information includes information for restricting the number of copies that can be made, copying of a document is permitted up to a predetermined number according to the restriction information on the number of copies. When limiting the number of copies that can be made, information indicating the number of copies that can be made is recorded on the IC tag of the recording paper on which the document image is formed. Then, the IC tag I / F 2c reads the copy restriction information from the IC tag, and permits copying if copying is possible based on the number of times that copying is possible. At this time, the IC tag I / F 2c updates and rewrites the copyable number of times information recorded in the IC tag every time the document image is copied. As a result, the number of times that the copy restriction information can be copied can be reduced according to the copy execution process.

  When limiting the number of copies as described above, if there are no further restrictions on the type of recording paper to be copied, for example, a new copy image can be created without limitation using one original image copied on plain paper. I can do it. Therefore, when limiting the number of copies, it is reasonable to limit the type of recording paper to the recording paper with an IC tag and to always hold the copy restriction information for the copy.

  If the copy restriction information includes information that does not permit further copying of a copy of the original image (so-called grandchild copy), copying of the original image is permitted, but copying the copy further Forbidden. Also in this case, the recording paper for copying the original image is limited to the recording paper with the IC tag, and the copy restriction information for prohibiting the next copying is written to the IC tag of the recording paper.

Restriction information when further copying such a copy includes not only the example of grandchild copy as described above, but also, for example, how many layers (up to what generation) copying is permitted based on the original image. It can also be restricted at the original image stage. At this time, the number of copies allowed in which hierarchy (in what generation) may be restricted. In this case as well, the recording paper for copying the original image is limited to the recording paper with the IC tag, and information on whether or not the next level of copying is permitted is recorded on the recording paper. On the last level recording sheet, copy restriction information for prohibiting the subsequent level copying is recorded.
An example of the above copy restriction information writing process will be described later.

When the copy restriction information includes information for restricting the type of recording paper to be copied, copying of the original image is permitted only on a predetermined type of paper according to the restriction information.
As the type of recording paper permitted to be copied with the copy restriction information, first, the recording paper with the IC tag as described above can be set. In the case of a recording paper with an IC tag, new copy restriction information can be written on the IC tag, so that unlimited copying of an original image can be prevented and confidentiality can be secured within a specific range. .

  Whether or not the recording paper for copying the original image is a recording paper with an IC tag is determined depending on whether or not the second paper feed tray is selected. At this time, for the purpose of further thorough copy management, a mechanism having the same function as the IC tag I / F 2c of the image reading unit is added to each of the paper feed trays 11 and 12, and the selected paper feed. It may be determined whether the recording paper accommodated in the tray is a recording paper with an IC tag.

  In addition, as the type of recording paper that is permitted to be copied, a backing paper on which other information is already printed on the back surface, recycled paper, or thin paper having a predetermined thickness or less can be set. Since backing paper, recycled paper, and thin paper are not normally used for recording formal documents and important documents, they can be set to permit copying of original images.

Also in these cases, the type of recording paper stored in the paper feed tray is set in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 in advance. When the copy restriction information read from the recording paper on which the document image is formed permits these recording paper types, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 determines the recording paper set in the selected paper feed tray. The permission for copying the original image is determined from the type.
In such a case, a sensor for determining whether the paper is a backing paper or a recycled paper and a sensor for detecting the thickness of the recording paper are provided so that the recording paper stored in the paper feed tray is the backing paper. Alternatively, it may be confirmed that the paper is recycled paper or thin paper.

Further, when the copy restriction information includes information for restricting the operation mode of the copying apparatus, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can copy the original image only when operating in the operation mode not restricted by the copy restriction information. Allow copying.
For example, a special mode such as a test print mode or a toner saving mode can be set as an operation mode that permits copying of a document image. The test print mode or the toner saving mode is set in advance as a special image forming mode of the digital multi-function peripheral 1. Since these modes are not suitable for copying confidential documents, copying of the original image is permitted. Can be set to

Further, when the copy restriction information includes information that does not permit copying when personal information is included in the original image, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 determines whether the original information is included in the original image, If personal information is included in the original image, copying of the original image is not permitted.
In this case, for example, image data read by the CCD 2a is analyzed by applying a known method such as pattern recognition to determine whether or not information estimated as personal information is included in the image data. The personal information can be detected as information in a specific form such as a postal code, a telephone number, or an e-mail address.

  Further, when the copy restriction information includes information that restricts the period during which copying is permitted or copying information that restricts the time at which copying is permitted, permission to copy the original image is determined according to the restriction information. . As a period during which copying is permitted, for example, it is possible to set so that copying is not permitted for three months from the creation of a document image. Similarly, the time information that permits copying includes setting a specific time zone for a day, setting a specific time for a specific day of the week, and setting a specific time for a specific date. Can do. The period determination and the time determination in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be executed using a calendar function provided in the digital multi-function peripheral 1.

  Next, when copying a document image according to the content of the copy restriction information read from the IC tag, new copy restriction information is written and held in the IC tag added to the recording paper to be copied. A processing example will be described.

  When an original image is to be copied as described above, whether or not copying is possible is determined according to the copy restriction information read from the IC tag attached to the original image recording paper as described above. If copying of the original image is permitted at this time, new copy restriction information is written to the IC tag attached to the recording paper for copying the original image.

  As described above, when copying is permitted according to the copy restriction information, the type of recording paper can be restricted. If copying of the original image on the plain paper is permitted, the original image can be copied more unlimitedly by using the plain paper on which the original image is copied. Therefore, in the case of a document that places importance on confidentiality, the recording paper for copying the original image is restricted to the recording paper to which the IC tag is added, and new copy restriction information is held in the IC tag. Is preferred.

  As copy restriction information to be held in the IC tag of the recording paper for copying the original image, the copy restriction information read from the IC tag of the original image may be used as it is, or new information is created based on the copy restriction information of the original image. Copy restriction information may be generated. When copying a document image, new copy restriction information may be generated in accordance with a user input operation on the operation unit 4 and written on an IC tag of a recording sheet on which the document image is copied. The generated copy restriction information is written into the IC tag attached to the recording paper by the IC tag writing means 14.

  The contents of the copy restriction information may be inevitably determined according to the copy restriction information of the document image, and may be set freely by the user or the like. When the copy restriction information is generated by a user operation, it is preferable to maintain confidentiality by applying a known authentication technique for authenticating the user authority.

For example, as copy restriction information, information that does not permit copying of a copied document image can be generated and written to an IC tag attached to a recording sheet for copying the document image. As a result, the copy cannot be further copied, and confidentiality is maintained.
In this case, for example, as described above, if the copy restriction information stored in the IC tag of the original image includes information that does not permit further copying of the original image (so-called grandchild copy), The multi-function device 1 generates copy restriction information that prohibits further copying and writes it in the IC tag of the copy. As a result, the copy restriction information set in the document image is reliably reflected and held on the copy.

  The copy restriction information when further copying such a copy is not limited to the example of the grandchild copy as described above. For example, up to what level (up to what generation) copying is permitted based on the original image Can be restricted at the original image stage. At this time, the digital multi-function peripheral repeats the process of generating new copy restriction information and storing it in the IC tag of the copy in accordance with the copy restriction information of the original image of the copy source.

Further, as copy restriction information, information for restricting the number of copies that can be copied when a copied original image is further copied can be generated and written on an IC tag attached to a recording paper to be copied.
In addition, when copying is restricted to a lower level of a plurality of hierarchies as described above, information that restricts how many copies are permitted in which hierarchy (in what generation) is generated as copy restriction information, and a record for copying an original image It can be written on an IC tag attached to paper.

  Further, as copy restriction information, information for restricting the type of recording paper when the copied original image is further copied can be generated and written on an IC tag attached to the recording paper for copying the original image. As described above, the copy restriction information can be set so that copying is permitted for the recording paper to which the IC tag is added. In addition to this, a backing paper on which other information is already printed on the back surface, recycled paper, or thin paper having a predetermined thickness or less can be set as a recording paper that permits copying.

Further, as copy restriction information, information for restricting the operation mode of the copying apparatus when the copied original image is further copied can be generated and written on the IC tag attached to the recording paper for copying the original image. Due to this copy restriction information, copying of the original image is permitted only when operating in a predetermined operation mode.
Here, a special mode such as a test print mode or a toner saving mode can be set as an operation mode for permitting copying of a document image.

  Further, as copy restriction information, it is possible to generate information that does not permit copying when personal information is included in a document image, and write it on an IC tag attached to a recording sheet for copying the document image. The personal information can be detected as information in a specific form such as a postal code, a telephone number, or an e-mail address. The copy restriction information in this example is information for instructing to detect such personal information and determine whether copying is possible according to the detection result.

  Further, as copy restriction information, information for restricting the period during which copying is permitted and the time at which copying is permitted can be generated and written on the IC tag attached to the recording paper for copying the original image. As a period during which copying is permitted, for example, it is possible to set so that copying is not permitted for three months from the creation of a document image. Similarly, the time information that permits copying includes setting a specific time zone for a day, setting a specific time for a specific day of the week, and setting a specific time for a specific date. Can do. The period and time of the copying machine can be determined using a calendar function provided in the copying machine.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a processing example when copying is performed by reading copy restriction information of an IC tag attached to a document. In this example, description will be made based on the configuration of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 shown in FIG.
A plain paper 44 without an IC tag is set in the first paper feed tray 11 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1, and a recording paper 42 with an IC tag with an IC tag is placed in the second paper feed tray 12. Assume that it is set.

  The IC tag I / F 2c of the image reading unit 2 is set when a radio wave is transmitted to a document set at a predetermined reading position and a response radio wave is received from the document in response to the transmission radio wave. It is determined that the document is a document with an IC tag (a document recorded on a recording sheet to which an IC tag is added) 41. On the other hand, when the reply radio wave is not received, it is determined that the set original is the IC tag-free original 43.

  When it is determined that the document set at a predetermined reading position is the document 41 with IC tag, the image of the document 41 with IC tag is read by the CCD 2a, and the IC tag 41a of the document 41 with IC tag is further read by the IC tag I / F 2c. The copy restriction information stored in is read. The IC tag I / F 2c transfers the copy restriction information read by the IC tag 41a to the device control unit 3, and the device control unit 3 determines whether or not copying is possible based on the copy restriction information.

When the IC tag original 41 is set at a predetermined reading position and the original image and copy management information are read, the first paper feed tray 11 on which plain paper 44 is set or the IC tag recording paper 42 is set. One of the second paper feed trays 12 is selected.
Here, when the type of recording paper is restricted by the copy restriction information included in the document 41 with the IC tag, the paper feed tray is selected according to the restriction.

  If the original image formed on the IC-tagged original 41 is confidential, for example, if copying is permitted on the plain paper 44, the copy image on the plain paper 44 is copied without limitation. In such a case, information permitting only the IC-tagged recording paper 42 is recorded as copy restriction information of the IC-tagged document 41.

  Further, when the first paper feed tray 11 and the second paper feed tray 12 contain back paper on which other information has already been printed, recycled paper, or thin paper having a predetermined thickness or less, If copying to the recording paper is permitted by the copy restriction information of the document 41 with the IC tag, the corresponding paper feed tray is selected using the setting information of the recording paper type for the digital multifunction peripheral 1. To do.

  When the recording paper 42 with the IC tag is stored in the second paper feeding tray 12 and the first paper feeding tray 11 is selected according to the copy restriction information recorded on the IC tag of the document 41 with the IC tag, the printing unit 6b The image data read by the CCD 2a is printed on the recording paper 42 with an IC tag. The device control unit 3 (or other predetermined control means) generates new copy restriction information for the copy, and the IC tag writing means 14 applies the copy restriction information to the IC tag 42a of the recording paper 42 with the IC tag. To write.

  If the type of recording paper is not restricted by the copy restriction information of the document 41 with the IC tag, the device control unit 3 selects the paper feed tray when there is only one corresponding paper feed tray, If there are a plurality of corresponding paper feed trays, the paper feed tray is selected in accordance with other print setting conditions (paper size, etc.) or a tray selection operation by the user. The printing unit 6b prints the image data read by the CCD 2a on the recording paper in the selected paper feed tray.

  Similarly, when the recording paper to which the IC tag is not added such as the back paper, the recycled paper, and the thin paper 45 is designated, the printing unit 6b uses the CCD 2a for the recording paper in the selected paper feed tray. Print the scanned image data.

  When the IC tag I / F 2c determines that the document set at the predetermined reading position is the IC tag-less document 43, the device control unit 3 sets the first sheet feed tray 11 on which the plain paper 44 is set. The printing unit 6b performs image recording on the plain paper 44.

  At this time, when creating a new manuscript to which confidentiality is given by the copy restriction information using the manuscript image of the manuscript 43 without the IC tag, the recording paper 42 with the IC tag according to the user operation having the producing authority. Is selected, new copy restriction information to be stored in the IC tag 42a is generated, and the copy restriction information can be written to the IC tag 42a of the recording paper 42 with the IC tag by the IC tag writing means 14.

  As described above, the IC tag has been mainly described as the information storage medium for storing the copy management information. However, the copy management information may be encoded and stored using a bar code or a two-dimensional code instead of the IC tag. Good. In this case, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 may be provided with a reader / writer means for reading and writing these code information.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a system in which the digital multifunction peripheral 1 and the billing apparatus are connected. The digital multi-function peripheral 1 is connected to a charging device 50 for charging for the copying process in the digital multi-function peripheral 1. The billing apparatus 50 includes a display unit 51 for displaying billing information, an operation panel 52 for inputting user operations, an insertion unit 53 for inserting coins or prepaid cards, a ROM 54 for storing a control program, and the like. A CPU 55 that controls the entire billing apparatus 50, a memory 56 that is an execution area of the control program, and an I / F 57 that is connected to the digital multi-function peripheral 1 are provided.

The I / F 15 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 is connected to the I / F 57 of the charging apparatus 50, and the charging process in the charging apparatus 50 is controlled by the device control unit 3 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1. In addition to the copy restriction information as described above, the IC tag 41a can store billing management information for managing billing for copying the original image in the digital multi-function peripheral 1.
Then, the device control unit 3 controls the charging device 50 so as to charge for copying the original image in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 in accordance with the charging management information.

For example, the billing management information is information indicating that it is 10 yen per A4 black-and-white copy, and the user inserts 200 yen from the input unit 53 of the charging apparatus 50 in advance.
For example, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 executes copying from the IC-tagged original 41 to the IC-tagged recording paper 42 in accordance with a user operation, and creates 10 A4 monochrome copies. The copy price at this time is calculated as 10 copies × 10 yen / sheet = 100 yen from the billing management information of the IC tag 41a. Then, the device control unit 3 instructs the charging apparatus 50 to subtract this 100 yen. The charging device 50 performs a process of subtracting “100 yen” from the input amount “200 yen” and refunding the remaining amount in accordance with an instruction from the device control unit 3.
Further, the charge management information may change the copy price according to the number of copies, the type of copy (color, black and white, etc.), the paper size (A4, B4, etc.), and the like.

  When copying from the IC-tagged original 41 to the IC-tagged recording paper 42, the accounting management information recorded on the IC tag 41a of the IC-tagged original 41 is used as the IC tag 42a of the IC-tagged recording paper 42. Let me record it. Thereby, when a copy is further generated using the original image copied on the recording paper 42 with the IC tag, the charge management can be performed using the charge management information.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of reading / writing processing of the IC tag in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 of the present invention. First, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 confirms that a document is set at a predetermined reading position (step S1), and determines whether or not an RF reaction is detected from the set document, that is, whether or not an IC tag is present (step S1). S2). If it is determined that there is an RF response, that is, if there is an IC tag (YES), IC tag data (copying restriction information, etc.) is read from the IC tag of the document with the IC tag (step S3). Then, it is determined whether or not the reading is “OK” (step S4). If the reading is “OK” (YES), it is determined whether or not the IC tag data needs to be written on the copy (step S5).

  Next, if it is determined in step S5 that the IC tag data needs to be written (in the case of YES), it is determined whether or not the IC-tagged recording paper 42 is set in the second paper feed tray 12 (step S5). S6). If the IC-tagged recording paper 42 is set in the second paper feed tray 12 (YES), the original image is read (step S7), and the IC-tagged recording paper 42 is supplied from the second paper feed tray 12. (Step S8).

  Next, the original image read in step S7 is recorded on the recording surface of the recording paper 42 with the IC tag (step S9). Then, IC tag data generated based on the IC tag data read in step S3 or newly generated IC tag data (copy restriction information, etc.) is written on the IC tag 42a of the recording paper 42 with IC tag (step S10), and the recording is performed. The paper 42 is discharged to the paper discharge tray 13 (step S11).

  If it is determined in step S2 that there is no RF response, that is, no IC tag (in the case of NO), the image of the original with no IC tag is read (step S12), and the plain paper 44 is removed from the first paper feed tray 11. Supply (step S13). Then, the original image read in step S12 is recorded on the plain paper 44 (step S14), the process proceeds to step S11, and the plain paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray 13. If copying on recording paper other than plain paper is permitted in the copy restriction information and a paper feed tray other than plain paper is selected, the selected paper feed tray is selected instead of plain paper in step S13. Recording paper is supplied.

If the reading of the IC tag data is not “OK” in the step S4 (NO), a reading error is displayed (step S15) and the process is terminated.
If the IC-tagged recording paper 42 is not set in the second paper feed tray 12 in step S6 (NO), the fact that the IC-tagged recording paper 42 is necessary is notified (step S16). Returning to step S6, the process is repeated.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a copying apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which reads the information of the IC tag added to the original, and writes it in the IC tag of the recording paper with an IC tag. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a system in which a digital multifunction peripheral and a charging device are connected. FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of reading / writing processing of an IC tag in the digital multi-function peripheral according to the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Copy apparatus (digital multifunction device), 2 ... Image reading part, 2a ... CCD, 2b ... Document detection sensor, 2c ... IC tag I / F, 3 ... Equipment control part, 4 ... Operation part, 4a ... Input part, 4b ... display unit, 5 ... communication unit, 6 ... image forming unit, 6a ... memory, 6b ... printing unit (LSU), 7 ... hard disk (HD), 8 ... management unit, 9 ... erasing means, 10 ... FAX modem, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... 1st paper feed tray, 12 ... 2nd paper feed tray, 13 ... Paper discharge tray, 14 ... IC tag writing means, 15 ... Billing device I / F, 20 ... Telephone line network, 21, 34 ... Facsimile device , 30, network, 31, 32, 35, terminal device, 33, Internet, 41, document with IC tag, 42, recording paper with IC tag, 41 a, 42 a, IC tag, 43, document without IC tag, 44, normal Paper, 45 ... Back paper / Recycled paper / Paper, 50 ... charging device, 51 ... display unit, 52 ... operation panel, 53 ... insertion portion, 54 ... ROM, 55 ... CPU, 56 ... memory, 57 ... I / F.

Claims (15)

A copying apparatus that uses a recording sheet to which an information storage medium is added, reads a document image recorded on the recording sheet, and copies the document image onto another recording sheet.
An information reading means for reading information from an information storage medium attached to the recording paper when copying the original image of the recording paper on which the original image is formed to another recording paper;
Copy permission determining means for determining copy permission of the document image based on the information read by the information reading means;
Copy restriction information writing means for writing copy restriction information for restricting copying under a predetermined condition to an information storage medium attached to a recording paper for copying a document image when the copy permission judging means permits copying. And
The copy restriction information writing means further copy restriction information for restricting the type of the recording paper when copying, writes the additional information storage medium on recording paper for copying the original image document image has been copied,
The copy restriction information for restricting the type of recording paper is any of recording paper with an information storage medium added, backing paper on which other information has already been printed, recycled paper, or thin paper having a predetermined thickness or less. Or a copying apparatus characterized in that it is information that permits copying only at a plurality of times .   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the copy restriction information writing means stores copy restriction information that does not permit further copying of the copied document image in an information storage medium added to a recording sheet for copying the document image. A copying apparatus characterized by writing.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said copy restriction information writing means adds copy restriction information for restricting the number of copies that can be made when a copied original image is further copied to a recording sheet for copying the original image. A copying apparatus, wherein the information is written on an information storage medium.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said copy restriction information writing means is a hierarchy that permits copying of a document image when processing for creating another copy from a copy of a document image is made one layer. A copying apparatus, wherein copy restriction information for limiting the number is written in an information storage medium attached to a recording sheet for copying an original image.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the copy restriction information writing means adds copy restriction information for restricting an operation mode of the copying apparatus when further copying a copied document image to a recording sheet for copying the document image. A copying apparatus for writing to a recorded information storage medium. 6. The copying apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the information that restricts the operation mode of the copying apparatus is information that permits copying only in a special mode including a test print mode and a toner saving mode. apparatus.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the copy restriction information writing means outputs copy restriction information that does not permit copying when the copied original image includes personal information when the copied original image is further copied. Is written in an information storage medium attached to a recording paper for copying.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the copy restriction information writing unit is configured to permit the copying when the copied original image is further copied based on the information read by the information reading unit, or A copying apparatus, wherein copy restriction information for restricting a time at which copying is permitted is written in an information storage medium attached to a recording paper for copying an original image.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the information read by the information reading unit includes copy restriction information that does not permit further copying of the copied original image, A copying apparatus, wherein a new copy of an original image copied according to copy restriction information is not permitted.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the information read by the information reading means includes copy restriction information for restricting the number of copies of the original image, the copy permission determining means includes the copy restriction information. The copying apparatus is characterized in that the number of sheets allowed to be copied is limited according to the above.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the copying apparatus includes a sheet feeding tray that feeds a sheet for copying an original image, and a recording sheet determination unit that determines a type of the recording sheet stored in the sheet feeding tray. And when the information read by the information reading means includes copy restriction information for restricting the type of recording paper when copying the original image, the copying paper discrimination A copying apparatus, wherein copying is not permitted for a recording sheet restricted by the copy restriction information according to a result of determination by the means.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the information read by the information reading means includes copy restriction information for restricting an operation mode of the copying apparatus, the copy permission determining means follows the copy restriction information. A copying apparatus, wherein a new copy of a document image is not permitted in an operation mode that is not permitted.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising personal information discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the personal image is included in the original image, wherein the copy permission determining means includes the original read in the information read by the information reading means. When copy restriction information that does not permit copying is included when personal information is included in the image, when the personal information determination means determines that the original image contains personal information according to the copy restriction information A copying apparatus characterized by not permitting new copying of an original image.   2. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the copy permission determining means includes copy restriction information for restricting a time during which copying is permitted and a time at which the copying is permitted, in the information read by the information reading means. In this case, the copying apparatus permits a new copy of the document image in accordance with the copy restriction information. In the copying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 1 4, wherein the information storage medium is an IC tag, the copying apparatus, characterized in that it comprises an interface that enables writing / reading of information for the IC tag A copying machine.

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