JP5423779B2 - Document restoration system, image forming apparatus, control method therefor, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a document restoration system, an image forming apparatus, a control method thereof, and a program, and more particularly to a technique for restoring a document.

  In recent years, even when the digitization has progressed and the storage of paper documents has decreased, the culture of “outputting and storing on paper” is still needed and has not disappeared. For example, there are many tasks for storing estimates, work management, and the like as paper documents, and a system for reproducing such paper documents has already been proposed.

  As one of them, the following Patent Document 1 provides a paper media device that can deal with a two-dimensional bar code in which control information is recorded and can faithfully reproduce display and printing on an original document or the like. A system is disclosed. In this technique, in particular, the original data can be reproduced faithfully by using a two-dimensional barcode for the document data main body and the control information part.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-296099

  However, in the system that reproduces a paper document described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to simply reproduce the display or printing of the original document, but it is difficult to restore a lost or damaged paper document page. There was a problem.

  In general, there are various document storage methods. As an example, a printed paper document is bound in a binder and stored in a cabinet or cardboard, and is often combined with the following storage method.

-Document data is stored as electronic data in a personal computer (PC).

-Document data is stored as electronic data on media such as CD-R.

Paper documents stored in this way may suffer from the aging of paper over the years and the following loss / breakage problems.
(1) A part of the paper document was lost.
(2) Some paper documents were damaged due to disasters.
(3) The order of paper documents with a large number of pages has become messed up.
(4) A note was written on an important paper document stored.

  When such a problem occurs, these paper documents cannot be easily restored.

  In this regard, the electronic data can be restored if it exists, but the restoration is not easy, and if the electronic data is not in a normal state due to the storage state or the like, the restoration may be difficult. possible.

  As described above, conventionally, when a paper document once printed out is lost or damaged, it is not easy to find and restore the original electronic data.

  Therefore, by adding information that can restore the document contents of different pages to the printed paper document, if the paper document is lost or damaged and you want to restore the paper document, the paper document is imaged. A mechanism that can be restored by the device is conceivable.

  However, in the above technique, when a paper document is lost, the person who picks up the paper document can restore the entire paper document by making a restoration copy with the image forming apparatus having the document restoration function. There is a security problem.

  Also, for example, an outside person who picks up the paper document may make a restoration copy with an outside image forming apparatus having a document restoration function, and the restored paper document may be seen by an outside person. , Confidential information inside the company may be leaked. In addition, for example, when a user who is permitted to restore to a paper document performs restoration copying on an image forming apparatus other than the image forming apparatus on which the paper document is printed, the paper document is restored. Since the paper document restored from the image forming apparatus installed in various places is printed, the risk of information leakage increases.

  As described above, if a paper document can be restored using any image forming apparatus having a document restoration function, the risk of information leakage increases. Therefore, a mechanism that cannot be restored anywhere is required.

  An object of the present invention is to restore a page of a paper document to be restored from other pages of the paper document and to reduce a risk of information leakage due to the restored paper document.

The present invention relates to document data that is a recoverable range of a page other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and restoration of the document data by an image forming apparatus in document recovery system including an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded; and a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus on a condition of whether determining Then, the image forming apparatus may provide a page other than the self-page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information. and restoring means for restoring the document data, follow the device specific information to the printed material medium is included in the restoration information obtained by being read Te, to allow the determining means for determining whether or not to permit the document data to restore and output the image forming apparatus, it outputs the restore the document data by the restoring means by the restoring means Display means for displaying a reception screen for receiving information indicating the image forming apparatus, and restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus indicated by the information received via the reception screen displayed by the display means is generated. Generating means, adding means for adding the restoration information generated by the generating means to the document data restored by the restoring means, and restoring the document data by the judging means and outputting them by the image forming apparatus If it is determined that allowed to perform the restoration process by the restoration means, it has been restored by the restoration process by the addition means Adding restoration information generated by the generating means to the write data, on the other hand, if restore the document data is determined not to allow the outputting by the image forming apparatus, the restoration processing by the restoring means Control means for controlling so as not to be performed.

Further, the present invention provides document data that is a recoverable range of a page other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and whether or not the document data can be restored. an image forming apparatus for controlling the restoration process of the document data by using the device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus, a print medium on which restoration information is recorded which includes a condition determining the printed matter medium Restoration means for restoring document data of pages other than the self-page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by being read or the document data specified by the document specification information, and the print medium accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by the loads, to output to restore the document data by said restoring means And display means for displaying a determination unit configured to determine whether to allow the reception screen for receiving information of an image forming apparatus that allows to output the restore the document data by said restoring means, said display Generating means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus indicated by the information received via the reception screen displayed by the means; and restoring information generated by the generating means, the restoring means and adding means for adding the document data restored by, by the determination unit, when restoring the document data is determined to allow the outputting by the image forming apparatus performs restoration processing by the restoring means the restoration information generated by the generation unit to the document data restored by the restoration process is added by said adding means, whereas, the If it is determined not to allow the restore the write data outputted by the image forming apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a control means for controlling so as not to perform recovery processing by the recovery means.

Further, the present invention provides document data that is a recoverable range of a page other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and the document data by an image forming apparatus Article restore including an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded; and a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus as a condition determining whether the restored A control method in a system, wherein the restoration unit of the image forming apparatus includes the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium, or the document data specified by the document specification information. wherein the restoration step of restoring the document data of other pages than the relevant page, the judging means of the image forming apparatus, wherein the printed material medium read Accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by being written, a determination step of determining whether to permit the output at the restoration step restores to the image forming apparatus the document data by the image A display step of displaying a reception screen for accepting information indicating an image forming device that allows the display unit of the forming device to restore and output the document data by the restoring step; and the generating unit of the image forming device, A generating step of generating restoration information including device specifying information for specifying an image forming device indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed in the display step; and an adding unit of the image forming device includes the generating step the restoration information generated by the additional step of adding to the document data restored by said restoring step, the control unit of the image forming apparatus, before The determination step, when it is determined to permit to restore the document data output in the image forming apparatus performs restoration processing by the restoring step, the document data restored by the restoration processing by the additional step If it is determined that the restoration information generated in the generation step is added and the document data is not allowed to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, the restoration process in the restoration step is not performed. And a control step for controlling as described above.

Further, the present invention provides document data that is a recoverable range of a page other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and the document data by an image forming apparatus Article restore including an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded; and a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus as a condition determining whether the restored a program executable system reads specified, the image forming apparatus included in the document recovery system, the document data and the printed matter medium is included in the restoration information obtained by being read, or by the document identification information accordance document data, and restoring means for restoring the document data of other pages than the relevant page, the printed material medium read Accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by being written, a determination unit configured to determine whether to permit output by the image forming apparatus to restore the document data by the restoring means, the restoring Display means for displaying an acceptance screen for accepting information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by means, and information received via the acceptance screen displayed by the display means Generation means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying an image forming apparatus; addition means for adding the restoration information generated by the generation means to the document data restored by the restoration means; and the determination means If it is determined that the document data is allowed to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, the restoration means Performs original processing, the by the addition means adds restoration information generated by the generating means to the document data restored by the restoring process, whereas, the output in the image forming apparatus to restore the document data When it is determined not to permit, the control unit functions as a control unit that controls so as not to perform the restoration process by the restoration unit.

Further, the present invention provides document data that is a recoverable range of a page other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and whether or not the document data can be restored. a control method in an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded; and a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus as determining conditions, the According to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data identified by the document identification information, the restoration unit of the image forming apparatus A restoration process for restoring document data and a determination unit of the image forming apparatus include the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium. Accordance apparatus identification information that is the determination step of determining whether or not to allow the output to restore the document data by the restoration means, the display means of the image forming apparatus, the document data by the recovery step A display step for displaying an acceptance screen for receiving information indicating an image forming apparatus that is permitted to restore and output the image, and the generation unit of the image forming device has received the acceptance screen displayed by the display step. A generating step for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying an image forming apparatus indicated by the information, and an adding unit of the image forming apparatus restores the restoring information generated by the generating step by the restoring step. an adding step of adding the document data, the control unit of the image forming apparatus, by the determination step, the image forming to restore the document data If it is determined to allow the output location, and restore processing by the restoring step, the restoration information generated by the generation step to the restored document data by the recovery process by adding by said adding step, On the other hand, comprising: a control step of controlling not to perform the restoration process by the restoration step when it is determined that restoration of the document data and output by the image forming apparatus are not permitted. To do.

Further, the present invention provides document data that is a recoverable range of a page other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and whether or not the document data can be restored. there in the image forming apparatus reads executable program for controlling the restoration process of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded; and a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus as a condition determines In accordance with the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specification information, the image forming apparatus and restoring means for restoring the document data, in accordance with apparatus identification information to the printed material medium it is included in the restoration information obtained by being read Information indicating the image forming apparatus to allow the determining means for determining whether or not to allow the output document data restored by the, to be output to restore the document data by the restoring means by the restoring means Display means for receiving an acceptance screen, generating means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying an image forming apparatus indicated by information received via the acceptance screen displayed by the display means, It is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation unit is added to the document data restored by the restoration unit, and the determination unit permits the document data to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus. If it is, perform restoration processing by the restoring means, said raw document data restored by the restoring process by the addition means Adding restoration information generated by the means, on the other hand, if it is determined not to allow the restore the document data output in the image forming apparatus, a control so as not to perform recovery processing by the recovery means It is characterized by functioning as a control means.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to restore a page of a paper document to be restored from other pages of the paper document and reduce the risk of information leakage due to the restored paper document.

It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of schematic structure of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the main system structures of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the client terminal device and server terminal device which are shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the printer illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the information which the two-dimensional barcode (QR code) used with the document restoration system concerning embodiment of this invention hold | maintains. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an analysis result table that holds analysis result information of a paper document using a QR code printed for each page of the paper document in the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process sequence in the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S108 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S106 shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the detailed setting screen 801 used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the setting screen used in the case of the QR code production process of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process sequence in the decompression | restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S420 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S502 shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S516 shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S427-1 and S427-2 shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the operation screen displayed in the case of the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen of the operation unit of the printer illustrated in FIG. 3 during the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process sequence of step S429-1 shown in FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a print instruction process (direct printing method) for giving a print instruction from the client terminal device 200 to the printer 300. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating print processing of a print job in a direct printing method. 10 is a flowchart of print processing of a print job in a pull print method. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process sequence in the restoration process of the document using QR code of the document restoration system 100 concerning embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the flowchart of the detailed process of the user authentication process of step S431 of FIG. 47, and step S436. FIG. 48 is an example of a flowchart of detailed processing of MFP authority confirmation processing in step S432 of FIG. 47. FIG.

The best mode (embodiment) for carrying out the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1-1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1-2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a main system configuration of the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the document restoration system 100 includes a client terminal device 200, a printer 300, a print management server 800, a network 400, an inserter 500, an IC card 600, and a server terminal device 700. It is configured. The configuration of the document restoration system 100 shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and various forms can be adopted depending on the application and purpose.

  1-1, a client terminal device 200, a printer 300, a server terminal device 700, and a print management server 800 are connected via a network 400 such as a LAN (local area network). .

  The client terminal device 200 is an information processing device used by a user, and issues a print instruction to the printer 300.

  The client terminal device 200 creates document data to be printed using, for example, the various applications 101 shown in FIG. 1-2, and the OS 102 prints this document data, user information that gives a print command, and a printed printer. Information (multifunction peripheral information) is passed to the printer driver 103.

  The printer driver 103 instructs the plug-in 105 to convert the document data into print data having a format dependent on the printer 300. The plug-in 105 processes the document data and converts the document data into, for example, PDL. Is stored in the document data temporary storage unit 106. Thereafter, the printer driver 103 transmits document data from the plug-in 105 to the spooler 104.

  Also, authority setting information related to normal copy and restoration copy processing set on the setting screens of FIGS. 33 to 35 is stored in, for example, the external memory 211 or the HDD 304 according to the device in which the plug-in 105 is provided. The The screens of FIGS. 33 to 35 are provided by the plug-in 105, but are displayed on the display unit via the printer driver 103. The setting screens of FIGS. 33 to 35 will also be described.

  The printer driver 103 displays the authority setting confirmation screen 932 shown in FIG. 33 in response to a request from the plug-in 105 when a print command is issued from the user.

  FIG. 33 shows an authority setting confirmation screen 932. When printing is instructed, the restoration information is recorded on the printing paper, and it is set whether or not to set a user or group that can be restored using this restoration information. It is a screen to do. A button “Yes” 933 indicates whether to set a user or group that can be restored using the restoration information, and a button “No” 934 indicates a user or group that can be restored using the restoration information. Indicates that no setting is made. In other words, if this setting is not made, anyone can make a restoration copy without limitation as described later.

  When the button “Yes” 933 is selected by the user on the authority setting confirmation screen 932 in FIG. 33, the printer driver 103 displays the authority setting dialog 935 in FIG. 34 according to the request from the plug-in 105. In the authority setting dialog 935, a user and a group permitted to perform normal copying and restoration copying are set to be added / deleted. Here, it is only necessary to set the user and group who are permitted to restore the copy. When an add user or group button 936 in the authority setting dialog 935 is selected, an add user or group dialog 939 in FIG. 35 is displayed. When the application range setting button 940 of the user or group addition dialog 939 is selected, it is also possible to set a range of documents to which authority is given to the user or group. When the OK button 941 in the add user or group dialog 939 is selected, the screen returns to the authority setting dialog 935. When the OK button 938 in the authority setting dialog 935 is selected, the plug-in 105 displays the operated result information as a user. Save in the approval information 107.

  As a result, when a print instruction is generated by the printer driver 103 and a print job is generated, it is possible to designate a user and a group that can restore and copy the print paper printed by the printer based on the print data of the print job.

  Further, when there is a print command from the user, the authority setting confirmation screen 947 of FIG. 38 is displayed.

  FIG. 38 shows an authority setting confirmation screen 947. When the print instruction is given, the restoration information is recorded on the printing paper. In order to set whether or not to set up a printer that can be restored using the restoration information. This is the screen. A button “Yes” 948 indicates whether to set a printer that can be restored using the restoration information, and a button “No” 939 sets a printer that can be restored using the restoration information. Indicates no. In other words, if this setting is not performed, restoration copying can be performed from any printer without limitation, as will be described later.

  When the button “Yes” 948 is selected by the user on the authority setting confirmation screen 947 of FIG. 38, the authority setting dialog 950 of FIG. 39 is displayed. In the authority setting dialog 950, a printer (also referred to as a multi-function peripheral) that permits restoration copying is set to be added / deleted. Here, it is only necessary to set a printer that permits restoration copying.

  When an add multifunction device button 951 in the authority setting dialog 950 is selected, an add printer dialog 954 in FIG. 40 is displayed. The printer selected by the user via the add printer dialog 954 can be set as a printer that permits restoration. When the OK button 955 of the add printer dialog 954 is selected, the process returns to the authority setting dialog 950, and when the OK button 953 of the authority setting dialog 950 is selected, identification information for identifying the selected printer is combined with the MFP information 131. Save to. The multifunction device information 131 includes, for example, a multifunction device name and a multifunction device IP address as identification information for identifying a printer permitted to be restored. Here, the identification information of the printer to be printed is set so as to be automatically included in the MFP information 131 as the identification information of the printer that permits restoration printing. The MFP information 131 is an application example of the apparatus identification information of the present invention, and is information for identifying an image forming apparatus as a condition for determining whether or not the document data can be restored by the image forming apparatus.

  The multifunction machine information 131 includes identification information of a printer that permits restoration. Conversely, identification information of a printer that does not allow restoration is included instead of identification information of a printer that permits restoration. In step S1105, it may be determined whether the printer is permitted to be restored.

  In addition, the restoration-permitted user and group 126 include user information indicating a user who is permitted to restore, but conversely, not a user information indicating a user who is permitted to restore but a user indicating a user who is not permitted to restore. Information may be included, and it may be determined in step S1106 whether or not the user is permitted to perform restoration copying and normal copying.

  As a result, when the printer driver 103 issues a print instruction to generate a print job, or when printing is performed by the printer, a printer that can restore and copy the print paper printed by the printer is specified by the print data of the print job. It becomes possible to do.

  In addition, although the aspect in which the system configuration illustrated in FIG. 1-2 is provided in the client terminal device 200 is described here, the embodiment of the present invention is not necessarily limited to this aspect. For example, even if the plug-in 105 and the document data temporary storage unit 106 are provided in the printer 300, the plug-in 105 and the document data temporary storage unit 106 may be installed in both the client terminal device 200 and the printer 300 as necessary. Even if it is an aspect provided in, it is possible to apply as embodiment of this invention.

  The printer 300 is an image forming apparatus that functions as a printing apparatus that performs print processing of print data including document data. Note that the printer 300 is a multifunction machine having not only a printing function but also a FAX communication, a copying function, and the like.

  The printer 300 includes a printer with a display screen and a printer without a display screen. In this embodiment, the printer 300 has a display screen having a display screen (321 in FIG. 3) such as a liquid crystal screen in the operation unit (320 in FIG. 3). This will be described using a printer. The printer without a display screen is a printer that does not include a display screen (321 in FIG. 3) in the operation unit (320 in FIG. 3).

  An inserter 500 is connected to the printer 300 as an option. The printer 300 is configured to be able to authenticate using the IC card 600.

  The server terminal device 700 also has an electronic data storage unit 702 for storing document data created in the client terminal device 200, and is stored in the electronic data storage unit 702 when restoring the document data. It is possible to restore from stored electronic data. Note that the electronic data storage unit 702 may have a directory structure, or may use storage means such as a database.

  Next, the internal configuration of the client terminal device 200 and the printer 300 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the client terminal device 200, the server terminal device 700, and the print management server 800 illustrated in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the client terminal device 200 includes a CPU 201, a RAM 202, a ROM 203, a system bus 204, an input controller 205, a video controller 206, a memory controller 207, a communication I / F controller 208, A keyboard 209, a CRT 210, and an external memory 211 are included.

  The CPU 201 controls the operation of the client terminal device 200 in an integrated manner, and controls various devices and various controllers connected to the system bus 204 as necessary.

  The RAM 202 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 implements various operations by loading a program or the like necessary for executing the processing into the RAM 202 and executing the program.

  The ROM 203 includes a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) and an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as OS), which are control programs for the CPU 201, and various types of functions necessary for the CPU 201 to realize the functions of the client terminal device 200 according to the present embodiment. Programs and so on are stored. These programs may be stored in the external memory 211.

  The system bus 204 connects the CPU 201, RAM 202, ROM 203, system bus 204, input controller 205, video controller 206, memory controller 207, and communication I / F controller 208 so that they can communicate with each other.

  The input controller 205 controls input from a pointing device such as a keyboard 209 or a mouse (not shown).

  The video controller 206 controls display on a display unit such as a CRT display (CRT) 210. This display unit may be not only a CRT but also a liquid crystal display or the like.

  The memory controller 207 is an adapter to a hard disk (HD), floppy disk (registered trademark FD) or PCMCIA card slot that stores a boot program, browser software, various applications, font data, user files, editing files, various data, and the like. Is used to control access to an external memory 211 such as a compact flash memory (registered trademark) connected via the.

  The communication I / F controller 208 is connected to and communicates with an external device via the network 400, and executes communication control processing in the network 400. For example, Internet communication using TCP / IP is possible.

  Note that the CPU 201 enables display on the CRT 210 by executing outline font rasterization processing on the display information area of the RAM 202, for example. In addition, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) of the CRT 210 or the like.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the printer 300 illustrated in FIG. 1.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the printer 300 includes a controller unit 310, an operation unit 320, a card reader 330, a printer unit 340 (printing unit), and a scanner unit 350 (reading unit). . The controller unit 310 performs operation control of the operation unit 320, the card reader 330, the inserter 500, the printer unit 340, the scanner unit 350, and the like.

  The controller unit 310 includes a CPU 301, a RAM 302, a ROM 303, an HDD 304, a network I / F (Network I / F) 305, a modem (MODEM) 306, an operation unit I / F 307, and a system bus 308. An external I / F 309, an image bus I / F (IMAGE BUS I / F) 311, an image bus 312, a RIP 313, a printer I / F 314, a scanner I / F 315, and an image processing unit 316. It is configured.

  The CPU 301 is a processor that comprehensively controls operations in the printer 300.

  The RAM 302 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like of the CPU 301, and is also a program memory for recording a program and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

  The ROM 303 is a memory that permanently stores various programs and various data. The ROM 303 is necessary for the boot program, various control programs, and the CPU 301 to realize the functions of the printer 300 according to the present embodiment. Various programs are stored. Note that these programs may be stored in the HDD 304.

  The HDD 304 is a hard disk drive of an external storage device, stores various programs and various data necessary for the CPU 301 to perform processing, and various data generated by the processing of the CPU 301 as necessary. Memorize etc.

  A network I / F (Network I / F) 305 is connected to a network 400 such as a LAN and controls communication between the printer 300 and an external device. A modem (MODEM) 306 is connected to a public line and inputs / outputs data such as FAX transmission / reception.

  The operation unit I / F 307 notifies the CPU 301 of information (for example, a user name, a card number, and a password) input by the user from the operation unit 320. Further, the operation unit I / F 307 outputs image data to be displayed on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 to the operation unit 320.

  In the printer with a display screen that is premised on the printer 300 of the present embodiment, the operation unit 320 is provided with a display screen 321 that is a display unit having a touch panel. When the user presses a button or the like displayed on the display screen 321 (touches with a finger or the like), various input instructions are performed.

  A system bus 308 includes a CPU 301, a RAM 302, a ROM 303, an HDD 304, a network I / F (Network I / F) 305, a modem (MODEM) 306, an operation unit I / F 307, an external I / F 309, and an image bus I / F (IMAGE BUS). I / F) 311 are connected so as to communicate with each other.

  The external I / F 309 is an interface unit that receives external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, and RS-232C. The external I / F 309 is connected to a card reader 330 that reads card information of the non-contact type IC card 600 and an inserter 500.

  The CPU 301 can acquire card information of the non-contact type IC card 600 read by the card reader 330 via the external I / F 309.

  An image bus I / F (IMAGE BUS I / F) 311 is a bus bridge that connects a system bus 308 and an image bus 312 that transfers image data at high speed and converts a data structure.

  The image bus 312 connects an image bus I / F (IMAGE BUS I / F) 311, a RIP 313, a printer I / F 314, a scanner I / F 315, and an image processing unit 316 so that they can communicate with each other. The image bus 312 is constituted by, for example, a PCI bus or IEEE1394.

  The RIP 313 is a raster image processor and develops vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image.

  A printer I / F 314 connects the printer unit 340 and the controller unit 310, and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  A scanner I / F 315 connects the scanner unit 350 and the controller unit 310 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  The image processing unit 316 corrects, processes, and edits input image data, and performs printer correction, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data. Further, the image processing unit 316 performs rotation processing of image data, and performs compression / decompression processing such as JPEG and binary image data on multi-value image data, such as JBIG, MMR, and MH.

  The operation unit 320 is used to input an operation instruction from the user or to display an operation status. The operation unit 320 has a display screen 321, and a touch panel sheet is attached to the display screen 321. The operation unit 320 displays an operation screen on the display screen 321, and notifies the CPU 301 of the position information via the operation unit I / F 307 when a user touches a button or key of the displayed operation screen. To do.

  The operation unit 320 includes, for example, a start key, a stop key, an ID key, and a reset key as various operation keys. The start key is a key used when starting a document image reading operation. In the center of the start key, there are two color LEDs of green and red, and it is possible to know whether or not the start key can be used depending on the color.

  The stop key is a key having a function of stopping an operation in operation. The ID key is a key used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is a key used when initializing settings by the operation unit 320.

  The card reader 330 reads card information stored in the non-contact type IC card 600 under the control of the CPU 301 and notifies the CPU 301 of the read card information via the external I / F 309. Here, as the non-contact type IC card 600, for example, Sony's FeliCa (registered trademark) or the like can be applied.

  The printer unit 340 converts raster image data into an image on paper. As the conversion method at this time, there are an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, an ink jet method in which an ink is ejected from a minute nozzle array and an image is directly printed on a paper, and any conversion method is available. May be used.

  The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301. The printer unit 340 is provided with a plurality of paper feed stages and paper cassettes corresponding to these paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected.

  The scanner unit 350 obtains an electrical signal as raster image data by illuminating an image on a sheet serving as a document and scanning with a CCD line sensor. At this time, the original paper is set on the tray of the original feeder.

  When the user issues a document reading start instruction from the operation unit 320, the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner unit 350, and the document sheet is fed one by one by the document feeder to perform a document image reading operation.

  With the above-described configuration, the printer 300 can transmit the image data read from the scanner unit 350 to the network 400 and print the print data received from the network 400 on a sheet by the printer unit 340. Further, the printer 300 transmits the image data read from the scanner unit 350 to the public line by the modem (MODEM) 306, and prints the image data received by FAX from the public line on the paper by the printer unit 340. be able to.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of information held by a two-dimensional barcode (hereinafter referred to as “QR code”) suitable as restoration information added to a print medium used in the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram shown. This QR code is created by, for example, the plug-in 105 shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, a QR code of a two-dimensional barcode is used as a target for embedding restoration information. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an RF-ID tag is attached to printing paper, and its read / write function is used. If the printer is equipped with a printer, restoration information may be recorded on the RF-ID tag, or other information addition function may be used. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, an example using a QR code will be described.

  In other words, the QR code is created by the processing of the CPU 201 of the client terminal device 200 (or the CPU 301 of the printer 300) and stored in, for example, the external memory 211 (or the HDD 304).

  The information 110 held by the QR code shown in FIG. 4 is information relating to document data necessary for restoring a document (hereinafter also referred to as restoration information). As information 110 held by the QR code, page start flag information 111, current page number information 112, total page number information 113, information 114 indicating only text data or all data, data (binary) 115, font Information 116 such as image position information, electronic data file storage destination 117, electronic data update date 118, restoration permitted user, group (s) 126, restoration permitted multifunction device (IP address, multifunction device name) 131, and Page end flag information 119 is held. The restoration-permitted user and group (s) 126 are restored to the user / group (set in FIG. 34) who permits restoration copy when the authority for restoration copy is set on the authority setting confirmation screen 932 in FIG. Recorded in the information. The restoration permitted multifunction peripheral (IP address, multifunction machine name) 131 is a multifunction peripheral (set in FIG. 39) that permits restoration copying when the authority of the restoration copy target multifunction peripheral is set on the authority setting confirmation screen 947 in FIG. ) Is recorded in the restoration information.

  The page start flag information 111 is flag information indicating the start of each page held in the QR code. Since the QR code in this embodiment can hold a plurality of pieces of page information, information indicating a break for each page is required when restoring a document.

  The current page number information 112 and the total page number information 113 are necessary for determining which page information (current page number information 112) is relative to the page number (total page number information 113) of the entire document. This information is used to determine a missing page when restoring a document. These pieces of information are also used when a document is restored by the inserter function.

  Information 114 indicating only text data or all data is information indicating whether the document data recorded in the QR code is only text data or document data including image / font information.

  In addition to the document data of the page (own page), the data (binary) 115 is processed by other processing such as document data of the previous page or the subsequent page (other pages) by the processing of FIG. Document data is also stored in binary format.

  Information 116 such as font / image position information is information necessary for faithfully restoring the document, such as font information and image position information used in one page of document data.

  The file storage destination 117 specifies document data to be restored when performing restoration processing from electronic data stored in the server terminal device 700 rather than restoration from document data recorded on paper or a QR code. Document specifying information (information for accessing electronic data). That is, the document specifying information is information for specifying the document data stored in the storage device.

  For example, the electronic data main body is stored in the directory of the server terminal device 700 connected to the printer 300 over the network, and the path is stored. Alternatively, an identifier (for example, a file name) for uniquely identifying document data is added to the electronic data. A method of storing electronic data in a database is also conceivable.

  The update date 118 of the electronic data includes document data creation timing information (in this embodiment, the update date is used) indicating the timing when the paper document to be restored is created when the restoration process is performed from the electronic data, and the electronic data. This is information for confirming whether or not the two-dimensional barcode creation timing information (update date) indicating the creation timing is the same or different.

  In addition, when time is used for the document data creation timing information and the 2D barcode creation timing information, there is a slight difference because it is created by another device. In this case, the error within the predetermined range is the same. You may make it compare as what was produced at time.

  Thus, when a paper document is restored from the electronic data stored in the server terminal device 700, the user can select whether or not to restore according to the version of the stored electronic data. The user can restore a desired paper document.

  The page end flag information 119 is flag information indicating the end of each page held in the QR code.

  The restoration-permitted user and group 126 can register user and group information that can restore and copy the document in the QR code when the document is printed. Document copying (restoration copying printing) is not permitted to anyone, but only authorized users and groups can be permitted.

  Further, it is possible to set a restoration range of a printed document for each user and group. For example, a user in the same group as the restoration-permitted user can restore in a predetermined page range. In this case, a “recoverable page range” button not shown in the authority setting dialog 935 in FIG. 34 is provided, and when this button is pressed, a dialog screen (not shown) for specifying the page range is displayed. The page range is designated by the user's instruction via. The page range specified here is recorded in the restoration information as a recoverable page range.

  As described above, the QR code that is restoration information includes at least document data (data (binary) 115) of a page other than the self-page to be restored and a user permitted to restore the document data. It includes permission specifying information (restoration authorized user, group (s) 126) for specifying.

  The restoration permitted multifunction device (IP address, multifunction device name) 127 can register multifunction device information capable of restoring and copying the document in the QR code when the document is printed. Document copying (restored copy printing) is not permitted to any multifunction device, but only authorized multifunction devices can be permitted.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an analysis result table 120 that holds analysis result information of a paper document using a QR code printed for each page of the paper document in the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is.

  The analysis result table 120 reads a paper document (input document) to be restored with a QR code holding information shown in FIG. 4 by the scanner unit 350 of the printer 300 when the document is restored. The plug-in 105 analyzes the QR code of the data and holds analysis result information including a missing state for each page.

  The analysis result table 120 becomes information for creating an inserter instruction list when a document is restored using the inserter 500, for example. The analysis result table 120 is stored in the external memory 211 or the HDD 304, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the analysis result table 120 includes page number information 121, document presence / absence information 122 indicating whether a document is present or missing, and information (FIG. 4) held in a QR code. Restoration presence / absence information 123 with a QR code indicating whether restoration is possible is held.

  As a result of analyzing the input document with the QR code by the plug-in 105, for example, when the paper document on the first page is a normal paper document and can be restored with the QR code, as shown in FIG. In “1” of the page number information 121, “original” indicating that there is an original is held as the original presence / absence information 122, and it can be restored using the QR code as the presence / absence information 123 of the QR code. “QROK” is held.

  Further, as a result of analyzing the input document with the QR code by the plug-in 105, for example, when the paper document of the fourth page does not exist, it can be restored from the QR code attached to another paper document. In some cases, as shown in FIG. 5, “4” in the page number information 121 holds “missing” indicating that the document is missing as the document presence / absence information 122, and restoration with the QR code is performed. As the presence / absence information 123, “QROK” indicating that restoration is possible with a QR code is held.

  Further, as a result of analysis of the input document to which the QR code is added by the plug-in 105, for example, when the paper document of the third page does not exist, the restoration is also possible from the QR code attached to another paper document. If it is impossible, as shown in FIG. 5, “3” in the page number information 121 holds “missing” indicating that the document is missing as the document presence / absence information 122, and the QR code is used. As the restoration presence / absence information 123, “QRNG” indicating that restoration is possible with a QR code is held.

  Further, for example, when there is no paper document on the eighth page and it cannot be restored from a QR code attached to another paper document, a QR code attached to another paper document is not possible. If there is data in the file storage location 117 included in the file, as shown in FIG. 5, “8” in the page number information 121 indicates “missing” indicating that the document is missing as the document presence / absence information 122. And “QROK (electronic data)” indicating that restoration is possible from the file storage destination data included in the QR code, as the restoration presence / absence information 123 in the QR code.

  In this case, since there is an upper limit on the data capacity that can be stored in the QR code, if there is a case where document data exceeding the upper limit is stored, the corresponding page is not stored as document data, but the server terminal device 700 The document data is stored, and the QR code is configured to record the file storage destination 117 without recording the data (binary) 115 relating to the page and the information 116 such as font / image position information. It corresponds.

  As a matter of course, when document data exceeding the upper limit is converted into a QR code even if a document exists, “document” is included in the document presence / absence information 122, and “CROK ( Electronic data) ”is recorded.

  Next, a processing procedure in the above-described QR code creation processing will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure in the QR code creation processing of the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed processing procedure of step S108 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed processing procedure of step S106 shown in FIG. 6 to 8 are mainly performed by the plug-in 105 shown in FIG. 1-2, that is, the CPU 201 of the client terminal device 200 (or the CPU 301 of the printer 300). This is because the QR code that is restoration information is printed when a print job (print data) is generated and added, and when a copy or print job is printed by the copying machine (printer 300). This is because restoration information may be added to the paper to be stored.

  When the QR code, which is restoration information, is generated and added when a print job (print data) is generated, it is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal apparatus 200 because it is a process of the printer driver 103 and the plug-in 105. In addition, when restoring information is added to a sheet to be printed when restoring copying is performed by the copying machine (printer 300), the CPU 301 of the printer 300 executes.

  9 to 16 are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of setting screens used in the QR code creation process of the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  This setting screen is displayed on, for example, the CRT 210 when the plug-in 105 is provided in the client terminal device 200, for example, and is displayed on the operation unit 320, for example, when the plug-in 105 is provided in the printer 300, for example. It is displayed on the display screen 321.

  Also, the setting information related to the QR code creation process set on the setting screens of FIGS. 9 to 16 is stored in, for example, the external memory 211 or the HDD 304 according to the device in which the plug-in 105 is provided.

  The QR code creation process will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  Here, before explaining the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, first, the setting screens of FIGS. 9 to 16 will be explained.

  The setting screen 601 relating to QR code creation shown in FIG. 9 is configured to be able to set a creation data range, a QR code creation method, and whether to narrow the creation data to text for each page of document data.

  Specifically, the setting screen 601 for QR code creation in FIG. 9 shows that “only before and after and own page” 611 is selected as the creation data range.

  When “only front and back and own page” 611 is selected, the own page (n) for printing the QR code, the previous page (n−1) of the n page, and the subsequent page (n + 1) of the n page QR code including the document data is created.

  If n is the first page, the previous page is the last page of this document data. If n is the last page, the subsequent page is the first page of this document data.

  In addition, the setting screen 601 relating to QR code creation in FIG. 9 shows that “create multiple QR codes” 612 is selected as the QR code creation method.

  When “Create multiple QR codes” 612 is selected, the total data size of all pages in “Only before and after and own page” 611 selected as the creation data range is the capacity allowed by the QR code. If it exceeds the limit, these document data are divided to generate a plurality of QR codes.

  When the OK button 613 is pressed in this state, the setting information is set for the plug-in 105.

  The setting screen 601 related to QR code creation shown in FIG. 10 shows that “squeeze created data to text” 614 that is not set in FIG. 9 is further selected with respect to the setting screen shown in FIG. Has been.

  By setting “squeeze created data to text” 614, it is possible to create document data of only text data by using a plurality of QR codes by excluding image data.

  When the OK button 613 is pressed in this state, the setting information is set for the plug-in 105.

  In the setting screen 601 relating to QR code creation shown in FIG. 11, “only before and after and own page” 611 is selected as the creation data range, and “create single QR code” 615 is selected as the QR code creation method. The situation is shown.

  When the “create single QR code” 615 is selected, the total data size of all pages in the “front and back and own page only” 611 selected as the creation data range is the capacity allowed by the QR code. Even if the number is exceeded, only the creation of a single QR code is permitted.

  Further, when “create single QR code” 615 is selected as the QR code creation method, the detail button 616 becomes effective. When the detail button 616 is pressed, a detail setting screen 701 shown in FIG. 12 is displayed.

  The detailed setting screen 701 shown in FIG. 12 is configured to be able to set the priority order of pages for creating QR codes. For example, if you place the cursor on your own page (your page) 711 with the highest priority, the back side will be colored, and if you want to lower that priority, press the down button 713 to the desired location, Conversely, when the priority order is to be raised, the up button 712 is pressed.

  When the OK button 714 is pressed, the priority order of each page (priority orders 1 to 3 in the case of three pages shown in FIG. 12) is set.

  When the OK button 714 is pressed, the screen returns to the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. When the OK button 613 is pressed in this state, the setting information is set for the plug-in 105. .

  The setting screen 601 related to QR code creation shown in FIG. 13 shows that “squeeze created data to text” 614 that is not set in FIG. 11 is further selected with respect to the setting screen shown in FIG. Has been.

  By setting the “squeeze created data to text” 614, document data including only text data is created with a single QR code, excluding image data.

  When the OK button 613 is pressed in this state, the setting information is set for the plug-in 105.

  In the setting screen 601 relating to QR code creation shown in FIG. 14, a state where “Fit to QR code size” 617 is selected as the creation data range is shown.

  When this “fit to QR code size” 617 is selected, the setting item of the QR code creation method cannot be selected at the same time.

  Further, when “Fit to QR code size” 617 is selected as the creation data range, the detail button 618 is enabled. When the detail button 618 is pressed, a detail setting screen 801 shown in FIG. 15 is displayed.

  When “Fit to QR code size” 617 is selected as the creation data range, the priority order for each page for creating the QR code set on the detailed setting screen 801 shown in FIG. 15 according to the capacity allowed by the QR code. A single QR code is created according to

  The detailed setting screen 801 shown in FIG. 15 is configured to be able to set the priority order for each page for creating a QR code. For example, if you place the cursor on a page close to you (page close to your page) 811 that has the highest priority, the back will be colored, and if you want to lower that priority, press the down button 813 to the desired location. If the user wants to raise the priority order, the up button 812 is pressed.

  Here, the priority selection unit is a unit of pages such as a page close to itself including its own page (own page), a page in front of it, and a page behind it. When the OK button 814 is pressed, the priority order for each page (priority orders 1 to 3 in the case of the three page units shown in FIG. 15) is set.

  When the OK button 814 is pressed, the screen returns to the setting screen 601 related to QR code creation. When the OK button 613 is pressed in this state, the setting information is set for the plug-in 105. .

  The setting screen 601 related to QR code creation shown in FIG. 16 shows that “squeeze the created data to text” 614 that is not set in FIG. 14 is further selected with respect to the setting screen shown in FIG. Has been. By setting this “squeezed creation data to text” 614, document data of only text data is created with a QR code, excluding image data. When the OK button 613 is pressed in this state, the setting information is set for the plug-in 105.

  Next, the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 will be described.

  When performing the processing of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, it is assumed that the setting information setting on the setting screen 601 relating to the QR code creation described above has already been performed for each page of the target document data. .

  First, in step S <b> 101 of FIG. 6, the plug-in 105 temporarily stores document data (PDL) to be printed in the document data temporary storage unit 106. Here, the document data temporary storage unit 106 corresponds to, for example, the external memory 211 or the HDD 304.

  Subsequently, in step S102, the plug-in 105 sets A as the total number of pages of the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101. This page total number A corresponds to, for example, the total page number information 113 shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, in step S103, the plug-in 105 sets the variable a indicating the QR code creation target page to 1 in the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101. As a result, the QR code creation target page (own page) a is set.

  In step S104, for each page a, page identification information (file name for uniquely identifying the page is created for the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101). Or the document data may be included and stored for each page of the document data), the server terminal device 700 stores the document data in its own predetermined directory (electronic data storage unit 702). The electronic data corresponding to is received and stored.

  Note that a predetermined location may be used as the directory, or the setting screen 601 may be configured so that the directory that is the storage destination of the document data (PDL) can be specified on the setting screen 601.

  Subsequently, in step S105, the plug-in 105 determines that the creation data range of the QR code creation target page (own page) a is based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 related to QR code creation. It is determined whether only the previous and subsequent pages are set or the size is matched with the QR code size.

  Specifically, in this step S105, on the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 9 etc., “Only before and after and own page” is selected as the creation data range, or “Fit to QR code size” is selected. It is determined according to whether it is.

  As a result of the determination in step S105, when the created data range matches the QR code size (that is, “Fit to QR code size” 617 is selected and set as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIGS. 14 and 16) ) Proceeds to step S106.

  In step S106, the plug-in 105 performs a single QR code creation process in accordance with the QR code size. Details of step S106 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the process of step S106 is completed, the process proceeds to step S118.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S105, when the creation data range is only the own page and its preceding and following pages (that is, “only before and after and its own page” as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 and 13). If 611 is selected and set), the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the plug-in 105 creates one or a plurality of QR codes on the QR code creation target page (own page) a based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. It is determined whether.

  Specifically, in step S107, whether “Create multiple QR codes” is selected as the QR code creation method on the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 9 or the like, or “Create single QR code” is displayed. It is determined according to whether it is selected.

  As a result of the determination in step S107, a single QR code is created (that is, “Create a single QR code” 615 is selected and set as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIGS. 11 and 13). In step S108, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, the plug-in 105 performs a single QR code creation process.

  Details of step S108 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the process of step S108 ends, the process proceeds to step S118.

  On the other hand, when a plurality of QR codes are created as a result of the determination in step S107 (that is, “Create a plurality of QR codes” 612 is selected and set as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10). In the case), the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, the plug-in 105 determines whether to create only text data as data in the set creation data range based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. .

  Specifically, in this step S109, determination is made depending on whether or not “squeeze created data to text” is selected on the setting screen 601 shown in FIG.

  As a result of the determination in step S109, not only the text data is created, but all the data in the created data range page is created (that is, as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. If “squeeze” is set without being selected), the process proceeds to step S110.

  When the process proceeds to step S110, the plug-in 105 determines that the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 is the creation data range of its own page (n pages), the previous page (n-1 pages), and The document data of the back page (n + 1) is read to determine the document data size.

  On the other hand, when only the text data is created as a result of the determination in step S109 (that is, when “squeeze created data to text” 614 is selected and set as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 10). The process proceeds to step S111.

  In step S111, the plug-in 105 performs an extraction process for extracting only text data from the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101.

  Subsequently, in step S112, the plug-in 105 determines that the generated data range of the text data extracted in step S111 is its own page (n page), the previous page (n-1 page), and the subsequent page. The text data of (n + 1) is read and the document data size is determined.

  In the example shown in FIG. 6, first, only text data is extracted from the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 (S111), and then the text data of the pages in the created data range from the extracted text data. Is shown (S112), but the present embodiment is not limited to this mode.

  For example, as in step S110, first, from the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101, the own data page (n pages), the previous page (n-1 pages), and its creation data range. Even in a mode in which the document data of the back page (n + 1) is read and then only the text data is extracted from the page of the read creation data range, it is applicable to this embodiment.

  When the process of step S110 ends, or when the process of step S112 ends, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the plug-in 105 compares the data size read in step S110 or step S112 with the capacity allowed by the created QR code, and the capacity allowed by the QR code is equal to or larger than the read data size. It is determined whether or not.

  Here, in this example, 80% of the entire size of the QR code is set as the capacity allowed by the QR code. This is because the capacity allowed by this QR code corresponds to the allowable amount that can be set in the data (binary) 115 of the information 110 held by the QR code shown in FIG.

  Therefore, the data of the data size that is equal to or smaller than the allowable amount is QR-coded.

  If it is determined in step S113 that the capacity allowed by the QR code is equal to or larger than the read data size, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the plug-in 105 converts the document data read in step S110 or step S112 into a barcode and performs a single QR code creation process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S117.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S113, if the capacity allowed by the QR code is not equal to or larger than the read data size (that is, if the capacity allowed by the QR code is less than the read data size), the process proceeds to step S115. move on.

  In step S115, the plug-in 105 converts the document data read in step S110 or step S112 into a barcode and performs a process for creating one QR code.

  At this time, the file storage destination 117 includes identification information for identifying the document data in step S104, that is, page identification information regarding the electronic data stored in the server terminal device 700, a path to the directory of the server terminal device 700, and the like. Set information including.

  Subsequently, in step S116, the plug-in 105 determines whether there is any remaining document data not created as a QR code among the document data read in step S110 or step S112.

  As a result of the determination in step S116, if there is remaining document data not created as a QR code among the document data read in step S110 or step S112, the number of QR codes to be created is set to be increased by one. Returning to step S115, a process for creating one QR code in the remaining document data is performed.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S116, if there is no remaining document data not created as a QR code among the document data read in step S110 or step S112, the process proceeds to step S117.

  In step S117, the plug-in 105 places the QR code created in step S114 or step S115 at a predetermined position on the page (own page) a of the QR code creation target of the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101. Place and attach.

  When a plurality of QR codes are created in the loop from step S115 to step S116, each QR code is shifted and arranged at a predetermined position on the page (own page) a for which the QR code is created.

  Subsequently, in step S118, the plug-in 105 determines whether or not the variable a indicating the QR code generation target page (self page) is smaller than the total page number A of the document data set in step S102.

  As a result of the determination in step S118, if the variable a indicating the QR code generation target page (own page) is smaller than the total page number A of the document data set in step S102, the QR code generation processing is performed. It is determined that all pages of the document data temporarily stored in S101 have not been performed, and the process proceeds to step S119.

  In step S119, the plug-in 105 adds 1 to the variable a indicating the QR code creation target page (self page) to change the QR code creation target page a. And the process after step S105 is performed again with respect to the page a changed by step S119.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S118 that the variable a indicating the QR code creation target page (own page) is equal to or greater than the total page number A of the document data set in step S102, QR code creation processing is performed. Is performed for all pages of the document data temporarily stored in step S101, and the processing in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  After that, when the user instructs the print processing of a series of document data with a QR code attached to each page by the processing in FIG. 6, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 causes the printer unit 340 to print the series of document data. Processing is performed, and the series of documents is printed out on a sheet (printed medium) (first output step). That is, document data including a QR code is printed for each sheet. Specifically, this will be described later with reference to FIGS. 44, 45, and 46.

  Next, the details of the single QR code creation process in step S107 shown in FIG. 6 will be described using FIG.

  When the process of step S107 of FIG. 6 is started, first, in step S201 of FIG. 7, the plug-in 105 creates a QR code based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 related to QR code creation. Determine page priority.

  Specifically, in step S201, the detail button 616 is pressed on the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 11 or 13 to display the detailed setting screen 701 shown in FIG. Based on the priority order, the priority order of pages for generating the QR code is determined.

  That is, in this step S201, when the data cannot be stored in a single QR code created by the total data size of the current page, the previous page, and the subsequent page, based on the priority order determined here. This is a process for storing page data in a QR code.

  Here, in the present embodiment, based on the setting on the detailed setting screen 701 shown in FIG. 12, the own page (own page) is determined as the priority order 1 and the previous page in the own page (own page) as the priority order 2. It is assumed that one of the next page and the subsequent page is determined, and the other page in the priority order 2 is determined as the priority order 3.

  Subsequently, in step S202, the plug-in 105 determines whether to create only text data as data of the set creation data range based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. Determine.

  Specifically, in step S202, the determination is made according to whether or not “squeeze the created data into text” is selected on the setting screen 601 shown in FIG.

  As a result of the determination in step S202, not only text data is created, but all data of pages in the created data range is created (that is, as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. If “squeeze” is set without selection), the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S203, the plug-in 105 has priority 1 among the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 of FIG. 6 based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. Read document data.

  Here, in the present embodiment, since the page (own page), that is, the page for which the QR code is to be created is determined as priority 1 in step S201, in this example, the document data of the own page is determined. Will be read.

  Subsequently, in step S204, the plug-in 105 determines and stores the data size of the document data read in step S203. Here, when the process of step S203 is repeated, the data size of the document data is stacked to determine the read data size.

  Subsequently, in step S205, the plug-in 105 compares the read data size determined in step S204 with the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created, and the capacity allowed by the QR code is determined based on the read data size. Or the document data of the last priority page is not read.

  Here, in this example, 80% of the overall size of the QR code is set as the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created in the same manner as in step S113 of FIG. 6 described above.

  If the result of determination in step S205 is affirmative, the priority is increased by one with respect to the priority of the document data read in step S203, the process returns to step S203, and the processing from step S203 onward is performed again. Do.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S205 is negative, the process proceeds to step S210.

  As a result of the determination in step S202, when only text data is created (that is, when “squeeze created data to text” 614 is selected and set as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 13), step The process proceeds to S206.

  In step S206, the plug-in 105 has priority 1 among the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 of FIG. 6 based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. An extraction process for extracting only text data from document data is performed.

  Subsequently, in step S207, the plug-in 105 reads the text data extracted in step S206.

  Subsequently, in step S208, the plug-in 105 determines and stores the data size of the text data read in step S207. Here, when the process of step S207 is repeated, the data size of the text data is stacked to determine the read data size.

  Subsequently, in step S209, the plug-in 105 compares the read data size determined in step S208 with the capacity allowed by the created QR code, and the capacity allowed by the QR code is determined based on the read data size. Or the text data of the last priority page is not read.

  Here, in this example, 80% of the overall size of the QR code is set as the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created in the same manner as in step S113 of FIG. 6 described above.

  If the result of determination in step S209 is affirmative, the priority is increased by one with respect to the priority of the text data extracted and read in steps S206 and S207, the process returns to step S206, and step S206 is again performed. Perform the following processing.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S209 is negative, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, the plug-in 105 determines whether the capacity allowed by the QR code is the same (equal) as the read data size determined in step S204 or step S208.

  As a result of the determination in step S210, if the capacity allowed by the QR code is not the same (equal) as the read data size determined in step S204 or step S208, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the plug-in 105 performs processing for deleting the data of the page read last in step S203 or step S207. As a result, the data can be converted into a QR code within the capacity range permitted by the QR code.

  When the process of step S211 is completed, or when it is determined in step S210 that the capacity allowed by the QR code is the same (equal) as the read data size determined in step S204 or step S208, Proceed to step S212.

  In step S212, the plug-in 105 converts the document data read in step S203 or step S207 into a barcode and performs a single QR code creation process. At this time, information including the page identification information and the path to the directory in step S104 is set in the file storage destination 117.

  The data deleted in step S211, that is, the data out of the capacity allowed by the QR code, is information 114 indicating only text data or all data, data (binary) 115, font / image position information. The information 116 such as the current page number information 112, the file storage destination 117 (for example, information related to the storage area of the electronic data storage unit 702), the update date 118, the restoration permitted user, the group 126, and the restoration are permitted. Information relating to the restoration permitted multifunction peripheral (information) 131 (hereinafter also simply referred to as a restoration permitted multifunction peripheral), which is multifunction peripheral information, is created by QR coding.

  Subsequently, in step S213, the plug-in 105 determines the QR code created in step S212 as the QR code creation target page (own page) a of the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 in FIG. Place and attach to. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S118 of FIG. 6 described above, and the processes after step S118 are performed.

  Next, details of the single QR code creation process in accordance with the QR code size in step S106 shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the process of step S106 of FIG. 6 is started, first, in step S301 of FIG. 8, the plug-in 105 creates a QR code based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 related to QR code creation. Determine the priority for each page.

  Specifically, in step S301, the detail button 618 is pressed on the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 14 or 16 to display the detailed setting screen 801 shown in FIG. Based on the priority order, the priority order of the page unit for creating the QR code is determined.

  Here, in the present embodiment, based on the setting on the detailed setting screen 801 shown in FIG. 15, a page close to you including your page (your page) is determined as priority 1 and close to you as priority 2 One page unit of the front page or the rear page in the page is determined, and the other page unit in the priority order 2 is determined as the priority order 3.

  Subsequently, in step S302, the plug-in 105 determines whether to create only text data as data of the set creation data range based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. Determine.

  As a result of the determination in step S302, not only text data is created, but all data of pages in the created data range is created (that is, as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. If “squeeze” is set without being selected), the process proceeds to step S303.

  In step S303, the plug-in 105 has priority 1 among the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 of FIG. 6 based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. Read document data in page units.

  Here, in this embodiment, since a page close to itself including its own page (own page) is determined as priority 1 in step S301, in this example, first, a page for which a QR code is to be created is included. The document data for each page is read.

  Subsequently, in step S304, the plug-in 105 determines and stores the data size of the document data read in step S303.

  Here, when the process of step S303 is repeated, the data size of the document data is stacked to determine the read data size.

  Subsequently, in step S305, the plug-in 105 compares the read data size determined in step S304 with the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created, and the capacity allowed by the QR code is determined based on the read data size. It is determined whether or not it is larger.

  Here, in this example, 80% of the overall size of the QR code is set as the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created in the same manner as in step S113 of FIG. 6 described above.

  Here, it is assumed that the data size of the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 in FIG. 6 is larger than the capacity allowed by the QR code created in step S305 (that is, the detailed setting shown in FIG. 15). It is assumed that processing is performed up to the page unit of the last priority set on the screen 801, and the loop of step S303 to step S305 is not continuously repeated).

  As a result of the determination in step S305, when the capacity allowed by the QR code is larger than the read data size, the priority is increased by one with respect to the priority of the document data read in step S303, and step S303 is executed. Returning to step S303, the processes after step S303 are performed again.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S305, if the capacity allowed by the QR code is not larger than the read data size (below), the process proceeds to step S310.

  If only the text data is created as a result of the determination in step S302 (that is, when “squeeze created data to text” 614 is selected and set as in the setting screen 601 shown in FIG. 16), step The process proceeds to S306.

  In step S306, the plug-in 105 has priority 1 among the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 of FIG. 6 based on the setting information set on the setting screen 601 for QR code creation. An extraction process for extracting only text data from document data in page units is performed.

  Subsequently, in step S307, the plug-in 105 reads the text data extracted in step S306.

  Subsequently, in step S308, the plug-in 105 determines and stores the data size of the text data read in step S307. Here, when the process of step S307 is repeated, the data size of the text data is stacked to determine the read data size.

  Subsequently, in step S309, the plug-in 105 compares the read data size determined in step S308 with the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created, and the capacity allowed by the QR code is determined based on the read data size. It is determined whether or not it is larger.

  Here, in this example, 80% of the overall size of the QR code is set as the capacity allowed by the QR code to be created in the same manner as in step S113 of FIG. 6 described above.

  Here, the data size of the text data extracted from the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 in FIG. 6 is assumed to be larger than the capacity allowed by the QR code created in step S309 (that is, It is assumed that the processing is performed up to the page unit of the last priority set on the detailed setting screen 801 shown in FIG. 15, and the loop of step S306 to step S309 is not continuously repeated).

  As a result of the determination in step S309, if the capacity allowed by the QR code is larger than the read data size, the priority is increased by one with respect to the priority of the text data extracted and read in steps S306 and S307. Then, the process returns to step S306, and the processes after step S306 are performed again.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S309, if the capacity permitted by the QR code is not larger than the read data size (below), the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, the plug-in 105 determines whether the capacity allowed by the QR code is the same (equal) as the read data size determined in step S304 or step S308.

  As a result of the determination in step S310, if the capacity allowed by the QR code is not the same (equal) as the read data size determined in step S304 or step S308, the process proceeds to step S311.

  In step S311, the plug-in 105 performs a process of deleting the data of the page read last in step S303 or step S307.

  When the process of step S311 is completed, or when it is determined in step S310 that the capacity allowed by the QR code is the same (equal) as the read data size determined in step S304 or step S308, The process proceeds to step S312.

  In step S312, the plug-in 105 converts the document data read in step S303 or S307 into a barcode and performs a single QR code creation process. At this time, specific information for specifying document data such as page identification information and information including the path to the directory of the server terminal device 700 in step S104 is set in the file storage destination 117.

  It should be noted that the data deleted in step S311 excludes information 114 indicating only text data or all data, data (binary) 115, information 116 such as font / image position information, and the current page number information 112. The file storage destination 117, the update date 118, the restoration permitted user, the group 126, and the information related to the document data including the multifunction peripheral 131 permitted to be restored are converted into a QR code.

  Subsequently, in step S313, the plug-in 105 determines that the QR code created in step S312 is a predetermined position of the page (own page) a of the QR code creation target of the document data (PDL) temporarily stored in step S101 of FIG. Place and attach to. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S118 of FIG. 6 described above, and the processes after step S118 are performed.

  Further, as described above with reference to FIGS. 33 to 35, the authority for restoration copy (restore-permitted user, group 126, multifunction machine 131 permitted to be restored) is set upon receipt of designation by the user. The authority setting for the restoration copy is executed before the processing described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

Therefore, the restoration-permitted user, the group 126, and the multifunction peripheral 131 permitted to be restored set in FIGS. 33 to 35 and FIGS. 38 to 40 are stored in the RAM in advance, and the steps S114 and S115 are performed. When the restoration information is QR-coded in step S212 and step S312, it is read out and converted.

  When a QR code is added by the printer 300, the screens of FIGS. 33 to 35 and FIGS. 38 to 40 are displayed on the operation unit of the printer 300 and restored by the printer 300 in the same manner as the above-described processing. Configure to set copy permissions.

  In addition, although it has been described that the multifunction peripheral 131 permitted to be restored is set by a user operation in FIGS. 38 to 40, the multifunction peripheral 131 includes the QR code generated in step S114, step S115, step S212, and step S312. A printer that prints document data is automatically set as a printer that permits restoration printing. That is, the QR code is created by including the identification information for identifying the printer that permits restoration printing in the multifunction peripheral 131 that is permitted to restore.

  In addition, it has been described that the restoration-permitted user and group 126 are set by a user operation in FIGS. 33 to 35, but the document including the QR code generated in step S114, step S115, step S212, and step S312. User information indicating a user who has instructed printing of data is automatically set as a user permitted to perform restoration printing. That is, the user who gives the print instruction creates a QR code including the restoration-permitted user and group 126 as a user who permits restoration printing.

  Next, a processing procedure in document restoration processing using a QR code will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure in document restoration processing using a QR code of the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed processing procedure of steps S427-1 and S427-2 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure of step S429-1 illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure of step S420 illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure of step S502 illustrated in FIG. FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure of step S516 illustrated in FIG.

  20 to 28, FIGS. 30 to 31, FIGS. 36 to 37, and FIGS. 41 to 42 are used for the document restoration process using the QR code of the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 of the printer 300 illustrated in FIG. 3.

  Hereinafter, a document restoration process using a QR code will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 43. First, the flowchart shown in FIG. 17 will be described.

  First, in step S425 of FIG. 17, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 displays a login message screen 942 shown in FIG. 36 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320, including a login guidance message to the printer 300 for normal copy and restoration copy processing. Perform the process.

  Thereafter, when the user presses the OK button 943 on the login message screen 942 shown in FIG. 36 in step S426, the process is subsequently accepted in step S426. On the other hand, when the user presses a cancel button 944 on the login message screen 942 shown in FIG. 36, the system ends.

  Subsequently, in step S427-1, a log-in process is performed on the printer 300, and an authentication process is performed to determine whether the user is permitted a normal copy / restoration copy process. Details of step S427 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, in step S <b> 401, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the copy mode selection screen 901 illustrated in FIG. 20 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 based on an input instruction to the operation unit 320 by the user.

  Subsequently, in step S402, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 determines whether or not the restoration copy button 912 has been selected by the user pressing the restoration copy button 912 on the copy mode selection screen 901 shown in FIG.

  If the result of determination in step S402 is that restoration copy has been selected, processing proceeds to step S428. In step S <b> 428, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the multifunction device confirmation screen 956 shown in FIG. 41 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 including a confirmation message as to whether the multifunction device can be restored and copied.

  Thereafter, when the user presses an OK button 957 on the multifunction device confirmation screen 956 shown in FIG. 41, the process is accepted in step S403. On the other hand, when the user presses a cancel button 958 on the multifunction device confirmation screen 956 shown in FIG. 41, the system ends.

  In step S403, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 displays the document analysis confirmation screen 902 shown in FIG. 21 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320, which includes a guidance message for performing a scan to analyze the document to be restored. I do.

  Thereafter, a series of paper documents to be restored by the user (in this paper document, the QR code described above is printed for each paper document) is set in the scanner unit 350, and a confirmation screen before document analysis shown in FIG. When the OK button 913 902 is pressed by the user, in step S404, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the scanner unit 350 to scan the paper document.

  If the user presses the cancel button 914 on the pre-document analysis confirmation screen 902 shown in FIG. 21, the scan process in step S404 is not performed.

  By performing the scan process in step S404, an authentication process is performed in step S427-2 to determine whether the user or group has the authority for restoration copy. Details of the authentication processing in step S427-2 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the authentication process is completed, subsequently, in step S429-1, a confirmation process is performed to determine whether the MFP is permitted to perform the normal copy and restoration copy processes. Details of step S429 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S405, the plug-in 105 (specifically, the CPU 201 if the plug-in is provided in the client terminal device 200, or the CPU 301 if the plug-in is provided in the printer 300) is executed in step S404. The QR code attached to the page of the paper document is read for each page of the paper document scanned in.

  Subsequently, in step S406, the plug-in 105 performs an analysis process on the information (FIG. 4) held in the QR code read in step S405.

  Subsequently, in step S407, the plug-in 105 holds the analysis result analyzed in step S406 in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG.

  As a method of holding the analysis result, for example, when an input document with a QR code is analyzed by the plug-in 105 and the paper document is a normal paper document and can be restored with the QR code, “Original” indicating that there is an original is stored as the presence / absence information 122 of the original corresponding to the page number information 121, and “QROK” indicating that restoration is possible using the QR code as the presence / absence information 123 of restoration using the QR code Retained.

  In addition, when the plug-in 105 analyzes the input document to which the QR code is attached, the paper document does not exist and can be restored from the QR code attached to another paper document. “Missing” indicating that the document is missing is held as the document presence / absence information 122 corresponding to the page number information 121 of the page, and it can be restored with the QR code as the restoration information 123 with QR code. “QROK” shown is held.

  Further, when the plug-in 105 analyzes the input document to which the QR code is attached, the paper document does not exist and cannot be restored from the QR code attached to another paper document. Holds “missing” indicating that the original is missing as the original presence / absence information 122 corresponding to the page number information 121 of the corresponding page, and cannot be restored with the QR code as the restoration presence / absence information 123 with the QR code. “QRNG” indicating that the

  Furthermore, as a result of analyzing the input document to which the QR code is attached by the plug-in 105, there is no paper document, and it is impossible to restore from the QR code attached to another paper document. If the data (binary) 115 included in the QR code attached to another paper document and the information 116 such as the font / image position information do not contain data and the file storage destination 117 contains data, the corresponding “Missing” indicating that the document is missing is held as the document presence / absence information 122 corresponding to the page number information 121 of the page, and it can be restored with the QR code as the restoration information 123 with QR code. “QROK (electronic data)” is held.

  Subsequently, in step S408, the plug-in 105 determines whether there is a next document (paper) scanned in step S404. If the result of this determination is that there is the next document (paper) scanned in step S404, the process returns to step S405, and the processing from step S405 onward is performed again.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S408 is that there is no next document (paper) scanned in step S404, processing proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the plug-in 105 determines that pages that cannot be restored based on the analysis result information stored in the analysis result table 120 illustrated in FIG. It is determined whether or not the ratio is greater than 30%. Specifically, the determination in step S409 is performed based on the restoration presence / absence information 123 in the QR code held in the analysis result table 120 illustrated in FIG.

  If the result of determination in step S409 is that there are more pages that cannot be restored than the reference value, processing proceeds to step S410.

  In step S410, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the document analysis result screen 903 shown in FIG. 22 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320. In the document analysis result screen 903 shown in FIG. 22, page information relating to a page that cannot be restored is displayed.

  Subsequently, in step S411, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 determines whether or not to restore the restoration target document by pressing the restoration button 915 by the user on the document analysis result screen 903 shown in FIG.

  As a result of the determination in step S411, when the restore button 915 is pressed to restore the document to be restored, the process proceeds to step S413.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S411, when the restoration target document is not restored (when the non-restoration button 916 on the document analysis result screen 903 shown in FIG. 22 is pressed), the processing in the flowchart shown in FIG. Exit.

  If the number of pages that cannot be restored is not greater than the reference value as a result of the determination in step S409, the process proceeds to step S412.

  In step S412, the plug-in 105 performs a missing page determination process to determine whether there is a missing page, based on the analysis result information held in the analysis result table 120 illustrated in FIG. The determination in step S412 is specifically performed based on the document presence / absence information 122 held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG.

  If there is a missing page as a result of the determination in step S412, the process proceeds to step S413.

  In step S 413, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. 23 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320. In the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. 23, page information related to the missing page (information on the number of missing pages) is displayed.

  Subsequently, in step S414, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs an operation from the user to the original document all print button 917, the missing page only print button 918, and the inserter use check box 919 on the document analysis result screen 904 illustrated in FIG. Accept selection.

  Subsequently, in step S <b> 415, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the document restoration method selection screen 905 shown in FIG. 24 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320.

  If QROK (electronic data) exists as a result of the analysis in step S407, confirmation information such as “There is a page that can be restored only from electronic data” is displayed to display the next step. It is also possible to guide the user's operation selection in S416.

  In step S416, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 selects an operation from the user for the text data only restore button 920, the paper data to copy button 921, and the electronic data to restore button 922 on the document restoration method selection screen 905 shown in FIG. Accept.

  Subsequently, in step S <b> 417, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320.

  Subsequently, in step S418, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 accepts an operation selection from the user for the button 923 and the non-button 924 on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, in step S419, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the restoration confirmation screen 907 shown in FIG. 26 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320.

  Thereafter, when the user presses the OK button 925 on the restoration confirmation screen 907 shown in FIG. 26, the plug-in 105 responds to the user's operation selection on the operation screen shown in FIGS. Then, document data restoration processing (document data restoration processing) is performed.

  Details of step S420 will be described later with reference to FIG. If the user presses the NG button 926 on the restoration confirmation screen 907 shown in FIG. 26, the restoration process in step S420 is not performed.

  Subsequently, in step S421, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the printer unit 340 to print out the document data restored in step S420 on a sheet (second output step). Thereafter, the processing in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  If there is no missing page as a result of the determination in step S412, the process proceeds to step S422.

  In step S 422, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the confirmation screen 908 shown in FIG. 27 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320. Thereafter, when the user presses the OK button 927 on the confirmation screen 908 shown in FIG. 27, the processing in the flowchart shown in FIG. 17 ends.

  In addition, when the restoration copy is not selected as a result of the determination in step S402 (that is, when the normal copy button 911 is pressed by the user on the copy mode selection screen 901 shown in FIG. 20 and the normal copy is selected). Advances to step S423.

  Thereafter, when the user sets a paper document to be copied in the scanner unit 350 and gives an instruction to copy the paper document, in step S423, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the scanner unit 350 to control the paper document. Scan the document.

  Subsequently, in step S424, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the printer unit 340 to print the document data scanned in step S423 on a sheet. Thereafter, the processing in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 32, the details of the user authentication processing in steps S427-1 and S427-2 shown in FIG. 17 and the relationship with FIG. 17 will be described.

  When the processing in step S427-1 in FIG. 17 is started, first, in step S1001 in FIG. 32, the MFP (printer) is used by using identification information (user authentication information for authenticating the user) input by the user. 300) login processing, that is, user authentication processing. For example, when an authentication card such as the IC card 600 is used and the card reader 330 of the printer 300 reads a card ID (identification information) from the IC card, an authentication server (the server terminal device 700 has an authentication function) (not shown). The card ID may be transmitted to the terminal, and an authentication request may be made. The authentication server searches whether there is a user ID (user identification information) corresponding to the card ID in the authentication table. If the user ID (user identification information) corresponds to the card ID, the authentication server replies to the printer 300 with the authentication success.

  That is, in the printer 300 suitable for the document restoration apparatus of the present invention, in order to use the printer 300 (to log in), identification information for identifying the user in response to a user operation (a card ID in the case of an IC card) In the case of keyboard authentication, this corresponds to the user ID).

  When the authentication is determined to be successful, the printer 300 performs a process of displaying the copy mode selection screen 901 shown in FIG. 20 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 in step S401 of FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the authentication has failed, the login error screen 945 shown in FIG. 37 is displayed. That is, in the authentication process in step S427-1, first, a user authentication process is performed to determine whether the user has authority to use the printer 300.

  Next, in step S1002, the user scans a paper document. This step S1002 corresponds to the process of step S404 in FIG. That is, as described with reference to FIG. 17, the restoration copy mode is selected, the confirmation screen before document analysis shown in FIG. 21 is displayed, and the OK button 913 is pressed. At this time, the paper document to be scanned may be all pages, but may be at least one page.

  Next, as user authentication processing in step S427-2, in step S1003, the QR code printed on the paper document scanned in step S1002 is read. Then, the process proceeds to step S1004.

  In step S1004, the read QR code is analyzed. Actually, the restoration permitted user and group 126 (user information) of the QR code information in FIG. 4 are analyzed and acquired.

  In step S1005, it is determined from the restoration-permitted user and the group 126 (user information) analyzed in step S1004 whether the user who has logged in to the multifunction peripheral (printer 300) is authorized for normal copy and restoration copy processing (user determination). means). Here, it is determined whether or not the user is permitted to be restored in accordance with the user information obtained by analyzing the QR code and the user authentication information of the user who has logged into the multifunction peripheral.

  If there is only a group setting, not an authorized user, for example, the authentication server is inquired whether the logged-in user (user identification information (user authentication information)) belongs to an authorized group. It may be determined, or a group table indicating whether the user belongs to a group may be held in the printer 300, and the group table may be searched for determination. When making an inquiry by making an inquiry to the authentication server, it is assumed that it is determined whether or not the user is an authorized user using a response from the authentication server. As described above, the number of users that can be restored for each paper document can be limited, so that no one can restore the information, so that leakage of information can be prevented, and security problems can be reduced.

  If it is determined in step S1006 that there is a right to restore copy, the authentication process in step S427-2 ends. If there is no authority, the login error screen 945 of FIG. 37 is displayed (step S1007). When the user presses the close button 946 on the login error screen 945 in FIG. 37, this process ends, and the process returns to step S401.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 43, the details of the MFP authority confirmation process in step S429-1 shown in FIG. 17 and the relationship with FIG. 17 will be described. When the processing in step S429-1 in FIG. 17 is started, first, in step S1101 in FIG. 43, the user scans a paper document. This step S1101 corresponds to the processing of step S404 in FIG. That is, as described with reference to FIG. 17, the restoration copy mode is selected, the confirmation screen before document analysis shown in FIG. 21 is displayed, and the OK button 913 is pressed. At this time, the paper document to be scanned may be all pages, but may be at least one page.

  Next, as the MFP confirmation processing in step S429-1, the QR code printed on the paper document scanned in step S1101 is read in step S1102. Then, the process proceeds to step S1103.

  In step S1103, the read QR code is analyzed. Actually, the MFP information (IP address, MFP name) 131 of the QR code information in FIG. 4 is analyzed and acquired.

  In step S1104, it is confirmed from the MFP information (IP address, MFP name) 131 analyzed in step S1103 whether the MFP (printer 300) is authorized to restore the document.

  In step S1105, it is determined from the MFP information 131 acquired from the QR code whether or not the printer 300 that is currently executing the process of FIG. 43 is a printer that is permitted to execute the restoration process (step S1105). Step S1105) (determination means). If it is determined that the printer is permitted to execute the restoration process (YES), the process ends, and the process returns to S405. On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer is not permitted to execute the restoration process (NO), a login error screen shown in FIG. 42 is displayed (step S1106). When the user presses the close button 960, the process returns to step S401. In this way, whether to permit restoration is determined according to the determination result of step S1105. As described above, since printers (multifunction peripherals) that can be restored for each paper document can be restricted, information can be prevented from being leaked anywhere and information leakage can be prevented, and security problems can be reduced.

  Next, the details of the document data restoration processing in step S420 shown in FIG. 17 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the process of step S420 in FIG. 17 is started, first, in step S501 of FIG. 18, the plug-in 105 accepts the button (917, 918) of the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. In accordance with the operation selection, it is determined whether to print the entire original document or only the missing page.

  If only the missing page is printed as a result of the determination in step S501 (when the operation button is selected for the missing page only print button 918 in the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. 23), the process proceeds to step S502.

  In step S502, the plug-in 105 performs restoration processing for only missing pages.

Details of step S502 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the process of step S502 is completed, the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 18 is finished (that is, the process of step S420 shown in FIG. 17 is finished), and then step S421 (printing process) of FIG.
Will proceed to.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S501, when all the original documents are printed (when the print all original document button 917 is selected in the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. 23), the process proceeds to step S503.

  In step S503, the plug-in 105 refers to the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 for each page of the document to be restored. At this time, if it is possible to give a restoration authority for each page, it is possible to perform an authentication process as to whether or not the user has a restoration authority every time before the process for each page.

  Subsequently, in step S504, the plug-in 105 creates an original document for each page of the document to be restored based on the analysis result information held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 referred to in step S503. It is determined whether or not it can be restored. Specifically, the determination in step S504 is performed based on the document presence / absence information 122 and the restoration presence / absence information 123 in the QR code held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG.

  If the result of determination in step S504 is that there is no original document and cannot be restored (QRNG

), The process proceeds to step S515.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S504, if the original document is present or can be restored, the process proceeds to step S505.

  Even when the original document is not present and cannot be restored (in the case of QRNG), a process is added between step S504 and step S515 so that the document data is restored from the electronic data stored in the server terminal device 700. May be.

  When only the missing page is restored, the electronic data saved in the server terminal device 700 corresponding to the missing page from the QR code information (specifically, the file saving destination 117) printed on the previous and next pages. It is also possible to obtain and restore.

  In step S505, the plug-in 105 determines whether the data (binary) 115 held in the QR code is only text data based on the QR code holding information (specifically, information 114) shown in FIG. Image data determination processing is performed to determine whether or not.

  As a result of the determination in step S505, if the data (binary) 115 held in the QR code is not only text data (for example, data including image data or the like), the process proceeds to step S506.

  In step S506, the plug-in 105 transmits to the server terminal device 700 for each page of the document to be restored based on the analysis result information held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 referred to in step S503. It is determined whether restoration is possible only from the stored electronic data.

  Specifically, this is performed based on the document presence / absence information 122 and the QR code restoration presence / absence information 123 held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. The determination is made based on whether QROK (electronic data) is held.

  If restoration is possible only from electronic data, the process proceeds to step S516. If restoration is not possible only from electronic data, the process proceeds to step S507. Details of the processing in step S516 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S507, the plug-in 105 reads information (FIG. 4) held in the QR code from the QR code holding the document data of the restoration target document.

  Subsequently, in step S508, the plug-in 105 performs document data restoration processing of the restoration target document based on the QR code information (specifically, data (binary) 115) read in step S506. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S512.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S505, if the data (binary) 115 held in the QR code is only text data, the process proceeds to step S509.

  In step S509, the plug-in 105 changes the restoration method to only text data according to the operation selection of the buttons (920, 921, 922) on the document restoration method selection screen 905 shown in FIG. 24 received in step S416. It is determined whether to restore, to copy from paper data, or to restore from electronic data.

  On the document restoration method selection screen 905, if QROK (electronic data) exists in the restoration information 123 with the QR code stored in the analysis result table 120 in step S407, the document analysis result indicates that. Is displayed on the document restoration method selection screen 905.

  As a result of the determination in step S509, when only text data is restored (when the restore text data only button 920 is selected on the document restoration method selection screen 905 shown in FIG. 24), the process proceeds to step S510.

  In step S510, the plug-in 105 reads the information (FIG. 4) held in the QR code from the QR code holding the document data (text data) of the restoration target document. Based on the QR code information (specifically, data 115), the document data (text data) of the document to be restored is restored.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S509, when copying from paper data (when the copy button 921 is selected from paper data on the document restoration method selection screen 905 shown in FIG. 24), the process proceeds to step S511.

  In step S511, the plug-in 105 performs a process of holding as print image data read from paper data. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S515.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S509, when restoring from electronic data (when the restore button 922 from electronic data is selected on the document restoration method selection screen 905 shown in FIG. 24), the process proceeds to step S516.

  In step S516, the plug-in 105 performs processing for restoring a document from electronic data. Details of the processing in step S516 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the process of step S508 or step S510 is completed, subsequently, in step S512, the plug-in 105 operates the buttons (923, 924) on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25 received in step S418. It is determined whether or not to create a QR code according to the selection.

  As a result of the determination in step S512, when a QR code is not created (when the no button 924 is selected on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25), the process proceeds to step S515.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S512 is to create a QR code (when the button 923 is selected for operation on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25), the process proceeds to step S513.

  In step S513, the plug-in 105 creates a QR code attached to the document data of the document to be restored by the QR code creation process shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, in step S514, the plug-in 105 places the QR code created in step S513 at a predetermined position of the document data restored in step S508 or step S510. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S515.

  In step S515, the plug-in 105 determines whether there is a next page of the document to be restored. If the result of this determination is that there is a next page of the document to be restored, processing returns to step S503, and processing on the document to be restored of the next page is performed.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S515 is that there is no next page of the document to be restored, the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 18 ends (that is, processing in step S420 shown in FIG. 17 ends), and then The process proceeds to step S421 in FIG.

  Next, the details of the restoration process for only the missing page in step S502 shown in FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the process of step S502 in FIG. 18 is started, first, in step S601 in FIG. 19, the plug-in 105 refers to the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 for each page of the document to be restored.

  Subsequently, in step S602, the plug-in 105 deletes the page for each page of the document to be restored based on the analysis result information held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 referred to in step S601. It is determined whether or not.

  If the page is not missing as a result of the determination in step S602, the process proceeds to step S610. On the other hand, if the page is missing as a result of the determination in step S602, the process proceeds to step S603.

  In step S603, the plug-in 105 identifies a recoverable QR code from, for example, QR codes arranged on the pages before and after the missing page.

  Subsequently, in step S604, the plug-in 105 transmits to the server terminal device for each page of the document to be restored based on the analysis result information held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 referred to in step S601. It is determined whether restoration is possible only from the stored electronic data.

  Specifically, this is performed based on the document presence / absence information 122 and the QR code restoration presence / absence information 123 held in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. Is determined by whether or not QROK (electronic data) is held.

  If restoration is possible only from electronic data, the process proceeds to step S516. If restoration is not possible only from electronic data, the process proceeds to step S605.

  In step S605, the plug-in 105 reads the information (FIG. 4) held in the QR code from the QR code specified in step S603.

  In step S606, the plug-in 105 performs document data restoration processing for the missing page based on the QR code information (specifically, data (binary) 115) read in step S605.

  Subsequently, in step S607, the plug-in 105 determines whether to create a QR code in response to the operation selection of the buttons (923, 924) on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25 accepted in step S418. Determine.

  As a result of the determination in step S607, if a QR code is not created (when the no button 924 is selected on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25), the process proceeds to step S610.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S607 is to create a QR code (when the button 923 is selected for operation on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25), the process proceeds to step S608.

  In step S608, the plug-in 105 creates a QR code by the QR code creation process shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, in step S609, the plug-in 105 places and attaches the QR code created in step S608 at a predetermined position of the document data restored in step S606. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S610.

  In step S610, the plug-in 105 determines whether there is a next page of the document to be restored. If the result of this determination is that there is a next page of the document to be restored, the process returns to step S601 to perform processing on the document to be restored of the next page.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S610 is that there is no next page of the document to be restored, processing proceeds to step S611.

  In step S611, for example, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 uses the inserter 500 in response to the operation selection in the inserter use check box 919 received in step S414 in the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. Determine whether or not.

  As a result of the determination in step S611, when the inserter 500 is used (when the inserter use check box 919 in the document analysis result screen 904 shown in FIG. 23 is checked), the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S612, for example, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 creates a list instruction table for using the inserter function based on the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG.

  In this list instruction table, if the document presence / absence information 122 in the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5 is “document”, the document is ejected from the inserter 500, and if it is “missing”, it is fed. The paper is set to be discharged from the paper cassette.

  It should be noted that, as shown in page number 3 of the analysis result table 120 shown in FIG. 5, for a document whose document presence / absence information 122 is “missing” and restoration information 123 with QR code is “QRNG”, the restoration is performed. Is impossible.

  Subsequently, in step S613, for example, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs a process of displaying an instruction screen 909 for setting a document on the inserter illustrated in FIG. 28 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320.

  After that, when the user presses the OK button 928 on the instruction screen 909 for setting a document on the inserter shown in FIG. 28, the CPU 301 of the printer 300, for example, in step S614, the list instruction table created in step S612. Is set in the inserter 500.

  When the process of step S614 ends, or when it is determined in step S611 that the inserter 500 is not used, the process in the flowchart shown in FIG. 19 ends, and the process of step S502 shown in FIG. 18 ends. .

  Next, details of the process of restoring from the electronic data in step S516 shown in FIG. 18 will be described using FIG.

  When the processing of step S516 in FIG. 18 is started, first, in step S701 in FIG. 29, the plug-in 105 is held in the QR code from the QR code holding the document data of the restoration target document. Read the information (Figure 4).

  Subsequently, in step S702, the plug-in 105 accesses the electronic data in the server terminal device 700 based on the QR code information (specifically, the file storage location 117) read in step S701.

  Subsequently, in step S703, the plug-in 105 compares the update date of the electronic data accessed in step S702 with the QR code information read in step S701 (specifically, the update date 118), and updates the electronic data. It is determined whether or not there was.

  If the result of determination in step S703 is that electronic data has been updated, processing proceeds to step S706. In step S706, the plug-in 105 displays the result of step S703 on the update information confirmation screen (FIG. 30).

  In step S707, the plug-in 105 selects whether to restore from the updated electronic data on the screen displayed in step S706.

  If the result of determination in step S707 is to restore, or if the result of determination in step S703 is that there is no update of electronic data, processing proceeds to step S704.

  Subsequently, in step S704, the plug-in 105 performs electronic data acquisition processing.

  In step S705, the plug-in 105 performs a document restoration process from the electronic document data to be restored.

  As a result of the determination in step S707, if not restored, the process proceeds to step S708.

  In step S708, the plug-in 105 displays an end confirmation screen (FIG. 31).

  When the process of step S705 is completed, subsequently, in step S709, the plug-in 105 responds to the operation selection of the buttons (923, 924) on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25 received in step S418. To determine whether or not to create a QR code.

  As a result of the determination in step S709, if the QR code is not created (when the no button 924 is selected on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25), the process proceeds to step S515 and step S610.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S709, when a QR code is created (when the button 923 is selected for operation on the QR code creation selection screen 906 shown in FIG. 25), the process proceeds to step S710.

  In step S710, the plug-in 105 creates a QR code attached to the document data of the document to be restored by the QR code creation process shown in FIG. If the update date of the restored document data has been changed (in the case of the flow from step S707), at the time of restoring the original document, a QR code is created with updated information about the current page and the previous and next pages, and the missing data When restoring only the page, not only the missing page but also the QR codes of the front and rear pages are created, and the QR code is arranged and attached to each page.

  Subsequently, in step S711, the plug-in 105 places and attaches the QR code created in step S710 at a predetermined position of the document data restored in step S705.

  When the process of step S708 is completed or when the process of step S711 is completed, the process in the flowchart shown in FIG. 29 is finished, and the process of step S516 shown in FIG. 19 is finished.

  Next, when a print instruction is issued from the client terminal device 200 to the printer 300, when printing is performed from the printer 300 (direct printing method), a print instruction is issued from the client terminal device 200 and stored in the print management server 800. The case of pull printing a job from the printer 300 (pull print method) will be described with reference to FIGS. 44, 45, and 46. FIG.

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a print instruction process (direct printing method) for giving a print instruction from the client terminal device 200 to the printer 300.

  Each step shown in FIG. 44 is realized by the CPU 201 of the client terminal device 200 loading a program stored in a memory such as the external memory 211 into the RAM 202 and executing it.

  First, the client terminal apparatus 200 displays a printer driver in which a printer capable of printing is installed, and receives a printer driver selection from the printer driver by a user operation (step S4401).

  Then, it is determined whether the selected printer driver is a direct printing type printer driver or a pull printing type printer driver. In this determination, information indicating which type of printer driver is set for the information indicating the printer driver, and whether the printer driver is a direct printing type printer by referring to this information. It is possible to determine whether the printer driver is a pull print type.

If it is determined that the printer driver is a direct printing type printer driver (step S4402: YES), the process proceeds to step S4403, and a QR code creation process shown in FIG. 6 is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer driver is a pull print type printer driver (step S4402: NO), the process proceeds to step S4404. When it is determined that the printer driver is a direct printing type printer driver and the QR code creation process shown in FIG. 6 is executed, the printer that is the printing destination set in the printer driver is set as a printer that permits restoration. A QR code included in the MFP information 131 is created. In addition, a QR code including information (user information) indicating a user who has logged in the client terminal device 200 as a user permitted to be restored is included in the restoration-permitted user and group (s) 126.

  When the QR code is generated in step S4403 and arranged in the document data, print data for printing the document data is generated (step S4404). If it is determined that the printer driver is a pull print type printer driver, print data for printing document data in which no QR code is arranged is generated (step S4404).

  Then, the client terminal device 200 transmits a print job including print data in order to print step S4404.

  At this time, if the selected printer driver is a printer driver of a direct printing method, a print job is transmitted to the printer that is the printing destination set in the printer driver. If the selected printer driver is a pull-print printer driver, a print job is transmitted to the print management server 800.

  Next, print processing of a print job in the direct printing method will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 45 is a diagram illustrating print processing of a print job in the direct printing method.

  Each step shown in FIG. 45 is realized by the CPU 301 of the printer loading a program stored in a memory such as the HDD 304 into the RAM 302 and executing it.

  First, the printer receives a print job from the client terminal device 200 (step S4501), and prints print data included in the print job (step S4502).

  In this way, in the case of the direct printing method, it is possible to print a print job of document data to which a QR code created by a client terminal device is added.

  Next, the print processing of the print job in the pull print method will be described using 46.

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart of print processing of a print job in the pull print method.

  Each step of steps S4601 to S4604 shown in FIG. 46 is realized by the CPU 201 of the print management server 800 loading a program stored in a memory such as the external memory 211 into the RAM 202 and executing it.

  46 are realized by the CPU 301 of the printer loading a program stored in a memory such as the HDD 304 into the RAM 302 and executing it.

  First, when receiving a print job from the client terminal device 200 (step S4601), the print management server 800 stores the print job in a memory such as the external memory 211 (step S4602).

  Thereafter, when the card reader 330 reads the card ID (identification information) from the IC card possessed by the user, the printer 300 detects an authentication server (not shown) (the server terminal device 700 may have an authentication function). The card ID is transmitted to and an authentication request is made. Then, the authentication server searches whether there is a user ID (user identification information) corresponding to the card ID in the authentication table. If the user ID (user identification information) corresponds to the card ID, the authentication is successful (authentication result). Reply to

  When the printer 300 receives the authentication result from the authentication server, the printer 300 determines whether the user has been authenticated according to the authentication result (step S4606).

  If the printer 300 is determined to be authenticated (authentication successful) (OK), the printer 300 acquires a list of print jobs stored in the memory in the print management server and displays the list on the display unit. When the user accepts selection of a print job to be printed (step S4607), the acquisition request for the selected print job is transmitted to the print management server (step S4608).

  When the print management server receives an acquisition request for the selected print job from the printer (step S4603), the print management server acquires the print job from the memory and transmits it to the printer (step S4604).

  When the printer receives a print job from the print management server (step S4609), the printer executes a QR code generation process (FIG. 6) to be added to the document data of the print data included in the print job (step S4610). In order to print the document data to which the QR code is added, the printer unit is instructed to print, and the printer unit performs printing (step S4611).

  Here, in the QR code generation process (FIG. 6) in step S4610, the printer is included as multifunction printer information 131 (also referred to as multifunction machine 131 permitted to be restored) as a printer that permits restoration, and step S4605. The QR code included in the restoration-permitted user and group (s) 126 is also created as the user who is permitted to restore the information (user information) indicating the user who has been authenticated in (1).

If the user loses a part of the printed paper document, the lost paper document can be restored by executing the processing of FIG.

[Second Embodiment]
The second embodiment according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

In the first embodiment, the document restoration process using the QR code has been described with reference to FIG. 17. In the second embodiment, instead of FIG. 17, the QR code is used by using FIG. The restored document is restored.
FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure in a document restoration process using a QR code of the document restoration system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The processing of each step shown in FIG. 47 is realized by being executed by the CPU 301 of the printer 300.
Here, portions of the second embodiment that are different from the first embodiment will be mainly described.
In the second embodiment, the same processes as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same processes is omitted here.
First, since the processing of step S425 and step S426 is the same as that of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  When the process of step S426 is executed and the OK button 943 on the login message screen 942 shown in FIG. 36 is pressed by the user, a login process (user authentication process) is performed on the printer 300 in step S430 (step S430).

  In step S430, specifically, using the identification information (user authentication information for authenticating the user) input from the user, the MFP (printer 300) performs login processing, that is, user authentication processing. For example, when an authentication card such as the IC card 600 is used and the card reader 330 of the printer 300 reads a card ID (identification information) from the IC card, an authentication server (the server terminal device 700 has an authentication function) (not shown). The card ID may be transmitted to the terminal, and an authentication request may be made. In the authentication server, it is searched whether there is a user ID (user identification information) corresponding to the card ID in the authentication table.

  That is, in the printer 300 suitable for the document restoration apparatus of the present invention, in order to use the printer 300 (to log in), identification information for identifying the user in response to a user operation (a card ID in the case of an IC card) In the case of keyboard authentication, this corresponds to the user ID).

  When it is determined that the authentication is successful, the printer 300 performs a process of displaying the copy mode selection screen 901 shown in FIG. 20 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 in step S401 of FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the authentication has failed, the login error screen 945 shown in FIG. 37 is displayed. That is, in the authentication process in step S430, first, a user authentication process is performed to determine whether the user has authority to use the printer 300.

  Next, similarly to the first embodiment, the processes of step S401 and step S402 are performed. In step S402, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 determines whether or not the restoration copy button 912 is pressed by the user on the copy mode selection screen 901 shown in FIG.

  If the result of determination in step S402 is that restoration copy has been selected, processing proceeds to step S428. In step S <b> 428, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs processing for displaying the multifunction device confirmation screen 956 shown in FIG. 41 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320 including a confirmation message as to whether the multifunction device can be restored and copied.

  Thereafter, when the user presses an OK button 957 on the multifunction device confirmation screen 956 shown in FIG. 41, the process is accepted in step S403. On the other hand, when the user presses a cancel button 958 on the multifunction device confirmation screen 956 shown in FIG. 41, the system ends.

  In step S403, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 displays the document analysis confirmation screen 902 shown in FIG. 21 on the display screen 321 of the operation unit 320, which includes a guidance message for performing a scan to analyze the document to be restored. I do.

Thereafter, a series of paper documents to be restored by the user (in this paper document, the QR code described above is printed for each paper document) is set in the scanner unit 350, and a confirmation screen before document analysis shown in FIG. When the OK button 913 902 is pressed by the user, in step S404, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the scanner unit 350 to scan the paper document.
If the user presses the cancel button 914 on the pre-document analysis confirmation screen 902 shown in FIG. 21, the scan process in step S404 is not performed.
By performing the scanning process in step S404, one page (one sheet) of a series (one or a plurality of sheets) of paper document is read and electronic data of the paper document is generated.
In step S405, the plug-in 105 reads the QR code attached to the page of the paper document scanned in step S404.
Subsequently, in step S406, the plug-in 105 performs an analysis process on the information (FIG. 4) held in the QR code read in step S405.

  Then, in step S431, an authentication process (user authentication process) is performed to determine whether the user is an authorized user for copying and a group. Details of the authentication processing in step S431 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If it is determined in step S431 that the logged-in user is a user or group authorized to perform restoration copying, it is confirmed in step S432 whether the MFP is permitted to perform normal copying and restoration copying. Process. Details of step S432 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If it is determined in step S432 that the MFP is permitted to perform normal copy and restoration copy processing, the plug-in 105 analyzes the analysis result analyzed in step S406 in step S407 and the analysis result shown in FIG. It is held in the table 120.

In step S408, the plug-in 105 determines whether there is a next document (paper) scanned in step S404. As a result of the determination, if there is a next document (paper) scanned in step S404, the process returns to step S405, and the processing after step S404 is performed again with the next document (paper) as a processing target.
On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S408 is that there is no next document (paper) scanned in step S404, processing proceeds to step S433.
Since step S433 is the same as the processing from step S409 to step S422 shown in FIG. 17 described in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  As a result of the determination in step S402, when the restoration copy is not selected (that is, when the normal copy button 911 is pressed by the user on the copy mode selection screen 901 shown in FIG. 20 and the normal copy is selected), The process proceeds to step S423.

After that, when the user sets a paper document to be copied in the scanner unit 350 and gives an instruction to copy the paper document, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the scanner unit 350 in step S434 to control the paper document. Scan the document.
By performing a scanning process in step S423, a series (one or a plurality of) paper document is read as one page (one sheet), and electronic data of the paper document is generated.
In step S434, the plug-in 105 reads the QR code attached to the page of the paper document scanned in step S423.
Subsequently, in step S435, the plug-in 105 performs an analysis process on the information (FIG. 4) held in the QR code read in step S434.

  In step S 436, an authentication process (user authentication process) is performed to determine whether the user is an authorized user or group for restoration copying. Details of the authentication processing in step S436 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If it is determined in step S436 that the logged-in user is a user or group authorized to perform restoration copying, in step S424, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 controls the printer unit 340 to perform step S423. Print (copy) the scanned document data on paper.

Next, in step S437, the plug-in 105 determines whether there is a next document (paper) scanned in step S423. As a result of this determination, if there is a next document (paper) scanned in step S423, the process returns to step S423, and the processing after step S423 is performed again with the next document (paper) as a processing target. On the other hand, if there is no next document (paper) scanned in step S423, the processing in the flowchart shown in FIG. 47 ends.
Next, detailed processing of user authentication processing in steps S431 and S436 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 48 is an example of a flowchart of detailed processing of user authentication processing in steps S431 and S436 in FIG.
The processing of each step shown in FIG. 48 is realized by being executed by the CPU 301 of the printer 300.

  In step S1005, the restoration permitted user and the group 126 (users) obtained by analyzing in step S406 or step S435 whether or not the user who has logged in to the multifunction peripheral (printer 300) is authorized for normal copy and restoration copy processing. Information) (user determination means). Here, it is determined whether or not the user is permitted to be restored in accordance with the user information obtained by analyzing the QR code and the user authentication information of the user who has logged into the multifunction peripheral in step S430.

  If there is only a group setting, not an authorized user, for example, the authentication server is inquired whether the logged-in user (user identification information (user authentication information)) belongs to an authorized group. It may be determined, or a group table indicating whether the user belongs to a group may be held in the printer 300, and the group table may be searched for determination. Further, when making an inquiry by making an inquiry to the authentication server, it is assumed that a determination as to whether or not the user is an authorized user is made using a response from the authentication server. As described above, the number of users that can be restored for each paper document can be limited, so that no one can restore the information, so that leakage of information can be prevented, and security problems can be reduced.

If it is determined in step S1005 that the user who has logged in to the multifunction peripheral (printer 300) is authorized to perform restoration copy processing, the process proceeds to step S432 shown in FIG. 47 in step S1006. To do. If there is no authority, the login error screen 945 shown in FIG. 37 is displayed (step S1007). When the user presses the close button 946 on the login error screen 945 in FIG. 37, this process ends, and the process returns to step S401.
Next, with reference to FIG. 49, detailed processing of the MFP authority confirmation processing in step S432 will be described.
FIG. 49 is an example of a detailed process flowchart of the MFP authority confirmation process in step S432 of FIG.
The processing of each step shown in FIG. 49 is realized by being executed by the CPU 301 of the printer 300.

  In step S1104, according to the MFP information (IP address, MFP name) 131 of the QR code information in FIG. 4 acquired from the QR code in step S406, the MFP (printer 300) has authority to restore and copy the document. To see if it is given.

  In step S1105, it is determined from the MFP information 131 acquired from the QR code whether or not the printer 300 that is currently executing the process of FIG. 49 is a printer that is permitted to execute the restoration process (step S1105). Step S1105) (determination means).

  That is, in the QR code information 131 of FIG. 4, multifunction device information (IP address, multifunction device name) is used as information for identifying (specifying) a multifunction device that is permitted or not permitted to execute the restoration process. ) And the printer 300 currently executing the process of FIG. 49 is a multifunction device (printer) indicated by the multifunction device information (IP address, multifunction device name). Thus, it is determined whether or not the printer is permitted to execute the restoration process.

If it is determined in step S1105 that the printer is permitted to execute the restoration process (YES), the process ends, and the process returns to S407. On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer is not permitted to execute the restoration process (NO), a login error screen shown in FIG. 42 is displayed (step S1106). When the close button 960 is pressed by the user, the process returns to step S401 in FIG. In this way, whether to permit restoration is determined according to the determination result of step S1105. As described above, since printers (multifunction peripherals) that can be restored for each paper document can be restricted, information can be prevented from being leaked anywhere and information leakage can be prevented, and security problems can be reduced.
[Third Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a third embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the CPU 301 of the printer 300 performs a user authentication process (S427-1, S427-2, S431, S436), and an MFP authority confirmation process (S429-1, S431). In the third embodiment, the CPU 201 of another device that is not the printer 300 performs user authentication processing (S427-1, S427-2, S431, S436), and MFP authority confirmation. The determination process of the process (S429-1, S431) will be described.

  In the third embodiment, the server terminal device 700 will be described as another device. However, any device such as the client terminal device 200 or the print management server 800 may be used.

First, user authentication processing (S427-1, S427-2, S431, S436) will be described. There are the following two methods for the CPU 201 of another device to perform the user authentication process.
[First method]

  In step S1005, first, the printer 300 authenticates the user who is logged in to the printer 300 (in S1001 and S430) and the restoration-permitted user and group 126 read from the QR code (in S1004 and S406). User authentication information to be transmitted to the server terminal device 700. Then, when the server terminal device 700 receives the restoration-permitted user and group 126 read from the QR code and the user authentication information from the printer 300, the server terminal device 700 and the user indicated in the group 126 and the user By determining whether or not the user indicated by the authentication information matches, it is determined whether or not the server terminal device is a user who permits the restoration process. At this time, the restoration-permitted user and group 126 include information indicating users who are permitted or who are not permitted to perform the restoration process.

Then, when the server terminal device 700 transmits the determination result to the printer 300, the printer 300 receives the determination result and determines whether or not the user is permitted to perform the restoration process according to the determination result ( Step S1006).
[Second method]

  The restoration information in FIG. 4 obtained by the printer 300 reading the QR code recorded on the print medium (in S1004 and S406) includes the document data to be restored instead of the restoration authorized user and group 126. The identification information for identifying (specifying) is included. When the printer 300 logs in to the printer 300 (in S1001 and S430), the identification information included in the restoration information of FIG. 4 obtained in S1004 and S406. The user authentication information for authenticating the user input in step S1005 is transmitted to the server terminal device 700 in step S1005. Then, the server terminal device 700 associates with the identification information for identifying (specifying) the document data to be restored, and authenticates the user authentication information for permitting execution of the restoration process for the document data identified (identified) by the identification information And the server terminal device 700 determines whether or not the user authentication information stored in association with the identification information received from the printer 300 matches the user authentication information received from the printer 300. Then, it is determined whether or not the user is permitted to perform the restoration process. At this time, the server terminal device 700 stores the document data to be restored in association with the identification information for identifying (identifying), and executes the restoration processing for the document data identified (identified) by the identification information. The permitted user authentication information is user authentication information indicating a user who is permitted or not permitted to execute the restoration process.

Then, the determination result determined by the server terminal device 700 is transmitted to the printer 300. When the determination result is received, the printer 300 determines whether or not the user is permitted to perform the restoration process according to the determination result. (Step S1006).
As described above, the method in which the CPU 201 of another apparatus that is not the printer 300 performs the user authentication process has been described.

Next, the MFP authority confirmation process (S429-1, S431) will be described. There are the following two methods for the CPU 201 of another apparatus to perform the MFP authority confirmation process.
[First method]

  In step S1104, first, the printer 300 executes the MFP information (IP address, MFP name) 131 read from the QR code (in S1103 and S406) and the printer executing the processing of FIG. 43 or FIG. 300 MFP information (IP address, MFP name) is transmitted to the server terminal device 700. Then, the server terminal device 700 uses the multifunction machine information (IP address, multifunction machine name) 131 read from the QR code and the multifunction machine information (IP address) of the printer 300 executing the processing of FIG. 43 or 49. , MFP name) from the printer 300, the printer indicated in the MFP information (IP address, MFP name) 131 and the printer 300 executing the processing of FIG. By determining whether or not the printer indicated by the multifunction device information (IP address, multifunction device name) matches, it is determined whether or not the server terminal device is a printer that permits restoration processing. At this time, the MFP information (IP address, MFP name) 131 read from the QR code includes MFP information that permits or does not permit the restoration process.

Then, when the server terminal device 700 transmits the determination result to the printer 300, the printer 300 receives the determination result, and determines whether or not the printer permits the restoration process according to the determination result ( Step S1105).
[Second method]

  The restoration information in FIG. 4 obtained by the printer 300 reading the QR code recorded on the print medium (in S1103 and S406), instead of the multifunction machine information (IP address, multifunction machine name) 131, is restored. ID information for identifying (identifying) the target document data to be processed is included, and the printer 300 includes this identification information included in the restoration information of FIG. 4 obtained in S1103 and S406, and its own MFP information (IP Address, MFP name) is transmitted to the server terminal device 700 in step S1105.

  Then, the server terminal device 700 permits or permits the execution of the restoration process of the document data identified (specified) by the identification information in association with the identification information for identifying (identifying) the target document data to be restored. The MFP information (IP address, MFP name) stored in association with the identification information received from the printer 300 is received from the printer 300. By determining whether or not the information matches the MFP information (IP address and MFP name), the server terminal device 700 determines whether or not the printer permits the restoration process.

Then, the determination result determined by the server terminal device 700 is transmitted to the printer 300. When the printer 300 receives the determination result, the printer 300 determines whether the printer permits the restoration process according to the determination result. (Step S1105).
As described above, the method has been described in which the CPU 201 of another apparatus that is not the printer 300 performs the MFP authority confirmation process.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a page of a paper document to be restored can be restored from other pages of the paper document, and the risk of information leakage due to the restored paper document can be reduced.

  As described above, the printer 300 and the document restoration system 100 that are document restoration apparatuses according to the present embodiment perform the following processing.

  That is, the printer 300 stores document data composed of a plurality of pages, and for each page of the document data, the document data in which the own page and other pages are set as a recoverable range, and a page representing the page of the document data. Information, a QR code including specific information for specifying the document data stored in the server terminal device 700 is generated for each page of the stored document data, and the generated QR code is stored in the stored document data. These are arranged at predetermined positions on each page.

  Thereafter, the printer 300 outputs the document data in which the QR code is arranged for each page to the print medium for each page.

  Further, the printer 300 performs a process of reading the QR code from each print medium on which the QR code (restoration information) and document data are recorded for each page, and the missing page is detected from the page information included in the read QR code. When there is a print medium, the document data output to the print medium of the missing page is restored from the recoverable range of document data included in the QR code of the read print medium, or the server terminal apparatus 700 It is possible to select whether to restore from the stored electronic data, and print out the document data restored by the selected restoration method (to output the restored document data to the print medium for each missing page) I have to.

  Although the print contents printed on the own page can be restored, the print contents printed on the pages other than the own page are particularly restored for the purpose of restoring the missing page.

  Further, in the document restoration system 100, document data including a plurality of pages is stored in the document data temporary storage unit, and for each page of the document data, a setting is made so that the own page and other pages can be restored. I have to.

  In addition, a QR code including document data in a set recoverable range, page information indicating a page of document data, and specifying information for specifying the document data stored in the server terminal device 700 is stored in the document data temporarily. Created for each page of document data stored in the storage unit, and stores the document data as electronic data in the storage means of the server terminal device 700, and then stores the generated QR code in the document data temporary storage unit The document data is arranged at a predetermined position on each page of the document data.

  Thereafter, the document restoration system 100 outputs document data in which a QR code is arranged for each page to a printed material medium for each page.

  Further, in the document restoration system 100, a QR code and document data are recorded for each page, a QR code is read from each print medium, and a missing page print medium is obtained from the page information included in the read QR code. If there is a document, the document data output to the print medium of the missing page is restored from the document data in the recoverable range included in the QR code of the print medium read by the reading step, or the server terminal device It is possible to select whether to restore from the electronic data stored in 700, and print out the document data restored by the selected restoration method (output the restored document data to a print medium for each missing page) Like to do.

  According to the present invention, the QR code including the document data of the own page and other pages and the page information representing the page of the document data is arranged for each page of the document data. Can be detected to detect a missing page and restore the missing page.

  Further, when it is impossible to restore the document data using the QR code, the document data can be restored from the electronic data stored in the server terminal device 700.

  That is, when a paper document once printed out is lost or damaged, it can be easily restored.

  Further, when the inserter function is used, it is possible to complete by inserting the missing pages into the original document in the page order.

  Further, as described above, in the document restoration system 100 according to the present embodiment, even if the function of the plug-in 105 shown in FIG. The present invention can be applied to an aspect provided in the printer 300 as the forming apparatus or an aspect provided in both the client terminal device 200 and the printer 300.

  In addition, the present invention can be implemented as a system, apparatus, method, program executable by the apparatus, or a storage medium, and is specifically applied to a system including a plurality of devices. Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to an apparatus composed of one device.

  Note that the present invention includes a software program that implements the functions of the above-described embodiments directly or remotely from a system or apparatus. The present invention also includes a case where the system or the computer of the apparatus is achieved by reading and executing the supplied program code.

  Accordingly, since the functions of the present invention are implemented by computer, the program code installed in the computer also implements the present invention. In other words, the present invention includes a computer program itself for realizing the functional processing of the present invention.

  In that case, as long as it has the function of a program, it may be in the form of object code, a program executed by an interpreter, script data supplied to the OS, and the like.

  Examples of the recording medium for supplying the program include a floppy disk (registered trademark), a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, an MO, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, and a CD-RW. There are also magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD-R) and the like.

  As another program supply method, a browser on a client computer is used to connect to an Internet home page. The computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function can be downloaded from the homepage by downloading it to a recording medium such as a hard disk.

  It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server that allows a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer is also included in the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. Let me. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the downloaded key information and install the program on a computer.

  Further, the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the computer executing the read program. In addition, based on the instructions of the program, an OS or the like running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments can also be realized by the processing.

  Further, the program read from the recording 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, the CPU of the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  Note that each of the above-described embodiments is merely a specific example for carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto. . That is, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the technical idea or the main features thereof.

100 Document Restoration System 200 Client Terminal Device 300 Printer 400 Network 500 Inserter 600 IC Card 700 Server Terminal Device 702 Electronic Data Storage Unit 800 Print Management Server 101 Application 102 OS
103 Printer Driver 104 Spooler 105 Plug-in 106 Document Data Temporary Storage Unit 107 User Approval Information 108 Printer Information

Claims (11)

Document data that is a recoverable range of pages other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in the storage device, and whether or not the document data can be restored by the image forming apparatus a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus as a condition of, a document recovery system including an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded including,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Restoring means for restoring document data of a page other than the self page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information; ,
Accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is read, determining means for determining whether or not to permit output by the image forming apparatus to restore the document data by said restoring means When,
Display means for displaying an acceptance screen for accepting information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by the restoration means;
Generating means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed by the display means;
Adding means for adding the restoration information generated by the generation means to the document data restored by the restoration means;
If it is determined by the determination means that the document data is permitted to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, a restoration process is performed by the restoration means, and the document restored by the restoration process by the addition means When it is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation unit is added to the data and the document data is not allowed to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, the restoration process by the restoration unit is performed. Control means for controlling so as not to
A document restoration system comprising: The generation unit further specifies device specifying information for specifying the image forming device when the determining unit determines that the restoring unit permits the document data to be restored and output by the image forming device. Generate restoration information including
The document restoration system according to claim 1, wherein the addition unit adds the generated restoration information to the document data restored by the restoration unit. The document restoration system further includes a client terminal device and a server,
The client terminal device
Selection accepting means for accepting selection of a printer driver corresponding to an image forming apparatus that prints the document data;
Client generation means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying an image forming apparatus corresponding to the printer driver received by the selection receiving means;
Client addition means for adding the restoration information generated by the client generation means to the document data;
According to the printer driver received by the selection receiving unit, the printer driver is a printer driver of a direct printing method in which the client terminal device directly instructs the image forming apparatus corresponding to the printer driver to print the document data, Printing method determining means for determining whether the client terminal device is a pull-print printing printer driver that transmits the document data to the server and the image forming apparatus acquires the document data from the server and performs printing. When,
If the printing method determination unit determines that the printer driver is a direct printing method, the client generation unit obtains device specifying information for specifying an image forming device corresponding to the printer driver received by the selection receiving unit. Including the restoration information generated by the client addition unit, and adding the restoration information generated by the client addition unit to the document data, and issuing a print instruction to the image forming apparatus corresponding to the printer driver. If it is determined that the printer driver is a pull print printing type printer driver, the client adding unit adds the restoration information including the device specifying information for specifying the image forming device to the document data without adding the restoration information to the document data. Print control means for controlling to transmit document data;
  The document restoration system according to claim 1, further comprising: The image forming apparatus includes:
An acquisition unit that acquires the document data from the server including a storage unit that stores the document data transmitted from the client terminal device by the print control unit by making an acquisition request for the document data;
The generation unit generates restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus, and the addition unit adds the generated restoration information to the document data acquired by the acquisition unit and performs printing. Printing control means for controlling
The document restoration system according to claim 3, further comprising: The restoration information further condition for determining whether the user of the document data restoration includes the user information indicating the user,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A user receiving unit for receiving a user identification information identifying the user,
According to the user information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is loaded, the user that the user identified by the user identification means received by said user reception unit, to restore the document data is permitted User determination means for determining whether or not
Further comprising
The control means determines that the user identified by the user identification information received by the user reception means is a user permitted to restore the document data by the user determination means, and When it is determined by the determination means that the image forming apparatus is allowed to restore the document data, a restoration process is performed by the restoration means, and the generation is performed on the document data restored by the restoration process by the addition means. adding restoration information generated by the means, whereas, by the user determination unit, the user identification is a user identification information accepted by the user receiving unit is not a user permitted to restore the document data Or the image forming apparatus is not allowed to restore the document data. And the determined case, the document recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the controller controls so as not to perform recovery processing by the recovery means. A method of restoring document data of a page other than the self page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium, and the restoration obtained by reading the print medium Selection means for receiving selection of whether to restore the document data by any of the methods of restoring the document data of pages other than the own page according to the document data specified by the document specifying information included in the information Prepared,
The restoring means is a method selected by the selecting means, the document recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that to restore the document data of other pages than the relevant page . Document data that is a recoverable range of pages other than the own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and an image as a condition for determining whether or not the document data can be restored a device specific information for specifying a forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded including,
Restoring means for restoring document data of a page other than the self page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information; ,
Accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is read, a determination unit configured to determine whether to allow the output to restore the document data by said restoring means,
Display means for displaying an acceptance screen for accepting information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by the restoration means;
Generating means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed by the display means;
Adding means for adding the restoration information generated by the generation means to the document data restored by the restoration means;
If it is determined by the determination means that the document data is permitted to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, a restoration process is performed by the restoration means, and the document restored by the restoration process by the addition means When it is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation unit is added to the data and the document data is not allowed to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, the restoration process by the restoration unit is performed. Control means for controlling so as not to
An image forming apparatus comprising: Document data that is a recoverable range of pages other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in the storage device, and whether or not the document data can be restored by the image forming apparatus conditions a control method in a document recovery system including an image forming apparatus for controlling the device identifying information for identifying the image forming apparatus, the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded comprising as to And
The restoration unit of the image forming apparatus is a page other than the own page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information. A restoration process to restore the document data of
Allow determination unit of the image forming apparatus, which outputs in accordance with device specific information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is loaded, to restore the document data by the restored step in the image forming apparatus A determination step of determining whether or not to do;
A display step in which a display unit of the image forming apparatus displays a reception screen for receiving information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by the restoration step;
A generating step for generating restoration information including device specifying information for specifying the image forming device indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed by the display step, by the generation unit of the image forming device;
An adding step in which the adding unit of the image forming apparatus adds the restoration information generated by the generating step to the document data restored by the restoring step;
When it is determined by the determination step that the control unit of the image forming apparatus permits the document data to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, a restoration process is performed by the restoration step, and the addition step When it is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation step is added to the document data restored by the restoration process, and the document data is restored and output by the image forming apparatus is not permitted. A control process for controlling so as not to perform the restoration process by the restoration process;
A control method comprising: Document data that is a recoverable range of pages other than its own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in the storage device, and whether or not the document data can be restored by the image forming apparatus a device specific information for identifying the image forming apparatus as a condition of, readable document recovery system including an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded, including the execution A program,
An image forming apparatus included in the document restoration system,
Restoring means for restoring document data of a page other than the self page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information; ,
Accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is read, determining means for determining whether or not to permit output by the image forming apparatus to restore the document data by said restoring means When,
Display means for displaying an acceptance screen for accepting information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by the restoration means;
Generating means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed by the display means;
Adding means for adding the restoration information generated by the generation means to the document data restored by the restoration means;
If it is determined by the determination means that the document data is permitted to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, a restoration process is performed by the restoration means, and the document restored by the restoration process by the addition means When it is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation unit is added to the data and the document data is not allowed to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, the restoration process by the restoration unit is performed. A program characterized by functioning as a control means for controlling so as not to exist. Document data that is a recoverable range of pages other than the own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and an image as a condition for determining whether or not the document data can be restored a device specific information for specifying a forming apparatus, a control method in an image forming apparatus which controls the restoration processing of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded including,
The restoration unit of the image forming apparatus is a page other than the own page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information. A restoration process to restore the document data of
Determination means of the image forming apparatus, according to device specific information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is loaded, whether to allow the output to restore the document data by said restoring means A determination step of determining
A display step in which a display unit of the image forming apparatus displays a reception screen for receiving information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by the restoration step;
A generating step for generating restoration information including device specifying information for specifying the image forming device indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed by the display step, by the generation unit of the image forming device;
An adding step in which the adding unit of the image forming apparatus adds the restoration information generated by the generating step to the document data restored by the restoring step;
When it is determined by the determination step that the control unit of the image forming apparatus permits the document data to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, a restoration process is performed by the restoration step, and the addition step When it is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation step is added to the document data restored by the restoration process, and the document data is restored and output by the image forming apparatus is not permitted. A control process for controlling so as not to perform the restoration process by the restoration process;
A control method comprising: Document data that is a recoverable range of pages other than the own page, or document specifying information for specifying the document data stored in a storage device, and an image as a condition for determining whether or not the document data can be restored a device specific information for specifying a forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus reads executable program for controlling the restoration process of the document data by using the printed material medium which restoration information is recorded including,
The image forming apparatus;
Restoring means for restoring document data of a page other than the self page according to the document data included in the restoration information obtained by reading the print medium or the document data specified by the document specifying information; ,
Accordance apparatus identification information contained in the restored information obtained by the printed material medium is read, a determination unit configured to determine whether to allow the output to restore the document data by said restoring means,
Display means for displaying an acceptance screen for accepting information indicating an image forming apparatus permitted to restore and output the document data by the restoration means;
Generating means for generating restoration information including apparatus specifying information for specifying the image forming apparatus indicated by the information received via the receiving screen displayed by the display means;
Adding means for adding the restoration information generated by the generation means to the document data restored by the restoration means;
If it is determined by the determination means that the document data is permitted to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, a restoration process is performed by the restoration means, and the document restored by the restoration process by the addition means When it is determined that the restoration information generated by the generation unit is added to the data and the document data is not allowed to be restored and output by the image forming apparatus, the restoration process by the restoration unit is performed. A program characterized by functioning as a control means for controlling so as not to exist.

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