Document judgment system and printing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a document identification system and a printing device that utilize a simple structure to determine whether a printed material is legitimate. The document identification system comprises: a server device that stores identification information in a manner corresponding to document information; a printer that prints a document image corresponding to the document information and a coded image representing the identification information on a print medium to generate a legitimate printed material; and a scanner that reads printed images printed on printed materials, including legitimate printed materials and copies of legitimate printed materials. The printer prints the coded image in a predetermined edge region of the print medium. The server device determines whether the printed material is legitimate based on the coded image contained in the printed image read by the scanner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a file determination system and a printing device. Background Art

[0002] There is known a technology for distinguishing between a copy and an authentic document.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a technique for verifying the authenticity of a document by embedding a hash value generated from print data as a pattern and printing the pattern.

[0004] A technology for distinguishing between a copy and an authentic document with a simpler structure than the technology described in Patent Document 1 and the like is sought.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-16934 Summary of the Invention

[0006] A file judgment system involved in one method for solving the above-mentioned problem comprises: an information processing device, which stores identification information in a manner that establishes a correspondence with file information; a printing device, which prints a file image corresponding to the file information and a coded image representing the identification information on a printing medium, thereby generating a regular printed matter; a reading device, which reads a printed image printed on a printed matter including the regular printed matter and a copied printed matter obtained by copying the regular printed matter, the printing device prints the coded image in a predetermined edge area of ​​the printing medium, and the information processing device judges whether the printed matter is the regular printed matter based on the coded image contained in the printed image read by the reading device.

[0007] Another method for solving the above-mentioned problem involves a printing device that obtains file information and a coded image representing identification information corresponding to the file information from an information processing device, and prints the file image corresponding to the file information and the coded image on a printing medium to generate a printed matter, and the printing device prints the coded image in a predetermined edge area of ​​the printing medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a file determination system.

[0009] Figure 2 A diagram showing an example of the structure of a printer.

[0010] Figure 3A diagram showing an example of a borderless printing area and a normal printing area.

[0011] Figure 4 This figure shows the relationship between the first and second coded images and the deviation during printing.

[0012] Figure 5 This figure shows an example of an official printed material.

[0013] Figure 6 This figure shows an example of a copied printed matter.

[0014] Figure 7 This figure shows another example of a formal printed material.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing another example of a copied printed matter.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing an example of processing of a printer.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the server device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0019] Figure 1 , which is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the file judgment system 100. First, referring to Figure 1 , the structure of the file judgment system 100 is described.

[0020] The document identification system 100 includes a server device 1 , a printer 2 , a scanner 3 , and a copier 4 .

[0021] The printer 2, scanner 3, and copier 4 are each communicably connected to the server device 1 via the network NW. The printer 2, scanner 3, and copier 4 are each communicably connected to the server device 1 in accordance with, for example, the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard.

[0022] The network NW is, for example, the Internet.

[0023] In this embodiment, the network NW is described as the Internet, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The network NW may be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0024] In this embodiment, the printer 2, scanner 3, and copier 4 are connected to the server device 1 in a communicative manner according to the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard, but the present invention is not limited to this. The printer 2, scanner 3, and copier 4 may also be connected in a communicative manner via wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0025] In addition, in this embodiment, the copy machine 4 is connected to the server device 1 in a communicable manner, but the present invention is not limited to this. The copy machine 4 does not necessarily need to be connected to the server device 1.

[0026] In response to a request from the printer 2, the server device 1 transmits the document information JDC and the code image CD indicating the identification information JD to the printer 2. In this embodiment, the code image CD includes a first code image CD1 and a second code image CD2.

[0027] The server device 1 corresponds to one example of an “information processing device”.

[0028] Printer 2 obtains document information JDC, first coded image CD1, and second coded image CD2 from server 1. Printer 2 places the first coded image CD1 and second coded image CD2 in an edge area ARE of a print medium MD, such as a printing sheet. Printer 2 then prints the document image PDR, first coded image CD1, and second coded image CD2 corresponding to document information JDC on print medium MD, thereby generating a formal printed matter PM.

[0029] Regarding printer 2, refer to Figure 2 Let's explain further.

[0030] Regarding the edge area ARE, refer to Figure 3 To explain.

[0031] Regarding the PM of official printed materials, please refer to Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 Let's explain further.

[0032] The printer 2 corresponds to an example of a “printing device”.

[0033] The copier 4 copies the regular printed matter PM to generate a copy printed matter CP. Specifically, the copier 4 reads an image formed on the regular printed matter PM and prints the read image on the printing medium MD to generate a copy printed matter CP.

[0034] Regarding the printed matter CP, please refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 8Let's explain further.

[0035] The copy machine 4 corresponds to one example of a “copying device”.

[0036] Scanner 3 reads printed images PP printed on printed materials P, including regular printed materials PM and copied printed materials CP. Printed images PP printed on regular printed materials PM are recorded as regular images PPM, while printed images PP printed on copied printed materials CP are recorded as copied images PCP. Scanner 3 then transmits printed images PP to server device 1.

[0037] For regular image PPM, refer to Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 Let's explain further.

[0038] Regarding the copy image PCP, refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 8 Let's explain further.

[0039] The scanner 3 corresponds to one example of a “reading device”.

[0040] The server device 1 receives the printed image PP from the scanner 3 and determines whether the printed image PP corresponds to a regular printed matter PM or a copied printed matter CP. The server device 1 then transmits the determination result to the scanner 3 .

[0041] Next, refer to Figure 1 Next, the configuration of the server device 1 will be described.

[0042] The server device 1 includes a first control unit 11 and a first communication interface mechanism 12. The first control unit 11 controls the operation of each unit of the server device 1. The first control unit 11 includes a first processor 11A and a first memory 11B.

[0043] The first communication interface mechanism 12 communicates with the printer 2 , the scanner 3 , and the copier 4 by wired communication in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard in response to an instruction from the first control unit 11 .

[0044] The first communication interface mechanism 12 includes a connector for connecting an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted to the connector. The first communication interface mechanism 12 is an interface substrate having a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to the main substrate on which the first processor 11A of the first control unit 11 is mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit comprising the first communication interface mechanism 12 are mounted on the main substrate of the first control unit 11.

[0045] The first control unit 11 is a controller including a first processor 11A and a first memory 11B.

[0046] The first memory 11B is a storage device that non-volatilely stores programs or data executed by the first processor 11A. The first memory 11B is implemented using a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor storage device such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), a semiconductor storage element such as a flash ROM (Read Only Memory), or other types of non-volatile storage devices. The first memory 11B may also include a RAM (Random Access Memory) that constitutes the work area of ​​the first processor 11A. The first memory 11B stores data processed by the first control unit 11 or the first control program PGM1 executed by the first processor 11A.

[0047] The first processor 11A may be composed of a single processor or may be composed of a plurality of processors functioning as the first processor 11 A. The first processor 11A controls each unit of the server device 1 by executing a first control program PGM1 .

[0048] In this embodiment, the first processor 11A executes the first control program PGM1 to control the various components of the server device 1. However, the first control unit 11 may also be an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). An ASIC may also execute processing based on the functions implemented in it. The first control unit 11 may also be a signal processing circuit. A signal processing circuit may also perform signal processing to execute processing.

[0049] The first control unit 11 includes a file transmission unit 111 , a determination unit 112 , and a file storage unit 113 as functional blocks.

[0050] Specifically, the first processor 11A executes the first control program PGM1, causing the first processor 11A to function as the file transmission unit 111 and the determination unit 112. The first processor 11A executes the first control program PGM1, causing the first processor 11A to cause the first memory 11B to function as the file storage unit 113.

[0051] The file storage unit 113 stores the identification information JD in a corresponding relationship with the file information JDC. The identification information JD is information for identifying the file information JDC. The identification information JD is, for example, a hash value corresponding to the file information JDC.

[0052] In this embodiment, the identification information JD includes first identification information JD1 and second identification information JD2.

[0053] Furthermore, the file storage unit 113 stores the code image CD in correspondence with the file information JDC.

[0054] In this embodiment, the coded image CD includes a first coded image CD1 and a second coded image CD2. The first coded image CD1 corresponds to the first identification information JD1. The first coded image CD1 is, for example, an image of a one-dimensional barcode representing the first identification information JD1. The second coded image CD2 corresponds to the second identification information JD2. The second coded image CD2 is, for example, an image of a one-dimensional barcode representing the second identification information JD2.

[0055] Although the present embodiment describes a case where the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 are both one-dimensional barcode images, the present invention is not limited thereto and may be both two-dimensional barcode images.

[0056] In response to a request from the printer 2 , the file transmission unit 111 transmits the file information JDC, the first code image CD1 , and the second code image CD2 corresponding to the file information JDC to the printer 2 .

[0057] The file transmission unit 111 receives, for example, the first identification information JD1 from the printer 2. The file transmission unit 111 reads the file information JDC, the first code image CD1, and the second code image CD2 corresponding to the first identification information JD1 from the file storage unit 113. The file transmission unit 111 then transmits the file information JDC, the first code image CD1, and the second code image CD2 read from the file storage unit 113 to the printer 2.

[0058] The determination unit 112 receives the print image PP from the scanner 3. The print image PP includes a regular image PPM, which is an image printed on a regular printed matter PM, and a copy image PCP, which is an image printed on a copy printed matter CP.

[0059] The determination unit 112 determines whether the print image PP is a regular image PPM based on the code image CD included in the print image PP.

[0060] The normal image PPM includes, for example, a first code image CD1 and a second code image CD2. The printed copy CP does not include at least one of the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2.

[0061] For example, if the print image PP does not include at least one of the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 , the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is not the regular image PPM but the copy image PCP, and transmits the determination result to the scanner 3 .

[0062] For example, if the print image PP includes the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2, the determination unit 112 extracts the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 from the print image PP. The determination unit 112 then determines whether the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 is stored in the file storage unit 113. If the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 is not stored in the file storage unit 113, the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is not a regular image PPM. The determination unit 112 then transmits the determination result to the scanner 3.

[0063] If the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 is already stored in the file storage unit 113, the determination unit 112 determines whether the second identification information JD2 corresponding to the second code image CD2 is associated with the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 and stored in the file storage unit 113. If the second identification information JD2 corresponding to the second code image CD2 is not associated with the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 and stored in the file storage unit 113, the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is not a regular image PPM. The determination unit 112 then transmits the determination result to the scanner 3.

[0064] If the second identification information JD2 corresponding to the second coded image CD2 is associated with the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first coded image CD1 and stored in the file storage unit 113, the determination unit 112 determines that the printed image PP is a regular image PPM. The determination unit 112 then transmits the determination result to the scanner 3.

[0065] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the printer 2 will be described.

[0066] Figure 2 2 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the printer 2 .

[0067] The printer 2 is a device that prints text, images, etc. on a printing medium MD such as printing paper. In this embodiment, a case where the printer 2 is an inkjet printer will be described.

[0068] like Figure 2 As shown, the printer 2 includes a second control unit 21 , a second communication interface 22 , a storage unit 23 , an input unit 24 , a display unit 25 , a printing unit 26 , an ink supply unit 27 , and a print medium storage unit 28 .

[0069] The second control unit 21 controls the operation of each unit of the printer 2. The second control unit 21 includes a second processor 21A and a second memory 21B.

[0070] The second communication interface mechanism 22 communicates with the server device 1 by wired communication in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard in response to an instruction from the second control unit 21 .

[0071] The second communication interface mechanism 22 includes a connector for connecting an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted to the connector. The second communication interface mechanism 22 is an interface substrate having the connector and the interface circuit, and is connected to the main substrate on which the second processor 21A and other components of the second control unit 21 are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit comprising the second communication interface mechanism 22 are mounted on the main substrate of the second control unit 21.

[0072] The storage device 23 includes a nonvolatile memory such as an HDD, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or an SSD, and stores various data in a rewritable manner.

[0073] The input mechanism 24 includes input means such as operation switches or a touch panel provided on the printer 2. It detects user operations on the input means and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operations to the second control unit 21. Based on the input from the input mechanism 24, the second control unit 21 executes processing corresponding to the user operations.

[0074] The display unit 25 includes a display panel such as a plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The display unit 25 turns on, off, and blinks the LEDs and displays images on the display panel under the control of the second control unit 21.

[0075] The printing unit 26 prints text, images, etc. using ink on a printing medium MD such as printing paper under the control of the second control unit 21. The printing unit 26 includes a print head 261, a carriage 262, a scanning motor 263, and a transport motor 264 as components related to printing.

[0076] The print head 261 uses an inkjet method and ejects ink supplied from the ink supply unit 27 toward the print medium MD, thereby printing text, images, etc. on the print medium MD. The carriage 262 carries the print head 261 and scans in a direction intersecting the direction in which the print medium MD is transported. The scanning motor 263 causes the carriage 262 to scan. The transport motor 264 transports the print medium MD in the transport direction.

[0077] The ink supply unit 27 stores ink tanks storing ink and supplies ink from the ink tanks to the print head 261 of the printing unit 26. The ink supplied by the ink supply unit 27 is, for example, cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K).

[0078] The print medium storage unit 28 is configured to store print medium MD. If the print medium MD is a single sheet of paper, the print medium storage unit 28 sequentially delivers the stored single sheets of paper to a conveyance path (not shown) by means of a conveyance motor 264. The print medium storage unit 28 may also include a mechanism for collecting printed materials P, which are the printed print medium MD, after printing. The mechanism for collecting printed materials P may also be a mechanism for stacking and placing the single sheets of paper.

[0079] Next, the functional blocks of the second control unit 21 of the printer 2 are described.

[0080] The second memory 21B stores the second control program PGM2.

[0081] The second control unit 21 includes an authentication unit 211 , an acquisition unit 212 , a generation unit 213 , a synthesis unit 214 , a print execution unit 215 , and an image storage unit 216 as functional blocks.

[0082] Specifically, when the second processor 21A executes the second control program PGM2, the second processor 21A functions as an authentication unit 211, an acquisition unit 212, a generation unit 213, a synthesis unit 214, and a print execution unit 215. When the second processor 21A executes the second control program PGM2, the second processor 21A causes the second memory 21B to function as an image storage unit 216.

[0083] The image storage unit 216 stores the document image PDR. The document image PDR is an image corresponding to the document information JDC. The document image PDR is generated by the generation unit 213 and stored in the image storage unit 216 by the generation unit 213.

[0084] The image storage unit 216 also stores a composite image PS. The composite image PS is composed of the document image PDR, the first coded image CD1, and the second coded image CD2. The composite image PS is generated by the synthesis unit 214 and stored in the image storage unit 216 by the synthesis unit 214.

[0085] Regarding the composite image PS, refer to Figure 3 Let's explain further.

[0086] The authentication unit 211 performs personal authentication of the user. For example, the authentication unit 211 receives the user's authentication ID via the input mechanism 24. If the received authentication ID indicates an authorized user, the authentication unit 211 determines that personal authentication is successful and accepts the user's print instruction. On the other hand, if the received authentication ID does not indicate an authorized user, the authentication unit 211 determines that personal authentication has failed and does not accept the user's print instruction.

[0087] The acquisition unit 212 requests the server device 1 to transmit the file information JDC based on an instruction from the user. The acquisition unit 212 then acquires the file information JDC and the first and second coded images CD1 and CD2 corresponding to the file information JDC from the server device 1.

[0088] The generating unit 213 generates a document image PDR corresponding to the document information JDC. Furthermore, the generating unit 213 causes the image storage unit 216 to store the document image PDR.

[0089] The synthesizing unit 214 synthesizes the document image PDR, the first coded image CD1, and the second coded image CD2 to generate a synthesized image PS. The synthesizing unit 214 causes the image storage unit 216 to store the synthesized image PS.

[0090] For example, the combining unit 214 arranges the document image PDR in the first printable area ARD and arranges the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 in the margin area ARE. The margin area ARE represents an area outside the first printable area ARD in the second printable area ARN.

[0091] The first printable area ARD is a printable area when the borderless printing function is not used, and the second printable area ARN is a printable area when the borderless printing function is used.

[0092] In this embodiment, the first coded image CD1 is arranged in a first edge area ARE1 along the edge of the print medium MD, and the second coded image CD2 is arranged in a second edge area ARE2 along the edge of the print medium MD. The first edge area ARE1 is located in the left direction DL of the first printable area ARD, and the second edge area ARE2 is located in the right direction DR of the first printable area ARD.

[0093] Regarding the first printable area ARD, the second printable area ARN, the first edge area ARE1 and the second edge area ARE2, reference will be made to Figure 3 Let's explain further.

[0094] Regarding the processing of the synthesis unit 214, please refer to Figure 3 Let's explain further.

[0095] The print execution unit 215 uses the borderless printing function to print the composite image PS on the print medium MD. The second printable area ARN, which is the printable area when the borderless printing function is used, includes the print surface area ARP of the print medium MD. The print surface area ARP represents the range of the print surface of the print medium MD.

[0096] Regarding the processing of the print execution unit 215, please refer to Figure 3 Let's explain further.

[0097] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a borderless printing area and a normal printing area. Figure 3 Here, the case where the printing medium MD is A4 size as specified in ISO 216 will be described.

[0098] exist Figure 3 In FIG, an upward direction DU, a downward direction DD, a left direction DL, and a right direction DR are indicated by arrows.

[0099] The printing surface area ARP, indicated by a solid line, represents the extent of the printing surface of the print medium MD. The printing surface is the surface of the print medium MD on which an image is printed. The vertical dimension H2 of the printing surface area ARP is, for example, 297 mm, and the horizontal dimension W2 of the printing surface area ARP is, for example, 210 mm.

[0100] exist Figure 3 In the figure, the longitudinal dimension refers to the dimension in the long side direction (up and down direction), and the lateral dimension refers to the dimension in the short side direction (left and right direction).

[0101] The first printable area ARD indicated by the dotted line is the printable area when the edgeless printing function is not used. The first printable area ARD is arranged in the center of the printing surface area ARP. Specifically, the vertical direction of the first printable area ARD is parallel to the vertical direction of the printing surface area ARP, and the center position PC of the first printable area ARD coincides with the center position PC of the printing surface area ARP. The center position PC of the printing surface area ARP represents the intersection of the first center line LC1 and the second center line LC2, wherein the first center line LC1 represents the center position of the printing surface area ARP in the left-right direction, and the second center line LC2 represents the center position of the printing surface area ARP in the top-bottom direction.

[0102] The combining unit 214 arranges the document image PDR in the first printable area ARD.

[0103] The longitudinal dimension H1 of the first printable area ARD is, for example, 291 mm, and the lateral dimension W1 of the first printable area ARD is, for example, 204 mm.

[0104] In the area outside the first printable area ARD in the printing surface area ARP, that is, the edge area ARE, the longitudinal dimension ΔH1 of the area located in the upper direction DU and the lower direction DD of the first printable area ARD can be calculated by the following formula (1).

[0105] ΔH1=(H2-H1) / 2 (1)

[0106] In this embodiment, since the longitudinal dimension H2 of the printing surface area ARP is 297 mm and the longitudinal dimension H1 of the first printable area ARD is, for example, 291 mm, the longitudinal dimension ΔH1 of the edge area ARE is calculated to be 3 mm according to equation (1).

[0107] In the edge area ARE, the areas located in the left direction DL and right direction DR of the first printable area ARD, that is, the lateral dimension ΔW1 of the first edge area ARE1 and the second edge area ARE2, can be calculated using the following equation (2). The first edge area ARE1 is the area in the edge area ARE located in the left direction DL of the first printable area ARD. The second edge area ARE2 is the area located in the right direction DR of the first printable area ARD.

[0108] ΔW1=(W2-W1) / 2 (2)

[0109] In this embodiment, since the lateral dimension W2 of the printing surface area ARP is 210 mm and the lateral dimension W2 of the first printable area ARD is, for example, 204 mm, the lateral dimension ΔW1 of each of the first edge area ARE1 and the second edge area ARE2 is calculated to be, for example, 3 mm through formula (2).

[0110] That is, in the printing surface area ARP, a margin area ARE having a size of 3 mm is arranged around the first printable area ARD. The margin area ARE is an area where no image is formed when the marginless printing function is not used.

[0111] The second printable area ARN, indicated by the double-dashed line, is the printable area when the edgeless printing function is used. The printing surface area ARP is located in the center of the second printable area ARN. Specifically, the vertical direction of the second printable area ARN is parallel to the vertical direction of the printing surface area ARP, and the center position PC of the second printable area ARN coincides with the center position PC of the printing surface area ARP.

[0112] The longitudinal dimension H3 of the second printable area ARN is, for example, 301 mm, and the lateral dimension W3 of the second printable area ARN is, for example, 214 mm.

[0113] In the second printable area ARN, a longitudinal dimension ΔH2 of an area outside the printing surface area ARP in the upper direction DU and the lower direction DD of the printing surface area ARP can be calculated by the following formula (3).

[0114] ΔH2=(H3-H2) / 2 (3)

[0115] In this embodiment, since the longitudinal dimension H3 of the second printable area ARN is 301 mm and the longitudinal dimension H2 of the printing surface area ARP is 297 mm, the longitudinal dimension ΔH2 is calculated to be 2 mm according to equation (3).

[0116] In the second printable area ARN, the lateral dimension ΔW2 of the area outside the printing surface area ARP in the left direction DL and the right direction DR of the printing surface area ARP can be calculated by the following formula (4).

[0117] ΔW2=(W3-W2) / 2 (4)

[0118] In this embodiment, since the lateral dimension W3 of the second printable area ARN is 214 mm and the lateral dimension W2 of the printing surface area ARP is 210 mm, the lateral dimension ΔW2 is calculated to be 2 mm according to equation (4).

[0119] That is, in the second printable area ARN, a 2 mm area is arranged around the printing surface area ARP. Even when the borderless printing function is used, this area does not contain the printing medium MD when the printing medium MD is conveyed to the normal printing position.

[0120] The margin area ARE represents an area outside the first printable area ARD in the second printable area ARN. The margin area ARE includes a first margin area ARE1 and a second margin area ARE2.

[0121] In this embodiment, the first edge area ARE1 is an edge area ARE in the left direction DL of the first printable area ARD in the second printable area ARN. The second edge area ARE2 is an edge area ARE in the right direction DR of the first printable area ARD in the second printable area ARN.

[0122] The combining unit 214 arranges the first code image CD1 in the first edge area ARE1 along the edge of the print medium MD. In other words, the combining unit 214 arranges the first code image CD1 in the first edge area ARE1 so that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the vertical direction of the print medium MD.

[0123] Furthermore, the combining unit 214 arranges the second code image CD2 in the second edge area ARE2 along the edge of the print medium MD. In other words, the combining unit 214 arranges the second code image CD2 in the second edge area ARE2 so that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the vertical direction of the print medium MD.

[0124] Therefore, the lateral dimension CW1 of the first coded image CD1 is less than or equal to the lateral dimension ΔW1 of the first edge area ARE1. Furthermore, the lateral dimension CW2 of the second coded image CD2 is less than or equal to the lateral dimension ΔW1 of the second edge area ARE2. The lateral dimension CW1 is the horizontal dimension of the first coded image CD1. The lateral dimension CW2 is the horizontal dimension of the second coded image CD2.

[0125] Although the first edge area ARE1 and the second edge area ARE2 are described as the edge areas ARE facing left and right in the print medium MD in this embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto and may alternatively be the edge areas ARE facing up and down in the print medium MD.

[0126] like Figure 3As shown, a portion (right portion) of the first coded image CD1 is located within the printing surface area ARP, while the remaining portion (left portion) of the first coded image CD1 is located outside the printing surface area ARP. Therefore, the portion (right portion) of the first coded image CD1 located within the printing surface area ARP is formed on the print medium MD.

[0127] Similarly, a portion (left portion) of the second coded image CD2 is located inside the printing surface area ARP, and the remaining portion (right portion) of the second coded image CD2 is located outside the printing surface area ARP. Therefore, the portion (left portion) of the second coded image CD2 located inside the printing surface area ARP is formed on the print medium MD.

[0128] Figure 4 : is a diagram showing the relationship between the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 and the deviation during printing.

[0129] In the printer 2, there may be a case where the print medium MD moves relative to the normal position on the transport path during printing. Figure 3 At least one of the upper direction DU, the lower direction DD, the left direction DL, and the right direction DR is deviated. The deviation amount ΔSW of each of the upper direction DU, the lower direction DD, the left direction DL, and the right direction DR is, for example, 2 mm or less.

[0130] In addition, the regular position refers to, e.g. Figure 3 As shown, the print medium MD is positioned at the center of the second printable area ARN. In other words, when the print medium MD is positioned properly, the lateral dimension ΔW2 at the left end of the second printable area ARN matches the lateral dimension ΔW2 at the right end of the second printable area ARN. That is, both are 2 mm.

[0131] In this embodiment, the first coded image CD1 is formed at the left end of the print medium MD, and the second coded image CD2 is formed at the right end of the print medium MD. Therefore, if the print medium MD deviates in the left direction DL or the right direction DR from its normal position, the left-right dimensions of the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2 formed on the print medium MD will vary.

[0132] Therefore, the relationship between the deviation of the printing medium MD in the left direction DL or the right direction DR from the normal position and the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2 formed on the printing medium MD will be referred to. Figure 4 To explain.

[0133] Figure 4The upper half of represents the first coded image CD1 formed on the printing medium MD. Figure 4 The lower half of shows the second coded image CD2 formed on the printing medium MD.

[0134] also, Figure 4 The left column of shows a case where the printing medium MD is deviated from the normal position by a deviation amount ΔSW2 in the left direction DL. Figure 4 The center column of shows a case where the printing medium MD is arranged at a regular position. Figure 4 The right column of shows a case where the printing medium MD is deviated from the normal position by a deviation amount ΔSW1 in the right direction DR.

[0135] First, refer to Figure 4 In the case where the printing medium MD is arranged in the regular position, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in the upper half of , the lateral size CW1 of the first code image CD11 formed on the print medium MD is lateral size CW11. The first code image CD11 is formed on the print medium MD when the print medium MD is arranged in the normal position.

[0136] The horizontal dimension CW1 is the dimension of the first coded image CD11 in the left-right direction. The horizontal dimension CW11 is smaller than Figure 3 In the present embodiment, since the lateral dimension ΔW1 is 3 mm, the lateral dimension CW11 is set to, for example, 2.8 mm.

[0137] In addition, when the printing medium MD is arranged at a regular position, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in the lower half of , the lateral size CW2 of the second code image CD21 formed on the print medium MD becomes the lateral size CW21. The second code image CD21 is the second code image CD2 formed on the print medium MD when the print medium MD is arranged in the normal position.

[0138] The horizontal dimension CW2 is the dimension of the second coded image CD21 in the left-right direction. Figure 3 In the present embodiment, since the lateral dimension ΔW1 is 3 mm, the lateral dimension CW21 is set to, for example, 2.8 mm.

[0139] Next, refer to Figure 4 In the case where the printing medium MD deviates from the normal position in the right direction DR by a deviation amount ΔSW1, as shown in FIG. Figure 4As shown in the upper half of FIG, the lateral dimension CW1 of the first coded image CD12 formed on the print medium MD becomes the lateral dimension CW12. The first coded image CD12 is formed on the print medium MD when the print medium MD is deviated from the normal position in the right direction DR by a deviation amount ΔSW1.

[0140] The lateral dimension CW12 can be obtained by the following formula (5).

[0141] CW12=CW11-ΔSW1 (5)

[0142] When the lateral dimension CW11 is, for example, 2.8 mm and the offset amount ΔSW1 is, for example, 2 mm, the lateral dimension CW12 is, for example, 0.8 mm.

[0143] As reference Figure 4 As explained in the right column of , since the first coded image CD12 is formed on the printing medium MD when the printing medium MD deviates from the normal position in the right direction DR by the deviation amount ΔSW1, according to the above formula (5), the lateral dimension CW11 needs to be set to a value greater than the deviation amount ΔSW1.

[0144] When the printing medium MD deviates from the normal position in the right direction DR by a deviation amount ΔSW1, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in the lower half of FIG, the lateral dimension CW2 of the second coded image CD22 formed on the print medium MD becomes lateral dimension CW22. The second coded image CD22 is formed on the print medium MD when the print medium MD is deviated from the normal position by a deviation amount ΔSW1 in the right direction DR.

[0145] The lateral dimension CW22 can be obtained by the following formula (6).

[0146] CW22=CW21+ΔSW1 (6)

[0147] When the lateral dimension CW21 is, for example, 2.8 mm and the offset amount ΔSW1 is, for example, 2 mm, the lateral dimension CW22 is 4.8 mm.

[0148] Next, refer to Figure 4 In the case where the printing medium MD deviates from the normal position by the amount ΔSW2 in the left direction DL, as shown in FIG. Figure 4As shown in the upper half of FIG, the lateral dimension CW1 of the first coded image CD13 formed on the print medium MD becomes lateral dimension CW13. The first coded image CD13 is formed on the print medium MD when the print medium MD is deviated from the normal position by a deviation amount ΔSW2 in the left direction DL.

[0149] The lateral dimension CW13 can be obtained by the following formula (7).

[0150] CW13=CW11+ΔSW2 (7)

[0151] When the lateral dimension CW11 is, for example, 2.8 mm and the offset ΔSW2 is, for example, 2 mm, the lateral dimension CW13 becomes 4.8 mm.

[0152] When the printing medium MD deviates from the normal position in the left direction DL by a deviation amount ΔSW2, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in the lower half of FIG, the lateral dimension CW2 of the second coded image CD23 formed on the print medium MD becomes the lateral dimension CW23. The second coded image CD23 is formed on the print medium MD when the print medium MD is deviated from the normal position by a deviation amount ΔSW2 in the left direction DL.

[0153] The lateral dimension CW23 can be obtained by the following formula (8).

[0154] CW23=CW21-ΔSW2 (8)

[0155] When the lateral dimension CW21 is, for example, 2.8 mm and the offset amount ΔSW2 is, for example, 2 mm, the lateral dimension CW12 becomes 0.8 mm.

[0156] As reference Figure 4 As explained in the left column of , since the second coded image CD23 is formed on the printing medium MD when the printing medium MD deviates from the normal position in the left direction DL by the deviation amount ΔSW2, according to the above formula (8), the lateral dimension CW21 needs to be set to a value greater than the deviation amount ΔSW2.

[0157] As reference Figure 4 As described above, even when the print medium MD deviates in the left direction DL or the right direction DR from the normal position, the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 are formed on the print medium MD.

[0158] In addition, as reference Figure 3 as well as Figure 4As described above, the lateral size CW1 of the first coded image CD1 and the lateral size CW2 of the second coded image CD2 are set to values ​​that satisfy the following equations (9) and (10).

[0159] ΔSW1<CW1<ΔW1 (9)

[0160] ΔSW2<CW2<ΔW1 (10)

[0161] The lateral size CW1 and the lateral size CW2 each correspond to an example of “the size in the short side direction of the encoded image”.

[0162] The lateral dimension ΔW1 corresponds to an example of the “dimension in the short-side direction” of each of the first edge area ARE1 and the second edge area ARE2 .

[0163] Figure 5 , is a diagram showing an example of a formal printed matter PM. Figure 5 , a regular printed material PM, or first regular printed material PM1, is shown when the print medium MD is positioned in the regular position. A first regular image PPM1 is formed on the first regular printed material PM1. The first regular image PPM1 is formed in the first printing surface area ARP1 of the first regular printed material PM1 when the print medium MD is positioned in the regular position. The first printing surface area ARP1 represents the area of ​​the printing surface of the print medium MD that constitutes the first regular printed material PM1.

[0164] like Figure 5 As shown, the first normal image PPM1 includes a document image PDR, a first coded image CD11, and a second coded image CD21.

[0165] The document image PDR is formed in the first printable area ARD of the print medium MD, the first code image CD11 is formed in the first edge area ARE1, and the second code image CD21 is formed in the second edge area ARE2.

[0166] As reference Figure 4 As described above, the lateral size CW1 of the first code image CD11 is lateral size CW11, and the lateral size CW2 of the second code image CD21 is lateral size CW21. The lateral size CW11 is, for example, 2.8 mm, and the lateral size CW21 is, for example, 2.8 mm.

[0167] The first reading area ARS1 represents the area where the scanner 3 reads the image formed on the print medium MD. The first reading area ARS1 coincides with the area of ​​the first proper image PPM1. In other words, the image read by the scanner 3 coincides with the first proper image PPM1. Therefore, the scanner 3 transmits the first proper image PPM1 to the server 1 as the print image PP.

[0168] Since the print image PP (here, the first normal image PPM1 ) includes the first code image CD11 and the second code image CD21 , the determination unit 112 of the server device 1 determines that the print image PP is the normal image PPM.

[0169] The second reading area ARS2 indicates an area where the copy machine 4 reads an image formed on the printing medium MD. Figure 5 In the example, the second read area ARS2 coincides with the first printable area ARD. Therefore, the copier 4 reads the document image PDR of the first printable area ARD. The copier 4 then forms the document image PDR on the print medium MD, thereby generating Figure 6 The first copy print CP1 is shown.

[0170] Although this embodiment describes a case where the second read area ARS2 is consistent with the first printable area ARD, the present invention is not limited to this case. If the second read area ARS2 is different from the first printable area ARD, the lateral dimension CW1 of the first coded image CD1 and the lateral dimension CW2 of the second coded image CD2 must also satisfy the following equations (11) and (12).

[0171] CW1<ΔSW1+ΔRW……(11)

[0172] CW2<ΔSW2+ΔRW……(12)

[0173] Here, the lateral dimension ΔRW is the horizontal dimension of the area extending along the longitudinal direction of the print medium MD in the non-reading area. The non-reading area is the area outside the second read area ARS2 on the print surface of the print medium MD.

[0174] If equations (11) and (12) are not satisfied, the printed image PP of the copied printed matter CP may include the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2. In this case, the determination unit 112 of the server device 1 may be unable to determine whether the printed image PP is a regular image PPM.

[0175] Figure 6 2 is a diagram showing an example of a copied printed matter CP. Figure 6For Figure 5 The first regular printed matter PM1 shown corresponds to the first copy printed matter CP1.

[0176] exist Figure 5 In FIG. 4 , since the second read area ARS2 coincides with the first printable area ARD, the copier 4 reads the document image PDR of the first printable area ARD and forms the document image PDR on the print medium MD. Figure 6 As shown, the document image PDR is formed in the first copy surface area ARCP1 of the first printed copy CP1, and the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 are not formed. The first copy surface area ARCP1 represents the area of ​​the copy surface of the first printed copy CP1.

[0177] The first copy surface area ARCP1 corresponds to the area where the scanner 3 reads the image formed on the print medium MD. In other words, the image read by the scanner 3 corresponds to the first normal image PPM1. Therefore, the scanner 3 transmits the first copy image PCP1 to the server device 1 as the print image PP of the first copy printed matter CP1. The first copy image PCP1 includes the document image PDR and does not include the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2. Because the print image PP (here, the first copy image PCP1) does not include the first coded image CD11 and the second coded image CD21, the determination unit 112 of the server device 1 determines that the print image PP is the copy printed matter CP.

[0178] Figure 7 , is a diagram showing another example of a regular printed matter PM. Figure 7 , a second regular printed material PM2 is shown, which is a regular printed material PM when the print medium MD is deviated from its regular position by a deviation amount ΔSW1 in the right direction DR. A second regular image PPM2 is formed on the second regular printed material PM2. The second regular image PPM2 is the regular image PPM formed in the first printing surface area ARP1 of the second regular printed material PM2 when the print medium MD is deviated from its regular position by a deviation amount ΔSW1 in the right direction DR. The second printing surface area ARP2 represents the area of ​​the printing surface of the print medium MD that constitutes the second regular printed material PM2.

[0179] like Figure 7 As shown, the second normal image PPM2 includes the document image PDR, the first coded image CD12, and the second coded image CD22.

[0180] The document image PDR is formed in the first printable area ARD of the print medium MD, the first code image CD12 is formed in the first edge area ARE1, and the second code image CD22 is formed in the second edge area ARE2.

[0181] As reference Figure 4 As described above, the lateral dimension CW1 of the first code image CD12 is lateral dimension CW12, and the lateral dimension CW2 of the second code image CD22 is lateral dimension CW22. The lateral dimension CW12 is, for example, 0.8 mm, and the lateral dimension CW22 is, for example, 4.8 mm.

[0182] The first reading area ARS1 represents the area where the scanner 3 reads the image formed on the print medium MD. The second reading area ARS2 corresponds to the area of ​​the second regular image PPM2. In other words, the image read by the scanner 3 corresponds to the second regular image PPM2. Therefore, the scanner 3 transmits the second regular image PPM2 to the server 1 as the print image PP.

[0183] Since the print image PP (here, the second normal image PPM2 ) includes the first code image CD12 and the second code image CD22 , the determination unit 112 of the server device 1 determines that the print image PP is the normal image PPM.

[0184] The second reading area ARS2 indicates an area where the copy machine 4 reads an image formed on the printing medium MD. Figure 7 In the figure, the second reading area ARS2 is set at a position that deviates by a deviation amount ΔSW1 in the right direction DR relative to the first printable area ARD. In other words, the copier 4 sets the area excluding the edge area ARE in the printing medium MD as the second reading area ARS2. Therefore, the copier 4 reads the document image PDR and the second coded image CD221 in the second reading area ARS2. The second coded image CD221 is an image that is located at the left end of the second coded image CD22 and is included in the second reading area ARS2. In addition, the copier 4 forms the document image PDR and the second coded image CD221 on the printing medium MD, thereby generating Figure 8 The second copy print CP2 is shown in FIG.

[0185] Figure 8 2 is a diagram showing another example of a copied printed matter CP. Figure 8 for, with Figure 7 The second regular printed matter PM2 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to the second copied printed matter CP2.

[0186] like Figure 8As shown, the document image PDR and the second code image CD221 are formed in the second copy surface area ARCP2 of the second printed copy CP2, and the first code image CD1 is not formed. The second copy surface area ARCP2 represents the area of ​​the copy surface of the second printed copy CP2.

[0187] The second copy surface area ARCP2 coincides with the area where the scanner 3 reads the image formed on the print medium MD. In other words, the image read by the scanner 3 coincides with the second proper image PPM2. Therefore, the scanner 3 transmits the second copy image PCP2 to the server device 1 as the print image PP of the second copy printed matter CP2. The second copy image PCP2 includes the document image PDR and the second coded image CD221, but does not include the first coded image CD1. Because the print image PP of the second copy printed matter CP2 (here, the second copy image PCP2) does not include the first coded image CD1, the determination unit 112 of the server device 1 determines that the print image PP is not the proper image PPM.

[0188] As reference Figures 3 to 8 As described above, when the print image PP includes the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2, the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is a regular image PPM. Furthermore, when the print image PP does not include at least one of the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2, the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is not a regular image PPM. Therefore, it is possible to accurately determine whether the print image PP is a regular image PPM.

[0189] Next, refer to Figure 9 Next, the processing of the second control unit 21 of the printer 2 is described.

[0190] Figure 9 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the printer 2 .

[0191] First, in step S101, the authentication unit 211 performs personal authentication of the user. If the personal authentication fails, the process ends. If the personal authentication succeeds, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0192] Then, in step S103 , the acquisition unit 212 receives a print instruction from the user and requests the server device 1 to transmit the document information JDC.

[0193] Next, in step S105 , the acquisition unit 212 acquires the file information JDC and the first and second coded images CD1 and CD2 corresponding to the file information JDC from the server device 1 .

[0194] Next, in step S107 , the generating section 213 generates a document image PDR corresponding to the document information JDC.

[0195] Next, in step S109, the synthesizing unit 214 synthesizes the document image PDR, the first coded image CD1, and the second coded image CD2 to generate a synthesized image PS. For example, the synthesizing unit 214 arranges the document image PDR in the first printable area ARD, arranges the first coded image CD1 in the first edge area ARE1, and arranges the second coded image CD2 in the second edge area ARE2.

[0196] Next, in step S111 , the print execution unit 215 sets the borderless printing function to be executed.

[0197] Next, in step S113 , the print execution unit 215 prints the composite image PS on the print medium MD using the borderless printing function.

[0198] Next, refer to Figure 10 Next, the processing of the first control unit 11 of the server device 1 will be described. Figure 10 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the server device 1 .

[0199] First, in step S201 , the determination unit 112 receives the print image PP from the scanner 3 .

[0200] Next, in step S203 , the determination unit 112 determines whether the print image PP includes the first code image CD1 .

[0201] If the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP does not include the first code image CD1 (step S203: No), the process proceeds to step S225. If the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP includes the first code image CD1 (step S203: Yes), the process proceeds to step S215.

[0202] Then, in step S215 , the determination unit 112 extracts the first code image CD1 from the print image PP.

[0203] Next, in step S217 , the determination unit 112 determines whether the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 has been stored in the file storage unit 113 .

[0204] If the determination unit 112 determines that the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 is not stored in the file storage unit 113 (step S207: No), the process proceeds to step S225. If the determination unit 112 determines that the first identification information JD1 corresponding to the first code image CD1 is stored in the file storage unit 113 (step S207: Yes), the process proceeds to step S219.

[0205] Then, in step S219, the determination unit 112 determines whether the print image PP includes the second code image CD2.

[0206] If the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP does not include the second code image CD2 (step S219: No), the process proceeds to step S225. If the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP includes the second code image CD2 (step S219: Yes), the process proceeds to step S221.

[0207] Then, in step S221, the determination unit 112 extracts the second code image CD2 from the print image PP.

[0208] Next, in step S223 , the determination unit 112 determines whether the second identification information JD2 corresponding to the second code image CD2 is associated with the first identification information JD1 in step S217 and stored in the file storage unit 113 .

[0209] When the determination unit 112 determines that the second identification information JD2 corresponding to the second code image CD2 is not associated with the first identification information JD1 in step S217 and stored in the file storage unit 113 (step S223: No), the process proceeds to step S225.

[0210] Then, in step S225, the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is not an image printed on the regular printed matter PM (ie, a regular image PPM), and transmits the determination result to the scanner 3. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0211] When the determination unit 112 determines that the second identification information JD2 corresponding to the second coded image CD2 is associated with the first identification information JD1 in step S217 and is stored in the file storage unit 113 (step S223: Yes), the process proceeds to step S227.

[0212] Then, in step S227, the determination unit 112 determines that the print image PP is an image printed on a regular printed matter PM (ie, a regular image PPM), and transmits the determination result to the scanner 3. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0213] As reference Figure 10 As described above, the determination unit 112 determines whether the printed image PP is an image printed on the legitimate printed matter PM based on whether the printed image PP includes the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the printed image PP is an image printed on the legitimate printed matter PM using a simple configuration.

[0214] As mentioned above Figures 1 to 10 As described, the file judgment system 100 involved in this embodiment includes: a server device 1, which stores the identification information JD in a manner of establishing a correspondence with the file information JDC; a printer 2, which prints the file image PDR corresponding to the file information JDC and the coded image CD representing the identification information JD on the printing medium MD, thereby generating a formal printed matter PM; a scanner 3, which reads the printed image PP printed on the printed matter P, and the printed matter P includes the formal printed matter PM and the copied printed matter CP obtained by copying the formal printed matter PM, the printer 2 prints the coded image CD in a predetermined edge area ARE of the printing medium MD, and the server device 1 judges whether the printed matter P is a formal printed matter PM based on the coded image CD contained in the printed image PP read by the scanner 3.

[0215] According to this configuration, whether the printed matter P is a genuine printed matter PM is determined based on the code image CD included in the printed image PP read by the scanner 3 . Therefore, whether the printed matter P is a genuine printed matter PM can be determined with a simple configuration.

[0216] In addition, the coded image CD is composed of a first coded image CD1 and a second coded image CD2 different from the first coded image CD1. The printer 2 prints the first coded image CD1 in the first edge area ARE1 among the edge areas ARE opposite to each other in the upper and lower or left and right directions in the printing medium MD, and prints the second coded image CD2 in the second edge area ARE2 opposite to the first edge area ARE1.

[0217] With this configuration, the first coded image CD1 is printed in a first edge area ARE1 of the vertically or horizontally opposing edge areas ARE of the print medium MD, and the second coded image CD2 is printed in a second edge area ARE2 opposing the first edge area ARE1. Consequently, whether the printed material P is a legitimate printed material PM can be determined based on whether the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2 are included in the printed image PP. Therefore, determination of whether the printed material P is a legitimate printed material PM can be performed using a simple configuration.

[0218] In addition, the coded image CD is a rectangular image, and the long side direction of the coded image CD is configured along the edge of the printing medium MD, and the size of the short side direction of the coded image CD is greater than the deviation ΔSW of the printing medium MD during printing, and is smaller than the size of the short side direction of the first edge area ARE1 and the second edge area ARE2.

[0219] According to this structure, since the dimension of the short side direction of the coded image CD is larger than the deviation amount ΔSW of the printing medium MD during printing, even if a deviation of the printing medium MD occurs during printing, the printed image PP of the regular printed material PM includes the first coded image CD1 and the second coded image CD2.

[0220] Furthermore, since the short side dimension of the code image CD is smaller than the short side dimensions of the first and second edge areas ARE1 and ARE2, the first and second code images CD1 and CD2 can be prevented from overlapping with the document image PDR.

[0221] Furthermore, the server device 1 determines whether the printed matter P is a legitimate printed matter PM based on the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 included in the printed image PP read by the scanner 3 .

[0222] According to this configuration, whether the printed matter P is a legitimate printed matter PM is determined based on the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 included in the printed image PP. Therefore, whether the printed matter P is a legitimate printed matter PM can be determined with a simple configuration.

[0223] Furthermore, the printer 2 prints the code image CD in the edge area ARE using the borderless printing function.

[0224] According to this configuration, since the code image CD is printed in the edge area ARE using the borderless printing function, the code image CD can be printed in the edge area ARE.

[0225] Furthermore, the scanner 3 reads the entire print image PP of the print medium MD constituting the printed matter P on the surface of the print medium MD on which the print image PP is formed.

[0226] According to this configuration, since the scanner 3 reads the entire printed image PP of the print medium MD, the code image CD can be included in the printed image PP of the genuine printed matter PM read by the scanner 3 .

[0227] Furthermore, the copy machine 4 that generates the copied printed matter CP reads an image of an area excluding the edge area ARE on the regular printed matter PM, and prints the read image on the printing medium MD.

[0228] According to this configuration, the copier 4 reads the image of the area excluding the edge area ARE in the regular printed matter PM and prints the read image on the print medium MD. Therefore, the code image CD can be excluded from the print image PP of the printed copy CP.

[0229] The printer 2 involved in this embodiment is a printer 2 that obtains file information JDC and a coded image CD representing identification information JD corresponding to the file information JDC from a server device 1, and prints the file image PDR corresponding to the file information JDC and the coded image CD on a printing medium MD, thereby generating a printed matter P, and the printer 2 prints the coded image CD within a predetermined edge area ARE of the printing medium MD.

[0230] According to this configuration, since the code image CD is printed in the predetermined edge area ARE of the print medium MD, it is possible to determine whether the printed matter P is a legitimate printed matter PM based on the code image CD included in the printed image PP read by the scanner 3 .

[0231] This embodiment shows one aspect and can be arbitrarily modified and applied without departing from the spirit and scope.

[0232] While this embodiment describes the "information processing device" as a server device 1, the present invention is not limited thereto. Any "information processing device" can be configured to communicate with the printer 2 and scanner 3 and include a file transmission unit 111, a determination unit 112, and a file storage unit 113.

[0233] Although the present embodiment describes the case where the "printing device" is an inkjet printer 2 that uses ink as a printing medium, the present invention is not limited thereto and may be, for example, an electrophotographic printer that uses toner as a printing medium.

[0234] While this embodiment describes a case where the server device 1 sends the document information JDC and the code image CD to the printer 2, the present invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, the server device 1 may send the document information JDC and the identification information JD to the printer 2, and the printer 2 may generate the code image CD corresponding to the identification information JD.

[0235] Although this embodiment describes a case where the printer 2 prints the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 in the left and right opposing edge areas ARE, the present invention is not limited thereto. The printer 2 may also print the first code image CD1 and the second code image CD2 in the top and bottom opposing edge areas ARE.

[0236] Although this embodiment describes a file judgment method implemented by executing the first control program PGM1 by the first processor 11A of the server device 1, it can also be constructed by recording the first control program PGM1 executed by the first processor 11A to implement the file judgment method in a printed medium in a computer-readable manner, or by transmitting the first control program PGM1.

[0237] The print medium can be a magnetic or optical print medium or a semiconductor memory device. Examples of print media include removable or fixed print media such as floppy disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), Blu-ray Discs (registered trademark), magneto-optical disks, flash memory, and card-type print media. The print medium can also be a non-volatile storage device such as RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device included in the server device 1.

[0238] The functions of the first control unit 11 of the server device 1 can also be implemented by one or more processors or semiconductor chips. The first control unit 11 can also be configured to include a co-processor such as an SoC (System-on-a-Chip), an MCU (Micro Control Unit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The first control unit 11 can coordinate the CPU and the co-processor, or selectively use one or the other to implement various controls.

[0239] Figure 10 The processing units in the flowchart are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the processing of the first control unit 11, and are not limited by the division method or name of the processing unit. The processing units in the flowchart can also be divided into more processing units according to the processing content. A single processing unit can also be divided to include more processing. The order of the processing can also be changed as appropriate within the scope of not affecting the main purpose.

[0240] Although this embodiment describes a file judgment method implemented by executing the second control program PGM2 by the second processor 21A of the printer 2, it can also be constructed by recording the second control program PGM2 executed by the second processor 21A for implementing the file judgment method in a computer-readable manner on a printed medium, or by transmitting the second control program PGM2.

[0241] The print medium can be a magnetic or optical print medium or a semiconductor memory device. Examples of print media include removable or fixed print media such as floppy disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), Blu-ray Discs (registered trademark), magneto-optical disks, flash memory, and card-type print media. The print medium can also be a non-volatile memory device such as RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device included in the printer 2.

[0242] The functions of the printer 2's second control unit 21 can also be implemented using one or more processors or semiconductor chips. The second control unit 21 can also include a co-processor, such as an SoC (System-on-a-Chip), an MCU (Microcontroller Unit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The second control unit 21 can coordinate the CPU and the co-processor, or selectively use either to implement various controls.

[0243] Figure 9 The processing units in the flowchart are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the processing of the second control unit 21, and are not limited by the division method or name of the processing unit. The processing units in the flowchart can also be divided into more processing units according to the processing content. A single processing unit can also be divided to include more processing. The order of the processing can also be changed as appropriate within the scope of not affecting the main purpose.

[0244] Figure 1 as well as Figure 2The functional units shown are merely illustrative of the functional structure, and their specific implementation is not particularly limited. It is not necessary to install the corresponding hardware in each functional unit separately; a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to implement the functions of multiple functional units is also possible. In the above-described embodiment, some functions implemented by software may be implemented by hardware, and vice versa. Furthermore, the detailed structures of the other components of the server device 1 and printer 2 may be modified as desired without departing from the main purpose.

[0245] Explanation of symbols

[0246] 100…File judgment system; 1…Server device (information processing device); 11…First control unit; 11A…First processor; 11B…First memory; 111…File transmission unit; 112…Judgment unit; 113…File storage unit; 12…First communication interface mechanism; 2…Printer (printing device); 21…Second control unit; 21A…Second processor; 21B…Second memory; 211…Authentication unit; 212…Acquisition unit; 213…Generation unit; 214…Combination unit; 215…Print execution unit; 216…Image storage unit; 22…Second communication interface mechanism; 24 ...input mechanism; 26...printing unit; 3...scanner (reading device); 4...copier (copying device); ARCP1...first copy surface area; ARCP2...second copy surface area; ARD...first printable area; ARE...edge area; ARE1...first edge area; ARE2...second edge area; ARN...second printable area; ARP...printing surface area; ARP1...first printing surface area; ARP2...second printing surface area; ARS1...first reading area; ARS2...second reading area; CD...coded image; CD1, CD11, CD12, CD13…first coded image; CD2, CD21, CD22, CD221, CD23…second coded image; CP…copy print; CP1…first copy print; CP2…second copy print; CW1, CW11, CW12, CW13…horizontal size; CW2, CW21, CW22, CW23…horizontal size; H1, H2, H3…vertical size; JD…identification information; JD1…first identification information; JD2…second identification information; JDC…document information; MD…print medium; P…printed matter; PCP…copy image; PC P1…first copied image; PCP2…second copied image; PDR…document image; PGM1…first control program; PGM2…second control program; PM…regular printed matter; PM1…first regular printed matter; PM2…second regular printed matter; PP…printed image; PPM…regular image; PPM1…first regular image; PPM2…second regular image; PS…synthetic image; W1, W2, W3…horizontal dimension; ΔH1, ΔH2…vertical dimension; ΔRW…horizontal dimension; ΔW1, ΔW2…horizontal dimension; ΔSW, ΔSW1, ΔSW2…deviation.

Claims

1. A file judgment system comprising: An information processing device that stores the identification information in a manner that establishes a corresponding relationship with the file information; a printing device for printing a document image corresponding to the document information and a coded image representing the identification information on a printing medium, thereby generating a formal printed matter; a copying device for copying the regular printed matter to generate a copied printed matter; a reading device for reading a printed image printed on a printed matter including the regular printed matter and the copied printed matter, The printing device prints the coded image in a predetermined edge area of ​​the printing medium. The copying device reads an image of an area other than the edge area on the regular printed matter and prints the read image on the printing medium to generate the copied printed matter. The information processing device determines whether the printed matter is the legitimate printed matter based on the code image included in the printed image read by the reading device.

2. The file determination system according to claim 1, wherein: The coded image is composed of a first coded image and a second coded image different from the first coded image, The printing device prints the first coded image in a first edge region among vertically or horizontally opposing edge regions of the printing medium, and prints the second coded image in a second edge region opposite to the first edge region.

3. The file determination system according to claim 2, wherein: The encoded image is a rectangular image, the long side of the encoded image is configured along the edge of the printing medium, and the short side size of the encoded image is larger than the deviation of the printing medium during printing, and smaller than the short side size of the first edge area and the second edge area.

4. The file determination system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein: The information processing device determines whether the printed matter is the legitimate printed matter based on the first code image and the second code image included in the printed image read by the reading device.

5. The file determination system according to claim 1, wherein: The printing device prints the coded image in the edge area using a borderless printing function.

6. The file determination system according to claim 1, wherein: The reading device reads the printed image on the entire surface of the printing medium constituting the printed matter, on the surface on which the printed image is formed.

7. A printing device that obtains document information and a coded image representing identification information corresponding to the document information from an information processing device, and prints the document image corresponding to the document information and the coded image on a printing medium to produce a printed matter, wherein: The printing device prints the code image in a predetermined edge region of the printing medium. The edge region is a region where no image is formed when the edgeless printing function is not used.

Images