NL1017076C2 - Electronic management device for document stored in physical archive, e.g. photo negatives, uses central computer system to index document and make electronic copy - Google Patents

Abstract

The management device comprises a central computer system with a CPU connected to a memory, input devices and output devices. The central computer system is connected to a data communication network for sending and receiving electronic data via the network. The memory comprises a database (GB1) containing information on the owner of the stored document and a code for the location of the document in the physical archive. The CPU is designed to carry out the following steps : (a) maintain free locations in the physical archive system with the aid of the location codes in the database ; (b) index a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system, the index including information on the document owner and the location code for a free location where the document is to be stored ; (c) store the index information for the newly received document in the database ; and (d) prepare an electronic copy of the newly received document and store this copy in the personal file of the document owner in the database using the index. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) Electronic management method for a document stored in a physical archive system; (2) Business operation model for the management of a document stored in a physical archive system; (3) Software for loading in the computer system memory; and (4) Information carrier with the software.

Description

-1 -

Management of stored material via an electronic network

The present invention relates to a device for managing a document stored in a physical archive system via an electronic network comprising a central computer system, which central computer system comprises a central processing unit connected to memory means, input devices and output devices, which central computer system is further connected to a data communication network for sending and receiving electronic data via that network; which memory means comprise a database (GB1).

Such a device of the above-mentioned type is known from the via

Internet accessible photo service http://www.hema.nl/fotoservice. It is also known that people who photograph make a large collection of photo negatives over time. For possible later (re) printing of negatives, it is important that the storage of such negative material is done in such a way that the negatives do not get lost, and remain in good and undamaged condition. In such a storage, however, the risks of being lost or damaged are often not inconceivable. During a move, for example, an archive with negatives may be lost. The loss due to fire and fire damage is also possible. Damage to negative material can also occur, for example, by children or pets. There is also a risk of damage due to poor storage conditions, as a result of which damage to the material can occur.

A number of disadvantages are also associated with the possible reorder of prints of negative material. The strips with negatives must be checked for the desired image. The strips are generally fragile, so that checking must take place with the necessary caution. In addition, a reorder must be completed correctly. The material must then be delivered to a company that takes care of the printing. Finally, after obtaining the prints, the original negative material must be placed back in the correct manner and at the right place in the storage. For many people, this procedure is a long-term and unattractive use of time.

In the device of the above-mentioned type, known from the photo service http://www.hema.nl/fotoservice, there is the possibility of offering a digitally stored photo via the Internet to a company that produces prints thereof. In a computer available to him, the photo collector maintains an electronic archive in which digital copies of his photos are recorded. Although this method eliminates the disadvantage of sending and replacing the material, the photo collector must keep his own archive. Moreover, the electronic archive has the disadvantage that in the absence of an updated backup file ("backup file"), deleting or damaging the electronic archive can lead to the loss of the photographic material. The digital photo offered must also have a sufficiently high resolution (and associated file size) to be able to produce a print of sufficient quality.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for managing physically stored material via an electronic network that overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages such as long-term searching, careful storage and maintenance of the collection, and the risk of damage and / or the loss of material is greatly reduced.

the present invention comprises a device of the type mentioned in the preamble, wherein the database comprises at least the following data describing a document stored in the physical archive system: data concerning an owner of the document; - a place code for the place where the document is stored in the physical archive system; and the central processing unit is arranged to perform the following steps: keeping track of free places in the physical archive system using the place codes in the database; - indexing a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system wherein the index comprises at least data about the identity of the owner and the location code for a free location where the document will be stored in the physical archive system; storing the index data of the newly received document in the data bank; producing an electronic replica of a newly received document and storing the electronic replica in the owner's personal file in the database using the index.

"· ·%, -3-

The invention furthermore relates to a device as described above, characterized in that, in data communication with a communication device of the owner of the document, the central processing unit is further adapted to carry out the following step: display on the display means of the communication device of an electronic replica of that document present in the database for that owner.

The invention also relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the central processing unit is further adapted to perform the following step: adding annotations generated by the owner and sent via the network to the central computer system at a depicted electronic replica of a document present in the database for that owner.

In addition, the invention relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the central processing unit is further adapted to perform the following step: the production of one or more copies of a document stored in the physical archive system in an illustrated electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network.

In addition, the present invention relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the central processing unit is further adapted to carry out the following step: drawing up a mailing list for sending the copies on the basis of the data of the owner stored in the database.

The present invention also relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the central processing unit is further adapted to perform the following step: sending the one or more copies in electronic form to the communication device of the owner of the document.

-4-

Moreover, the invention relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the central processing unit is further adapted to carry out the following step: the removal of a document stored in the physical archive system for an illustrated electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network; simultaneously removing the electronic replica from the owner's personal file; releasing the location occupied by the deleted document in the physical archive system by deleting the location code associated with that location in the database.

drawing up a return list for the return of the deleted document on the basis of the data of the owner stored in the database.

The invention also relates to a device As described above, characterized in that the document comprises photographic negative material.

The invention also relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the document comprises photographic material.

The invention further relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the document comprises archivable material.

Moreover, the invention relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the document comprises a document in digitized form.

The invention also relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the communication device is a personal computer, or a suitable mobile telephone or personal digital assistant.

The invention also relates to a device as described above, characterized in that the central processing unit is adapted to accept instructions from a person authorized by the owner.

-5-

In addition, the invention relates to a method for managing a document stored in a physical archive system by a device such as boveribaby.

written, characterized by the following steps: making use of data in a database, wherein the database comprises at least the following data describing a document stored in the physical archive system: data concerning an owner of the document; and a location code for the location where the document is stored in the physical archive system; keeping track of free places in the physical archive system using the 10 place codes in the database; indexing a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system wherein the index comprises at least data about the identity of the owner and the location code for a free location where the document will be stored in the physical archive system; - storing the index data of the newly received document in the data bank; and producing an electronic replica of a newly received document and storing the electronic replica in the owner's personal file in the database using the index.

The invention also relates to a method as described above, characterized in that, in data communication with a communication device of the owner of the document, the method furthermore comprises the following step: imaging via the network on the imaging means of the document communication device of an electronic replica of that document present in the database for that owner.

The invention further relates to a method as described above, characterized in that the method comprises the following step: adding annotations generated by the owner and sent via the network to the central computer system for an image displayed for that owner in the database present electronic replica of a document.

f U 'H

1 v vJ * -6-

The present invention also relates to a method as described above, characterized in that the method furthermore comprises the following step: producing one or more copies of a document stored in the physical archive system 5 associated with a displayed electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network.

Moreover, the present invention relates to a method as described above, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: drawing up a mailing list for sending the copies on the basis of the data of the owner who are stored in the database.

The present invention also relates to a method as described above, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: - sending the one or more copies in electronic form to the communication device of the owner of the document .

The invention also relates to a method as described above, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: removing a document stored in the physical archive system for a displayed electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network; simultaneously removing the electronic replica from the owner's personal file; releasing the location occupied by the deleted document in the physical archive system by deleting the location code associated with that location in the database.

drawing up a return list for the return of the deleted document on the basis of the data of the owner stored in the database.

The invention also relates to a method, as described above, characterized in that the method comprises the following step: accepting instructions from a person authorized by the owner.

-7- I

In addition, the invention relates to an operational management model for managing a document stored in a physical archive system by a device as described above, characterized by the following steps: receiving photographic negative material to be stored in the physical archive system; receiving an index code and location code generated by the central computer system for receiving photographic negative material; producing an electronic replica of the received photographic negative material; - placing the received photographic negative material in the physical archive system using the received index and location code; the production of prints of negative material stored in the physical archive system, after a request from the customer has been received via the central computer system; - sending the prints to the customer by mail or other distribution channel using the mailing list drawn up by the central computer system; removing photographic negative material from the archive on the basis of a return list generated by the central computer system and sending that material back to a customer, after a request from the customer has been received via the central computer system; sending invoices to customers on the basis of invoices generated by the central computer system for services performed for said customers.

The invention further relates to a computer program for loading into the memory means of the central computer system of a device as described above, characterized in that the computer program enables the central computer system to perform the following steps: making use of of data in a database, the database comprising at least the following data describing a document stored in the physical archive system: data concerning an owner of the document; and a location code for the location where the document is stored in the physical archive system; - keeping track of free places in the physical archive system using the place codes in the database; indexing a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system wherein the index comprises at least data about the identity of the owner and the location code for a free location where the document will be stored in the physical archive system; storing the index data of the newly received document in the database; and producing an electronic replica of a newly received document and storing the electronic replica in the owner's personal file in the database using the index.

Finally, the invention relates to an information carrier provided with a computer program as described above.

In addition to the use of the device according to the present invention for the management of stored photographic material, the device also relates to the management of other types of documents and materials, insofar as they can be physically stored and can be digitized or scanned with characteristic parameters of the document or material can be stored electronically in the memory means of the device according to the present invention.

These documents and materials include, in general, matters that can be sensed by a person through electronic simulation. In addition to visual reproductions (from photo, film and video), the reproduction of audio fragments, odor profiles (via an odor printer), taste profiles (via 25 recipes) and touch profiles (via a system with motor feedback such as data gloves, etc.) is also possible . In the following, the present invention will be described with reference to the example of stored photonegative material, but it is therefore not limited thereto.

The storage of documents and materials in the device according to the present invention preferably takes place under conditions which guarantee the preservation of the quality of the stored material as well as possible. This means that, if desired, high-quality reproductions of the stored material can be made. The invention makes the (photo) material in general much more accessible than is customary with private individuals, namely through a good annotation and classification system.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to a few drawings, in which exemplary embodiments thereof are shown. They are intended solely for illustrative purposes and not to limit the inventive concept, which is defined by the claims.

Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a central computer system of the device;

Figure 2 shows a block diagram of services in their mutual relationship, which are supported and executed by the central computer system 2 of the present invention;

Figure 3 shows a block diagram of a method for the central computer system according to the present invention that provides access to system;

Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a method for the central computer system according to the present invention for providing information and performing a registration;

Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a method for the central computer system according to the present invention for storing received data;

Figure 6 shows a block diagram of a method for the central computer system according to the present invention for remotely managing the stored data by the owner of the data;

Figure 7 shows a block diagram of a method for the central computer system according to the present invention for performing management functions as a result of management commands entered by the owner, as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a central computer system of the device according to the present invention. A central computer system 2 comprises a central processing unit 21 with peripheral equipment. The central processing unit 21 is connected to memory means 18, 19, 22, 23, 24 which store instructions and data, one or more read-in units 30 (for reading, for example, floppy disks, CD-ROMs and 30 DVDs, etc.), a keyboard 26 , a mouse 27 and scanning equipment 504 as input devices, and as output devices, a display 28 and a printer 29. The scanning equipment 504 serves to digitize documents and / or other digitizable materials. Both other input units, such as a trackball, a barcode reader and a touch screen, as well as other output devices can be provided.

Furthermore, the central processing unit 21 is provided with a network adapter 7 for data communication with a network 1. The network adapter 7 is connected to the network 1. The network can comprise a large number of interconnected networks, such as for example the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) , or any other network that is suitable for data communication. For example, such interconnected networks can be a Local Area Network (LAN), or a Wide Area Network (WAN). Connected to the network 1 are other computer systems (one of which is a personal computer 31), which can communicate via that connection with the central computer system 2. Such other computer systems, such as personal computer 31, are equipped with central computer system 2 in a similar manner. input means such as keyboard and mouse, memory means, read-in units and output units, such as display, and printer. Other 32 may also be connected to the network 1, which have the possibility of communicating via the network 1 with the central computer system 2. In the following, the present invention will be explained in an exemplary embodiment in which the communication is performed between the central computer system 2 and a personal computer 31. It is conceivable that instead of a personal computer 31, a suitable mobile telephone or a personal digital assistant ”32 (for example with WAP or similar functionality) is used.

The memory means shown in Figure 1 comprise RAM 22, (E) EPROM 23, ROM 24, tape unit 19, and hard disk 18. However, more and / or other memory units may be provided, such as for a person skilled in the art field will be clear. In addition, if required, one or more units thereof may be spaced from the central processing unit 21.

The central processing unit 21 is shown as a single unit, but may also comprise several processing units operating in parallel, or controlled by one central unit, wherein the processing units may be spaced apart, as will be known to those skilled in the art. .

Figure 2 shows a block diagram of services in their mutual coherence, which are supported and executed by the central computer system 2 of the subject. present invention. In the present invention, the central computer system 2 performs a number of functions that manage photo material via an electronic network | support. In the present invention, a person can present his collection of photographic negative material for storage in an archive system coupled to the device of the present invention. The archive system serves for safe and orderly storage of the negative material, so that the aforementioned disadvantages of maintaining the collection by the said person are eliminated. The device according to the present invention serves to provide said person with the aid of a personal computer 31 at his disposal via an electronic network 1 with access to an electronic replica of his collection and to manage this collection remotely. Hereby the said person can perform any desired action, as will be explained below.

As already noted above, the device according to the present invention can also be used for other types of documents and / or materials, provided that these are digitizable, or that their characteristic parameters can be scanned, and can be stored in the memory means 18 19, 22-24 of the computer system. 2. These documents and materials include, in general, matters which can be sensed by means of electronic simulation by a person. In addition to visual reproductions (from photo, film and video) is also the reproduction of audio fragments, fragrance profiles (via a fragrance printer), taste profiles (via recipes) and touch profiles (via a system with motor feedback such as data gloves, etc.) possible. In the following, the present invention will be described with reference to the example of stored photo negative material, but it is therefore not limited thereto.

The central computer system 2 has a processing function F1 which can perform a number of functions F2-F7 for the said person and his archived collection. In addition, the central computer system 2 supports an internal management function F8, to manage the collection of negatives of the said person in the ar-chief system and the corresponding electronic replica. In Figure 2, the interaction between the internal management function F8 is symbolically represented by the dashed arrow connection between block F8 and the archive. The archive system is in fact equipped with seating arrangements for storing the negative material. These 12-position formats are provided with location codes, which are also kept in the memory means in the device of the present invention.

The processing function F1 is connected to, respectively, a write function F2, a receive function F3, a display function F4, an annotation and classification function F7, an order function F5 and a return function F6. Furthermore, the processing function F1 is connected to the internal management function F8. The internal management function F8 is connected to a database GB1 (in one or more of the memory means 18, 19, 22, 23, 24). This GB1 database comprises a number of files required for maintaining the archive system and associated electronic replicas, such as a file containing customer data, a place code file indicating the occupied places in the archive with the identification of the material present thereon , and an index file representing the relationship between the negative material stored in the archive system and the electronic replicas of the relevant negative material. Furthermore, the database GB1 comprises a customer file included in the database GB1, location code file, index file and personal files are symbolically represented in Figure 2 via a broken line connection with the database GB1.

The personal files include for their respective owner the 20 electronic replicas of the negative material reported by that owner. Each personal file also comprises a number of auxiliary files such as an annotation file and classification file for storing annotation and classification information. These auxiliary files are symbolically represented in Figure 2 via a dotted line connection with the personal files in the GB1 database.

The format and structure of the files in database GB1 can be implemented in any suitable manner, as will be known to a person skilled in the art.

The processing function F1 also has direct access to the GB1 database to support functions F2-F7. Commands 30 can be sent from the functions F2-F7 to the processing function F1, which then transmits these commands to the management function F8.

The registration function F2 serves, via a connection of the personal computer 31 of the said person via the electronic network 1 with the central computer system 2, to record the data of the said person (hereinafter referred to as: the customer) in a customer base that is in the GB1 database.

The receive function F3 serves to register photographic negative material sent by the customer, and to further process it for storage.

The display function F4 serves to make the negative material stored for a customer visible via the electronic network 1 on the personal computer 31 of the customer, so that the customer can view the material in the form of an electronic replica. This function also offers F4 the possibility to place annotations.

The annotation and classification function F7 serves to provide an annotation for the replicas of stored material and / or to classify them into sections.

The order function F5 serves to have the customer order prints of stored negative material.

The return function F6 serves to return the stored material, in whole or in part, at the request of the customer.

For the functions F2-F7, the central computer system 2 in the processing function F1 uses the internal management function F8. The internal management function F8 comprises the following tasks: indexing received negative material wherein the index comprises at least information about the identity of the customer, the location code for the location where the material will be stored in the archive system; using the information in the index, storing the material in the archive system at the location indicated by that information; the creation and storage of electronic replicas in the customer's personal file in the GB1 database using the index; - administering the location of negative material received in the archive system and the GB1 database on the basis of the information from the index, adding annotations generated by the customer to an electronic replica present in that database GB1 for that customer; producing, at the request of the customer, one or more prints of negative material for an electronic replica of said negative material shown to the customer; arranging transport and distribution of prints to a customer; billing services rendered.

- 14-

Optionally, in the above-mentioned indexing step, the receipt date and time can also be used to determine the index.

It is noted here that instead of photonegative material still to be developed photo material can be processed in the device according to the present invention. This latter material is then first developed in a preceding step, and then treated as photonegative material.

Figure 3 shows a block diagram of a procedure 300 for the central computer system 2 according to the present invention that provides access to the system. Preferably, a person connects to the central computer system 2 through his personal computer 31 using the World Wide Web protocol, as known from the Internet. For this the person uses a program (for example a "browser") that is suitable for making connections and communicating according to this protocol.

In step 301 a welcome screen is displayed by the central computer system 2 on the personal computer 31 of the person by means of the "browser" program. The person can send a reply in which he logs on as a registered customer or as a new, not yet registered customer.

In step 302, the central computer system 2 determines on the basis of the received reply whether the customer has already been registered. If so, the procedure is continued in step 303.

In step 303, the central computer system 2 displays an input screen in the "browser" program on the personal computer 31 to cause the customer to enter his identification code and password.

In step 304 the customer, after verification, is admitted to his personal archive 25 which is located in the GB1 database. This personal archive in the GB1 database contains the electronic replicas of the photographic negative material that is stored in the associated archive system. The customer can now manage the stored negative material on the basis of the images shown in his electronic archive via the functions F2-F7 shown to him. This will be further explained in Figure 6.

If in step 302 the central computer system 2 determines that a person has not yet been registered, the procedure will be continued in step 305.

-15-

In step 305, the central computer system 2 can provide information to the person concerned. Also, the central computer system 2, via one or more screens shown in the "browser" program on the personal computer 31, can present a questionnaire to register the person as a new customer. This procedure will be further explained in Figure 4.

In step 306, this procedure 300 ends.

Figure 4 shows a block diagram of the procedure 305 for a computer system 2 according to the present invention that a person who requests it using his "browser" program can provide information about the use of the device and, if desired, this person as a customer.

In step 401, the central computer system 2 displays an input screen on which the choice can be made to display information or to start the registration procedure.

In step 402, the central computer system 2 determines on the basis of the received data whether information is to be displayed (in step 403) or whether the registration process is to be started (in step 404).

In step 403 the information is shown to the person concerned. This information may, for example, include the general conditions for using the system and the rates for any services provided. The central computer system 2 may offer the option of loading the information into the personal computer 31 of the person concerned. Also after this step 403 in step 406 the central computer system 2 can offer the possibility of proceeding to the registration procedure in step 404.

In step 404, the central computer system 2, in the "browser" program 25 on the personal computer 31, displays one or more input screens on which the person concerned can input his data relevant to the system and send it back to the central computer system 2.

In step 405, the provided data is verified by the central computer system 2. After verification, the central computer system 2 assigns an identification number ID and a (provisional) password to the relevant person.

The central computer system 2 stores this identification number ID and (provisional) password in the GB1 database.

- 16-

In step 407, the central computer system 2 creates a guidance form that the customer should use when sending negative material to the archive system. The central computer system 2 can send the guidance form, along with the identification number and password, via an electronic mail connection to the new customer as indicated by e-mail file 408, or, if desired, via another distribution channel, for example in printed form by mail.

In step 409, this procedure 305 ends.

Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a procedure 500 for a computer system 10 according to the present invention in which the storage of photographic negative material received from a customer is performed. With the negative material there is a guidance form, as created in step 407 of procedure 400, which is filled in by the customer and is sent along with the negative material for identification.

guidance form. The input of this data can take place via the keyboard 26 or, in case data are encoded on the guidance form, via another input device such as a barcode reader (not shown). The data relates to the relevant data for determining the identity of the customer, i.e. for example the identification number ID of the customer. The central computer system 2 determines by comparison of the received data with data from the database GB1, which customer ID sends the photo material.

In step 502, the central computer system 2 calculates an index for the received material, which includes the identification number of the customer (possibly the date of receipt).

In step 503, an electronic replica is made by the central computer system 2 of the received negative material by inputting an image of the material with the aid of a scanner 504.

In step 505, the central computer system 2 stores the scanned document (i.e., the replica) in the database GB1 in the personal file accessible only to the customer ID in the database GB1. The associated index is also linked to the replica file via an index file (index code). In this step i! · V -17- is also sent a message via e-mail or another distribution channel that the material received is included in the system.

In step 506, the central computer system 2 determines a location code for a still-unoccupied location in the archive system from data from the location code file in the data bank GB1. One of these place codes is chosen. The central computer system 2 now stores in the GB1 database that the selected location code is then occupied. Furthermore, suitable labels are printed for this purpose to be added to the received negative material. The central computer system 2 then generates a storage list 507 for storing the original received negative material in the archive system. This list 507 is printed on the printer 29, for example, and can be added to the negative material.

It is possible that steps 505 and 506 are performed simultaneously.

In step 508, the procedure 500 ends.

Figure 6 shows a block diagram of the procedure 304 for a computer system 2 according to the present invention for carrying out the management of the stored negative material by the owner / customer using the functions F2-F7 shown to him.

In step 600, the central computer system 2 shows the owner / customer ID admitted to his personal file a welcome screen. To this end, the central computer system 2 processes the data present in the personal file of owner / customer ID to present the welcome screen as is displayed on the personal computer 31 of the customer ID by means of the "browser" program.

This welcome screen provides, for example, an overview of the personal file 25 to the owner / customer ID. In the preferred embodiment in which access to the file is achieved via the World Wide Web protocol and through the use of a "browser" program, the central computer system 2 provides the possibility of calling up the available functions by means of "hyperlinks". Preferably, a selection function for selecting a particular replica from the personal file is implemented in this welcome screen. The selection function can, for example, provide the possibility of a search function to search the personal file by index, heading, annotation, or date and a "browse" function to browse through the stored replicas in a random manner. It is also possible that on this overview page. ; v.

-18- The replicas are shown schematically as icons that the owner / customer can select via his "browser". Furthermore, a function can be provided on this screen to leave the personal archive.

In step 601, the central computer system 2 displays the selected replica on the screen of the personal computer 31 of the owner / customer ID. The linked information of the index and of any annotation that is already present is also read in and displayed from the index file and, respectively, the annotation file. The screen displays the functions available to the owner / customer, such as an annotation function, an order function, and a return function.

10 The owner / customer enters his choice.

In step 602, on the basis of the entered choice of customer ID, one of the functions is selected via a selection procedure. Also in this step 602, a function may be provided to return to the welcome screen of step 600.

In step 603, the central computer system 2 offers the customer ID the option of reading electronic replica. The entered or changed annotations are stored in an annotation file 604 in the personal archive of the owner / customer ID and linked to the selected replica.

After performing this step 603, the central computer system 2 again displays the screen of step 600.

In step 605, the central computer system 2 offers the owner / customer ED the option to order prints for an electronic replica selected in the preceding steps 600-602. The central computer system 2 herein generates an input screen which shows all conceivable and available possibilities for printing, such as the dimensions of the print, the desired type of paper, the desired surface-quality, etc. It is also conceivable that the print is made on a another carrier, for example a mouse pad, a mug or a T-shirt.

The owner / customer ID selects the desired options from the "browser" program. After a (possible) confirmation of the choices made, the central computer system 2 stores the order data in the order file 606. The order data in any case comprises the index code of the selected replica, which according to step 502 contains all the required data of the owner / customer ID , contains the location code of the original negative material, and of the relevant image on the negative material.

"r" -19-

After performing this step 605, the central computer system 2 again displays the screen of step 600.

In step 607, the central computer system 2 offers the owner / customer ID the option of having the original negative material containing an electronic replica selected in the previous steps 600-602 5 returned to the address specified by the owner / customer ID. The central computer system 2 stores the transmission data in the return file 608. Here too, this transmission data comprises at least the index code of the selected replica, which according to step 502 contains all the required data of the owner / customer ID, the location code of the original 10 contains negative negative material, and of the relevant image on the negative material.

After performing step 607, the central computer system 2 again displays the screen of step 600.

In step 609, the procedure 304 ends.

It is noted here that in step 601 of Figure 6 other functions available for the owner-to-customer are also conceivable, such as an enlargement function (not shown) for enlarging the displayed image on the screen, a classification function (not shown) to place the selected replica in a section to be determined by the customer, or an authorization function (not shown) with which an owner of stored material can provide access to the owner-customer's file to third parties and also grant authorization manage the material stored by him (or a selection thereof) in any way. As is known to those skilled in the art, such an authorization function can limit the freedom of action for authorized third parties at any desired level. As is known in the art, such authorization can be granted per individual or per group. Naturally, only the owner / customer has full authorization for the management of the material stored by him. By authorizing third parties, the owner / customer of the stored material offers third parties the opportunity to become acquainted with that material at the level desired by the owner. For example, the following relationships can be recognized via a suitable authorization scheme: - casual passers-by: they can only see the public part of the establishment, for example material that an owner has placed in the public part; Notified passers-by: after registering with their relevant personal details, they can place orders for items that are displayed on the public part of the establishment; invited guests: persons invited by owners to take note of 5 (a part of) property managed by those owners; registered invitees: these invitees can also place orders; group invitees: these persons receive as a group invitees access to material made available by the owner; owners.

10

Figure 7 shows a block diagram of a procedure 700 for a computer system 2 according to the present invention for performing management functions as a result of management commands entered by the customer ID.

In the procedure 304, the central computer system 2 is the customer's ID

file 608. In the procedure 700, the further processing of these commands is further supported.

In step 701, the central computer system 2 reads the order file 606 and generates an order list 707 for an operator.

When using an order list 707, the operator can use this list to collect the original negative material in the archive system and then produce the prints thereof. Based on the list, the negative material is returned to the archive system after the prints have been made. For example, when use is made of suitable high-quality replicas 25, generation of such a list 707 can be omitted and a printing procedure can be performed by the central computer system 2 by making prints on a photo printer.

In step 702, the central computer system 2 reads the return file 608 and generates a second command list (return list) 708 for an operator.

Using this return list, the operator can collect the original negative material from the archive system for sending to the customer ID.

It is conceivable that, if the archive system is provided with a suitable automated handling system, the said operations can be sent electronically to this system by the central computer system 2 for further processing.

In step 703, the central computer system 2 then generates a sending command 709 for sending the produced prints and / or the negative material to be returned. Optionally, the central computer system 2 may, for example, also generate an electronic message to a distributor to arrange for the transmission of the material presented in step 701 and step 702.

In step 704, the central computer system 2 performs, in a manner known to a person skilled in the art, a billing procedure in which the costs for the customer ED are calculated and an invoice is generated.

In step 705, the central computer system 2 relays the location codes of the negative material to be returned in the archive system on the basis of the data for the second command list 708 generated in step 702 in the location code file in the data file GB 1 for later use insert new 15 material.

In step 706, the procedure 700 ends.

It is noted here that the generated lists 707, 708 and 709 can be printed by the central computer system 2 using the printer 29. However, it is also possible that the lists are sent electronically to another computer (not shown) which is set up for the specific task, related to the respective list 707,708, or 709.

ΐ J / 6ri

Claims (24)

Device for managing a document stored in a physical archive system via an electronic network (1) comprising a central computer system (2), which central computer system (2) comprises a central processing unit (21) connected to memory means (18) , 19, 22, 23, 24), input devices (26, 27) and output devices (28, 29), which central computer system (2) is further connected to a data communication network (1) for sending and receiving electronic data via that network (1); which memory means (18, 19, 22, 23, 24) comprise a database (GB1), the database (GB1) comprising at least the following data describing a document stored in the physical archive system: data concerning an owner of the document ; a place code for the place where the document is stored in the physical archive system; 15 and the central processing unit (21) is arranged to perform the following steps: keeping track of free places in the physical archive system using the place codes in the database (GB1); indexing a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system wherein the index comprises at least data about the identity of the owner and the location code for a free location where the document will be stored in the physical archive system; storing the index data of the newly received document in the database (GB1); 25. making an electronic replica of a newly received document and storing the electronic replica in the owner's personal file in the database (GB1) using the index. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in data communication with a communication device (31, 32) of the document owner, the central processing unit (21) is further adapted to perform the following step: -23 - displaying via the network (1) on the display means of the communication device (31, 32) an electronic replica of that document present in the database (GB1) for that owner. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the central processing unit (21) is further adapted to perform the following step: adding owner-generated and via the network (1) to the central computer system (2) annotations sent to an depicted electronic replica of a document for that owner in the database (GB1). Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the central processing unit (21) is further adapted to perform the following step: the production of one or more copies of a document stored in the physical archive system associated with an illustrated electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network (1). Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the central processing unit (21) is further adapted to carry out the following step: drawing up a mailing list (606) for sending the copies on the basis of the owner's data stored in the database 20 (GB1). Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the central processing unit (21) is further adapted to perform the following step: sending the one or more copies in electronic form to the communication device (31, 32) from the owner of the document. Device according to claims 2-6, characterized in that the central processing unit (21) is further adapted to perform the following step: the removal of a document stored in the physical archive system for a displayed electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network (1); 30. simultaneously removing the electronic replica from the personal file of the owner; -24- the release of the place occupied by the deleted document in the physical archive system by deleting the place code associated with that place in the database (GB1). compiling a return list (608) for returning the reference document based on the data of the owner stored in the database (GB1). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the document comprises photographic negative material. 9. Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the document comprises photographic material. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the document comprises archivable material. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the document has a digitized shape. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the communication device is a personal computer (31), or a suitable mobile telephone or personal digital assistant (32). Device according to claims 2-7, characterized in that the central processing unit (21) is adapted to accept instructions from a person authorized by the owner. A method for managing a document stored in a physical archive system by a device according to claim 1, characterized by the following steps: using data in a database (GB1), wherein the database (GB1) comprises at least the following data describe a document stored in the physical archive system, comprising: data concerning an owner of the document; and a location code for the location where the document is stored in the physical archive system; keeping track of free places in the physical archive system using the place codes in the database (GB1); 30. indexing a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system wherein the index comprises at least data about the identity of the owner and the location code for a free location where the document will be stored in the physical archive system; storing the index data of the newly received document in the database (GB1); and 5. producing an electronic replica of a newly received document and storing the electronic replica in the owner's personal file in the database (GB1) using the index. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that, in data communication with a communication device (31, 32) of the document owner, the method further comprises the following step: displaying the data via the network (1) on the display means of the communication device (31, 32) of an electronic replica of that document present in the database (GB1) for that owner. A method according to claim 15, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: adding annotations generated by the owner and sent via the network (1) to the central computer system (2) for a displayed one for that owner electronic replica of a document present in the database (GB1). A method as claimed in claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: producing one or more copies of a document stored in the physical archive system associated with a displayed electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network (1). A method according to claim 17, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: preparing a mailing list (606) for sending copies based on the data of the owner stored in the database 30 (GB1). A method according to claim 17, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: sending the one or more copies in electronic form to the communication device (31, 32) of the document's owner . A method according to claims 15-19, characterized in that the method further comprises the following step: 5. removing a document stored in the physical archive system for a displayed electronic replica of that document after receiving such a request from the owner via the network (1); simultaneously removing the electronic replica from the owner's personal file; 10. the release of the location occupied by the deleted document in the physical archive system by deleting the location code associated with that location in the database (GB1). drawing up a return list (608) for returning the deleted document based on the data of the owner stored in the database (GB 1). A method according to claims 15-20, characterized in that the method comprises the following step: accepting instructions from a person authorized by the owner. 20 22. Business management model for managing a document stored in a physical archive system by a device according to claim 1, characterized by the following steps: receiving photographic negative material to be stored in the physical archive system; receiving an index code and location code generated by the central computer system (2) for receiving photographic negative material; producing an electronic replica of the received photographic negative material; 30. placing the received photographic negative material in the physical archive system using the received index and location code; -27- producing prints of negative material stored in the physical archive system, after a request from a customer has been received via the central computer system (2); sending the prints by mail or other distribution channel to the customer 5 using the mailing list drawn up by the central computer system (2); removing photographic negative material from the archive on the basis of a return list generated by the central computer system (2) and sending that material back to a customer, after a request from the customer has been received via the central computer system (2) ; 10. sending invoices to customers on the basis of invoices generated by the central computer system (2) for services performed for said customers. 23. A computer program for loading into the memory means of the central computer system (2) of a device according to claim 1, characterized in that the computer program allows the central computer system (2) to perform the following steps: use making data in a database (GB1), wherein the database (GB1) comprises at least the following data describing a document stored in the physical archive system: data concerning an owner of the document; and a location code for the location where the document is stored in the physical archive system; keeping track of free places in the physical archive system using the place codes in the database (GB1); indexing a newly received document for storage in the physical archive system wherein the index comprises at least data about the identity of the owner and the location code for a free location where the document will be stored in the physical archive system; storing the index data of the newly received document in the database (GB1); and 30. producing an electronic replica of a newly received document and storing the electronic replica in the owner's personal file in the database (GB1) using the index. -28- An information carrier provided with a computer program according to claim 23.