JP5247207B2 - Image processing apparatus, processing flow control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, a processing flow control method, an image processing system, and a program that register and execute a plurality of operations and processes as a series of processing flows, and in particular, the processing flows are personalized and executed for each user. Related to technology.

  Conventionally, in addition to a copying function, a multi-function peripheral having a scanner function, a printer function, a facsimile function, an E-mail transmission function, a file transmission function, and the like has been provided. In such a multi-function peripheral, it is possible to link paper-based office processing using a copy function, a facsimile function, and the like with processing such as printing and transmission of an electronic document. Specifically, the multifunction peripheral can not only copy a paper document but also transmit the scanned document to a personal computer or a file server as it is without printing the scanned document.

It is desired to link various functions to such a multi-function peripheral and execute a plurality of operations and processes as a series of processing flows. For example, there has been proposed an image forming apparatus capable of storing a plurality of output setting data for setting an output format, and forming and outputting an image in an output format according to the selected output setting data (Patent Document 1). reference). Also proposed is an image forming apparatus that can set up other printers, scanners, etc. connected to the network and set up the linkage of processes and link multiple processes without setting only the functions of the machine itself. (See Patent Document 2).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-83263 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-287861

  However, in the above-described image forming apparatus, since the processing flow executed on the apparatus is fixed, it is necessary to re-edit the processing flow even when a slight change is made. For example, when sending image data scanned by a multifunction device to be stored in a folder dedicated to the user on the file server, the file transmission destination set in the processing flow must be changed for each user, which is inconvenient for the user. is there. Even if the processing flow is registered for each user in advance, if the number of users increases, it becomes difficult for the user to specify a desired processing flow, and system resources are consumed in proportion to the number of users. Therefore, there is a problem that the scale of system operation becomes limited.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, the number of processing flow itself reduces, the image processing apparatus and flow control method that a user can also be reduced need to search a desired processing flow, as well as The purpose is to provide a program.

In order to achieve the above object, an image processing apparatus according to claim 1 links an authentication unit that performs user authentication with a plurality of different functions, and executes processing of image data using a plurality of processes as a series of processing flows. In an image processing apparatus comprising: an execution unit that performs: an acquisition unit that acquires individual setting data set by a user authenticated by the authentication unit; and a first registration unit that registers the plurality of processes as a series of process flows; The same kind of process determination means for determining whether the same process as the individual process based on the individual setting data is set in the process flow selected from the process flows registered in the first registration means And the execution means determines that the first registration is determined when the same kind of process is determined by the same kind of process determination means. The processing flow registered in unit, while executing the replacing process of the same kind in the processing flow in the user-specific processing, when said processing of user-specific processing the same type is determined not to be set It is the first processing flow registered in the registration unit, and executes after adding the user-specific processing to the processing flow.

In order to achieve the above object, a processing flow control method according to claim 6 includes: an authentication step for performing user authentication; and an execution step for executing a plurality of processes as a series of processing flows by linking a plurality of different functions. In a processing flow control method comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring individual setting data set by a user authenticated in the authentication step; a first registration step of registering the plurality of processings as a series of processing flows; The same kind of process determination for determining whether the same process as the individual user process based on the individual setting data is set in the process flow selected from the process flows registered in the first registration step. The execution step is registered in the first registration step when it is determined in the same type processing determination step that the same type of processing as the individual user processing is set. And the processing flow, while performing the replacing process of the same kind in the processing flow in the user-specific processing, when said processing of user-specific processing the same type is determined not to be set, the the processing flow registered in the first registration step, and executes after adding the user-specific processing to the processing flow.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a desired process for each user by replacing a part of the common process flow with a process for each user, and it is not necessary to create a process flow for each user. Even if the number of users increases, the resource consumption can be reduced. In addition, since the number of processing flows themselves can be reduced, it is possible to reduce time and effort for the user to search for a desired processing flow.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system including an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, an image processing system includes MFPs 1001 and 1002 as image processing apparatuses according to the present embodiment, a facsimile machine 1003, a database / mail server / directory service (hereinafter simply referred to as “directory service”) 1004. And a client computer 1005. These are connected to each other via a LAN 1006 made of Ethernet (registered trademark) or the like. The multifunction device 1002 has the same function as the multifunction device 1001.

  The multifunction machine 1001 is connected to the facsimile machine 1007 via a public line 1008 (WAN). The multifunction peripheral 1001 has a copying function, a facsimile function, and a scanner function, and a data transmission function for transmitting image data obtained by scanning a document to each device on the LAN 1006. The multifunction peripheral 1001 has a PDL (Page Description Language) function, and can receive and print PDL data received from the client computer 1005 or the like on the LAN 1006.

  Further, the multifunction peripheral 1001 stores image data obtained by scanning a document or PDL data received from the client computer 1005 or the like in a specified box area in an HDD (hard disk drive) 2004 shown in FIG. Is possible. The multi-function peripheral 1001 can also print data stored in the box area.

  The multifunction device 1001 can also receive image data obtained by scanning the document by the multifunction device 1002 via the LAN 1006, store the image data in the HDD 2004, and print out the image data. Further, the multifunction peripheral 1001 can receive data from the directory service 1004 via the LAN 1006, save the data in the HDD 2004, and print out the data.

  The facsimile apparatus 1003 can receive image data obtained by the MFP 1001 scanning a document via the LAN 1006, and can transmit the received image data to another apparatus by FAX. The facsimile apparatus 1007 can receive image data obtained by scanning a document by the multifunction peripheral 1001 via the public line 1008 and print out the received image data.

  The directory service 1004 is a server device that has an E-mail transmission / reception function and provides a directory service. The directory service 1004 can receive image data obtained by the MFP 1001 scanning a document via the LAN 1006 and store the image data in a database.

  The client computer 1005 can connect to the directory service 1004 via the LAN 1006, obtain desired data from the directory service 1004, and display it. The client computer 1005 can receive, process, and edit image data obtained by the MFP 1001 scanning a document via the LAN 1006. Further, the client computer 1005 can be connected to the multifunction peripheral 1001 via the LAN 1006 to perform various settings of the multifunction peripheral 1001.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the multifunction peripheral 1001 in FIG. Note that the multifunction device 1002 has the same configuration as the multifunction device 1001.

  The multifunction machine 1001 includes a controller unit 2000. The controller unit 2000 is connected to a scanner 2070 as an image input device and a printer 2095 as an image output device, and an operation unit 2012 is connected.

  The controller unit 2000 controls a copy function for printing out the image data read by the scanner 2070 by the printer 2095. The controller unit 2000 is connected to the LAN 1006 and the public line 1008 and performs input / output control of image data and various setting data.

  The controller unit 2000 includes a CPU 2001, a RAM 2002, a ROM 2003, and an HDD 2004. The CPU 2001 starts up an operation system (OS) by a boot program stored in the ROM 2003, and executes an application program stored in the HDD 2004 on the OS. As a result, various processes are executed. A RAM 2002 is used as a work area of the CPU 2001. The RAM 2002 provides a work area and an image memory area for temporarily storing image data. The HDD 2004 stores the application program and image data.

  The CPU 2001 is connected to a ROM 2003, a RAM 2002, and an operation unit I / F (operation unit interface) 2006 via a system bus 2007. The CPU 2001 is connected to a network I / F (network interface) 2010, a modem 2050, and an image bus I / F (image bus interface) 2005 via a system bus 2007.

  An operation unit I / F 2006 is an interface connected to an operation unit 2012 having predetermined keys, buttons, and a touch panel, and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 2012 to the operation unit 2012. Further, the operation unit I / F 2006 sends information input by the user through the operation unit 2012 to the CPU 2001.

  Next, the network I / F 2010 is connected to the LAN 1006 and inputs / outputs information to / from each device on the LAN 1006. The modem 2050 is connected to the public line 1008 (WAN) and inputs / outputs information via the public line 1008.

  An image bus I / F 2005 is a bus bridge for connecting a system bus 2007 and an image bus 2008 that transfers image data at high speed and converting the data format. The image bus 2008 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. Connected to the image bus 2008 are a raster image processor (hereinafter referred to as “RIP”) 2060, a device I / F 2020, a scanner image processing unit 2080, a printer image processing unit 2090, an image rotation unit 2030, and an image compression unit 2040. Has been.

  The RIP 2060 is a processor that develops a PDL code into a bitmap image. A scanner 2070 and a printer 2095 are connected to the device I / F 2020. The device I / F 2020 performs image data synchronous / asynchronous conversion. A scanner image processing unit 2080 corrects, processes, or edits image data obtained by scanning a document with the scanner 2070. The printer image processing unit 2090 performs correction, resolution conversion, and the like on the image data according to the performance of the printer 2095. The image rotation unit 2030 rotates image data when necessary. The image compression unit 2040 compresses multi-valued image data into JPEG data and binary image data into data such as JBIG, MMR, and MH, and decompresses the data.

  FIG. 3 is a side sectional view showing an outline of the hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral 1001.

  In the multifunction peripheral 1001, the scanner 2070 and the printer 2095 are integrally configured as shown in FIG.

  The scanner 2070 includes a document feeding unit 250. The document feeding unit 250 feeds documents one by one from the top to the platen glass 211 one by one, and each time the reading operation of each document is completed, the document is transferred from the platen glass 211 to a discharge tray (not shown). Discharge. When the document is fed onto the platen glass 211, the scanner 2070 turns on the lamp 212 and starts moving the moving unit 213. The scanning of the original on the platen glass 211 is performed by the movement of the moving unit 213. During this scanning, the reflected light from the document is guided to a CCD image sensor (hereinafter referred to as “CCD”) 218 via each mirror 214, 215, 216 and lens 217, and an image on the document is captured by the CCD 218. The image is formed on the surface. The CCD 218 converts an image formed on the imaging surface into an electric signal, and after the electric signal is subjected to predetermined processing, it is input as image data to the scanner image processing unit 2080 (see FIG. 3).

  The printer 2095 has a laser driver 321. The laser driver 321 drives the laser emission unit 322 based on the image data input from the printer image processing unit 2090 (see FIG. 3). As a result, laser light corresponding to the image data is emitted from the laser light emitting unit 322, and this laser light is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 323 while being scanned. An electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 323 by the irradiated laser light, and the electrostatic latent image is visualized as a toner image by the toner supplied from the developing device 324. In synchronization with the irradiation timing of the laser beam, the recording paper is fed from the cassettes 311 and 312 between the photosensitive drum 323 and the transfer unit 325 via the conveyance path, and the toner image on the photosensitive drum 323 is transferred to the transfer unit 325. Is transferred onto the recording paper fed.

  The recording paper onto which the toner image has been transferred is sent to a fixing roller pair (heating roller and pressure roller) 326 via a conveyance belt, and the fixing roller pair 326 records the toner image on the recording paper by heat-pressing the recording paper. Fix on paper. The recording paper that has passed through the fixing roller pair 326 is discharged to the paper discharge unit 330 by the paper discharge roller pair 327. The paper discharge unit 330 includes a sheet processing apparatus that can perform post-processing such as sorting and stapling.

  When the duplex recording mode is set, after the recording sheet is conveyed to the discharge roller pair 327, the rotation direction of the discharge roller pair 327 is reversed and guided to the refeed conveyance path 339 by the flapper 328. . The recording paper guided to the refeed conveyance path 339 is fed again between the photosensitive drum 323 and the transfer unit 325 at the timing described above, and the toner image is transferred to the back surface of the recording paper.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an external configuration of the operation unit 2012 in FIG.

  The LCD display unit 2013 has a structure in which a touch panel sheet is pasted on the LCD, displays an operation screen of the multifunction machine 1001, and displays the position information of the controller unit when a touch key displayed on the screen is pressed. Communicate to 2000 CPU 2001. A start key 2014 is used when starting a document image reading operation. A green and red two-color LED 2018 is provided at the center of the start key 2014, and indicates whether or not the start key 2014 can be used depending on the color. A stop key 2015 is operated to stop an operation in operation. The ID key 2016 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. A reset key 2017 is used when initializing settings from the operation unit 2012.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 in FIG.

  At the top of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2013, there are a copy tab 501, a transmission / FAX tab 502, a box tab 503, a browser tab 504, and a right arrow tab 505 as touch keys for selecting various functions. Has been placed. The illustrated example represents an initial screen of a copy function displayed when the copy tab 501 is pressed.

  In the illustrated example, the display regarding the copy function is performed in the display area 506. A status to be displayed by the copy function is displayed in an area where “Can copy” is displayed, and a magnification, a selected paper feed stage, and a set number are displayed in a lower area. In the display area 506, as touch keys for setting the operation mode of the copy function, the same magnification, magnification, paper selection, sorter, double-sided, interrupt, character, left and right arrow keys for density adjustment, and density are automatically set. Automatic keys to adjust are arranged. The operation mode designation screen that cannot be displayed on the initial screen is hierarchically displayed in the display area 506 when the application mode key is pressed.

  A display area 507 is an area for displaying the status of the multifunction peripheral 1001. In the display area 507, for example, an alarm message such as a jam or a status message indicating that PDL printing is being performed when PDL printing is being performed is displayed. In the display area 507, a system status / stop touch key 508 is displayed. When the system status / cancel touch key 508 is pressed, a screen for displaying device information of the MFP 1001 (not shown) and a screen for displaying the print job status are displayed. On this screen, a job cancel operation can be performed together with a job execution operation.

  When the transmission / fax tab 502 is pressed, the screen is switched from the illustrated screen to a setting screen (not illustrated) for the transmission / fax function. On the setting screen for the transmission / FAX function, image data obtained by scanning a document with the MFP 1001 is transmitted to a device on the LAN 1006 by E-mail transmission or FTP transmission, or is transmitted by facsimile using the public line 1008. Is possible.

  Similarly, when the box tab 503 is pressed, the screen shown in the figure is switched to a box tab function setting screen (not shown). On the setting screen for the box tab function, image data of a document scanned by the multifunction peripheral 1001 may be stored in a box area in the HDD 2004, or may be printed by specifying image data stored in the box area. Is possible. In addition, a setting screen (not shown) for transmitting image data to a device on the LAN 1006 is also displayed in response to a user operation.

  Similarly, when the browser tab 504 is pressed, the screen is switched from the illustrated screen to a browser function setting screen (not illustrated). On the browser function screen, it is possible to display HTML content acquired from a WEB server or the like. Further, it is possible to print the displayed content in response to a user operation.

  When the multifunction peripheral 1001 has five or more functions, a right arrow tab 505 is displayed on the right side of the browser tab 504. When the right arrow tab 505 is pressed, other function tabs other than the four function tabs displayed on the screen among the five or more functions of the multifunction peripheral 1001 are displayed.

  Next, an overview of the processing flow control application of this embodiment will be described. This application can be selected by the user as the fifth function when the right arrow tab 505 is pressed, for example. The application is a program executed by the CPU 2001.

  This application is an application for improving the efficiency of routine work using the function of the multifunction peripheral 1001. By creating and registering a combination of a plurality of functions as one processing flow, the same settings can be used repeatedly. For example, a series of operations such as combining and printing image data obtained by scanning a document and a document serving as a cover stored in the box area can be registered as one processing flow.

  One process flow to be registered includes three processes of “input”, “edit”, and “output”. In the input processing, an input method for a document to be processed in the processing flow is set. Processing that can be set here includes “original reading” processing and “box document” processing. When the “original reading” process is set, the original can be read with the reading setting set when the processing flow is executed, and the image data obtained thereby can be used as the input document. When the “box document” processing is set, a document stored in the box area can be selected and selected as an input document. In the editing process, the editing method of the document selected in the input process is set. This editing process can be omitted without setting. Processing that can be set here includes “document merge” processing, “page erase” processing, and “image display” processing.

  When the “document combination” process is set, a plurality of documents selected in the input process can be combined in a designated order. When the “page erase” process is set, it is possible to erase the designated page of the document selected in the input process or the document combined in the editing process. When the “image display” process is set, the LCD display unit 2013 can display an image of a document selected by the input process or a document edited by the editing process, and then the process can be shifted to an output process. In the output process, the output method of the document selected in the input process or the document edited in the edit process is set. Processing that can be set here includes “store in box” processing, “transmission” processing, and “print” processing.

  When the “store in box” process is set, the document selected in the input process or the document edited in the edit process can be stored in the designated box area. When the “send” process is set, a document selected by the input process or a document edited by the edit process can be sent by a designated method. When the “print” process is set, the document selected in the input process or the document edited in the editing process can be printed with the specified setting.

  Each setting of the created processing flow is stored in an XML (Extensible Markup Language) format, and when it is registered as a processing flow, it is displayed as a button that can be selected by the user. When the CPU 2001 detects that the process flow button has been pressed, the process flow information is read from the XML file, and the process is executed while interpreting the contents of the process flow.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a functional unit that executes processing flow control in the multifunction peripheral 1001.

  6, the operation unit 1301 corresponds to the operation unit 2012 in FIG. 2, and the control unit 1302 corresponds to the controller unit 2000 in FIG. The temporary storage area 1303 corresponds to the RAM 2002, and the XML file 1304 is a file that defines a processing flow stored in the hard disk 2004. When instructed to call a processing flow control application from the operation unit 1301, the control unit 1302 displays an operation screen of the application as described later on the LCD display unit 2013. Then, the control unit 1302 executes the application program using the temporary storage area 1303 secured in the RAM 2002. Note that the application program is stored in the hard disk 2004. Further, the control unit 1301 analyzes the setting information of the application and the content of the processing flow with reference to the XML file 1304 in which the processing flow stored in the hard disk 2004 is defined. Further, the control unit 1301 analyzes the setting data for each user stored in the temporary storage area 1303 in accordance with the definition of the XML file 1304, and controls the execution of the processing flow.

  Next, the flow of user authentication (login) processing in the image processing system of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, a user logs in to a directory service that is a server using the multifunction peripheral 1001.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of login processing in the multifunction peripheral 1001. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a user name and password input screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 at the time of login.

  When the user logs in from the multifunction device 1001, the multifunction device 1001 displays an input screen 1200 for entering the user name and password as shown in FIG. 8 before displaying the initial screen as shown in FIG. To do. In this embodiment, various functions of the multifunction peripheral 1001 can be used only after user authentication is correctly performed.

  In FIG. 7, in step S601, the CPU 2001 displays the user name and password input screen 1200 of FIG. 8 on the LCD display unit 2013 and waits for data input. Next, when the CPU 2001 detects that the user name and password are input and the login button 1201 is pressed (YES in step S602), the process proceeds to step S603. In step S603, the CPU 2001 sends the input user name and password to the directory service 1004 via the LAN 1006, and acquires setting data for each user stored in the directory service 1004 (step S603).

  Next, in step S604, the CPU 2001 determines whether setting data for each user has been acquired. As a result, if the setting data for each user can be acquired, the process proceeds to step S605, and the setting data for each user is stored in the temporary storage area 1303 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if the setting data for each user cannot be acquired, the process proceeds to step S606, where a dialog indicating that login is not possible is displayed on the LCD display unit 2013, and the input screen 1200 is displayed. Here, “setting data for each user” refers to user-specific information such as a user's login name, department to which the user belongs, E-Mail address, user-specific processing described in an XML format character string, and the like.

  Next, the flow of login processing in the directory service 1004 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of login processing in the directory service 1004.

  In FIG. 9, in step S701, a CPU (not shown) in the directory service 1004 starts waiting for access from the outside. Next, when detecting an external access request (YES in step S702), the CPU in the directory service 1004 determines whether the transmitted user name and password are correct (step S703). If the result of this determination is that the user name and password are correct (YES in step S703), access to the directory service 1004 is permitted and setting data for each user is sent back. On the other hand, if the user name and password are not correct (NO in step S703), access to the directory service 1004 is denied (step S705). When the series of processing ends, the process returns to step S701.

  Next, processing flow registration processing in the multifunction peripheral 1001 will be described with reference to FIGS. The process flow registration is an operation of registering a plurality of operations and processes as a series of process flows in the image processing system of FIG. 1 so that the various functions of the multifunction peripheral 1001 are linked and executed by the multifunction peripheral 1001. is there. The process described below is a process executed after user authentication is performed in the above-described login process.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing flow registration processing in the multifunction peripheral 1001. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow registration / editing initial screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 at the time of processing flow registration in FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a registration edit screen for a processing flow displayed on the LCD display unit 2013. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a general user registration editing screen. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a registration edit screen for a management user. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow setting screen displayed each time the function button in FIG. 12 is pressed.

  In step S801, the CPU 2001 displays a processing flow button 1401 corresponding to the processing flow stored in the XML file 1304 on the processing flow registration / editing initial screen 1400 shown in FIG. The display form of the processing flow button 1401 can be switched to three patterns of large display, small display, and list display by pressing any of the large button 1402, the small button 1403, and the list button 1404.

  In the present embodiment, on the registration / editing screen 1700 of FIG. 12, each of reading of a document assigned to the function buttons 1701a to 1701h, box document, document combination, page deletion, document display, saving in a box, printing, and transmission is performed. Treat as a unit "process".

  In step S <b> 802, the CPU 2001 presses either the details / edit button 1406 or the copy button 1407 while the new registration button 1405 or one of the plurality of process flow buttons 1401 is selected on the process flow registration / edit initial screen 1400. Detect if it was done. When any button is pressed, the CPU 2001 confirms the user's authority in the setting data for each user stored in the temporary storage area 1303 (step S803). As a result, when the authority of the user is a general user, the CPU 2001 displays a general user registration editing screen 1500 shown in FIG. 13 on the LCD display unit 2013. Then, input of information such as whether to display a button name, a comment, a work box, and a confirmation screen on the general user registration editing screen 1500 is accepted (step S804). In the illustrated example, “send mail to room manager” is input to the button name 1501, “XXXXX” is input to the comment 1502, and “00 everyone's box” is input (or selected) to the work box 1503. When the button 1504 for displaying the confirmation screen is selected, the confirmation screen is displayed before the processing flow is executed. Note that a cancel button 1505, a return button 1506, and a next button 1507 are arranged on the general user registration edit screen 1500.

  On the other hand, if the user authority in the setting data for each user stored in the temporary storage area 1303 is the administrator user in step S803, the CPU 2001 displays the management user registration editing screen 1600 shown in FIG. Displayed on the LCD display unit 2013. Then, input of information such as whether to display a button name, a comment, a work box, and a confirmation screen on the management user registration edit screen 1600 and whether to register as a default processing flow is accepted (step S805). . In the illustrated example, “send email to the room manager” is input to the button name 1601, “XXXXX” is input to the comment 1602, and “00 everyone's box” is input (or selected) to the work box 1603. When the button 1604 for displaying the confirmation screen is selected, the confirmation screen is displayed before the processing flow is executed. When the button 1608 to be registered as the default processing flow is selected, the processing flow to be created can be registered as the default processing flow (second registration unit). Note that a cancel button 1605, a return button 1606, and a next button 1607 are arranged on the management user registration / edit screen 1600.

  In step S 802, when the CPU 2001 detects that the delete button 1408 has been pressed on the process flow registration / edit initial screen 1400, the process flow selected by the process flow button 1401 is deleted from the XML file 1304.

  Next, the CPU 2001 detects whether the next button 1507 on the general user registration edit screen 1500 or the next button 1607 on the management user registration edit screen 1600 has been pressed (YES in step S806). When any button is pressed, the CPU 2001 switches the screen and displays the registration edit screen 1700 of FIG. 12 on the LCD display unit 2013 (step S807). Then, the CPU 2001 detects whether one of the function buttons 1701a to 1701h is pressed on the registration / editing screen 1700. When detecting that one of the function buttons is pressed, the CPU 2001 displays a setting screen 1800 for a processing flow for each pressed function button as shown in FIG. 15 on the LCD display unit 2013 (step S807).

  FIG. 15 shows a screen displayed when pressing of the function button 1701b is detected. In the illustrated processing flow setting screen 1800, a user box 1801, a setting cancel button 1802, a button 1803 for opening the screen at the time of execution, and an OK button 1804 are arranged. Further, when detecting that the user box 1801 is pressed, the CPU 2001 displays a document selection screen (not shown) stored in the pressed user box. The document selected here is registered in the processing flow as an input document. In the illustrated example, six boxes 00, 01,..., 05 are described as user boxes, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  Returning to FIG. 10, in step S807, the CPU 2001 detects whether an OK button 1804 on the processing flow setting screen 1800 has been pressed. As a result, when the OK button 1804 is pressed, the CPU 2001 stores the setting value of the processing flow set on the setting screen 1800 (the selected document information according to the above example) in the temporary storage area 1303. Remember. Then, the display is switched to the registration edit screen 1700 (step S807). Next, in step S808, when the CPU 2001 detects that the OK button 1704 on the registration edit screen 1700 is pressed, the CPU 2001 stores the setting value of the processing flow in the XML file 1304 (step S809). The means for registering the processing flow by the above processing functions as the first registration means.

  Next, the process replacement setting process will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process replacement setting process procedure in the MFP 1001. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a replacement setting screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 during the replacement setting process.

  In FIG. 16, the CPU 2001 obtains a setting value for specifying whether or not to replace the process stored in the XML file 1304 (step S901), and displays the process replacement setting screen 2100 shown in FIG. (Step S902). This set value is written in the XML file 1304 as a character string. At this time, either the ON button 2101 or the OFF button 2102 is selected according to the replacement setting value of the current process.

  In step S <b> 903, when the CPU 2001 detects a change in the process replacement setting by pressing either the ON button 2101 or the OFF button, the CPU 2001 stores the changed process replacement setting value in the temporary storage area 1303. Next, in step S904, when the CPU 2001 detects that the OK button 2103 on the process replacement setting screen 2100 in FIG. 17 is pressed, the CPU 2001 stores the process replacement setting value in the XML file 1304 (step S905).

  Next, processing flow execution processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing processing flow execution processing in the MFP 1001. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a process flow list screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2013 when the process flow of FIG. 18 is executed.

  In FIG. 18, in step S1001, the CPU 2001 displays a process flow button 1904 corresponding to the process flow stored in the XML file 1304 on the process flow list screen 1900 shown in FIG. The display form of the processing flow button 1904 can be switched to three patterns of large display, small display, and list display by pressing any of the large button 1901, small button 1902, and list button 1903. On the processing flow list screen 1900, a registration / editing button 1905 for instructing display of the processing flow registration / editing initial screen 1400 is arranged.

  In step S1002, the CPU 2001 detects that one of the process flow buttons 1904 has been pressed. As a result, the CPU 2001 reads from the XML file 1304 the setting values of each process constituting the selected process flow from the plurality of process flows registered in the XML file 1304 (step S1003), and the temporary storage area 1303. To remember.

  In step S <b> 1004, the CPU 2001 confirms the replacement setting value of the process stored in the XML file 1304. As a result, when it is set to execute the process replacement (YES in step S1004), the process proceeds to step S1005. On the other hand, if it is not set to execute the process replacement (NO in step S1004), the process proceeds to step S1012.

  In step S1005, the CPU 2001 determines whether user-specific processing is set in the setting data for each user stored in the temporary storage area 1303 (individual processing determination unit). When the individual user process is set, the CPU 2001 determines whether the same type of process as the individual user process is set in the process flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 (step S1006). (Same type processing determination means). As a result, if a process of the same type as the individual user process is set in the process flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303, the process proceeds to step S1008. In step S <b> 1008, the CPU 2001 replaces the same process as the individual user process with the individual user process in the process flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303.

  On the other hand, in step S1006, if the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 does not include a process similar to the individual user process, the CPU 2001 executes the process stored in the temporary storage area 1303 for each user. A process is added (step S1009).

  In step S1005, it is determined whether user-specific processing is set in the setting data for each user. If user-specific processing is not set, the CPU 2001 determines whether default processing is registered (step S1005). Step S1007). As a result, when the default process is registered, the CPU 2001 replaces the setting value of the process flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 with the default process (step S1010).

  On the other hand, in step S1007, the CPU 2001 determines whether or not the default process is registered. If the default process is not registered, the CPU 2001 displays an error dialog indicating that the process cannot be executed (step S1011). , Stop processing.

  In step S1012, the CPU 2001 analyzes and executes the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 (execution means). When the user-specific process is set in the setting data for each user, the CPU 2001 replaces a part of the registered processing flow with the user-specific process and executes the process. On the other hand, if user-specific processing is not set in the setting data for each user and a default processing flow is registered, the CPU 2001 registers a part of the registered processing flow as a pre-registered default. Replace with the processing flow of and execute.

  According to the first embodiment, it is possible to realize a desired process for each user with one basic default process flow, and it is not necessary to create a process flow for each user. Even if the resource increases, the resource consumption can be kept constant. In addition, since the number of processing flows themselves can be reduced, it is possible to reduce time and effort for the user to search for a desired processing flow.

  In addition, by using the default processing flow, it becomes possible to use a common processing flow regardless of whether or not the user has set up, so that the use efficiency of the processing flow is increased and the convenience of the user can be improved. .

[Second Embodiment]
The image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the same basic configuration (FIGS. 1 to 5) as the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment, and the first About the part similar to embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted using the same code | symbol. Only differences from the first embodiment will be described below.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing processing flow execution processing according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  20, in step S1101, the CPU 2001 displays a processing flow button 1904 corresponding to the processing flow stored in the XML file 1304 on the processing flow list screen 1900 shown in FIG. Next, in step S1102, the CPU 2001 detects whether one of the process flow buttons 1904 has been pressed. As a result, when it is detected that the process flow button 1904 is pressed, the CPU 2001 reads the setting values of each process constituting the selected process flow from the XML file 1304 (step S1103) and stores them in the temporary storage area 1303.

  Next, in step S1104, the CPU 2001 confirms the replacement setting value of the process stored in the XML file 1304. As a result, if it is set to execute the process replacement (YES in step S1104), the process proceeds to step S1105. On the other hand, if it is not set to execute the process replacement (NO in step S1104), the process proceeds to step S1111 (same as above).

  In step S1105, the CPU 2001 determines whether a keyword (for example,% loginname%) to be replaced with a character string parameter in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 is set by a character string search (keyword Determination means). It is assumed that a keyword for performing this replacement is stored in the hard disk 2004 in advance. As a result, when a keyword to be replaced is set in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303, the process proceeds to step S1106. On the other hand, if no keyword to be replaced is set in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303, the process proceeds to step S1111.

  In step S1106, the CPU 2001 determines whether any value is set in the setting data (login user name) for each user corresponding to the keyword to be replaced in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 ( Setting data determination means). As a result, if a value is set in the setting data (login user name) for each user corresponding to the keyword to be replaced in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303, the process proceeds to step S1107.

  In step S1107, the CPU 2001 replaces the keyword to be replaced with the corresponding setting data (for example, login user name) for each user in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303.

  On the other hand, in step S1106, the CPU 2001 determines that no value is set in the setting data (login user name) for each user corresponding to the keyword to be replaced in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303. The process proceeds to step S1108. Next, it is determined whether an E-Mail address associated with the user (for example, an individual E-Mail address of the user) is set in the setting data for each user (step S1108) (address determination means). If the E-Mail address associated with the user is set in the setting data for each user, the process proceeds to step S1109. Then, the output processing of the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 is replaced with transmission processing to E-Mail associated with the user.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S1108, if the E-Mail address associated with the user is not set in the setting data for each user, the CPU 2001 outputs an error dialog (step S1110) and stops the processing. . Here, the user may be allowed to input an E-Mail address.

  In step S <b> 1111, the CPU 2001 analyzes and executes the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303.

  According to the second embodiment, the effects of the first embodiment can be further exhibited.

  In the first and second embodiments, the case where the processing flow control method of the present invention is applied to a multi-function peripheral and image data is processed has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer is used. Or a data processing device having a plurality of functions. The processing flow is not limited to image data processing, and may be a processing flow using various data.

  In the first and second embodiments, login authentication is performed from the multifunction peripheral 1001 to the directory service 1004, and setting data for each user is acquired. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the MFP 1001 itself may include setting data for each user and perform login authentication.

[Third embodiment]
An image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the same basic configuration (FIGS. 1 to 5) as the image processing apparatuses according to the first and second embodiments, and About the part similar to 1st, 2nd embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted using the same code | symbol. Only differences from the first and second embodiments will be described below.

  In this embodiment, instead of replacing all registered process setting values with individual user settings, the keywords set as part of the process settings are replaced with user specific processes. Can be executed as

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing processing flow execution processing according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 21, in step S2101, the CPU 2001 displays a processing flow button 1904 corresponding to the processing flow stored in the XML file 1304 on the processing flow list screen 1900 shown in FIG. Next, in step S2102, the CPU 2001 detects whether one of the process flow buttons 1904 has been pressed. As a result, when it is detected that the process flow button 1904 has been pressed, the CPU 2001 reads the setting value of each process constituting the selected process flow from the XML file 1304 (step S2103) and stores it in the temporary storage area 1303.

  Next, in step S2104, the CPU 2001 confirms the replacement setting value of the process stored in the XML file 1304. As a result, if it is set to execute the process replacement, the process proceeds to step S2105. On the other hand, if it is not set to replace the process, the process proceeds to step S2112 (same as above). If a negative determination is made in step S2104 and the process proceeds to step S2112, a common process that is not distinguished for each user is executed.

  In step S2105, the CPU 2001 determines whether a keyword (eg,% loginname%) for replacement with a character string parameter in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 is set by character string search. (Keyword determination means). It is assumed that a keyword for performing this replacement is stored in the hard disk 2004 in advance. As a result, when a keyword to be replaced is set in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303, the process proceeds to step S2106. On the other hand, if no keyword to be replaced is set in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303, the process proceeds to step S2112. In other words, when the process proceeds from step S2104 to step S2105, even if the setting for replacement for each user is set, if the keyword for replacement is not included in the processing flow, the distinction is made for each user. Common processing that is not performed is executed.

  In step S2106, the CPU 2001 determines a keyword to be replaced with the character string parameter in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303. If the keyword to be replaced with the character string parameter is a login user name (eg,% loginname%), the process proceeds to step S2107. If the keyword to be replaced with the character string parameter is a display name (eg,% name%), the process proceeds to step S2108. If the keyword to be replaced with the character string parameter is a domain name (eg,% domain%), the process advances to step S2109. If the keyword to be replaced with the character string parameter is a department ID (eg,% sid%), the process proceeds to step S2110. If the keyword to be replaced with the character string parameter is an E-Mail address (eg,% email%), the process proceeds to step S2111.

  In step S2107, the CPU 2001 replaces the keyword (eg,% loginname%) to be replaced in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 with the corresponding setting data (login user name) for each user, and in step S2105. Proceed to

  In step S2108, the CPU 2001 replaces the keyword to be replaced (eg,% name%) in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 with the corresponding setting data (display name) for each user, and goes to step S2105. move on.

  In step S2109, the CPU 2001 replaces the keyword (eg,% domain%) to be replaced in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 with the corresponding setting data (domain name) for each user, and goes to step S2105. move on.

  In step S2110, the CPU 2001 replaces the keyword (eg,% sid%) for replacement in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 with the corresponding setting data (department ID) for each user, and goes to step S2105. move on.

  In step S2111, the CPU 2001 replaces the keyword (eg,% email%) for replacement in the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303 with the corresponding setting data (E-Mail address) for each user, The process proceeds to S2105.

  As described above, after performing any one of steps S2107 to S2111 and then returning to step S2105, it is determined whether or not there remains a keyword for replacement that has not yet been replaced. In other words, when all of the replacement keywords (1 to 5 types) included in the processing flow have been replaced, the process proceeds from step S2105 to step S2112. In step S2112, a process is executed in which a part of the process flow is replaced with an individual user.

  In step S2112, the CPU 2001 analyzes and executes the processing flow stored in the temporary storage area 1303. When the processing flow is executed in step S2112, the function performed by the set value varies depending on which set value the character string replaced as described above is replaced.

  Hereinafter, a case where the processing flow is file transmission (FTP transmission or SMB transmission) (when “output” in FIG. 12 is “transmission” and the transmission method is FTP transmission or SMB transmission) will be described.

  When executing file transmission, the MFP 1001 (CPU 2001) converts the image data input by the “input” process into an image file, and a folder in a file server (external device) on the LAN 1006 via the network I / F 2010. To store. In this case, the format is "\\ File_Server_A (information specifying the file server = computer name of the file server) \ SALES (one of the directory names in the file server) \ storage folder name" . As the file server, it is possible to adopt a general personal computer. Various directories are provided on the hard disk of the file server, and a folder is provided for each user in one of the directories. The computer name of the file server is as described above, and the folder name is matched with each user name.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, for example, in the case of a processing flow for sending a file to a folder “\\ File_Server_A \ SALES \ login user name (eg, user_A, user_B,...)” Created for each user in the file server, The output process of the processing flow is file transmission. Then, the file transmission destination path (path information) is set as “\\ File_Server_A \ SALES \% loginname%”. When the user with the login user name “user_A” logs in and executes the process flow of file transmission, “% loginname%” is replaced with “user_A”. Then, the document file is transmitted to the folder “\\ File_Server_A \ SALES \ user_A” on the file server. In this case, “% loginname%” functions as a document destination path for each user.

  When “% loginname%” is set as the file name of the document to be transmitted, “% loginname%” functions as the file name of the transmitted document for each user.

  As described above, the keyword to be replaced in the processing flow has various functions. However, the function is not limited to the above. It is preferable that the replacement is stored in the HDD 2004 in advance and the process is executed accordingly.

  Therefore, in step S2112 of FIG. 21, when the output process of the processing flow is file transmission, the file transmission to the user-specific folder is executed by the above-described operation. On the other hand, when a user-specific process is not designated, a process flow as a predetermined common process is executed. Similarly, when the output process is other than file transmission, individual user processes or common processes are executed in accordance with the contents of the registered output processes.

  In the above processing, as a method for specifying a user, user authentication is performed by inputting a user name. However, the method is not limited to this method. That is, an ID card or the like for specifying a user may be used. In any case, it is only necessary that the login user can be specified and the user name information corresponding to the user can be acquired. Of course, a group such as a department name may be authenticated instead of the user.

  According to the third embodiment, it is possible to easily execute individual processing for each user (or for each group) without consuming many resources by using one sharing button.

  The object of the present invention is achieved by executing the following processing. That is, a storage medium that records a program code of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus is stored in the storage medium. This is the process of reading the code. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code and the storage medium storing the program code constitute the present invention.

  Moreover, the following can be used as a storage medium for supplying the program code. For example, floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD + RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM or the like. Alternatively, the program code may be downloaded via a network.

  Further, the present invention includes a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by executing the program code read by the computer. In addition, an OS (operating system) running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing based on an instruction of the program code, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing. Is also included.

Furthermore, a case where the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized by the following processing is also included in the present invention. That is, the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Thereafter, based on the instruction of the program code, the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing.

  Further, the present invention includes a case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by executing the program code read by the computer. In addition, there is a case where the OS running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instruction of the program code, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing. In this case, the program is supplied by downloading directly from a storage medium storing the program or from another computer or database (not shown) connected to the Internet, a commercial network, a local area network, or the like.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system including an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a multifunction machine in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating an outline of a hardware configuration of a multifunction machine. It is a top view which shows the external appearance structure of the operation part in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display part of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the function part which performs process flow control in a multifunction device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of login processing in the multifunction machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the input screen of the user name and password displayed on a LCD display part at the time of login. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the login process in a directory service. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing flow registration processing in a multifunction peripheral. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a registration / editing initial screen of a processing flow displayed on the LCD display unit when the processing flow is registered in FIG. 10. It is a figure which shows an example of the registration edit screen of the processing flow displayed on a LCD display part. It is a figure which shows an example of the registration edit screen for general users. It is a figure which shows an example of the registration edit screen for management users. It is a figure which shows an example of the setting screen of the processing flow displayed whenever the function button of FIG. 12 is pressed. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process replacement setting process procedure in a multifunction peripheral. It is a figure which shows an example of the replacement setting screen displayed on a LCD display part in the case of a replacement setting process. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing flow execution processing in a multifunction peripheral. It is a figure which shows an example of the processing flow list screen displayed on a LCD display part at the time of execution of the processing flow of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the execution process of the processing flow in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the execution process of the processing flow in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1001, 1002 MFP 1004 Database / mail server / directory service (server device)
1303 Temporary storage area 1304 XML file 2012 Operation unit 2013 LCD display unit 2000 Controller unit 2001 CPU

Claims (11)

In an image processing apparatus comprising: an authentication unit that performs user authentication; and an execution unit that links a plurality of functions different from each other and executes processing of image data as a series of processing flows.
Acquisition means for acquiring individual setting data set by the user authenticated by the authentication means;
First registration means for registering the plurality of processes as a series of process flows;
Homogenous process determination means for determining whether the same type of process as the individual user process based on the individual setting data is set in the process flow selected from the process flows registered in the first registration means; Have
The execution means, when the processing of the user-specific processing the same type is determined to be set by the same type processing determining means, the processing flow registered in said first registration means, in the processing flow while performing the replacing process of the same type to the user-specific processing, when said processing of user-specific processing the same type is determined to not set, registered in the first registration means processing the image processing apparatus characterized by the flow, to run after adding the user-specific processing to the processing flow. A second registration means for registering a default processing flow;
An individual process determining unit that determines whether or not a user-specific process is set in the setting data;
When the individual processing determination unit determines that the individual user processing is not set in the setting data, the execution unit registers a part of the processing flow with the second registration unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is executed by replacing the default process. A keyword determination unit that determines whether or not a keyword for replacing a part of the processing flow is set in the setting data;
Setting data determination means for determining whether a value is set in the setting data corresponding to the keyword;
When the keyword is set in the setting data and the value is set, the execution unit replaces a part of the processing flow with the setting data corresponding to the keyword to be replaced and executes the processing flow The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: An address determination means for determining whether an E-Mail address associated with the user is set in the setting data;
When the E-Mail address associated with the user is set in the setting data by the address determination unit, the execution unit performs output processing of the processing flow to the E-Mail address associated with the user. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the image processing apparatus is executed in place of transmission processing. The first registration unit registers a processing flow including path information for storing image data in an external device connected via a network;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the execution unit replaces a part of the path information with a user-specific folder and stores the image data in the folder. In a process flow control method comprising an authentication process for performing user authentication and an execution process for linking a plurality of different functions and executing a plurality of processes as a series of process flows.
An acquisition step of acquiring individual setting data set by the user authenticated in the authentication step, a first registration step of registering the plurality of processes as a series of processing flows;
The same kind of process determination for determining whether the same process as the individual user process based on the individual setting data is set in the process flow selected from the process flows registered in the first registration step. Have
The execution step, the said at allogeneic processing determining step when the processing of user-specific processing the same type is determined to have been set, the processing flow registered in said first registration step, the process When the same type of process in the flow is replaced with the individual process of the user and executed, when it is determined that the same type of process as the individual process of the user is not set, the process is registered in the first registration step. and the process flow, processing flow control method characterized by executing after adding the user-specific processing to the processing flow. A second registration step for registering a default processing flow;
An individual process determination step for determining whether or not a user-specific process is set in the setting data;
In the execution step, when it is determined in the individual processing determination step that the individual user processing is not set in the setting data, a part of the processing flow is registered in the second registration step. 7. The process flow control method according to claim 6, wherein the process is executed instead of the default process. A keyword determination step for determining whether or not a keyword for replacing a part of the processing flow is set in the setting data;
A setting data determination step for determining whether a value is set in the setting data corresponding to the keyword,
In the execution step, when a keyword is set in the setting data and the value is set, the processing flow is executed by replacing a part of the processing flow with setting data corresponding to the keyword to be replaced. The process flow control method according to claim 6, wherein: An address determination step of determining whether an E-Mail address associated with the user is set in the setting data;
In the execution step, when an E-Mail address associated with the user is set in the setting data in the address determination step, the output process of the processing flow is transferred to the E-Mail associated with the user. 9. The processing flow control method according to claim 8, wherein the processing flow control method is executed in place of transmission processing. The first registration step registers a processing flow including path information for storing image data in an external device connected via a network;
7. The processing flow control method according to claim 6, wherein in the execution step, a part of the path information is replaced with a user-specific folder and image data is stored in the folder.   A computer-readable program for causing a computer to execute the processing flow control method according to any one of claims 6 to 10.

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