Information processing device and program product

Abstract

Metadata required for processing of the external service is transmitted to the external service. In one embodiment, an information processing apparatus includes a reception unit, an acquisition unit, and a transmission unit. The receiving section receives a first electronic file. The acquisition unit acquires metadata of a second electronic file, which is the same electronic file as the first electronic file or an electronic file generated on the basis of the first electronic file. The transmission unit transmits the second electronic file and the metadata of the second electronic file on the basis of information relating to the association between the type of metadata and data defined in an external service.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to information processing apparatus and programs. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, various companies offer file transfer services as cloud services. These services perform various processing steps on document files uploaded from multifunction printers or smartphones. For example, by performing OCR (Optical Character Recognition) or barcode recognition on the files, file transfer services can extract metadata as document information. The file transfer services then store the document files and their metadata in association on external storage services.

[0003] In addition, we offer iPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service) services that enable collaboration with various global services to create workflows. By registering connectors in the iPaaS service, our services can collaborate with iPaaS services. Thus, our services can collaborate with the thousands of services available within the iPaaS service.

[0004] Connecting to the iPaaS service via a file transfer service could be considered, allowing the use of document files and metadata sent from the file transfer service within the iPaaS workflow. However, this requires pre-defining what data to send to the iPaaS service connector. The data intended to be sent as metadata varies greatly from customer to customer, making it difficult to pre-define all the data. Even with all representative data registered, customers may struggle to retrieve the specific data they need from a large volume of data. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that can send the metadata required for processing external services to external services.

[0006] In one embodiment, the information processing apparatus includes a receiving unit, an acquiring unit, and a sending unit. The receiving unit receives a first electronic file. The acquiring unit acquires metadata of a second electronic file, wherein the second electronic file is the same as the first electronic file or is an electronic file generated based on the first electronic file. The sending unit sends the second electronic file and its metadata based on information regarding the association between the type of metadata and data defined in an external service. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example configuration of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the general data involved in the implementation method.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the data structure of the data stored in the template information storage area according to the illustrative implementation.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the setting screen for association information displayed on a terminal according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the settings screen for processing information processing devices displayed in a terminal according to an example embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the input screen for metadata displayed in a multifunction printer according to the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a timing diagram illustrating the template information setting process involved in the illustrative implementation.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a timing diagram illustrating the processing of electronic documents according to an illustrative implementation method.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0018] 1 Information processing device; 2 Multifunction printer; 3 Terminal; 4 iPaaS system; 11 Processing circuit; 12 Main memory; 13 Storage; 14 Communication circuit; 21 Control unit; 22 Control panel; 23 Scanner unit; 24 Communication circuit; 25 Input / output interface; 26 Voice output device; 27 Printer unit; 111 Setting unit; 112 Receiving unit; 113 Transmitting unit; 114 Data processing unit; 115 First acquisition unit; 116 Second acquisition unit; 117 Storage processing unit; 131 Template information storage area; 132 Electronic document storage area; 211 Processing circuit; 212 Main memory; 213 Storage; 221 Display device; 222 Input device; NW network; S information processing system. Detailed Implementation

[0019] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described using the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the scale of some parts in the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments may be appropriately changed. Furthermore, for the sake of explanation, the components may sometimes be omitted from the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments.

[0020] Implementation Method

[0021] (Example of composition)

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an information processing system S.

[0023] Information processing system S is a system for processing electronic documents by connecting to an iPaaS service implemented by iPaaS system 4 through a file transfer service implemented by information processing device 1.

[0024] Hereinafter, those who utilize the file transfer service will be referred to as users. Those who manage the connection between the file transfer service and the iPaaS service will be referred to as administrators. An administrator is an example of someone who sets up the connection between the file transfer service and the iPaaS service.

[0025] An electronic document is any document that has been digitized. This is an example of an electronic document representing a form-like document, but it is not limited to this. For example, a form-like document might be an application, invoice, or order form, but it is not limited to these. For example, an application might be a travel expense settlement application, but it is not limited to these.

[0026] The term "electronic document" is used to describe image data generated by scanning media such as paper using a multifunction printer 2, but it is not limited to this. Electronic documents can also include text data created in a terminal 3 using applications such as document creation.

[0027] Information processing system S includes information processing device 1, multiple multifunction printers 2, multiple terminals 3, and multiple iPaaS systems 4. Information processing system S may also include one multifunction printer 2 instead of multiple multifunction printers. Information processing system S may also include one terminal 3 instead of multiple terminal 3. Information processing system S may also include one iPaaS system 4 instead of multiple iPaaS systems. For example, multiple iPaaS systems 4 may be iPaaS systems operated by different operators. Information processing system S is an example of an information processing system that includes at least two of the following devices: information processing device 1, multiple multifunction printers 2, multiple terminals 3, and multiple iPaaS systems 4.

[0028] Information processing device 1, multiple multifunction printers 2, multiple terminals 3, and multiple iPaaS systems 4 are interconnected via a network NW in a communicative manner. The network NW includes one or more networks such as the Internet, mobile communication networks, and LANs (Local Area Networks). The LAN can be a wireless LAN or a wired LAN.

[0029] Information processing device 1 is a device for implementing a file transfer service. The file transfer service includes the service of storing electronic files and their metadata in a storage device. For example, information processing device 1 is a server in the cloud.

[0030] Metadata is information in electronic documents. For example, metadata includes various types of information attached to electronic documents such as usernames, email addresses, company names, company addresses, and amounts, but it is not limited to these. The types of metadata include the meaning of the items or content within the metadata.

[0031] Information processing device 1 receives a first electronic document from a device such as multifunction printer 2 or terminal 3 via network NW. The first electronic document refers to the electronic document received by information processing device 1 from the multifunction printer 2 or terminal 3. Information processing device 1 then sends a second electronic document and its metadata to iPaaS system 4 via network NW. The second electronic document refers to the electronic document sent by information processing device 1 to iPaaS system 4. The second electronic document is either the same as the first electronic document or an electronic document generated based on the first electronic document.

[0032] Multifunction printer 2 is a digital multifunction printer that integrates the functions of various office equipment. Multifunction printer 2 has a scanning function to generate electronic documents from a medium by scanning the medium. Multifunction printer 2 has a printing function based on electronic documents generated by the scanning function or electronic documents sent from terminal 3. Multifunction printer 2 has a function to send electronic documents generated by the scanning function to information processing device 1 via network NW. For example, multifunction printer 2 is an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral). Multifunction printer 2 is an example of a device that sends a first electronic document to information processing device 1 via network NW. Multifunction printer 2 is an example of a device different from information processing device 1.

[0033] Terminal 3 is an information processing device. Terminal 3 is capable of creating electronic files containing text data through applications such as document creation. For example, Terminal 3 is a PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, or a smartphone, but is not limited to these. Terminal 3 is an example of a device that sends the first electronic file to information processing device 1 via network NW. Terminal 3 is an example of a device different from information processing device 1.

[0034] An iPaaS system 4 is a system consisting of one or more devices to implement iPaaS services. An iPaaS service is a service that can collaborate with various services to create workflows. A workflow in an iPaaS service is a series of processes that are automatically executed along a process defined by one or more services.

[0035] iPaaS system 4 can connect to iPaaS service via file transfer service and process the second electronic document according to a workflow. For example, if the second electronic document is an electronic document representing an invoice, the workflow in iPaaS service is a workflow for processing the invoice. iPaaS service is an example of an external service that processes the second electronic document, implemented by a device different from information processing device 1. The external service is a service that processes the second electronic document. The workflow in iPaaS service is an example of iPaaS service processing of the second electronic document.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 1.

[0037] The information processing device 1 includes a processing circuit 11, a main memory 12, a storage device 13, and a communication circuit 14. The processing circuit 11, the main memory 12, the storage device 13, and the communication circuit 14 are interconnected in a manner that enables input and output signals.

[0038] The processing circuit 11 corresponds to the central part of the information processing device 1. The processing circuit 11 is an element constituting the computer of the information processing device 1. The processing circuit 11 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes based on multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or a FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 11 expands the program stored in the main memory 12 or memory 13 in the main memory 12. By executing the program expanded in the main memory 12, the processing circuit 11 is able to perform various processes.

[0039] Main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of information processing device 1. Main memory 12 is an element constituting the computer of information processing device 1. Main memory 12 includes non-volatile memory regions and volatile memory regions. Main memory 12 stores the operating system or programs in the non-volatile memory regions. Main memory 12 uses the volatile memory regions as working areas for data to be appropriately rewritten by processing circuitry 11. For example, main memory 12 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory region. For example, main memory 12 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory region.

[0040] Storage 13 is equivalent to an auxiliary storage section of information processing device 1. Storage 13 includes one or more storage devices. For example, the storage devices are semiconductor storage media such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive), but are not limited to these. Storage 13 stores the above-described program, data used by processing circuit 11 in various processes, and data generated by processing circuit 11.

[0041] Storage 13 includes a template information storage area 131. The template information storage area 131 stores template information for each template. A template is a model corresponding to a workflow in the iPaaS service. Even for the same workflow in the iPaaS service, the template is set for each client of the file transfer service. The template information storage area 131 is an example of a storage unit that stores template information.

[0042] Template information refers to the information set within a template. It represents the content of the template. Template information can include, or include all of, related name information, processing content information, storage destination information, association information, and input method information.

[0043] The name information refers to the name of the template. In the case of a workflow in the iPaaS service that processes electronic files representing travel expense settlement requests, the template name can also be "Travel Expense Settlement".

[0044] The processing content information refers to information representing at least one processing performed by the information processing device 1. The processing by the information processing device 1 is the processing of the first electronic document performed by the information processing device 1. For example, the processing by the information processing device 1 may be information extraction or document segmentation, but is not limited to these. Information extraction is the process of extracting metadata from the first electronic document through processes such as OCR or barcode recognition.

[0045] File segmentation is the process of dividing a first electronic file into multiple second electronic files. The information processing device 1 can segment a first electronic file into multiple second electronic files by using a barcode included in the first electronic file as a separator. For example, suppose the first electronic file consists of 10 pages of data, and barcodes are included on pages 3 and 6. In this example, the information processing device 1 segments the first electronic file into three second electronic files. The first second electronic file consists of pages 1-3 of data. The second second electronic file consists of pages 4-6 of data. The third second electronic file consists of pages 7-10 of data.

[0046] The save destination information indicates the save destination of the second electronic file. Hereinafter, "save destination" refers to the save destination of the second electronic file. For example, the save destination is the storage area of ​​electronic file storage area 132. The save destination is set for each template.

[0047] Association information is information about the types of metadata and their association with general data. Association information can include information about the types of metadata associated with each piece of general data. General data is data defined in the iPaaS service. For example, general data is not data representing specific content, but rather data representing a general index, such as data 1. The index includes the meaning of the tags. Here, it is assumed that 10 pieces of general data, from data 1 to data 10, are defined in the iPaaS service.

[0048] The metadata required for each workflow within an iPaaS service may differ. Furthermore, even for the same workflow within an iPaaS service, the metadata required for each client of a file transfer service may differ. Therefore, the associated information may vary for each template.

[0049] Input method information refers to information about methods for inputting metadata. This information can include details about the input method for each type of metadata associated with general data. The metadata input method is a method for inputting metadata into the information processing device 1. Metadata input methods include methods for extracting metadata from a first electronic document through processing such as OCR or barcode recognition. Metadata input methods also include methods for inputting text into devices such as multifunction printers 2 or terminals 3.

[0050] Storage 13 includes an electronic document storage area 132. The electronic document storage area 132 stores a second electronic document and its metadata. The storage area for the second electronic document in the electronic document storage area 132 is set for each template. The electronic document storage area 132 is an example of a storage unit that stores the second electronic document and its metadata.

[0051] Communication circuit 14 is an interface for inputting or outputting signals. Communication circuit 14 connects information processing device 1 to other devices via network NW in a communicative manner. Communication circuit 14 is an example of the communication unit of information processing device 1.

[0052] It should be noted that the hardware configuration of the information processing device 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. The information processing device 1 can appropriately omit or change the aforementioned components, as well as add new components.

[0053] The various parts implemented by the processing circuit 11 will be explained.

[0054] The processing circuit 11 implements the setting unit 111, the receiving unit 112, the transmitting unit 113, the data processing unit 114, the first acquisition unit 115, the second acquisition unit 116, and the storage processing unit 117. Each part implemented by the processing circuit 11 can also be referred to as a function.

[0055] Setting section 111 sets template information.

[0056] The receiving unit 112 receives signals via the network NW.

[0057] The transmitting unit 113 transmits signals via the network NW.

[0058] Data processing unit 114 processes the first electronic document. Data processing unit 114 is an example of a processing unit that processes the first electronic document.

[0059] The first acquisition unit 115 acquires template information. The first acquisition unit 115 is an example of an acquisition unit that acquires template information.

[0060] The second acquisition unit 116 acquires the metadata of the second electronic document. The second acquisition unit 116 is an example of an acquisition unit that acquires the metadata of the second electronic document.

[0061] The storage processing unit 117 stores the second electronic file and its metadata in the electronic file storage area 132.

[0062] Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the multifunction machine 2.

[0063] The multifunction printer 2 includes a control unit 21, a control panel 22, a scanner unit 23, a communication circuit 24, an input / output interface 25, a voice output device 26, and a printer unit 27. The control unit 21, control panel 22, scanner unit 23, communication circuit 24, input / output interface 25, voice output device 26, and printer unit 27 are interconnected in a manner that enables input and output signals.

[0064] The control unit 21 controls the operation of each part of the multifunction printer 2. The control unit 21 includes a processing circuit 211, a main memory 212, and a storage device 213.

[0065] The processing circuit 211 is equivalent to the central part of the multifunction printer 2. The processing circuit 211 is an essential element constituting the computer of the multifunction printer 2. The processing circuit 211 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes based on multiple functions. The processing circuit 211 expands the program stored in the main memory 212 or memory 213 into the main memory 212. By executing the program expanded in the main memory 212, the processing circuit 211 is able to perform various processes.

[0066] Main memory 212 is equivalent to the main storage portion of multifunction printer 2. Main memory 212 is an essential element constituting the computer of multifunction printer 2. Main memory 212 can also be configured in the same way as main memory 12.

[0067] The storage unit 213 is equivalent to the auxiliary storage section of the multifunction printer 2. The storage unit 213 includes one or more storage devices. The storage unit 213 stores the above-mentioned program, the data used by the processing circuit 211 in performing various processes, and the data generated by the processing circuit 211.

[0068] The control panel 22 includes a display device 221 and an input device 222.

[0069] Display device 221 is a device capable of displaying images. Display device 221 is a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display, but is not limited to these. Display device 221 is an example of the display section of multifunction printer 2.

[0070] Input device 222 is a device capable of inputting operation-based instructions. Input device 222 may also include a button that can be pressed. Input device 222 may also be a touch panel integrated with display device 221. Input device 222 is an example of the input section of multifunction printer 2.

[0071] The scanner unit 23 is a device that reads images such as text, graphics, and photographs drawn on a medium by scanning the medium placed at a specified position. The scanner unit 23 includes a line sensor. The line sensor can be a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). The scanner unit 23 generates image data based on the image read using the line sensor.

[0072] Communication circuit 24 is an interface for inputting or outputting signals. Communication circuit 24 connects the multifunction printer 2 to other devices in a communicative manner via network NW.

[0073] Input / output interface 25 is an interface for connecting the multifunction printer 2 to external devices. Input / output interface 25 includes a connector for a wired cable.

[0074] The voice output device 26 is a device capable of outputting voice under the control of the processing circuit 211. For example, the voice output device 26 is a speaker.

[0075] Printer unit 27 is a unit for printing. Printer unit 27 includes a receiving section 271, a transport section 272, an image forming section 273, and a fuser 274. The receiving section 271 receives paper. The transport section 272 transports paper within the printer unit 27. The image forming section 273 forms a toner image on the paper. The image forming section 273 includes an intermediate transfer belt, multiple developing sections, an exposure unit, and a transfer section. The fuser 274 applies heat and pressure to the paper with the toner image formed on it, supplied from the image forming section 273. The fuser 274 fuses the toner image formed on the paper to the paper using heat and pressure, thereby forming an image on the paper.

[0076] It should be noted that the hardware configuration of the multifunction printer 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. The multifunction printer 2 can appropriately omit or change the above-mentioned components, as well as add new components.

[0077] (Example of general data)

[0078] Examples of general data are provided.

[0079] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating general data.

[0080] For example, general data refers to the individual data from data 1 to data 10 defined in the iPaaS service.

[0081] (Example of template information)

[0082] An example of template information is provided.

[0083] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the data structure of the data stored in the template information storage area 131.

[0084] Template information storage area 131 stores template information for each template. Template information includes interconnected name information, processing content information, storage destination information, association information, and input method information.

[0085] The associated information in Template 1 differs from that in Template 2. For example, the metadata associated with data 1 might be a username in Template 1, but a company name in Template 2. Thus, the types of metadata associated with the same general data can sometimes differ between templates. For instance, an email address associated with data 2 in Template 1 might not be associated with any general data in Template 2. Similarly, the type of metadata associated with any piece of general data in one template might not be associated with any general data in another template.

[0086] (Example shown)

[0087] Figure 6 This is an example of a screen displaying settings related to association information in terminal 3.

[0088] The display device of terminal 3 displays a setting screen for associated information.

[0089] The screen for setting association information is a screen where the administrator can input information for setting association information based on the input device of terminal 3. For example, the information for setting association information includes information indicating the types of metadata associated with each general data.

[0090] The screen for setting association information is also a screen where the administrator can input information for setting input method information based on the input device of terminal 3. For example, the information for setting input method information includes information representing the input method for each type of metadata.

[0091] It should be noted that the display of the association information settings screen is not limited to terminal 3. When the administrator uses multifunction printer 2, the display device 221 of multifunction printer 2 can display the association information settings screen.

[0092] Figure 7 This is an example of a setting screen displayed on terminal 3 showing the processing of information processing device 1.

[0093] The display device of terminal 3 displays a setting screen for the processing of information processing device 1.

[0094] The settings screen for the information processing device 1 is a screen where the administrator can input information for setting the processing of the information processing device 1 based on the input device of the terminal 3. The information for setting the processing of the information processing device 1 may include information for setting file segmentation. For example, the information for setting file segmentation may include information such as "area number 1" for identifying a specified range of barcodes. The information for setting the processing of the information processing device 1 may also include information for setting information retrieval. The information for setting information retrieval may include information such as "area number 2" and "area number 3" for identifying a specified range of text.

[0095] It should be noted that the display of the settings screen for the information processing device 1 is not limited to the terminal 3. When the administrator uses the multifunction printer 2, the display device 221 of the multifunction printer 2 can display the settings screen for the information processing device 1.

[0096] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the input screen for metadata displayed in multifunction printer 2.

[0097] The display device 221 of the multifunction printer 2 displays an input screen for metadata.

[0098] The metadata input screen is a screen that allows users to input metadata based on their operations on the input device 222. When the metadata input method is text input, the user inputs metadata when sending a first electronic document from the multifunction printer 2 to the information processing device 1.

[0099] It should be noted that the display of the metadata input screen is not limited to the multifunction printer 2. When the user sends the first electronic document from the terminal 3 to the information processing device 1, the display device of the terminal 3 can display the metadata input screen.

[0100] (Processing example)

[0101] The processing of information processing system S is explained.

[0102] It should be noted that the processing procedure described below is only one example, and each procedure can be modified as much as possible. In addition, for the processing procedure described below, steps can be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate according to the implementation method.

[0103] Figure 9 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the setting and processing of template information.

[0104] Here, it is assumed that the administrator inputs a setting instruction for template information based on the operation of the input device of terminal 3. The setting instruction for template information is an instruction used by the information processing device 1 to set the template information. The setting instruction for template information includes information input by the administrator based on the operation of the input device of terminal 3, used to set the template information. The information used to set the template information may include some or all of the information for setting name information, information for setting processing content information, information for setting the save destination information, information for setting associated information, and information for setting input method information. The setting instruction for template information may also include information input by the administrator based on the operation of the input device of terminal 3, used to set the processing of the information processing device 1.

[0105] Terminal 3 sends a template information setting instruction (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, terminal 3 sends the template setting instruction to information processing device 1 via network NW.

[0106] The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 receives a setting instruction (ACT2) for template information. ACT2 may also be the processing performed by the receiving unit 112. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 11 receives the setting instruction for template information from the terminal 3 via the network NW.

[0107] The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 sets template information (ACT3) based on the administrator's operation of the input device of the terminal 3. ACT3 can also be performed by the setting unit 111. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 11 sets the template information based on the information for setting the template information included in the template information setting instruction. The processing circuit 11 stores the template information in the template information storage area 131. Setting the template information is an example of setting some or all of the mutually associated name information, processing content information, storage destination information, association information, and input method information. The processing circuit 11 sets the details of the processing of the information processing device 1 as shown in the processing content information, based on the information for setting the processing of the information processing device 1 included in the template information setting instruction.

[0108] Figure 10 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the processing of electronic documents.

[0109] Here, it is assumed that the user uses multifunction printer 2 to upload the first electronic file to information processing device 1. It should be noted that the user can also use terminal 3 to upload the first electronic file to information processing device 1.

[0110] The processing circuit 211 of the multifunction printer 2 sends a first electronic document (ACT11). In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 211 sends the first electronic document specified by the user to the information processing device 1 via the network NW.

[0111] The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 receives a first electronic document (ACT12). ACT12 may also be the processing performed by the receiving unit 112. In ACT12, for example, the processing circuit 11 receives a first electronic document specified by the user from the multifunction printer 2 via a network NW.

[0112] The processing circuit 211 of the multifunction printer 2 sends template selection information (ACT13). Template selection information is information that identifies a template selected from multiple templates corresponding to a workflow in the iPaaS service. The user can also select a template from multiple templates by referring to the names of the templates displayed on the display device 221. In ACT13, for example, the processing circuit 211 sends the template selection information based on the user's selection of a template to the information processing device 1 via the network NW.

[0113] The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 receives template selection information (ACT14). ACT14 may also be processed by the receiving unit 112. In ACT14, for example, the processing circuit 11 receives template selection information from the multifunction printer 2 via the network NW.

[0114] The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 acquires the template information set in the selected template (ACT15). ACT15 may also be the processing performed by the first acquisition unit 115. In ACT15, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires the template information from the template information storage area 131 based on the template selection information.

[0115] Since template information includes processing content information, obtaining template information is one example of obtaining processing content information. The processing content information included in the obtained template information is the processing content information set in the selected template. Since template information includes save destination information, obtaining template information is one example of obtaining save destination information. The save destination information included in the obtained template information is the save destination information set in the selected template. Since template information includes association information, obtaining template information is one example of obtaining association information. The association information included in the obtained template information is the association information set in the selected template. Since template information includes input method information, obtaining template information is one example of obtaining input method information. The input method information included in the obtained template information is the input method information set in the selected template.

[0116] The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 processes the first electronic document (ACT 16). ACT 16 may also be the processing performed by the data processing unit 114. In ACT 16, for example, the processing circuit 11 performs various processes on the first electronic document as shown in the processing content information included in the acquired template information. The processing circuit 11 performs each process based on the details of the processing set by the information processing device 1. The processing circuit 11 can extract metadata from the first electronic document through information extraction processing such as OCR or barcode recognition. The processing circuit 11 can divide the first electronic document into multiple second electronic documents through file segmentation processing of the first electronic document.

[0117] Processing circuit 11 acquires the metadata of the second electronic document (ACT17). ACT17 may also be a process performed by the second acquisition unit 116. In ACT17, for example, processing circuit 11 acquires the metadata of the second electronic document based on the association information included in the acquired template information. Acquiring the metadata of the second electronic document based on the association information includes acquiring the metadata of the second electronic document for each general data based on the association information. In this case, processing circuit 11 acquires the metadata of the second electronic document for each general data, according to the type of metadata associated with the general data in the association information. The metadata of the second electronic document acquired by processing circuit 11 is metadata corresponding to the type of metadata associated with the general data in the association information.

[0118] A method for obtaining metadata of a second electronic file will be described. In one example, processing circuit 11 can obtain metadata extracted from an electronic file as metadata of the second electronic file. In this example, processing circuit 11 can also obtain metadata extracted from a first electronic file through information extraction processing as metadata of the second electronic file. Processing circuit 11 can also obtain metadata extracted from a second electronic file, which is generated based on the first electronic file through transformations such as image processing, as metadata of the second electronic file. In another example, processing circuit 11 can receive metadata from multifunction printer 2 via network NW and obtain the received metadata as metadata of the second electronic file. The metadata sent from multifunction printer 2 to information processing device 1 is metadata input in multifunction printer 2 based on input operations performed by a user using input device 222. Processing circuit 11 can also obtain metadata of the second electronic file input according to the input method information included in the obtained template information.

[0119] Processing circuit 11 stores the second electronic file and its metadata in electronic file storage area 132 (ACT 18). ACT 18 may also be performed by storage processing unit 117. In ACT 18, for example, processing circuit 11 stores the second electronic file and its metadata in the storage destination indicated by the acquired storage destination information in electronic file storage area 132. The metadata of the second electronic file is associated with each type of general data. The metadata of the second electronic file corresponds to the type of metadata associated with the general data in the association information.

[0120] Processing circuit 11 sends the second electronic file and its metadata (ACT19) based on the acquired association information. ACT19 can also be processed by sending unit 113. In ACT19, for example, processing circuit 11 sends the second electronic file and its metadata to iPaaS system 4 via network NW. Sending the metadata of the second electronic file based on association information includes sending the metadata of the second electronic file for each general data based on association information. In this case, processing circuit 11 sends the metadata of the second electronic file in association with each general data. For each general data, processing circuit 11 sends the metadata of the second electronic file for the type of metadata associated with the general data in the association information. The metadata of the second electronic file sent by processing circuit 11 is metadata corresponding to the type of metadata associated with the general data in the association information.

[0121] iPaaS system 4 receives a second electronic document and its metadata (ACT20). In ACT20, for example, iPaaS system 4 receives the second electronic document and its metadata from information processing device 1 via network NW. iPaaS system 4 uses the second electronic document and its metadata to execute a workflow associated with the selected template.

[0122] Here, the iPaaS system 4 maintains information about the association between workflows and templates in the iPaaS service. This information includes information about the template associated with each workflow in the iPaaS service. Based on this information, the iPaaS system 4 can determine which workflow to initiate when the first electronic document is received in the information processing device 1 via which template.

[0123] In one example, the iPaaS system 4 periodically sends queries to indicate whether an electronic file has been uploaded by performing polling. The processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 sends a second electronic file and its metadata as a response to the queries.

[0124] In another example, the iPaaS system 4 sends subscription communications to each template of the information processing device 1. The communications include a destination URL. When the processing circuit 11 of the information processing device 1 receives a first electronic file through a template, it sends a second electronic file and its metadata to the destination URL corresponding to that template. This example uses a webhook approach.

[0125] It should be noted that ACT15 describes an example of processing circuit 11 obtaining template information based on template selection information, but it is not limited to this. Processing circuit 11 can also obtain template information suitable for a template in the first electronic file without template selection information. In this example, processing circuit 11 selects a template for the first electronic file based on information extracted from the first electronic file. Processing circuit 11 obtains template information for the template selected for the first electronic file. Thus, the user does not need to select a template when uploading the first electronic file.

[0126] As described above, the information processing device 1 is able to send the second electronic document and the metadata of the second electronic document based on the associated information.

[0127] The association information is information about the relationship between the types of metadata and the common data defined in the iPaaS service. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can send the metadata required for workflows in the iPaaS service based on the association information.

[0128] As described above, the information processing device 1 is able to send metadata of a second electronic file for general data defined in the iPaaS service based on associated information.

[0129] The metadata for the generic data defined in the iPaaS service is the metadata required for workflows within the iPaaS service. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can send the metadata required for workflows within the iPaaS service to the iPaaS service.

[0130] As described above, the information processing device 1 is able to send the metadata of the second electronic file in association with general data.

[0131] Thus, the information processing device 1 can send the metadata of the second electronic file in a form that can be easily utilized in the iPaaS service.

[0132] As described above, the information processing device 1 is capable of sending the metadata of the second electronic file according to the type of metadata associated with general data in the associated information.

[0133] Thus, the information processing device 1 is able to send the metadata of the second electronic document, limited to the metadata required for the workflow in the iPaaS service.

[0134] As described above, the information processing device 1 is able to acquire metadata input through a device different from the information processing device 1 as metadata of a second electronic document based on input operations performed by the user.

[0135] Therefore, the information processing device 1 can obtain metadata without performing the processing of extracting metadata from electronic documents.

[0136] As described above, the information processing device 1 can send the second electronic document and the metadata of the second electronic document based on the associated information set in the selected template.

[0137] Thus, the information processing device 1 is able to appropriately send the required metadata, which may differ for each workflow in the iPaaS service.

[0138] As described above, the information processing device 1 can set associated information based on operation settings.

[0139] In this way, to send the metadata required by workflows in the iPaaS service to the iPaaS service, only the association information needs to be set. Therefore, there is no need to define the metadata required by the iPaaS service for each workflow.

[0140] Other Implementation Methods

[0141] In the above embodiments, the information processing device 1 has been described as a device that implements a file transfer service, but it is not limited to this. The information processing device 1 may also be a device that implements a service different from the file transfer service.

[0142] In the above embodiments, iPaaS service was described as an example of an external service, but it is not limited to this. Any external service that processes a second electronic document is acceptable.

[0143] In the above embodiments, an example of the storage 13 of the information processing device 1 including a template information storage area 131 and an electronic document storage area 132 has been described, but it is not limited thereto. The template information storage area 131 and the electronic document storage area 132 may also be included in the storage of a device different from the information processing device 1.

[0144] The components implemented by the processing circuit 11 described in the above embodiments are not limited to being implemented by a single device such as the information processing apparatus 1. The components can also be implemented across multiple devices. In this case, a collection of multiple devices is an example of an information processing apparatus.

[0145] The above-described embodiments can also be applied to methods executed by one or more devices. The above-described embodiments can also be applied to programs that enable computers of one or more devices to perform various functions. The above-described embodiments can also be applied to recording media that store programs.

[0146] One or more circuits constituting a processing circuit may each execute one or more of a plurality of processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit executes all of the plurality of processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits executes a portion of the plurality of processes. A portion of the plurality of processes may be one of the plurality of processes, or it may be two or more of the plurality of processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in one device or distributed across multiple devices.

[0147] The program can be transferred either while stored in the device involved in the implementation method or while not stored in the device. In the latter case, the program can be transferred via a network or while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium is any medium capable of storing a program and being readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0148] While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims and its equivalents.

[0149] The above-mentioned implementation methods can also be described as follows.

[0150] (1) An information processing device comprising:

[0151] The receiving department receives the first electronic document;

[0152] The acquisition unit acquires the metadata of a second electronic file, wherein the second electronic file is the same as the first electronic file or is an electronic file generated based on the first electronic file; and

[0153] The sending unit sends the second electronic file and its metadata based on information about the type of metadata and its association with data defined in an external service.

[0154] (2) (1) The information processing device described herein, wherein,

[0155] The sending unit sends the metadata of the second electronic file for the type of data associated with the data defined in the external service in the information about the association.

[0156] The information processing apparatus described in (3), (1), or (2), wherein,

[0157] The sending unit sends the metadata of the second electronic file in association with the data defined in the external service.

[0158] The information processing device described in any one of (4) (1) to (3), wherein,

[0159] The acquisition unit acquires metadata input by a device different from the information processing device based on input operations performed by the user, as the metadata of the second electronic file.

[0160] The information processing apparatus described in any one of (5) (1) to (4), wherein,

[0161] The sending unit sends the second electronic file and its metadata based on the associated information set in the template, which is selected from a plurality of templates corresponding to the processing of external services for the second electronic file.

[0162] The information processing apparatus described in any one of (6) (1) to (5), wherein,

[0163] The information processing device also includes a setting unit for setting information about the association based on operation settings.

[0164] (7) A program that enables a computer to perform the following functions:

[0165] Receive the first electronic file;

[0166] Obtain the metadata of a second electronic file, wherein the second electronic file is the same as the first electronic file or is an electronic file generated based on the first electronic file; and

[0167] Based on information about the type of metadata and its association with data defined in external services, the second electronic file and its metadata are sent.

Claims

1.An information processing apparatus comprising: a reception unit that receives a first electronic file; an acquisition unit that acquires metadata of a second electronic file, the second electronic file being an electronic file identical to the first electronic file or an electronic file generated based on the first electronic file; and a transmission unit that transmits the second electronic file and the metadata of the second electronic file based on information about an association of a kind of metadata with data defined in an external service. 2.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the metadata of the second electronic file in association with the data defined in the external service. 3.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires, as the metadata of the second electronic file, metadata input by a device different from the information processing apparatus based on an input operation by a user. 4.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the second electronic file and the metadata of the second electronic file based on information about the association set in a template selected from a plurality of templates corresponding to processing of the external service with respect to the second electronic file. 5.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus further comprises a setting unit that sets the information about the association based on an operation. 6.A program product comprising a program capable of causing a computer to execute the following processing: receiving a first electronic file; acquiring metadata of a second electronic file, the second electronic file being an electronic file identical to the first electronic file or an electronic file generated based on the first electronic file; and transmitting the second electronic file and the metadata of the second electronic file based on information about an association of a kind of metadata with data defined in an external service. 7.The program product according to claim 6, wherein the metadata of the second electronic file is transmitted in association with the data defined in the external service. 8.The program product according to claim 6, wherein metadata input by a device different from the computer based on an input operation by a user is acquired as the metadata of the second electronic file. 9.The program product according to claim 6, wherein the second electronic file and the metadata of the second electronic file are transmitted based on information about the association set in a template selected from a plurality of templates corresponding to processing of the external service with respect to the second electronic file. 10.The program product according to claim 6, wherein the information about the association is set based on an operation.

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