Processing device, image processing device, and processing method

Abstract

The present application provides a processing device and the like that can perform transmission and reception of information by releasing a restriction when predetermined conditions are met, even when the transmission and reception of information is restricted based on a function setting and user authority. A processing device includes a communication unit that performs transmission and reception of information using management information, and a control unit that sets a restriction on the transmission and reception of information via the communication unit based on a restriction setting, and releases the restriction setting and performs the transmission and reception of information via the communication unit when the management information is management information acquired from a terminal device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a processing apparatus or the like. BACKGROUND

[0002] An image processing apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral is known to have, for example, a facsimile mode capable of transmitting facsimile by image data generated by reading with a scanner apparatus, an e-mail mode capable of transmitting e-mail by attaching image data to e-mail, and the like.

[0003] When transmitting facsimile, e-mail, or the like, a user can specify a destination by designating a recipient from recipient information managed by the image processing apparatus, and can execute a task related to the facsimile mode, the e-mail mode, or the like. The recipient information referred to in the present disclosure is information for specifying a communication recipient such as a telephone number, an e-mail address, a facsimile number, account information, an address, a workplace, or the like. The image processing apparatus can accumulate recipient information for each communication recipient and manage it as an address book (contact list). Herein, the recipient information managed by the image processing apparatus inside the apparatus and the address book (contact list) in which the recipient information is accumulated are collectively referred to as internal address information in the present disclosure.

[0004] In recent years, in a case where the internal address information managed by the image processing apparatus does not contain desired recipient information, or in a case where the above task is temporarily executed using an image processing apparatus provided in a convenience store, a copy service providing store, or the like, recipient information (hereinafter, referred to as external address information) managed by a terminal apparatus such as a smartphone, a tablet, a mobile phone, or the like is temporarily transferred to the image processing apparatus. A user can execute a task of facsimile, e-mail, or the like by specifying a recipient using the recipient information transferred to the image processing apparatus.

[0005] In such an image processing apparatus, for example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a multifunction system that, in a case where a certain instruction is given to the multifunction system from a mobile terminal, acquires certain information capable of specifying the mobile terminal or certain information capable of specifying a person using the mobile terminal from the mobile terminal, compares it with information stored in advance in the multifunction system, and determines whether to execute the instruction from the mobile terminal based on the comparison result.

[0006] PRIOR ART DOCUMENT

[0007] PATENT LITERATURE

[0008] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-135865 SUMMARY

[0009] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] The technology described in Patent Literature 1 restricts a user who can implement the function of the image processing apparatus, in order to prevent the function of the image processing apparatus (e.g., mail transmission, facsimile transmission, etc.) from being used illegally in a case where the function is implemented using the sender information stored in the terminal apparatus.

[0011] The management of the image processing apparatus exemplified in Patent Literature 1 is performed by a manager who has a management authority. In general, the manager differs depending on the installation site of the image processing apparatus, and the system of use also differs depending on the setting of the image processing apparatus, and on each manager.

[0012] In such a situation, for example, in the image processing apparatus installed in a certain site, a task using the terminal apparatus can be executed, but in the image processing apparatus installed in another site, a case can occur where the task using the terminal apparatus cannot be executed. This sometimes occurs not only due to the user management setting by the manager, but also, for example, in a case where a certain restriction setting is made on the function setting (system setting) or the like, the execution of the task is also restricted, and the convenience involved in the execution of the task using the terminal apparatus is seriously impaired.

[0013] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a processing apparatus or the like that can perform the transmission and reception of information by releasing a restriction in a case where a predetermined condition is satisfied, even in a case where the transmission and reception of information are restricted based on a function setting, a user authority.

[0014] Solution to Problem

[0015] To solve the above problem, a processing apparatus according to the present disclosure is characterized by including: a communication section that performs the transmission and reception of information using management information; and a control section that restricts the transmission and reception of information via the communication section based on a restriction setting, wherein in a case where the management information is management information acquired from a terminal apparatus, the control section releases the restriction setting and performs the transmission and reception of information via the communication section.

[0016] Further, a processing apparatus according to the present disclosure is characterized by including: a communication section that performs the transmission and reception of information using management information; an authority determination section that determines whether or not to give an authority related to the transmission and reception of information to a user who has been authenticated; and a control section that restricts the transmission and reception of information via the communication section, wherein the control section restricts the transmission and reception of information via the communication section based on a determination result of the authority determination section.

[0017] Further, an image processing apparatus according to the present disclosure is characterized by including the above processing apparatus and an image processing section.

[0018] Further, the processing method according to the present disclosure is characterized by including a communication process in which information is transmitted and received using management information, and a control process in which the transmission and reception of information in the communication process is limited based on a limitation setting, and in the control process, the limitation setting is released and the transmission and reception of information is performed when the management information is management information acquired from a terminal device.

[0019] Here, the management information according to the present disclosure can also be addressee information managed by the processing device and the terminal device, and for example, can be setting information including addressee information related to execution of a job in each mode such as a facsimile mode and an e-mail mode.

[0020] Effects of Invention

[0021] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a processing device and the like that can perform the transmission and reception of information by releasing the limitation when a predetermined condition is satisfied, even when the transmission and reception of information is limited based on a function setting and a user authority. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a front view that explains the overall structure of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 2 is a perspective view that explains the overall structure of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 4 is a functional configuration diagram of the terminal device according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 5 is a flowchart that explains the flow of processing according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 6 is a diagram that explains an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 7 is a diagram that explains an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 8 is a diagram that explains an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 9 is a diagram that explains an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 10is a diagram for explaining an action example of the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 11 is a flowchart for explaining a flow of processing involved in the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 12 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 14 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 15 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the second embodiment.

[0037] Figure 16 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunctional peripheral involved in the third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining a user authority management table.

[0039] Figure 18 is a flowchart for explaining a flow of processing involved in the third embodiment.

[0040] Figure 19 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0041] Figure 20 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0042] Figure 21 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0043] Figure 22 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0044] Figure 23 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0045] Figure 24 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0046] Figure 25 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0047] Figure 26 is a diagram for explaining an action example of the third embodiment.

[0048] Figure 27is a drawing for explaining an operation example of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present disclosure, a multifunction peripheral having a copy mode, a scan mode, a facsimile mode, an e-mail mode, and the like as functions is explained as a processing device or as a form of an image processing device provided with the processing device. In addition, the following embodiment is for explaining one example of the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the explanation recited in the claims is not limited to the following recitations.

[0050] [1 First Embodiment]

[0051] The first embodiment is a form in which, in a case where the addressee information as management information is external address information acquired from a terminal device, the performed restriction setting is released, and the reception and transmission of information such as e-mail transmission via the communication section is enabled.

[0052] [1.1 Functional Structure]

[0053] [1.1.1 Multifunction Peripheral 10]

[0054] Figure 1 is a front view for explaining the overall structure of the multifunction peripheral 10 related to the first embodiment. The multifunction peripheral 10 is configured to be able to communicate with the terminal device 30. As a communication method, there is no particular limitation, but for example, a short-range wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-fi (registered trademark), Wi-sun (registered trademark), Irda, and the like can be employed. In addition, Figure 1 In the present embodiment, a form in which the multifunction peripheral 10 directly communicates with the terminal device 30 is exemplified, but communication via a network such as a LAN (Local area network), a WAN (Wide area network), the Internet, and the like not illustrated can also be performed.

[0055] Figure 2 is a perspective view for explaining the overall structure of the multifunction peripheral 10. In addition, Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of the multifunction peripheral 10. The multifunction peripheral 10 is provided with a control section 11, a display section 13, an operation input section 15, a communication section 17, an image forming section 19, an image reading section 21, and a storage section 23.

[0056] The control section 11 controls the overall multifunction peripheral 10. The control section 11 is constituted by one or a plurality of arithmetic devices (CPU (Central processing unit) and the like), for example. The control section 11 realizes its functions by reading out and executing various programs stored in the storage section 23.

[0057] The display section 13 displays various information to a user or the like. The display section 13 can be configured by, for example, an LCD (Liquid crystal display), an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0058] The operation input section 15 accepts input of information by a user or the like. The operation input section 15 can be configured by, for example, hard keys (for example, number keys), buttons, or the like. In addition, the operation input section 15 can be configured as a touch panel via which input is possible. In this case, as an input detection method of the touch panel, for example, a method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, an electrostatic capacity method, or the like can be adopted.

[0059] The communication section 17 has, as described above, an interface for near distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Wi-fi, Wi-sun, Irda, or the like. In addition, the communication section 17 can have an interface for either one or both of wired and wireless communication with other devices via a network such as a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, a facsimile line, or the like, which is not illustrated.

[0060] The image forming section 19 forms an image based on an image on paper as a recording medium. The image forming section 19 is supplied with paper from the paper feeding section 25, and after an image based on an image is formed on the paper, the paper is discharged to the paper discharge section 27. The image forming section 19 can be configured by, for example, a laser printer or the like using an electrophotographic method. The image forming section 19 forms an image using toner supplied from a non-illustrated toner cartridge corresponding to toner colors (for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), K (black)).

[0061] The image reading section 21 generates scan data by scanning and reading a document image of a reading target. The image reading section 21 can be configured as a scanner device having an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge coupled device), a CIS (Contact image sensor), or the like, for example. The image reading section 21 is not particularly limited to this configuration as long as it is configured to generate scan data composed of analog signals of RGB (R: red, G: green, B: blue) by reading a reflected light image from a document image by the image sensor.

[0062] The storage section 23 stores various programs and various data required for an operation of the multifunction peripheral 10. The storage section 23 can be configured by, for example, a RAM (Random access memory), an HDD (Hard disk drive), an SSD (Solid state drive), a ROM (Read only memory), or the like.

[0063] In the first embodiment, the storage section 23 stores a task execution program 231, a display processing program 232, a recipient information acquisition program 233, a restriction setting determination program 234, and a recipient information storage area 235.

[0064] The task execution program 231 is a program read out by the control section 11 in order to perform processing in each mode of the copy mode, the scan mode, the facsimile mode, the electronic mail mode, and the like in a task unit. The control section 11 performs each task by reading out the task execution program 231 and controlling the communication section 17, the image forming section 19, the image reading section 21, and the like.

[0065] The display processing program 232 is a program read out by the control section 11 when displaying a setting screen to which an input of various setting values, an execution instruction, or an end instruction related to the execution of a task, or the like is accepted, an initial screen (for example, a home screen) in which the setting screen is switchably displayed, an authentication screen for user authentication, an address book screen for displaying internal address information, external address information, and the like, various message screens, and the like.

[0066] The recipient information acquisition program 233 is a program read out by the control section 11 when acquiring external address information from the terminal device 30. The control section 11 that has read out the recipient information acquisition program 233 acquires recipient information managed by the terminal device 30 as external address information by controlling the communication section 17 and the like and communicating with the terminal device 30. For example, in a case where Bluetooth is adopted as a communication method, the control section 11 can acquire the recipient information managed by the terminal device 30 in vCard form in accordance with PBAP (Phone book access profile).

[0067] The restriction setting determination program 234 is a program read out by the control section 11 when determining whether or not a system setting of the multifunctional peripheral 10 makes a restriction setting related to the transmission and reception of information via the communication section 17, a communication-related restriction setting, for example, "prohibition of selection from an address book", "prohibition of direct input (direct designation prohibition)", or the like, or when determining whether or not a user is given a right related to the execution of a task, for example, a facsimile, an electronic mail, and the like. The control section 11 that has read out the restriction setting determination program 234 permits the execution of a function of the communication section 17 or restricts the execution of the function on the basis of a determination result. Here, "making a restriction" related to the present disclosure means that the control section 11 outputs a prohibition command to the communication section 17 so that a function (for example, control of various interfaces for performing communication with other devices in addition to the transmission and reception of information, and the like) that can be implemented by the communication section 17 cannot be implemented or a part of the function cannot be implemented. The communication section 17 that has accepted the prohibition command restricts the execution of the function until the control section 11 releases the restriction (that is, as long as a prohibition release command is not output).

[0068] The addressee information storage area 235 is a storage area that stores the addressee information (external address information) acquired from the terminal device 30 and the addressee information (internal address information) managed by the multifunction printer 10 internally.

[0069] [1.1.2 Terminal device 30]

[0070] Figure 4 is a diagram that describes the functional structure of the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 according to the present disclosure is assumed to be, for example, a so-called mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, a tablet, a mobile phone, a notebook personal computer, and the like, but is not limited thereto. As long as it is an environment capable of communicating with the multifunction printer 10, a stationary personal computer or the like is also included in the terminal device according to the present disclosure.

[0071] Such a terminal device 30 is provided with a control section 31, a display section 33, an operation input section 35, a communication section 37, and a storage section 39.

[0072] The control section 31 controls the entire terminal device 30. The control section 31 is constituted by one or a plurality of arithmetic devices (CPU or the like), for example. The control section 31 realizes its functions by reading out and executing various programs stored in the storage section 39.

[0073] The display section 33 displays various information to the user. The display section 33 can be constituted by, for example, an LCD, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0074] The operation input section 35 accepts the input of information by the user or the like. The operation input section 35 can be constituted by a touch panel that enables input via the display section 33. In this case, as the input detection method of the touch panel, for example, a method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, an electrostatic capacity method, or the like can be adopted.

[0075] The communication section 37 is provided with an interface for close-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Wi-fi, Wi-sun, Irda, and the like. In addition, the communication section 37 can also be provided with an interface for either one or both of wired and wireless communication with other devices via a network such as a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, a facsimile line, and the like, which are not illustrated.

[0076] The storage section 39 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the terminal device 30. The storage section 39 can be constituted by a RAM, an HDD, an SSD, a ROM, or the like, for example.

[0077] The storage section 39 stores an application program 391 and an addressee information management program 392, and secures an addressee information storage area 393.

[0078] Application 391 is a program read by the control unit 31 when performing various applications such as calls, emails, faxes, SNS, animation / music, games, etc.

[0079] The recipient information management program 392 is a program read by the control unit 31 when managing recipient information such as phone numbers, email addresses, fax numbers, and accounts used in applications such as calls, emails, faxes, and SNS. The control unit 31 processes recipient information by registering new recipients, editing, and deleting them based on user instructions. Furthermore, the control unit 31 reads and outputs the managed recipient information based on a request to retrieve recipient information from the multifunction printer 10. The control unit 31 can write recipient information in vCard format when a PBAP-based request for recipient information is received. Alternatively, recipient information can also be written in CSV format. In this case, the control unit 31 can send all recipient information to the multifunction printer 10 after writing it. Alternatively, the recipient information management program 392 can also be configured as a management program loaded into the application program 391.

[0080] The recipient information storage area 393 is a storage area that stores recipient information such as telephone numbers, email addresses, fax numbers, and accounts as managed by the terminal device 30.

[0081] [1.2 Processing Flow]

[0082] Next, use Figure 5 The processing involved in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 5 The processing described herein determines whether to maintain or remove the restriction settings based on whether the recipient information, which is management information, is external address information obtained from the terminal device 30 or internal address information managed internally by the multifunction printer 10. Furthermore, Figure 5 The processing described herein is performed by the control unit 11 by reading the task execution program 231, the display processing program 232, the limit setting determination program 234, etc.

[0083] The control unit 11 receives mode selection instructions such as copy mode, scan mode, email mode, and fax mode input by the user via the home screen (step S100).

[0084] The control unit 11 determines whether fax mode or email mode has been selected in the received selection mode (step S110).

[0085] If the control unit 11 determines that the user has selected fax mode or email mode, the control unit 11 displays the fax mode or email mode setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S110; yes → step S120).

[0086] Next, the control section 11 determines whether or not it is a transmission of information using the external address information in the facsimile transmission in the facsimile mode or the e-mail transmission in the e-mail mode (step S130). Here, the control section 11 accepts input of an instruction to select the addressee information included in the acquired external address information when the acquisition of the external address information from the terminal device 30 is completed, and thereby determines that it is a transmission of information using the external address information. On the other hand, the control section 11 accepts a request for acquisition of the external address information when the acquisition of the external address information from the terminal device 30 is not completed, and thereby determines that it is a transmission of information using the external address information.

[0087] When it is determined that it is a transmission of information using the external address information, the control section 11 determines whether or not the restriction setting is made to the multifunction peripheral 10 (step S130; YES -> step S140).

[0088] When it is determined that the restriction setting is made to the multifunction peripheral 10, the control section 11 determines whether or not the restriction setting made is a setting (as a system restriction) related to the transmission and reception of information via the communication section 17, such as "prohibition of selection from the address book", "prohibition of direct input", and the like (step S140; YES -> step S150).

[0089] When it is determined that the setting related to the transmission and reception of information is made, the control section 11 temporarily releases the restriction setting (step S150; YES -> step S160).

[0090] Further, the control section 11 transmits the information to the addressee determined by the addressee information (step S170). The control section 11 applies again the restriction setting temporarily released in step S160, and ends the process (step S180).

[0091] However, when it is determined that the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode is not selected by the user in step S110, the control section 11 causes a setting screen (for example, a copy setting screen) related to the other mode selected by the user to be displayed on the display section 13 (step S110; NO -> step S190).

[0092] The control section 11 executes a task related to the mode when it accepts input of an instruction to execute the task in the other mode, and ends the process (step S200 -> step S210).

[0093] Further, in a case where it is determined in step S130 that the transmission of the information is not by using the external address information, the control section 11 determines whether the transmission of the information is by using the internal address information (step S130; No -> step S220). Here, the control section 11 accepts input of the selection instruction of the addressee information included in the internal address information, and thereby determines that the transmission of the information is by using the internal address information.

[0094] In a case where it is determined by the control section 11 that the transmission of the information is by using the internal address information, the control section 11 maintains the restriction setting, and ends the process (step S220; Yes -> step S250).

[0095] On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that the transmission of the information is not by using the internal address information, the control section 11 determines whether the direct input of the addressee is accepted (step S220; No -> step S230).

[0096] In a case where it is determined by the control section 11 that the direct input of the addressee is accepted, the control section 11 maintains the restriction setting, and ends the process (step S230; Yes -> step S250). In addition, in a case where it is determined by the control section 11 that the direct input of the addressee is not accepted, the control section 11 determines other processing, and performs an action corresponding to the other processing (step S230; No -> "other action").

[0097] However, in a case where it is not determined in step S140 that the restriction setting is made to the multifunction peripheral 10, the control section 11 transmits the information to the addressee of the addressee information, and ends the process (step S140; No -> step S240).

[0098] Further, in a case where it is determined in step S150 that the setting related to the transmission / reception restriction of the information is not made, the control section 11 maintains the restriction setting according to other restriction settings, and ends the process (step S150; No -> step S250).

[0099] [1.3 Action Example]

[0100] Next, an action example of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 6 and Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an action example when the transmission of the information is made by using the internal address information managed in the internal of the multifunction peripheral 10 in a case where the restriction setting (as a restriction of the system) related to the transmission / reception of the information via the communication section 17 such as "prohibition of selection from the address book", "prohibition of direct input", and the like is made as the restriction setting. In addition, the present action example corresponds to the process of step S120, step S130 (No), step S220, step S230, step S250, and the like of Figure 5 .

[0101] Figure 6is a view showing a configuration example of the setting screen W10 related to the e-mail mode. The setting screen W10 has a mode display area R10, a setting value display area R12, a function selection area R14, an address book button B10, a start button B12, a recipient input box Bx10, a name and the like input box Bx12.

[0102] The mode display area R10 is a display area in which icons representing respective modes are displayed. Figure 6 is a configuration example of the setting screen W10 related to the e-mail mode, in which, in the mode display area R10, a underline indicating selection of the e-mail mode is annotated in the lower part of the icon representing the e-mail mode.

[0103] The setting value display area R12 is a display area in which setting values (setting items) of the e-mail transmission performed via the setting screen W10 are displayed. Figure 6 is an example in which a color mode "Auto / Black and White 2 values", a resolution "200 x 200 dpi", a format "PDF", and the like are displayed as setting values related to the e-mail transmission task.

[0104] The function selection area R14 is a display area in which function selection keys for accepting selection of functions capable of being set at the time of execution of the e-mail transmission are displayed. Figure 6 is an example in which the "reference mobile address book key", the "recent task key", the "transmission history key", and the like described later are displayed as the function selection keys.

[0105] The address book button B10 is a button for accepting input of a reference instruction of internal address information managed by the multifunctional peripheral 10. If selection instruction of the address book button B10 is accepted, the control section 11 displays the address book screen explained in the view below.

[0106] The start button B12 is a button for accepting input of an execution instruction of the e-mail transmission with the e-mail address set in the recipient input box Bx10 as the recipient.

[0107] The recipient input box Bx10 is an input box for accepting input of an e-mail address as the recipient of the transmitted e-mail. In the first embodiment, in a case where restriction setting related to transmission and reception of information is performed, direct input of the recipient information to the recipient input box Bx10 is restricted.

[0108] The name and the like input box Bx12 is an input box for accepting input of a name of the e-mail, a file name of an attached file, and the like.

[0109] Figure 7 is a view showing a configuration example of the setting screen W10 related to the e-mail mode. The setting screen W10 has a mode display area R10, a setting value display area R12, a function selection area R14, an address book button B10, a start button B12, a recipient input box Bx10, a name and the like input box Bx12. Figure 6The diagram illustrates an example structure of the address book screen W20, where the selection input is made via the address book button B10 on the settings screen W10 and displayed by the control unit 11. The address book screen W20 includes a recipient information display area R16.

[0110] The recipient information display area R16 is a display area that displays internal address information managed by the multifunction printer 10. However, when restrictions related to the sending and receiving of information are set as a limitation setting, the recipient information is restricted to be displayed in gray, and the recipient information cannot be selected.

[0111] Thus, when restrictions related to the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit 17 are set as limitations, such as "prohibiting selection from the address book" and "prohibiting direct input" (system-imposed restrictions), it is impossible to send information using internal address information managed within the multifunction printer 10. In the multifunction printer 10 configuration, email mode itself cannot be prohibited, but... Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As illustrated in the example, it prohibits the selection of recipient information from internal address information and the direct input of recipient information, thereby restricting indirect sending in the form of email.

[0112] Next, an example of how to send and receive information using external address information obtained from terminal device 30 will be explained when restrictions related to the sending and receiving of information via communication unit 17 are set as restrictions such as "prohibit selection from address book" and "prohibit direct input".

[0113] Figure 8 Is with Figure 6 The diagram below shows the same settings screen W10 related to email sending. The user can access external address information by selecting the "Reference Mobile Address Book Key" K10 located in the function selection area R14. If the user accepts the selection instruction for the "Reference Mobile Address Book Key" K10, the control unit 11 displays the address book screen shown in the following diagram.

[0114] Figure 9 It is acceptance Figure 8 The settings screen W10 is a structure where the "Refer to Mobile Address Book Key" K10 is selected and the address book screen W20 is displayed by the control unit 11. Additionally, Figure 9 The contact list screen shown in the example on the W20 can be used with... Figure 7 The address book screen shown in the example has the same structure as the W20.

[0115] and Figure 7 The examples in the text are different. Figure 9In this case, as the external address information, the addressee information (for example, an e-mail address: aa01@sample.com, etc.) of the user name "User01" to the user name "User06" is displayed in a selectable manner.

[0116] The user can select the desired addressee information from the external address information displayed in the addressee information display region R16 and set the selected addressee information as the transmission addressee of the e-mail.

[0117] Figure 10 is a view illustrating a case where the user selects one of the addressee information (for example, User01 (aa01@sample.com)) displayed in the addressee information display region R16 from the external address information and sets the selected addressee information in the addressee input box Bx10.

[0118] The user confirms that the selected addressee information is set in the addressee input box Bx10 and selects the start button B12, so that the e-mail transmission with the selected addressee information as the transmission addressee can be performed.

[0119] Thus, even in the case where the restriction setting (as a system restriction) related to the transmission and reception of information via the communication section 17, such as "prohibition of selection from the address book", "prohibition of direct input", etc. is performed as a restriction setting, in the case where the external address information acquired from the terminal device 30 is used, the "prohibition of selection from the address book" as a restriction setting can be released, and the addressee information can be selected from the external address information.

[0120] In the setting screen W10 related to the e-mail transmission, the specific addressee information selected from the external address information can be set as the transmission addressee, and thus, according to the first embodiment, in the case where the address information as the management information is the external address information acquired from the terminal device, the performed restriction setting can be released, and the transmission and reception of information via the communication section, such as the e-mail transmission, can be performed.

[0121] [2 Second Embodiment]

[0122] The second embodiment is a form in which the performed restriction setting can be released and the external address information can be acquired in the case where the communication connection restriction is set as a restriction setting in response to the acquisition request of the external address information with respect to the terminal device.

[0123] [2.1 Functional Structure]

[0124] The functional structure related to the second embodiment can be the same structure as the multifunction peripheral 10 and the terminal device 30 related to the first embodiment. Thus, in the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same functions, and the description is omitted.

[0125] [2.2 Process flow]

[0126] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of the second embodiment, and Figure 11 The process described in FIG. 11 is a process performed by the control section 11 by reading out the task execution program 231, the display processing program 232, the addressee information acquisition program 233, and the like. Further, the process described below is a process started by accepting a selection instruction of the mobile address book button provided on the home page screen described later.

[0127] The control section 11 displays the home page screen as an initial screen at an appropriate timing such as at power-on, at recovery from sleep mode, or at device initialization (step S300). Next, the control section 11 determines whether or not an acquisition request of external address information input via the home page screen is accepted (step S310).

[0128] In this case, the control section 11 can determine whether or not an acquisition request of external address information is input by accepting an input of a selection instruction of the mobile address book button provided on the home page screen.

[0129] In a case where it is determined that an acquisition request of external address information is accepted, the control section 11 determines whether or not a restriction setting related to communication connection such as "communication prohibition of Bluetooth" is made to the multifunction peripheral 10 (step S310; YES -> step S320).

[0130] The control section 11, in a case where it is determined that a restriction setting related to communication connection is made to the multifunction peripheral 10, releases the restriction setting (temporarily) (step S320; YES -> step S330).

[0131] Next, the control section 11 controls the communication section 17 to transmit an acquisition request of external address information to the terminal device 30, and determines whether or not external address information is acquired from the terminal device 30 (step S340 -> step S350). The terminal device 30, if the acquisition request of external address information is accepted, outputs the managed addressee information as external addressee information.

[0132] In step S350, if it is determined that external address information is acquired from the terminal device 30, the control section 11 applies the restriction setting released temporarily again, and ends the process (step S350; YES -> step S360). Further, in a case where address information cannot be acquired from the terminal device 30, the control section 11 stands by until the address information is acquired (step S350; NO).

[0133] However, in a case where no input of the acquisition request of the external address information is received, the control section 11 determines whether or not input of the selection instruction of the mode is received. That is, the control section 11 determines whether or not the selection instruction of the mode of the copy mode, the scan mode, the e-mail mode, or the facsimile mode input by the user via the home screen and the like is received (Step S310; No→Step S370).

[0134] The control section 11, in a case where it is determined that the selection instruction of the mode of the copy mode, the scan mode, the e-mail mode, or the facsimile mode input by the user via the home screen and the like is received, displays the setting screen related to the mode selected by the user on the display section 13 (Step S370; Yes→Step S380). On the other hand, the control section 11, in a case where it is determined that no input of the selection instruction of the mode is received by the user, returns the process to Step S300 (Step S370; No→Step S300).

[0135] The control section 11, if input of the execution instruction of the task is received via the mode setting screen, executes the task, and ends the process (Step S390→Step S400).

[0136] Further, in Step S320, the control section 11, if it is determined that no restriction setting related to the communication connection is made to the multifunction peripheral 10, in a case where the restriction setting other than the communication connection is made, maintains the restriction setting, and ends the process (Step S320; No→Step S410).

[0137] [2.2 Action Example]

[0138] Next, an action example of the second embodiment will be described. Figure 12 is one configuration example of the home screen W30 of the multifunction peripheral 10. The home screen W30 is, for example, an initial screen displayed on the display section 13 and receiving input of the operation of the user at the time of power-on, at the time of standby, at the time of recovery from the sleep state, and the like. The home screen W30 is provided with a system information button B14, a mode selection button B16, a device state display region R18, and a function selection button B18.

[0139] The system information button B14 is a button for receiving a display instruction of the system information screen described below. If selection input of the system information button B14 by the user is received, the control section 11 displays the system information screen W40.

[0140] The mode selection button B16 is a button for receiving selection of the mode. If selection input of the mode selection button B16 is received, the control section 11 displays the setting screen of the corresponding mode. The mode selection button B16 includes a "mobile address book" button B161 for receiving input of the acquisition request of the external address information. If the "mobile address book" button B161 is selected and input by the user, the control section 11 executesFigure 11 The following steps, S320 and below, involve obtaining external address information from the terminal device 30.

[0141] The device status display area R18 is the area for displaying the device status of the multifunction printer 10. Figure 12 An example is shown in the device status display area R18, which displays the remaining amount of toner.

[0142] The function selection button B18 is used to accept change instructions, reference instructions, etc. related to the function settings of the multifunction printer 10. If the selection input of the function selection button B18 is accepted, the control unit 11 displays various setting screens (not shown) for executing the change instructions and reference instructions for the corresponding functions.

[0143] Figure 13 This is an example of a system information screen W40 that accepts the selection input from the system information button B14 on the home screen W30 and is displayed by the control unit 11. The system information screen W40 displays information related to the system of the multifunction printer 10. For example, the system information screen W40 includes an information display area R20 showing information related to device maintenance such as paper depletion and firmware updates, as well as machine information related to communication settings. Here, when Bluetooth-based communication is enabled, the user can enable Bluetooth-based communication by setting the slider S10 in the machine information to the "on" state. Figure 13 In the middle, it indicates that slider S10 is in the "disconnected" state, which is the state for setting restrictions related to communication connection (Bluetooth).

[0144] Figure 14 This is an example of the structure of the message screen M10 displayed after the "Mobile Address Book" button B161 of the mode selection button B16 is selected on the home screen W30, until the connection with the terminal device 30 is established (paired).

[0145] The message screen M10 can be structured similarly to the message screen displayed between devices attempting to connect using standard Bluetooth. That is, the message screen displays the name of the device being connected to (…). Figure 14 In the example, the device name is: BP-aaaa(bb:cc:dd:ee)). Additionally, Figure 14 Although not illustrated, the key used to establish the connection (e.g., key: 1234) can also be displayed. With the connection to the device permitted, the user can establish the connection by entering the key.

[0146] Figure 15is one example of a configuration of the message screen M12 displayed after the connection with the terminal device 30 is established. The control section 11 starts the transmission of the addressee information if the connection with the terminal device 30 is established. The message of the gist reporting the transmission status of the addressee information is displayed on the message screen M12.

[0147] If the transmission of the addressee information as the external address information ends, the control section 11 can cause the external address information acquired as illustrated in the above example to be displayed in the addressee information display region R16 of the address book screen W20. Figure 9

[0148] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the external address information can be acquired according to the acquisition request of the external address information to the terminal device, and the restriction setting being performed can be released in the case where the restriction setting is set in relation to the communication connection restriction.

[0149] [3 Third Embodiment]

[0150] The third embodiment is to limit the form of the transmission and reception of information via the communication section for the user who has been authenticated, based on the permission determination result of whether or not the operation authority of the facsimile mode, the e-mail mode, and the like is given.

[0151] [3.1 Functional Configuration]

[0152] Figure 16 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral 50 according to the third embodiment. The structure of the multifunction peripheral 50 according to the third embodiment can be substantially the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same functions and the description is omitted, and the different structures are described.

[0153] The multifunction peripheral 50 includes the control section 11, the display section 13, the operation input section 15, the communication section 17, the image forming section 19, the image reading section 21, and a storage section 53.

[0154] In the third embodiment, the storage section 53 stores a task execution program 231, a display processing program 232, an addressee information acquisition program 233, a user authentication program 531, a permission determination program 532, and secures an addressee information storage region 235.

[0155] ​The user authentication program 531 is a program read out by the control section 11 at the time of authenticating a user (login user) who logs in to the multifunction peripheral 50. In the case where the user authentication function is enabled, the control section 11 which has read out the user authentication program 531 causes the authentication screen described later to be displayed on the display section 13. The control section 11 stores, for example, a login user name and a login password in association with each other in advance, and is able to perform user authentication by collating the login user name and the login password input via the login screen. In addition, the user authentication is able to be performed by a possession authentication using a token, a key, an IC card, a smartphone, and the like, a biometric authentication such as a fingerprint authentication, a palm print authentication, a face authentication, and the like, in addition to a knowledge authentication based on the input of the login user name and the login password.

[0156] The permission determination program 532 is a program read out by the control section 11 at the time when the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode is selected via the home screen. The control section 11 which has read out the permission determination program 532 is able to determine whether or not the user who has selected the mode is given the operation permission, for example, by referring to the user permission management table.

[0157] Here, Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining one configuration example of the data configuration of the user permission management table. As shown in Figure 17 , the user permission management table is able to be configured by associating, for each login user name, the presence / absence (Yes / No) of the operation permission of each mode (facsimile mode, e-mail mode,...). The operation permission of each mode with respect to the login user is given as user management information managed / managed by the manager, for example, via a system setting screen not shown. The login / management result of the manager is reflected in the user permission management table.

[0158] [3.2 Flow of processing]

[0159] Figure 18 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing of the third embodiment. In addition, Figure 18 the processing explained in Figure 18 the processing explained in

[0160] The control section 11 performs user authentication via an authentication screen explained below (step S500). For example, the control section 11 performs user authentication using a login user name and a login password input by the user via the authentication screen. In a case where the user authentication is OK, the control section 11 displays a home screen as an initial screen on the display section 13 (step S500; YES -> step S510). In a case where the login authentication is NG, the control section 11 stands by until a correct login user name and a login password are input (step S500; NO).

[0161] The control section 11 accepts input of a mode selection instruction based on a login user via the displayed home screen (step S520). Next, the control section 11 determines whether the accepted mode is a facsimile mode or an e-mail mode or another mode (step S530).

[0162] In a case where it is determined that the accepted mode is a facsimile mode or an e-mail mode, the control section 11 causes a setting screen of the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode to be displayed on the display section 13 (step S530; YES -> step S540).

[0163] Next, the control section 11 determines whether it is a transmission of information using external address information in facsimile transmission in the facsimile mode or e-mail transmission in the e-mail mode (step S550). Here, the control section 11 can determine that it is a transmission of information using external address information by accepting input of a selection instruction of addressee information included in acquired external address information in a case where acquisition of external address information from the terminal device 30 is ended. On the other hand, the control section 11 can determine that it is a transmission of information using external address information by accepting an acquisition request of external address information in a case where acquisition of external address information from the terminal device 30 is not ended.

[0164] In a case where it is determined that it is a transmission of information using external address information, the control section 11 determines whether the login user has an operation right with respect to the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode (step S550; YES -> step S560). The control section 11 can determine whether the login user has an operation right with respect to the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode by referring to the user right management table exemplified in FIG. 6. Figure 17

[0165] In a case where it is determined that the login user has an operation right with respect to the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode, the control section 11 ends the process by transmitting information to the addressee determined by the addressee information (step S560; YES -> step S570).

[0166] ​On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that the login user does not have the operation authority for the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode, the control section 11 restricts the transmission of the information (step S560; No -> step S580). Also, the control section 11 causes an error message to be displayed on the display section 13, and ends the process (step S590).

[0167] However, in a case where it is determined that the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode is not selected by the user in step S530, the control section 11 causes a setting screen (for example, a copy setting screen) related to the other mode selected by the user to be displayed on the display section 13 (step S530; No -> step S600).

[0168] The control section 11, upon accepting the input of the instruction of the execution of the task in the other mode, executes the task related to the mode, and ends the process (step S610 -> step S620).

[0169] Also, in a case where it is determined that the transmission of the information using the external address information is not performed in step S550, the control section 11 determines whether the transmission of the information using the internal address information is performed (step S550; No -> step S630). Here, the control section 11 can determine that the transmission of the information using the internal address information is performed by accepting the input of the selection instruction of the addressee information included in the internal address information.

[0170] In a case where it is determined that the transmission of the information using the internal address information is performed, the control section 11 determines whether the login user has the operation authority for the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode (step S630; Yes -> step S560). The control section 11 can determine whether the login user has the operation authority for the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode by referring to the user authority management table exemplified in FIG. 6. Figure 17

[0171] In a case where it is determined that the login user has the operation authority for the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode, the control section 11 transmits the information to the addressee determined by the addressee information, and ends the process (step S560; Yes -> step S570).

[0172] On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that the login user does not have the operation authority for the facsimile mode or the e-mail mode, the control section 11 restricts the transmission of the information (step S580). Also, the control section 11 causes an error message to be displayed on the display section 13, and ends the process (step S590).

[0173] However, in a case where it is determined that the transmission of the information using the internal address information is not performed in step S630, the control section 11 determines that another operation is performed, and executes an operation corresponding to the other process (step S630; No -> "another operation"). ​

[0174] [3.3 Action Example]

[0175] Next, an action example of the third embodiment will be described. In the description of the action example of the third embodiment, it is assumed that the e-mail mode is selected by the login user who does not have the operation authority of the e-mail mode as the mode related to the transmission of information.

[0176] Figure 19 is one configuration example of the authentication screen W50 displayed by the control section 11 on the display section 13. The authentication screen W50 can be configured so that the login screen is displayed by the control section 11 on the display section 13 in the case where the user authentication function is enabled and the user authentication program 531 is read out.

[0177] The authentication screen W50 is provided with a login user name input box Bx14, a login password input box Bx16, an authentication destination designation button B20, an OK button B22, and a cancel button B24.

[0178] The login user name input box Bx14 is an input box for accepting the input of the login user name. The user who attempts to log in to the multifunctional peripheral 50 inputs the login user name in the login user name input box Bx14. In addition, the login user name can also be selected from a user name list provided separately.

[0179] The login password input box Bx16 is an input box for accepting the input of the login password corresponding to the login user name. The user who attempts to log in to the multifunctional peripheral 50 inputs the login password together with the input of the login user name.

[0180] The authentication destination designation button B20 is a button for accepting the designation of the authentication destination of the user. The user authentication destination can also be the device body, and for example, an authentication server or the like provided separately on the network (NW) can also be designated. In the case where the authentication through the device body is designated as the user authentication destination, the control section 11 performs the user authentication by comparing the input login user name and the input login password with the authentication information (for example, the combination of the user name and the password, or the like) prepared in advance. On the other hand, in the case of using the authentication server or the like provided on the network (NW), the control section 11 can perform the user authentication by transmitting the input login user name and the input login password to the authentication server and accepting the authentication result from the authentication server.

[0181] The OK button B22 is a button for accepting the input of the determination instruction of the input action by the user. The user selects the OK button B22 at the time of determining the input to the login user name input box Bx14 or the login password input box Bx16 or the designation of the user authentication destination via the authentication destination designation button B20. The cancel button B24 is a button for accepting the input of the cancellation instruction of the input action by the user.

[0182] Figure 20 is one configuration example of the home screen W60 of the multifunctional peripheral 50. The home screen W60 differs from the home screen W30 in the example of Figure 12 in that the home screen W30 includes the e-mail button B163 as the mode selection button B16 and includes the login user name display area R22 that displays the login user name in the login. The e-mail button B163 is a mode selection button for accepting selection of the e-mail mode as one of the modes. The control section 11 displays the setting screen W70 related to the e-mail mode described below if it accepts input of the selection instruction of the e-mail button B163 by the user. The login user name display area R22 is a display area that displays the login user name for which the user authentication is successful. For example, Figure 20 is an example in which "User01" is displayed as the login user name.

[0183] Figure 21 is a drawing that describes one configuration example of the setting screen W70 related to the e-mail mode. The setting screen W70 can have the same structure as the setting screen W10 exemplified in Figure 6 . Figure 21 is an action example in which the message screen M14 indicating the gist that the operation authority of the e-mail mode is not possessed is displayed if the address book button B10 that accepts selection input of the internal address information as the management information is selected by the login user.

[0184] Figure 22 is an action example in which the login user selects the specific addressee information "test" from the internal address information as the management information and sets it in the addressee input box Bx10. In this case, the message screen M14 indicating the gist that the operation authority of the e-mail mode is not possessed is also displayed.

[0185] Furthermore, Figure 23 is a drawing that describes the message screen M15 displayed by the control section 11 in a case where selection input of the start button B12 by the login user is accepted in the setting screen W70 exemplified in Figure 22 . Figure 23 is an action example in which, in addition to Figure 21 and Figure 22 the message screen M14 exemplified, a message indicating the gist that "The addressee and other settings are restricted by the administrator. The transmission cannot be performed." is displayed in the message screen M15.

[0186] In this way, in a case where the login user does not have the operation authority of the e-mail mode, even if the internal address information is selected as the management information, the transmission of information based on the e-mail mode is restricted.

[0187] same, Figure 24 If the "Refer to Mobile Address Book Key" K10, which accepts external address information as management information, is selected by the logged-in user, then a message screen M14 will be displayed indicating that the user does not have the operating permissions for this email mode.

[0188] Figure 25 This is an example of an action where a logged-in user selects a specific recipient, "aa01@sample.com," from external address information and sets it in the recipient input field Bx10. In this case, a message screen M14 is also displayed indicating that the user does not have the necessary permissions for this email mode.

[0189] and, Figure 26 It is in Figure 25 The diagram illustrates the message screen M15 displayed by the control unit 11 when the user selects the start button B12 in the example setup screen W70. Figure 26 Is it except Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 The example message screen M14 will also display a message with the subject line "Unable to send due to administrator restrictions on recipients and other settings" in the action example of message screen M15.

[0190] Alternatively, it can also take the following form: when using specific recipient information from external address information as management information, the convenience of the login user should be considered, for example... Figure 27 As illustrated, the email sending screen W80 can be displayed, and the content of the email is a request to the administrator to restrict the sending of information.

[0191] Thus, even if an external address is selected as management information, the sending of information based on that email mode is restricted if the logged-in user does not have the operation permissions for email mode.

[0192] As described above, according to the third embodiment, for authenticated users, the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit is restricted based on the permission determination result of whether they have been granted operating permissions such as fax mode or email mode. The administrator of the multifunction printer can manage whether to grant permissions to the owner of the terminal device that manages external address information, thus ensuring security.

[0193] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately modifying the combination of technical solutions without departing from the spirit of this invention are also included within the scope of this invention.

[0194] Furthermore, it is self-evident that the above-described embodiments can be executed in combination as far as technically possible.

[0195] Furthermore, in the embodiments, a program by which each device acts is a program that controls a CPU or the like to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments (a program that causes a computer to function). Also, information processed by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, a RAM) at the time of processing, and thereafter stored in a variety of ROMs (Read Only Memory), HDDs, or the like, read out by a CPU as necessary, and corrected and written.

[0196] Here, as a recording medium that stores a program, any one of a semiconductor medium (for example, a ROM, a nonvolatile memory card, or the like), an optical recording medium / optical magnetic recording medium (for example, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a MO (Magneto Optical Disc), an MD (Mini Disc), a CD (Compact Disc), a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), or the like), a magnetic recording medium (for example, a magnetic tape, a flexible disc, or the like), or the like can be used. Furthermore, there are cases in which the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized not only by executing a loaded program but also by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs or the like based on an instruction of the program.

[0197] Furthermore, in the case of distribution to the market, a program can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transmitted to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, it is self-evident that the storage device of the server computer is included in the present application.

[0198] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0199] 10, 50... multifunctional peripheral; 11... control section; 13... display section; 15... operation input section; 17... communication section; 19... image forming section; 21... image reading section; 23, 53... storage section; 30... terminal device; 31... control section; 33... display section; 35... operation input section; 37... communication section; 39... storage section; 231... task execution program; 232... display processing program; 233... addressee information acquisition program; 234... restriction setting determination program; 235... addressee information storage area; 531... user authentication program; 532... authority determination program.

Claims

1. A processing device, characterized by, Possessing: a communication section that performs transmission and reception of information using destination information; and a control section that sets a restriction on transmission and reception of information via the communication section based on a restriction setting, even in a case where the restriction on transmission and reception of the information via the communication section is set, the control section temporarily releases the restriction setting for transmission of the information using the destination information acquired from a terminal device, and performs transmission and reception of the information via the communication section.

2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein in a case where the destination information is destination information managed internally, the control section maintains the restriction setting.

3. The processing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the restriction setting is selection prohibition of the destination information or direct designation prohibition of the destination information.

4. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control section releases the restriction setting and acquires the destination information from the terminal device in a case where the control section performs an acquisition request for the destination information of the terminal device and the restriction setting is a restriction setting related to a communication connection restriction.

5. A processing device, characterized by Possessing: a communication section that performs transmission and reception of information using destination information; a right determination section that determines whether or not a user who has been authenticated is given a right related to transmission and reception of information; and a control section that restricts transmission and reception of information via the communication section, the control section restricts transmission and reception of information via the communication section based on a result of determination by the right determination section, even in a case where the restriction on transmission and reception of the information via the communication section is set, the control section temporarily releases the restriction setting for transmission of the information using the destination information acquired from a terminal device, and performs transmission and reception of the information via the communication section.

6. An image processing apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: the processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and an image processing section.

7. A processing method characterized by, Possessing: a communication process in which transmission and reception of information is performed using destination information; and a control process in which transmission and reception of information in the communication process is restricted based on a restriction setting, in the control process, even in a case where the restriction on transmission and reception of the information via the communication section is set, the restriction setting is temporarily released for transmission of the information using the destination information acquired from a terminal device, and transmission and reception of information is performed.

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