JPH11313078A - Server device, data processing method for the same, composite device, data processing method for the same and storage medium storing program which computer can read - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the burden of an address setting operation for designating the distribution processing destination of picture data inputted from a composite device. SOLUTION: In transmitting picture data which is picture-inputted to an outer facsimile equipment by using a scanner function or when it is distributed to any data processor when MFD 101 having a multifunction containing a scanner function can communicate with a server 1001 and a plurality of clients 1020 and 1021 through network LAN, the setting change of a necessary address destination is one-dimensionally managed on a server 101-side, address information which is one-dimensionally managed is down-loaded on MFD 1001, and the multi-address of the server 1001 designating any address information and distributing picture data inputted to a scanner is controlled.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a device capable of executing multi-function function processing via a predetermined communication medium, a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses, a data processing method of the server apparatus, a multifunction apparatus, and the like. The present invention relates to a data processing method of a multifunction peripheral and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Heretofore, an image which allows a client on a network of this kind to effectively utilize a function of the device, for example, a multi-function function (MF function) such as a printer function, a facsimile function, and a scanner function. In a processing system, a paper document is sent to a number of destinations such as a document distribution service by facsimile (FAX).
When the broadcast processing is performed by the apparatus, the broadcast function of the FAX apparatus is generally used.

[0003]

However, when there are a large number of broadcast destinations, registering and managing the fax destination in the fax machine and operating the fax device are difficult in terms of operability.
It is necessary to prepare a dedicated non-volatile memory with a large capacity in the device, which is becoming a problem from the viewpoint of cost as a FAX device.

[0004] In particular, a multi-function device (MFD) having a facsimile, a scanner function and the like is arranged on a network so that the device can be used in a stand-alone manner. In an image processing system capable of effectively utilizing a printer function, a facsimile function, a scanner function, and the like, the problem becomes even more serious.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a device or a multifunction device having a multifunction function including a scanner function with a server device and a plurality of data via a network. When the image data input using the scanner function is transmitted to an external facsimile machine or distributed to any data processing device when communication with the processing device is possible, Address setting for designating a distribution processing destination for image data input from the multifunction device by making the setting change unified on the server side and downloading and using the unified address information to the multifunction device Image data transferred from a multifunction device with specified address information while reducing the operation burden A server device and a server device capable of automating a broadcasting process in which distribution to a data processing device designated based on the transferred address information and transmission from a multifunction device to a facsimile device are mixed. An object of the present invention is to provide a data processing method, a multifunction device, a data processing method of the multifunction device, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium, and a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses. First user information corresponding to each data processing device, second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information Storage means for storing address information including third user information in which the same is mixed, transfer means for transferring the address information stored in the storage means to the device, image information transferred from the device, and the transfer Acquiring means for acquiring address information specified in the address information transferred to the means, and acquiring the address information acquired by the acquiring means. In which a control means for controlling in parallel either or both of the analysis to deliver to one of the data processing device the image data the acquisition and the image data transmitted from the device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the device is capable of executing a multi-function function process including a scanner function, a print function, a copy function, and a facsimile function.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a database having a plurality of data areas which can be referred to by each data processing apparatus, wherein the control means registers image data received from the device in a data area to be identified. And deliver it.

A fourth invention according to the present invention is a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium. First user information corresponding to each registered data processing device, second user information to which image data generated along with the multifunction function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information, Download means for downloading, to a memory resource, address information including third user information in which user information is mixed; and designation means for designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download means. Transferring means for transferring image data with an address specified by the specifying means to the server device; Those having.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a scanner for reading an original image, a printer for outputting image data read from the scanner or print data input from any of the data processing devices,
Facsimile means for transmitting image data read by the scanner means to an external facsimile apparatus via a predetermined line and receiving image data received from the external facsimile apparatus.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing method for a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium and a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses. The first user information corresponding to the data processing device, the second user information to which image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information are included. A registration step of registering address information including mixed third user information in a memory resource; a transfer step of transferring address information registered in the memory resource to the device; An obtaining step of obtaining address information specified in the address information transferred in the transferring step; Serial those having an image data distribution step for either or both of the address information to either the data processing device the image data to which the acquired by analyzing the distribution of the image data transmitted from the device.

A seventh invention according to the present invention is a data processing method for a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium, First user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device, second user information to be transmitted with image data generated in accordance with the multi-function function processing, and the first user information; A download step of downloading, to a memory resource, address information including third user information in which the second user information is mixed; and specifying a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download step. And transferring the image data with the address specified by the specifying step to the server device. Those having a transfer step of.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is directed to a computer readable program for controlling a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium and a server capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses. , A first user information corresponding to each data processing device, a second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, and the first user information. A registration step of registering address information including third user information in which the third user information is mixed with the second user information in a memory resource; a transfer step of transferring the address information registered in the memory resource to the device; The image information transferred from the device and the address information specified in the address information transferred in the transfer step. An acquisition step of acquiring, and either or both of distributing the acquired image data by analyzing the address information acquired in the acquisition step to any of the data processing apparatuses and transmitting image data from the device Image data distribution step to be performed.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a computer that controls a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium is readable. A second storage medium storing a program, the first user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device, and the second image data to be transmitted along with the multifunction function processing. A download step of downloading user information, address information including third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed into a memory resource, and downloading the address information to the memory resource by the download step A designation step of designating a desired address from the address information, and designation by the designation step The image data with the address are those having a transfer step of transferring to the server apparatus.

[0015]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a document processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Multi-function device (MFD) 101 capable of executing a plurality of function processes (including a facsimile communication function)
0 and an example in which a plurality of (here, two as an example) clients 1020 and 1021 are arranged on the same network LAN as a service environment for each user. The MFD 1010 is connected to a public network for FAX communication as one function.

Further, in this example, each client 102
A variety of jobs (print output, fax transmission, etc.) can be directly requested from the MFD 1010 from 0,1021.

It should be noted that a plurality of clients 1020, 10
MF via the server 1001
The job may be requested to the D1010. In any case, the device may be a single device such as copy, fax,
Jobs such as transmission / reception can be processed, and jobs from the network LAN and resources on the device side are exclusively engaged.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the multifunction device (MFD) 1010 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 2001 denotes a resource management unit which manages various resources supported as devices and schedules various requested jobs. The resource management unit 20
Reference numeral 01 denotes a control unit including a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM (not shown), and executes a control program stored in a hard disk, a ROM, or the like to control the entire processing of the MFD 1010. Resource management unit 2
001 is the above-mentioned 2015, 2020, 2025, 203
0, 2035, 2040, 2045, 2050, etc. are sequentially controlled by a single CPU, so that requests from the respective control units cannot be processed simultaneously, and requests from the respective control units are always interrupted. When any resource is used in accordance with each job request, an interrupt request is generated.

An operation unit 2010 serves as a user interface for providing a user with a function as a terminal. 2015, a reading control unit;
16 is controlled. Reference numeral 2020 denotes a recording control unit, which includes a printer 2021 and a finisher (sorter,
It controls the driving of the stapler and the double-sided recording unit.

Reference numeral 2025 denotes a communication control unit, which controls normal FAX transmission and reception via a line control unit 2026. 20
Reference numeral 30 denotes a memory management unit that allocates memory resources to each control unit and performs storage management of various document data and the like.

Reference numeral 2035 denotes an image processing unit which performs image processing necessary for paper size conversion, resolution conversion, smoothing processing, and the like, particularly when facsimile transmission or facsimile reception and recording.
Reference numeral 2040 denotes an encoding processing unit, which mainly performs encoding and decoding processes such as MH, MR, and MMR that are standardly used for FAX transmission and reception.

Reference numeral 2045 denotes a PDL control unit. In this embodiment, PDL data received via the network LAN is converted into video data by using a PDL processing unit 2046, and the converted data is generally converted to video data. Is passed to the recording control unit 2020 and output from the printer 2021.

Reference numeral 2050 denotes an external I / F control unit, and in this example, a network L via a LAN control unit 2051.
Predetermined data communication, job management, and control with a client or server on the AN are performed under the management of the resource management unit 2001.

The following is a supplementary explanation of each function processing operation of this terminal alone.

At the time of a copy operation, each related control unit is controlled under the control of the resource management unit 2001 so that an original set on the scanner 2016 is read by an operation from the operation unit 2010 and output to the printer 2021. .

On the other hand, at the time of fax transmission, the operation unit 2010
, The related control units are controlled under the control of the resource management unit 2001 so that the original set on the scanner 2016 is read and the data is transferred from the line control unit 2026.

On the other hand, when receiving a facsimile,
26 is temporarily stored in the memory 2031, and generally, the image data is printed out from the printer 2021 as a received document output.
Alternatively, each related control unit is controlled under the management of the resource management unit 2001 so that data is transferred to the server via the LAN control unit 2051.

On the other hand, at the time of the interrupt processing service, for example, the following interrupt service can be received from the operation unit 2010 under the management of the resource management unit 2001 by specifying an interrupt.

The first interrupt process is a normal copy using an empty tray during multi-copy using a sorter, and the second interrupt process is a normal copy during double-sided recording.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. The data processing procedure by the MFD 1010 shown in FIG. Connected to the server 1001,
(When processing various jobs in cooperation with the server). Note that (1) to (10) indicate each step.

First, in step (1), the server 1001
Check if a connection request has been made, and if not, wait until requested.

The server 1001 can be received from the operation unit 2010 or from a network LAN. At this time, the server 1001 to be connected
Can also be specified.

If it is determined in step (1) that a connection request with the server 1001 has been made, connection processing is executed in step (2). At this time, if the name of the server to be connected is specified, the parameter value is added to the data to be sent on the network LAN to connect to a predetermined server (the server 1001 in the present embodiment). I have. Then, when connected to the server 1001, address book data and the like described later are stored in the server 1001.
It is designed to be downloaded from the side.

Next, in step (3), it is determined whether or not there is job data to be transferred to the server side in the terminal, that is, whether or not there is a job request, for example, a received document transfer job, a scanner reading job, or the like. If it is determined that there is a job request, in step (4), processing such as transfer of job data to the server is performed, and the process proceeds to step (5).

Next, in step (5), the server 1001
It is determined whether or not there is a job request from the side to the end, and if it is determined that there is a job request, step (6)
Then, the availability of the resources in the terminal is checked, and it is determined whether or not the job data can be accepted at that time. If it is determined that the job data can be accepted, the process proceeds to step (8). The data is accepted, the job processing is executed, and the process proceeds to step (9).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the situation is not acceptable, the process proceeds to step (7), where the server 1001 is notified that the terminal is busy, and the process proceeds to step (9). move on.

In general, job data is temporarily stored in a memory, and then necessary processing such as FAX transmission processing and printout processing is performed.

Next, in step (9), the server 1001
It is determined whether or not a request to disconnect the connection has been made, and if it is determined that the disconnection request has not been made, the process returns to step (3).

On the other hand, in step (9), the server 1001
If it is determined that a request to disconnect the connection with the server 1001 has been made, a disconnection process with the server 1001 is performed in step (10), and the process returns to step (1) to wait for a connection request with the server 1001.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the detailed configuration of the document distribution / management server (server) 1001 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 3001 denotes a LAN control unit, whose basic functions are provided by a network OS in which a server application is installed.

Reference numeral 3002 denotes a transaction management unit, which performs individual communication processing with devices and clients managed by the server via the LAN control unit 3001 based on the results of internal processing.

Reference numeral 3003 denotes a request queue management unit which basically internally stores various request messages asynchronously transferred from the device side and the client side once in the Q
uee management, and performs processing according to the contents of requests sequentially. However, it is assumed that a request that requires scheduling occurs in the server.

Reference numeral 3004 denotes a job management unit, which transfers processing to various job processing units in accordance with the contents of requests from the device side, the client side, and in some cases, the server 1001.

Reference numeral 3005 denotes a user management unit which performs job processing related to user management. The user management unit 300
5 is basically a connected user (client),
Job processing related to device management, for example, determination of connection (login) request processing from each client and device, handling of document information and address information managed for each user, and job processing status on the device side,
Manages and controls resource status and the like.

Reference numeral 3006 denotes a server management unit which processes a job related to server management. The server management unit 300
6 basically provides service functions for server administrators, such as server settings, data backup, and acquisition of service log data. Reference numeral 3007 denotes a document processing unit which handles processing related to general document processing in the server 1001, transfers control authority to a scheduler 3010 as needed, and executes control of various job groups 3020 under the management thereof. .

Reference numeral 3030 denotes a memory management unit,
The various data handled in 1 are stored and managed in the database 3031 under the management in principle, and referred to as needed.
Reading is performed.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the job processing configuration of the document distribution / management server (server) 1001 shown in FIG. 1. In the present embodiment, job data between the server and the device is roughly classified. Job 3110 with the transfer process of job 1 and job 1 processed in the server
Alternatively, the scheduler 3 may divide the job into server internal jobs 3120 limited to data processing between the server and the client.
010 corresponds to the case where the schedule is managed.

In the device job 3110, 31
Reference numeral 11 denotes a fax transmission job.
0, 1021 to receive the transmission request job data,
Requests the device for fax transmission.

Reference numeral 3112 denotes a fax reception job, which receives fax reception data from the device and sends it to the server 1001.
Stores and manages manuscripts.

When the distribution destination data of the client is added from the device side, the distribution processing is performed by managing the data as the data unique to the user. When the distribution destination is unknown, the processing is shifted to an automatic routing job 3126 to be described later, whereby the distribution processing can be performed by extracting the distribution destination from the image data.

Reference numeral 3113 denotes a print job, which controls processing of a print request job for an image document stored and managed in the server 1001 from the client side. Reference numeral 3114 denotes a scan job which receives data obtained by reading a document from a device, and manages the data as a file in a read-only folder of a predetermined user so that the user can access the data. The processing flow including the processing related to the broadcast function will be described later.

In the server internal job 3120, 31
An OCR analysis job 21 performs an OCR process on a received document, a scanner-read document, and the like that are stored and managed as image data. Here, the OCR process is performed on the entire directly specified document, and the other document summarizing job 312
2. It can be started from the automatic routing job 3126 according to the purpose.

For example, it is possible to extract destination data from a received document, or perform OCR processing on the entire image data to convert all text in a character document image into electronic data.

Reference numeral 3122 denotes a document summarization job, which performs a content summarization process on a character-coded document stored in the server 1001. A document search job 3123 provides search means for documents stored in the server 1001.

Reference numeral 3124 denotes an encryption processing job, which performs encryption processing on the document stored in the server 1001 as necessary to guarantee the security of the document. Reference numeral 3125 denotes a document data transfer job for transferring image data to the clients 1020 and 1021. At this time, if there is a display size reduction request, the display data subjected to the reduction processing is transferred.

Reference numeral 3126 denotes an automatic routing job.
The document is extracted by the CR analysis job 3121, and the distribution process is performed by moving the document to a user-specific management area corresponding to the extracted destination.

Reference numeral 3127 denotes a manual routing job. For a temporarily stored received document, the contents of each document are visually shown to a user on the client side specially permitted, and a predetermined destination is designated. Means to confirm
Means for manually moving the document to a folder of each user on the network within the server.

Reference numeral 3128 denotes a document registration job, which can register a document in the server in response to a request from the client.

FIG. 6 shows the document distribution server 10 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of a database 3031 provided in the database 301, and the database 3031 according to the present embodiment.
Is the shared data CD and, for example, individual user data UD
, UD2,..., Etc., and these data are managed via the memory management unit 3030.

In the shared data CD, CD1 is user management information corresponding to a user name, a user password, user-specific settings, device setting information, and the like. CD2 is server management information, and corresponds to the number of user licenses, time, server application version, and the like.

CD3 is shared address data, and the address of each user on the shared address data network on the LAN is automatically registered. CD4 is shared document data and corresponds to document data shared by each user. CD5 is shared document annotation data (shared document annotation data), and is configured so that annotation data for the shared document can be set.

CD6 is communication log data.
Communication log (history) data related to transmission and reception is managed. The CD 7 is temporarily stored document data, and is particularly managed as FAX received document information transferred without specifying a destination.

The individual user data UD1 and UD2 are respectively composed of corresponding document data UD1-1 and UD2-1 and address data UD1-2 and UD2-2.

In the document data UD1-1, UD1-
1-1 is Inbox data, which mainly manages received document data transferred from the device side. UD1-1
Reference numeral -2 denotes OutBox data, which manages document data in a transmission request transferred to the device side. UD1-1-
Reference numeral 3 denotes scan data which manages document data transferred after scanning and reading.

UD1-1-4 is SentFax data, which manages document data that has been transmitted. UD1
-1-5 is the Trash data, which manages the temporarily stored document data that has been instructed unnecessary. UD1-1-6 is user-specific folder data in which documents moved and copied by the user are managed in folders individually set by the user.

UD1-2 is user-specific address data, and address data UD1-2 uniquely set by the user.
-1 is managed.

In the document data UD2-1, UD2-
1-1 is Inbox data, which mainly manages received document data transferred from the device side. UD2-1
Reference numeral -2 denotes OutBox data, which manages document data in a transmission request transferred to the device side. UD2-1-
Reference numeral 3 denotes scan data which manages document data transferred after scanning and reading.

UD2-1-4 is SentFax data, which manages document data that has been transmitted. UD2
-1-5 is the Trash data, which manages the temporarily stored document data that has been instructed unnecessary. UD2-1-6 is user-specific folder data in which documents moved and copied by the user are managed in folders individually set by the user.

UD2-2 is user-specific address data, and address data UD2-2 uniquely set by the user.
-1 is managed.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a data processing mode in the image processing system according to the present invention.
D3301, server 3312, client 3320-
This corresponds to the case where a system is constructed from 3322 and the like.
Hereinafter, the configuration and operation will be described.

In the figure, a multi-function device (MFD) 3301 performs a data transfer process via a data buffer 3310 in a server 3312. In the data buffer 3310, a data buffer 3310-1 for FAX transmission request and a FAX reception request Data buffer 3310-2, print data data buffer 3310-3, scanner data data buffer 33
10-4 are prepared, and these data are MFD
It is possible to transfer the data in a unit of 3301 and data packet.

On the other hand, in the server 3312, the MFD 33
01 data buffer 3310 and database 33
Data transfer is internally performed as necessary on the 11 side.

Each of the clients 3320 to 3322 is basically provided with various services by performing data transfer (access) to the database 3311 in the server 3312.

For example, the client 3320 corresponding to the user 1 as a client includes a data area of the common data area 3311-1 in the server 3312 and a user data area 331 individually managed for the user 1.
By accessing 1-2, various services can be provided. 3311-
Reference numerals 3,3311-4 denote user data areas, which are reserved for clients 3321 and 3322, respectively.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the basic processing procedure by the server 1001 shown in FIG. Note that (1) to (17) indicate each step.

First, in step (1), the database 3031 is checked at power-on. Next, in step (2), it is checked whether there is a login request from various clients and devices to the server 1001. If it is determined that there is a login request, in step (3), the password is checked. Perform Login process including step (4)
Proceed to the following. The processing in step (3) is performed by the user management unit 3005 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, in step (2), Logi
If it is determined that there is no n request, in step (4),
Clients, for example clients 1020, 1021
It is checked whether there is a request for user information from the user, etc., and if it is confirmed that there is a request for user information, step (5)
Then, the individual data of each user and the shared data are transferred to the client in accordance with the request, and the process proceeds to step (6) and subsequent steps. The processing of step (6) is performed by the user management unit 3005 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (4) that there is no user information request, in step (6), it is checked whether there is a server information request from each of the clients 1020 and 1021, and When it is confirmed that there is an information request, in step (7), the server-specific data is transferred to the client according to the request, and the process proceeds to step (8) and subsequent steps. Step (7)
Is processed by the server management unit 3006 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when it is confirmed in step (6) that there is no server information request, in step (8),
It is determined whether or not there is a document data request from each of the clients 1020 and 1021. If it is determined that there is a document data request, in step (9), a data request process for the specified document is performed. 10) Proceed to the subsequent steps. The processing in step (9) is performed by the document processing unit 3007 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (8) that there is no document data request from each of the clients 1020 and 1021, then in step (10), each client 1
020, 1021, It is checked whether there are various job requests from the device. If it is checked that there is a job request, in step (11), the job data is processed according to the specified job type. , Step (12)
Proceed to the following. Note that the processing in step (11), that is, the processing of various jobs, is performed in the document processing unit 30 shown in FIG.
07.

On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step (10) that there are no various job requests from each of the clients 1020, 1021, and the device, in step (12), a processing request relating to the address book processing is confirmed. If it is confirmed that there is a request, in step (13), processing related to collection, registration, and change of address information is performed, and the process proceeds to step (14) and thereafter.

On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step (12) that there is no processing request related to the address book processing, then in step (14), the Logout request is confirmed, and
If it is confirmed that there is an out request, step (1)
In 5), a Logout process is performed, and the process proceeds to step (16) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, in step (14), Logout
If there is no request, in step (16),
It is confirmed whether there is a server shutdown request. If it is confirmed that there is no server shutdown request, the process returns to step (2). If it is confirmed that there is the server shutdown request, the process returns to step (17). The process is performed, and the process ends.

FIG. 9 shows the database 331 shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an address registration table secured in No. 1; here, an address table for shared data is shown. In the present embodiment, as the registration items,
The following are provided as a minimum.

In the figure, reference numeral 3501 denotes a user number, which is internally set corresponding to a number for managing each registered user. A user name 3502 basically registers a network user name. Apart from that, a user name as a facsimile transmission destination, a user name registered in a group, and the like can be registered from the client. This data (user name) is sent directly to the device and displayed on the device.

An attribute 3503 is used to identify whether the registered user name is for a network user (client), for FAX number registration, or for group user registration. Reference numeral 3504 denotes a facsimile number. In the case of a facsimile transmission destination user, the facsimile number is registered. Reference numeral 3505 denotes a group member. In the case of a group user, the group member is designated by a user number.

Reference numeral 3506 denotes device registration, in which it is set whether or not to transfer to the device side as a user name, and only those set as "register" are downloaded to the device side. As default settings, “network user” and “group user” are set as device registration, and “FAX destination user” is not registered.

Note that all of these address data can be used as a document distribution destination from each client.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to a scan job processing procedure. Note that (1) to (10) indicate each step.

First, in step (1), transfer processing of scan job data from a device is performed, and job data is received. This job data includes image data read by the scanner and its distribution destination data.

Next, in step (2), the image data portion is registered in the database 3031 as a temporarily stored document file. Next, in step (3), the contents of the distribution destination data section are analyzed to detect the number of distributions to be processed and the like.

Subsequently, in step (4), unprocessed individual destination data (user name) is extracted, and in step (5),
It is determined whether or not the attribute is “client”. If it is determined that the attribute is “client”, step (7)
Then, an internal distribution process is performed for a predetermined user folder, and the process proceeds to step (9) and subsequent steps.

In the present embodiment, when the destination data attribute is a group user, "IN
BOX "data, otherwise" Scan "
It is treated as data.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that the attribute is not “client”, it is determined in step (6) whether or not the destination data attribute is “FAX transmission destination”. If it is determined to be "first", in step (8), registration as a new transmission job is internally performed, and the process proceeds to step (9) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the data is not the “FAX transmission destination”, it is checked in step (9) whether or not the next data to be distributed remains. If it is confirmed that there is still unprocessed data, the process returns to step (4).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (9) that the next data does not exist, that is, if the distribution (registration) processing is completed, in step (10), post-processing such as a temporarily stored document is performed and processing is performed. To end.

FIG. 11 shows the client 10 shown in FIG.
It is a block diagram explaining the structure of 20,1021.

In the figure, reference numeral 4001 denotes a general document creation application; 4002, a graphic device interface provided by the OS; 4003, a printer driver; 4004, a print manager generally provided by the OS; The requested print-related job is stored in these modules (4
002 to 4004), and is processed on the printing system provided by the network OS via the LAN control unit 4030.

Reference numeral 4005 denotes a FAX driver. When a transmission request is made from an application, this driver is selected and processed as a transmission request job via a job management unit 4020 described later.

Reference numeral 4010 denotes a document distribution / management application, which is a GUI for accessing the document distribution / management server.
Is provided.

Specifically, display of various data (FAX transmission / reception document, scanner document, communication history information, etc.), document editing function, various setting functions (including mode setting for making a personal document a shared document, address book setting), Various job specification operations (F
AX transmission, document printing, etc.).

In this embodiment, apart from the general user application, several administrator applications are also prepared, and one of them is a manual distribution application for received documents. This is because the contents of a received document whose address is unknown (including unanalysable) and temporarily stored in the server are displayed in a viewer so that the address can be visually checked and the document is set as a document for a predetermined user. You can do it.

Further, as an application for a server administrator, an application for an administrator capable of setting a client (user) using the server and setting a device remotely is also provided.

Reference numeral 4011 denotes a document distribution / management driver which handles various job data requested from an application via a job management unit 4020. Reference numeral 4020 denotes a job management unit which manages a job requested by the application 4010. 4
Reference numeral 021 denotes a job control unit which performs data transfer processing with the server for various jobs. 4030
Is a LAN control unit, which generally controls communication on the LAN provided by the OS maker.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the fourth data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the data processing procedure of each of the clients 1020 and 1021. Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

First, in step (1), the server 1001
Connection processing (Login) is performed. Here, first,
User authentication (for example, using a user ID and a password) as a user of the system in this embodiment is performed.

Next, in step (2), the server 1001
Data upload and display processing from
As a result of n, data already managed on the server side is downloaded as data for the user, and predetermined data is displayed on the GUI.

Subsequently, in step (3), the presence or absence of a job request from the user is searched for and determined. When it is determined that there is a job request, that is, when it is determined that there is any job request, In step (4), job processing is executed, and the process proceeds to step (5) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that there is no job request, it is determined in step (5) that the application is to be terminated. Returning to 2), the server-side data is uploaded again, and the status such as the presence or absence of the distributed document is confirmed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that a request to end the application has been made, a disconnection (Logout) process with the server is performed in step (6), and the process ends.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

A data processing method for a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium configured as described above, and a server apparatus (server 1001) capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses, First user information (user name whose attribute is a client) corresponding to each data processing device, second image data to be transmitted along with the multi-function function processing
User information (the attribute is the user name of the fax destination),
Address information including third user information (an attribute including a group (including first and second user information)) in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed is stored in a memory resource (non-volatile A registration step (not shown, which is performed using a user interface of the server 1001) to register the address information registered in the memory resource to the device (not shown).
An acquisition step (steps (1) and (2) in FIG. 10) for acquiring image information transferred from the device and address information designated in the address information transferred in the transfer step; An image data distribution step of performing either or both of distributing the acquired image data to any of the data processing apparatuses and transmitting image data from the device by analyzing the address information acquired in the step (FIG. 10) Steps (3) to (10)), the second user information, the first user information, and the second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing should be transmitted. And address information including the third user information in which the first and third user information are mixed. Presenting the address information, acquiring image data with the address information specified from the address information, and sequentially distributing the image data to each data processing device based on the address information. Or
It is possible to freely construct an image processing environment in which image data is sequentially transmitted to a plurality of destinations in a broadcast manner via a device.

A multifunction device (MFD101) capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices (clients 1020 and 1021) and a server device (server 1001) via a predetermined communication medium.
0), wherein the first user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device;
Address information including third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed together is to be transmitted to the second user information to which the image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted. Download process for downloading to memory resources (step (2) in FIG. 3)
A designating step (included in step (4) of FIG. 3) for designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download step, and an address designated by the designating step. A transfer step of transferring image data to the server device (FIG. 3)
(4)), the latest first to third user information managed centrally on the server device side is acquired, and an image is obtained from the multifunction device capable of executing the multifunction function processing. An operation environment for designating the address information to determine the distribution processing of the input image data from the acquired address information can be automatically set, and each data processing device in the server device for the image data read by a simple designation operation And the process of transmitting image data to the outside can be automated.

Further, a memory resource for non-volatilely storing the latest first to third user information which is centrally managed on the server side is not required, and the latest first to third user information is always stored.
User information can be managed with a small memory, and the load of setting change accompanying the change of each of the first to third user information can be greatly reduced.

Further, the present invention is a storage medium which stores a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium, and a computer readable program for controlling a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses. First user information corresponding to each data processing device, second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information Registering address information including third user information in which memory information is mixed in a memory resource, transferring the address information registered in the memory resource to the device, and image information transferred from the device And an acquisition step for acquiring address information specified in the address information transferred in the transfer step. And an image data distribution step of analyzing the address information acquired in the acquisition step and distributing the acquired image data to any of the data processing devices and / or transmitting image data from the device. And second user information to which image data generated with the multifunction function processing is to be transmitted, and third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed. , And presents the latest address information including the first to third user information managed for the device, and displays the image with the address information specified from the address information. Data is acquired, and image data is sequentially distributed to each data processing device in a broadcast manner based on the address information, or transmitted via a device. An image processing environment or to sequentially transmit the image data can be constructed freely in to multiple destinations.

Further, the present invention is a storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium. The first user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device, the second user information to transmit image data generated in accordance with the multi-function function processing, the first user information A download step of downloading address information including third user information in which information and the second user information are mixed into a memory resource, and a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download step With the addressing step specified by the specifying step A transfer step of transferring image data to the server device, so that the latest first to third user information managed centrally on the server device side can be acquired, and the multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing An operation environment for designating the address information to determine the distribution process of the image data input from the acquired address information can be automatically set, and each data in the server device for the image data read by the simple designation operation can be set. The distribution processing to the processing device or the transmission processing of the image data to the outside can be automated.

Further, a memory resource for non-volatilely storing the latest first to third user information that is centrally managed on the server side is not required, and the latest first to third user information is always stored.
User information can be managed with a small memory, and the load of setting change accompanying the change of each of the first to third user information can be greatly reduced.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image processing apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 and a client. Here, a laser beam printer will be described as an example of the printer. 1 and 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, clients 1020 and 1020
Reference numeral 21 denotes figures, images, characters, and the like based on a document processing program or the like stored in a program ROM of the ROM 3.
C for executing document processing in which tables (including spreadsheets) are mixed
The CPU 1 has a PU 1 and controls each device connected to the system bus 4 as a whole.

Also, the program ROM of the ROM 3
Alternatively, the hard disk 22 and the external memory 11 store a control program of the CPU 1 as shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 3, 8, 12 and the like, and the font ROM of the ROM 3 is used for the above document processing. Font data and the like, and a data ROM of the ROM 3 stores various data (for example,
Programs for various page description languages, font rasterizing data, etc.).

Reference numeral 2 denotes a RAM which can be expanded by an option RAM or the like, and functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 1. 5 is a keyboard controller (KBC),
It controls key input from a keyboard 9 or a pointing device (not shown).

6 is a CRT controller (CRTC),
The display of the CRT display (CRT) 10 is controlled.
Reference numeral 7 denotes a disk controller (DKC) for controlling access to an external memory 11 such as a hard disk (HD) for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, and editing files, and a floppy disk (FD).

Reference numeral 8 denotes a LAN controller, which is connected to the MFD 1010 via a network LAN such as Ethernet, and executes communication control processing with the MFD 1010 according to a predetermined protocol. The CPU 1 is, for example, a RAM 2
Of the outline font into the display information RAM area set on the
10 enables WYSIWYG.

The CPU 1 opens various registered windows based on commands designated by a mouse cursor or the like (not shown) on the CRT 10 and executes various data processing.

In the MFD 1010, reference numeral 12 denotes a CPU.
In this way, access to various devices connected to the system bus 15 is comprehensively controlled based on a control program or the like stored in the program ROM of the ROM 13 or a control program or the like stored in the external memory 2031. The recording control unit 2020, the read control unit 2015, the communication control unit 2025, and the
It is configured to be able to communicate with the memory management unit 2030 and the like, and comprehensively controls data processing of input image information and output image information.

The program ROM of the ROM 13
The hard disk 23 stores a control program and the like that can be executed by the CPU 12 as shown in a flowchart (not shown).

The CPU 12 can communicate with the clients 1020 and 1021 via the LAN control unit 2051 and can notify the clients 1020 and 1021 of information and the like in the MFD 1010.

Reference numeral 19 denotes a RAM, which mainly functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 12, and is configured so that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an additional port (not shown).

Note that the RAM 19 stores the client 102
A table area for storing, in the job list, job information for which it has been determined that interrupts cannot be executed with respect to the job input when the CPU 12 determines whether or not interrupts can be executed with respect to the job input from 0, 1021; It is used for an output information development area, environment data storage area, NVRAM, and the like. The access to the external memory 2031 such as a hard disk (HD) and an IC card is controlled by the memory management unit 2030. The external memory 2031 stores font data (including font data downloaded from the clients 1020 and 1021), emulation programs (including emulation programs downloaded from the clients 1020 and 1021), and form data (including the clients 1020 and 1021).
1 etc.) can be stored.

An operation unit 2010 includes an operation switch, an LED display, and the like.
It is configured to be able to display the operation processing state 1010 and the like.

Hereinafter, a characteristic configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

A device (MFD 1010) capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium (network LAN) configured as described above, and a plurality of data processing apparatuses (clients 1020 and 102)
1), which is a server device (server 1001) capable of communicating with the first user information (user information whose attribute is a client as shown in FIG. 9) corresponding to each data processing device; The second user information to which the accompanying image data is to be transmitted (FIG. 9
The attribute as shown in is the user information of the fax destination),
Storage means (non-volatile memory) for storing address information including third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed (user information whose attributes are groups as shown in FIG. 9) An external memory 11) and a transfer unit (the LAN controller 8 based on an instruction from the CPU 1) for transferring the address information stored in the storage unit to the device.
Performing transfer processing), and obtaining means (LA) for obtaining the image information transferred from the device and the address information specified in the address information transferred to the transfer means.
N controller 8), and either or both of analyzing the address information acquired by the acquisition unit and distributing the acquired image data to any data processing device and transmitting image data from the device in parallel. Control means (CPU 1 executes and controls a control program stored in ROM 3 and hard disk 22)
And second user information to which image data generated with the multifunction function processing is to be transmitted, and third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed. , And presents the latest address information including the first to third user information managed for the device, and displays the image with the address information specified from the address information. Acquires data and distributes image data sequentially to each data processing device based on the address information, or sequentially transmits image data to a plurality of destinations via a device. It is possible to freely construct an image processing environment.

The device (MFD1010)
Can execute multi-function function processing including scanner function, print function, copy function, and facsimile function. Therefore, image data input based on the scanner function can be transferred to the data processing device, or the print function can be used together. That is, the image data input based on the copy function is output as an image, the input image data is transmitted to an external facsimile device by the facsimile function, or the image data transmitted from the external facsimile device is transmitted. By performing composite image processing for outputting an image or transferring the transmitted image data to a data processing device, it is possible to execute different distribution processing of image data based on a scanner function according to designated address information.

Further, the data processing apparatus has a database having a plurality of data areas which can be referred to. The control means registers the image data received from the device in the identified data area and distributes the image data. The image data for the designated data processing device according to the received address information can be registered and managed in a separate area secured for each data processing device, and each data processing device can read out the image data from the separate region at any time. Data processing becomes possible.

A multifunction device (MFD1010) capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices (clients 1020 and 1021) and a server device (1001) via a predetermined communication medium, First user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device, second user information to be transmitted with image data generated in accordance with the multi-function function processing, and the first user information; Download means for downloading address information including third user information mixed with the second user information to a memory resource (the CPU 12 executes a control program stored in a memory resource such as the ROM 13, the hard disk 23, and the external memory 2031). And download at a predetermined timing)
And designation means for designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download means (designation via a user interface on the operation unit 2010 (user name 350 shown in FIG. 9).
2 is displayed as a list and specified from the list), and transfer means (CP) for transferring the image data with the address specified by the specifying means to the server device.
U12 executes a control program stored in a memory resource such as the ROM 13, the hard disk 23, and the external memory 2031 and performs a transfer process when image data is input from the scanner). The first to third pieces of user information are acquired, and the address information for determining the distribution processing of the image data input from the multifunction device capable of executing the multifunction function processing is designated from the acquired address information. The operation environment can be automatically set, and the process of distributing image data read by a simple designation operation to each data processing device in the server device or the process of transmitting image data to the outside can be automated.

In addition, a memory resource for storing the latest first to third user information, which is centrally managed by the server device, in a nonvolatile manner is not required, and the latest first to third user information is always stored.
User information can be managed with a small memory, and the load of setting change accompanying the change of each of the first to third user information can be greatly reduced.

Further, scanner means for reading an original image, a printer for outputting image data read from the scanner means or print data input from any data processing device, and image data read from the scanner means Since it has facsimile means for transmitting to an external facsimile apparatus via a predetermined line and receiving image data received from the external facsimile apparatus, the image data input based on the scanner function is transferred to the data processing apparatus. Or a combined use of a print function, that is, image output of input image data based on a copy function, transmission of the input image data to an external facsimile apparatus by a facsimile function, Outputs image data sent from the device as an image Ri, performs complex image processing or transfer image data the transmission to the data processing apparatus, it is possible to execute different delivery process in accordance with address information specifying the image data based on the scanning function.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the image system according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by the image system according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator, etc. are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, a program is stored in the storage medium. An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data subordinate to various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

In this embodiment, FIGS.
The functions shown in FIG. 12 may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program code of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes a new function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program codes, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program codes. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

According to the above-described embodiment, a predetermined broadcast process can be easily performed by designating a group user registered as a group on the device side.

In addition, individual address data can be selectively downloaded, and the non-volatile memory required on the device side can be minimized. Further, since address registration and the like can be performed on the client side, workability of the registration work is also improved. In addition, since the address data is automatically transferred from the server to the device, the registration work on the device is reduced. Furthermore, since the broadcast job is collectively managed on the server side, by preparing a plurality of fax transmission function devices which can be controlled on the server side, it is easy to expand the broadcast processing efficiency by improving the distribution processing efficiency by distributed processing of the job. Become.

Also, the distribution destination can be specified by the user name, so that the operability is good. In addition, LA transmission
A distribution instruction to the client on N can be given at the same time.

[0154]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium, a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses, and a first user information corresponding to each data processing apparatus Address information including third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed, second user information to which image data generated in association with the multifunction function processing is to be transmitted A transfer unit for transferring the address information stored in the storage unit to the device, and image information transferred from the device and the address information specified in the address information transferred to the transfer unit. Acquiring means for acquiring the address information; analyzing the address information acquired by the acquiring means to obtain the acquired image data; The data processing apparatus has control means for controlling one or both of the distribution and the image data transmission from the device in parallel, so that the image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is transmitted. The second user information to be managed, and the address information including the third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed are managed in a unified manner, and the first information is managed for the device. To present the latest address information including the third user information, obtain image data with the address information specified from the address information, and send the same to each data processing device based on the address information. It is possible to freely construct an image processing environment in which image data is sequentially distributed in a broadcast manner or image data is sequentially transmitted to a plurality of destinations through a device. That.

According to the second aspect, the device can execute multi-function function processing including a scanner function, a print function, a copy function, and a facsimile function, so that image data input based on the scanner function can be processed. The image data is transferred to a data processing device or used in combination with a print function, that is, image data input based on a copy function is output, or the input image data is transmitted to an external facsimile device by a facsimile function. Or performs composite image processing such as outputting image data transmitted from an external facsimile apparatus or transferring the transmitted image data to a data processing apparatus, and specifying an image data based on a scanner function. Different distribution processes can be executed according to the information.

According to the third invention, each data processing apparatus has a database having a plurality of data areas which can be referred to, and the control means registers the image data received from the device in the identified data area. Since the image data is distributed, the image data for the designated data processing device can be registered and managed in a separate area secured for each data processing device according to the address information received from the device, and each data processing device can always store the individual region. The image data can be read out from the device and the data can be processed.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium, the multifunction device being registered in the server device. User information corresponding to each data processing device, second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information Download means for downloading, to a memory resource, address information including third user information in which the user information is mixed, a designating means for designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download means, Transfer means for transferring the image data with the address specified by the specifying means to the server device. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain the latest first to third user information that is centrally managed on the server device side and determine the distribution process of image data input from a multifunction device capable of executing the multifunction function process. An operation environment in which address information is designated from the acquired address information can be automatically set, and the server device distributes image data read by a simple designation operation to each data processing device or transmits image data to the outside. Processing and can be automated.

In addition, a memory resource for non-volatilely storing the latest first to third user information which is centrally managed on the server side is not required, and the latest first to third user information is always stored.
User information can be managed with a small memory, and the load of setting change accompanying the change of each of the first to third user information can be greatly reduced.

According to the fifth aspect, scanner means for reading an original image, a printer for outputting image data read by the scanner means or print data inputted from any data processing apparatus, Facsimile means for transmitting image data read from the external facsimile apparatus via a predetermined line to the external facsimile apparatus and receiving image data received from the external facsimile apparatus. To the data processing device, or output image data input using the print function, that is, based on the copy function, and transmit the input image data to an external facsimile device by the facsimile function. Or image data sent from an external facsimile machine Or image output, performs a complex image processing or transfer image data the transmission to the data processing apparatus, it is possible to execute different delivery process in accordance with address information specifying the image data based on the scanning function.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing method for a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium and a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses. First user information corresponding to the device, second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, and the first user information and the second user information are mixed. Registration step of registering address information including third user information in a memory resource; transfer step of transferring the address information registered in the memory resource to the device; image information transferred from the device; and the transfer step Acquiring the address information specified in the address information transferred by the acquiring step; and acquiring the address information acquired by the acquiring step. Image data distribution step of performing either or both of distributing the acquired image data to the data processing apparatus and transmitting image data from the device by analyzing the address information, so that the multi-function function Centralized management of address information including third user information in which the second user information where the first user information and the second user information are mixed, including the second user information to which the image data generated by the processing is to be transmitted Presents the latest address information including the first to third user information managed for the device, obtains image data with address information designated from the address information, and obtains the address information. Image data to each data processing device sequentially based on the image data, or sequentially transmit image data to a plurality of transmission destinations via a device. An image processing environment to or can be constructed freely.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing method for a multifunction device capable of executing a multi-function function process capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium. First user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the device, second user information to which image data generated with the multifunction function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the first user information, A download step of downloading address information including third user information in which both pieces of user information coexist with the second user information to a memory resource; and a designation for designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download step. And transferring image data with the address specified by the specifying step to the server device. And transmitting the latest first to third user information that is centrally managed on the server device side, and distributes image data input from a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing. An operation environment for designating address information to be determined from the acquired address information can be automatically set, and distribution processing of image data read by a simple designation operation to each data processing device in the server device or to the outside. And the image data transmission process can be automated.

In addition, a memory resource for non-volatilely storing the latest first to third user information which is centrally managed on the server side is not required, and the latest first to third user information is always stored.
User information can be managed with a small memory, and the load of setting change accompanying the change of each of the first to third user information can be greatly reduced.

According to the eighth aspect, a device capable of executing multi-function function processing via a predetermined communication medium and a computer-readable program for controlling a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses are stored. The first user information corresponding to each data processing device, the second user information to which image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, and the first user information. A registration step of registering, in a memory resource, address information including third user information in which the second user information is mixed, a transfer step of transferring the address information registered in the memory resource to the device, Image information transferred from the printer and the address information designated in the address information transferred in the transfer step. An image that performs either or both of distributing the acquired image data to any of the data processing apparatuses and transmitting image data from the device by analyzing the address information acquired in the acquiring step. A second user information to which image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, and a third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed. Address information including the first user information and the latest address information including the first to third user information managed for the device, and address information designated from the address information. Image data accompanied by an image data, and based on the address information, distributes the image data to each data processing device sequentially in a multi-cast manner. It can be constructed freely image processing environment or to sequentially transmit the image data to a plurality of destinations to a distribution apply through.

According to the ninth aspect, a computer readable program for controlling a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium is provided. A storage medium storing the first user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device, and the second user information to transmit image data generated in association with the multi-function function processing. A download step of downloading address information including third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed to a memory resource, and the address downloaded to the memory resource by the download step A designation step of designating a desired address from the information; The transfer step of transferring the image data with the dress to the server device is stored in a computer-readable storage medium, so that the latest first to third user information managed centrally on the server device side is obtained. It is possible to automatically set an operation environment in which address information to determine distribution processing of image data input from a multifunction device capable of executing multi-function function processing is selected from the acquired address information, thereby simplifying specification. It is possible to automate a process of delivering image data read by an operation to each data processing device in the server device or a process of transmitting image data to the outside.

In addition, a memory resource for non-volatilely storing the latest first to third user information that is centrally managed on the server side is not required, and the latest first to third user information is always stored.
User information can be managed with a small memory, and the load of setting change accompanying the change of each of the first to third user information can be greatly reduced.

Therefore, when a device or a multifunction device having a multifunction function including a scanner function can communicate with a server device and a plurality of data processing devices via a network, an image input using the scanner function is input. When transmitting data to an external facsimile machine or distributing the data to any of the data processing apparatuses, it is possible to unify management of necessary address destination setting changes on the server side, and to transfer the unified managed address information to the multifunction apparatus. Can be downloaded and used, and the burden of address setting operation for specifying the distribution processing destination for the image data input from the multifunction device can be reduced, and the image data transferred from the multifunction device with the specified address information To the data processing device designated based on the transferred address information. Shinya, an effect such as can be automated broadcast processing such as transmission and to the facsimile device are mixed from the composite device.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a document processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the multifunction device illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a document distribution / management server illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a job processing configuration of the document distribution / management server illustrated in FIG. 1;

6 is a diagram showing a data structure of a database provided in the document distribution server shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a data processing mode in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an address registration table secured in the database illustrated in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 illustrates a third example of the image processing system according to the present invention.
9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a client illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 12 shows a fourth example of the image processing system according to the present invention.
9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image processing apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 and a client.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1001 server 1010 MFD 1020, 1021 client

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A device capable of executing a multi-function function process via a predetermined communication medium, a server device capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices, and first user information corresponding to each data processing device. Address information including third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed together is to be transmitted to the second user information to which the image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted. Storage means for storing; transfer means for transferring the address information stored in the storage means to the device; image information transferred from the device and an address specified in the address information transferred to the transfer means. Acquiring means for acquiring information; analyzing the address information acquired by the acquiring means; Re of the server apparatus characterized by having a control means for controlling in parallel either or both of the image data transmitted from the device and delivered to the data processing device. 2. The server apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said device is capable of executing multi-function function processing including a scanner function, a print function, a copy function, and a facsimile function. 3. A data base having a plurality of data areas to which each data processing device can refer, wherein the control means registers image data received from the device in an identified data area and distributes the image data. The server device according to claim 1, wherein 4. A multifunction device capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium and capable of executing multifunction function processing, wherein each of the data processing devices registered in the server device has Corresponding first user information, second user information to which image data generated with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, and third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed. Download means for downloading address information including the user information to the memory resource; designation means for designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download means; and designation means designated by the designation means. Transfer means for transferring image data with an address to the server device. Complex device. 5. A scanner for reading a document image, a printer for outputting image data read from the scanner or print data input from any of the data processing devices, and a scanner for reading image data read from the scanner. 5. The multifunction apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising facsimile means for transmitting data to an external facsimile apparatus via a predetermined line and receiving image data received from said external facsimile apparatus. 6. A data processing method for a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium and a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses, wherein a first method corresponding to each data processing apparatus is provided. User information, second user information to which image data generated in accordance with the multifunction function processing is to be transmitted, and third user information in which the first user information and the second user information are mixed. A registration step of registering the address information including the address information in the memory resource, a transfer step of transferring the address information registered in the memory resource to the device, an image information transferred from the device and the address transferred by the transfer step. An obtaining step of obtaining the address information specified in the information, and analyzing the address information obtained in the obtaining step An image data distribution step of distributing the acquired image data to one of the data processing apparatuses and / or transmitting image data from the device. Method. 7. A data processing method for a multifunction device capable of executing a multifunction function process capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium, the method comprising: The first user information corresponding to the data processing device, the second user information to which image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information are included. A download step of downloading address information including mixed third user information to a memory resource; a designation step of designating a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the download step; Transferring the image data with the address specified by the above to the server device. Data processing method of a composite apparatus according to claim Rukoto. 8. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a device capable of executing multifunction function processing via a predetermined communication medium and a server apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing apparatuses. First user information corresponding to each data processing device, second user information to which image data generated along with the multi-function function processing is to be transmitted, the first user information and the second user information A registration step of registering address information including third user information in which memory information is mixed in a memory resource, a transfer step of transferring address information registered in the memory resource to the device, and image information transferred from the device. And an obtaining step of obtaining address information specified in the address information transferred by the transferring step, An image data distribution step of analyzing the address information acquired by the acquisition step and distributing the acquired image data to any of the data processing devices and / or image data transmission from the device. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, comprising: 9. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a multifunction device capable of executing multifunction function processing capable of communicating with a plurality of data processing devices and a server device via a predetermined communication medium. A first user information corresponding to each data processing device registered in the server device, a second user information to transmit image data generated in accordance with the multi-function function processing, the first user information, Downloading to a memory resource address information including third user information in which information and the second user information are mixed; and a desired address from the address information downloaded to the memory resource by the downloading step. A designating step of designating an image, and an image with an address designated by the designating step And a transfer step of transferring data to the server device. A storage medium storing a computer readable program.