Data management device and data communication system

Abstract

To provide a data management device and a data communication system that easily store scanned data in a shared folder in a plurality of folders managed in a hierarchical structure.SOLUTION: In a data communication system (10), an image reading device (100) comprises a reading unit (130) that reads a sheet to generate scanned data, and a communication unit (160) that can communicate with a data management device (300) that manages a plurality of folders including a shared folder in a hierarchical structure. The communication unit (160) transmits, to the data management device (300), the scanned data and folder designation information designating the shared folder from the plurality of folders managed in the hierarchical structure by the data management device (300).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to Data Management The present invention relates to an apparatus and a data communication system. [Background technology]

[0002] By sending scanned data obtained by scanning paper with a scanner to a server on the cloud and receiving the scanned data from the cloud at a remote location, it is possible to share the scanned data. For example, it is known that when using a cloud service for a printer, the scanned information is authenticated (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an authentication system in which a scanner reads the answer sheets of examinees and transmits the scanned information to a server on the cloud, and a corrector in a remote location receives the scanned information from the cloud and prints the answer sheets. The authentication system in Patent Document 1 provides a mechanism for allowing examinees to take the exam remotely by having a server device authenticate the validity of the scanned information based on the time from printing to scanning. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-169971 A Summary of the Invention

[0005] However, in the authentication system of Patent Document 1, the server device (cloud) does not store the scan information hierarchically, which may make it difficult to search for the scan information on the server device (cloud).

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide an image reading device and a data communication system that can easily store scanned data in a shared folder within multiple folders managed in a hierarchical structure.

[0007] A data management device according to one aspect of the present invention is a data management device that manages a plurality of folders including a shared folder in a hierarchical structure, and includes a communication unit that receives scan data, a memory unit that stores designated character data in association with the folder, a recognition unit that recognizes character data included in the scan data received by the communication unit, and a control unit that stores the scan data in the folder associated with the designated character data if the character data recognized by the recognition unit includes the designated character data, and does not store the scan data in the folder associated with the designated character data if the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not include the designated character data.

[0008] A data communication system according to another aspect of the present invention includes an image reading device including a reading unit that reads a sheet and generates scan data, and a first communication unit capable of communicating with a data management device that manages a plurality of folders including a shared folder in a hierarchical structure, a second communication unit that receives the scan data from the image reading device, a recognition unit that recognizes character data included in the scan data received by the second communication unit, a memory unit that stores designated character data in association with the folder of the data management device, and a control unit that stores the scan data in the folder stored in association with the designated character data in the memory unit when the character data included in the scan data recognized by the recognition unit includes designated character data stored in association with the folder in the memory unit.

[0009] A data communication system according to another aspect of the present invention includes a reading unit that reads a sheet to generate scan data, a recognition unit that recognizes character data contained in the scan data, a memory unit that stores designated character data in association with the folder of the data management device, and a control unit that, when the character data recognized by the recognition unit includes the designated character data, sets folder designation information to designate the folder associated with the designated character data, and stores the scan data in a folder designated by the folder designation information based on the folder designation information. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, scan data can be easily stored in a shared folder within a plurality of folders managed in a hierarchical structure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a data communication system including an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram of a data communication system including an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining uploading of scan data to a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 11 is a flow diagram for uploading scan data to a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining downloading of print data from a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for downloading print data from a shared folder in the data communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram of a data communication system including an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]1 is a block diagram of a data communication system including an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic diagram of a data communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic diagram of a data communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a data communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 11 is a flow diagram for uploading scan data to a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for downloading print data from a shared folder in the data communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram for downloading print data in the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic diagram of a data communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. [Figure 17] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. [Figure 18] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An image reading apparatus and a data communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0013] First, the configuration of a data communication system 10 including an image reading device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100.

[0014] In this embodiment, the data communication system 10 includes a plurality of image reading devices 100. Here, the image reading devices 100 include an image reading device 100a, an image reading device 100b, and an image reading device 100c. In this specification, the image reading devices 100a to 100c may be collectively referred to as the image reading device 100. The image reading device 100 communicates with a data management device 300. The image reading device 100 operates in cooperation with the data management device 300. The data communication system 10 may also include the data management device 300.

[0015] The image reading device 100 reads (scans) a sheet to generate scan data. In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 is, for example, a scanner or a multifunction peripheral. The image reading device 100 may also have a facsimile function.

[0016] The image reading device 100 communicates with the data management device 300. In the data communication system 10, the image reading device 100 and the data management device 300 are connected to each other via a network. For example, the image reading device 100 and the data management device 300 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0017] The data management device 300 manages data. For example, the data management device 300 receives scan data from the image reading device 100 and manages the scan data. The data management device 300 is a so-called server. The data management device 300 may be a cloud server. The data management device 300 may also transmit data to the image reading device 100. For example, the data management device 300 may transmit scan data received from one image reading device 100 to another image reading device 100.

[0018] The image reading device 100 may have an image forming function. In this case, the image reading device 100 forms an image on a sheet. In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 is, for example, a printer, a copier, or a multifunction device. For example, the image reading device 100 forms an image on a sheet by an inkjet method. Alternatively, the image reading device 100 may form an image on a sheet by an electrophotographic method.

[0019] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10.

[0020] 2, the data communication system 10 includes a plurality of image reading devices 100. As described above, the image reading devices 100 communicate with the data management device 300. The data communication system 10 may include the data management device 300 in addition to the plurality of image reading devices 100.

[0021] The image reading device 100 includes a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, a reading unit 130, an operation unit 140, a display unit 150, and a communication unit 160. The control unit 110 controls the storage unit 120, the reading unit 130, the operation unit 140, the display unit 150, and the communication unit 160.

[0022] The control unit 110 includes an arithmetic element. The arithmetic element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU).

[0023] The storage unit 120 stores data and computer programs. The storage unit 120 includes a storage element. The storage unit 120 includes a main storage element such as a semiconductor memory, and an auxiliary storage element such as a semiconductor memory and / or a hard disk drive. The storage unit 120 may include removable media. The processor of the control unit 110 executes the computer program stored in the storage element of the storage unit 120 to control each component of the image reading device 100.

[0024] For example, the computer program is stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, including a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, or an optical data storage device.

[0025] The reading unit 130 is a scanner equipped with a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). The reading unit 130 reads a sheet and generates scan data. The sheet is, for example, plain paper, recycled paper, thin paper, thick paper, or coated paper. The storage unit 120 stores the scan data generated by the reading unit 130.

[0026] The operation unit 140 receives instructions from an operator. The operation unit 140 includes a button or a keyboard. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 may include a touch sensor. The operation unit 140 outputs a signal indicating an instruction corresponding to an operated button, keyboard, or touch panel to the control unit 110, etc.

[0027] The display unit 150 displays an operation screen or the results of various processes. When the reading unit 130 reads a sheet and generates scan data, the display unit 150 may display the scan data.

[0028] The display unit 150 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or a plasma display. The operation unit 140 and the display unit 150 may be integrated into a touch panel.

[0029] The communication unit 160 includes, for example, a network interface and communicates with an external device. For example, the communication unit 160 communicates with the data management device 300. The communication unit 160 transmits scan data to the data management device 300. The communication unit 160 also receives image data from the data management device 300.

[0030] The image reading device 100 may further include a forming unit 170. The forming unit 170 is, for example, an inkjet type image forming mechanism equipped with an inkjet head, or an electrophotographic type image forming mechanism equipped with a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, and a fixing device. The forming unit 170 forms an image on a sheet according to image data. The forming unit 170 may form an image on a sheet with toner. Alternatively, the forming unit 170 may form an image on a sheet with ink. The sheet is, for example, plain paper, recycled paper, thin paper, thick paper, or coated paper.

[0031] The display unit 150 displays an image according to the image data, so that the operator can visually check the image data before the forming unit 170 forms the image on a sheet.

[0032] The data management device 300 includes a control unit 310, a storage unit 320, and a communication unit 330. The control unit 310 controls the storage unit 320 and the communication unit 330.

[0033] The control unit 310 includes a computing element. The computing element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). The processor may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0034] The storage unit 320 stores various data. For example, the storage unit 320 stores a control program. The storage unit 320 includes, for example, a main storage element such as a semiconductor memory, and an auxiliary storage element such as a semiconductor memory and / or a hard disk drive. The control unit 310 controls the operation of the data management device 300 by executing the control program. In detail, the processor of the control unit 310 executes a computer program stored in the storage element of the storage unit 320 to control each component of the data management device 300.

[0035] For example, the computer program is stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, including a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, or an optical data storage device.

[0036] The storage unit 320 stores a plurality of folders. The storage unit 320 stores a plurality of folders managed in a hierarchical structure. At least some of the plurality of folders are shared folders. The shared folders are shared by a plurality of image reading devices 100. The hierarchical structure that manages the plurality of folders in the storage unit 320 may be changed as necessary.

[0037] For example, the shared folder is used to store scan data generated in image reading device 100. In one example, the shared folder stores scan data generated in image reading device 100a. The same shared folder also stores scan data generated in image reading device 100b or image reading device 100c.

[0038] The communication unit 330 includes, for example, a network interface, and communicates with an external device. Here, the communication unit 330 receives at least data from the image reading device 100. In this case, the storage unit 320 stores the received data. The communication unit 330 also transmits at least data to the image reading device 100. In this case, the communication unit 330 transmits the data read from the storage unit 320 to the image reading device 100.

[0039] For example, scan data generated in image reading device 100a is received via communication unit 330 and stored in the shared folder. Similarly, scan data generated in image reading device 100b or image reading device 100c is received via communication unit 330 and stored in the shared folder.

[0040] Next, with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 6, the uploading of scan data and the downloading of print data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the uploading of scan data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, and Fig. 4 is a flow diagram showing the uploading of scan data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the downloading of print data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, and Fig. 6 is a flow diagram showing the downloading of print data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment.

[0041] First, with reference to FIG. 3, uploading of scan data in a data communication system 10 including an image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described.

[0042] In the data management device 300, the storage unit 320 stores a plurality of folders managed in a hierarchical structure. Here, in the hierarchical structure of folders, folder A is at the top level, and folders B1 to B3 are included in folder A. Here, at least folder B1 and folder B2 are shared folders. Furthermore, folder C is included in folder B1. For example, in the image reading device 100, shared folder B2 is designated as the shared folder that stores scan data.

[0043] The image reading device 100 transmits scan data to the data management device 300. The image reading device 100 designates a shared folder in which to store the scan data before transmitting the scan data to the data management device 300. For example, when the scan data is to be stored in the shared folder B2 in the data management device 300, the image reading device 100 designates a shared folder in which to store the scan data before transmitting the scan data to the data management device 300.

[0044] The image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300. Typically, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with an instruction from an operator. In this case, the image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 from the data management device 300. The display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal.

[0045] While the display unit 150 is displaying the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by an operator to specify a shared folder in which to store scan data from the hierarchical structure of folders displayed on the display unit 150. After that, the image reading device 100 transmits shared folder specification information specifying the shared folder in which to store the scan data to the data management device 300. Note that the shared folder in which to store the scan data may be specified before or after the scan data is generated.

[0046] The image reading device 100 reads the sheet and generates scan data. The image reading device 100 transmits shared folder designation information and the scan data to the data management device 300.

[0047] The data management device 300 receives the shared folder designation information and the scan data from the image reading device 100. The data management device 300 stores the scan data in the shared folder designated in the shared folder designation information.

[0048] For example, the image reading device 100a reads a sheet and generates scan data SDa. The image reading device 100a transmits shared folder designation information that designates the shared folder B2 and the scan data SDa to the data management device 300. The data management device 300 receives the shared folder designation information and the scan data SDa from the image reading device 100a. The data management device 300 stores the scan data SDa in the shared folder B2 designated in the shared folder designation information.

[0049] Furthermore, image reading device 100b reads the sheet and generates scan data SDb. Image reading device 100b transmits shared folder designation information that designates shared folder B2 and the scan data SDb to data management device 300. Data management device 300 receives the shared folder designation information and scan data SDb from image reading device 100b. Data management device 300 stores scan data SDb in shared folder B2 designated in the shared folder designation information.

[0050] Similarly, the image reading device 100c reads the sheet and generates scan data SDc. The image reading device 100c transmits the scan data SDc and shared folder designation information that designates the shared folder B2 to the data management device 300. The data management device 300 receives the shared folder designation information and the scan data SDc from the image reading device 100c. The data management device 300 stores the scan data SDc in the shared folder B2 designated in the shared folder designation information.

[0051] In this manner, the data management device 300 can store the scan data SDa, SDb, and SDc of the image reading devices 100a to 100c in the shared folder B2 of the storage unit 320.

[0052] In the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, the shared folder in which the scan data is to be stored can be easily specified. By specifying the shared folder in which the scan data is to be stored in the data management device 300 using the operation unit 140 and the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100, the shared folder in which the scan data is to be stored can be easily specified.

[0053] Next, uploading of scan data in the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4. The image reading device 100 uploads scan data to a shared folder in the hierarchical folder structure of the data management device 300. In the data management device 300, a plurality of folders are managed in a hierarchical structure in the storage unit 320. Here, in the hierarchical folder structure, folders B1 to B3 are lower layers of folder A and are included in folder A. Furthermore, folder C is lower layers of folder B1 and is included in folder B1. Here, the target scan data is stored in folder B2.

[0054] 4, in step Spa, the image reading device 100 accepts an operation to shift to the upload mode. In detail, when the operation unit 140 accepts an operation to shift to the upload mode by the operator to shift to the upload mode, the control unit 110 shifts to the upload mode.

[0055] In step Spb, the image reading device 100 transmits an upload mode transition signal indicating transition to the upload mode to the data management device 300. In detail, when the control unit 110 transitions to the upload mode, the communication unit 160 transmits an upload mode transition signal to the data management device 300.

[0056] In step Sca, the data management device 300 receives the upload mode transition signal from the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the upload mode transition signal from the image reading device 100.

[0057] In step Scb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal indicating the hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 to the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 transmits the hierarchical structure display signal to the image reading device 100.

[0058] In step Spc, the image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300.

[0059] In step Spd, the image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. In detail, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300.

[0060] In step Spe, the image reading device 100 accepts an operation to specify a shared folder in which to store the scan data among the folders in the storage unit 320. Typically, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by an operator to specify a shared folder in which to store the scan data among the folders in the hierarchical structure.

[0061] In step Spf, the image reading device 100 scans the sheet. In detail, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by an operator to execute scanning of the sheet, and then the reading unit 130 scans the sheet to generate scan data. If necessary, the storage unit 120 may store the scan data.

[0062] In step Spg, the image reading device 100 transmits the scan data and the shared folder designation information to the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 transmits the scan data and the shared folder designation information to the data management device 300.

[0063] In step Scc, the data management device 300 receives the scan data and the shared folder designation information from the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the scan data and the shared folder designation information from the image reading device 100.

[0064] In step Scd, the data management device 300 stores the scan data in the shared folder specified in the shared folder designation information. In detail, the control unit 310 identifies the shared folder specified in the shared folder designation information, and stores the scan data in the identified shared folder.

[0065] According to the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, a shared folder for storing scan data can be easily specified. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can upload the scan data to a predetermined shared folder of the data management device 300.

[0066] 3 and 4, the mode in which the scan data of the image reading device 100 is uploaded to the data management device 300 in the data communication system 10 has been described, but the data of the data management device 300 may be downloaded to the image reading device 100 in the data communication system 10. In this case, it is preferable that the image reading device 100 forms an image according to the data transmitted from the data management device 300.

[0067] Next, downloading of data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0068] In the data management device 300, a plurality of folders are managed in a hierarchical structure in the storage unit 320. Here, in the hierarchical folder structure, folders B1 to B3 are lower layers of folder A and are included in folder A. Furthermore, folder C is lower layers of folder B1 and is included in folder B1. For example, target print data is stored in folder B1.

[0069] In the image reading device 100, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300. Typically, the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 is displayed on the display unit 150 in accordance with an operation by an operator. The image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300 indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320.

[0070] When the operator designates print data included in folder B1 as data to be read out from the hierarchical folder structure of data management device 300 displayed on display unit 150, operation unit 140 accepts the operation of designating print data included in folder B1 in the hierarchical folder structure. Then, communication unit 160 transmits a print data designation signal designating the print data to image reading device 100. Communication unit 330 receives the print data designation signal from image reading device 100.

[0071] The control unit 310 reads out the print data in a predetermined folder indicated by the print data designation signal from the storage unit 320, and the communication unit 330 transmits the print data to the communication unit 160. The communication unit 160 receives the print data from the data management device 300. The formation unit 170 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data.

[0072] Next, downloading of print data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0073] 6, in step Sqa, the image reading device 100 accepts a download mode transition operation. Typically, when the operation unit 140 accepts a download mode transition operation by an operator for transitioning to the download mode, the control unit 110 transitions to the download mode.

[0074] In step Sqb, the image reading device 100 transmits a download mode transition signal indicating that the image reading device 100 has transitioned to the download mode to the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 transmits the download mode transition signal to the data management device 300.

[0075] In step Sda, the data management device 300 receives a download mode transition signal from the image reading device 100. In the data management device 300, a plurality of folders are managed in a hierarchical structure in the storage unit 320. Here, in the hierarchical folder structure, folders B1 to B3 are lower layers of folder A and are included in folder A. Furthermore, folder C is lower layers of folder B1 and is included in folder B1. For example, the target print data is stored in folder B1.

[0076] In step Sdb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal indicating the hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 to the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 transmits the hierarchical structure display signal to the image reading device 100.

[0077] In step Sqc, the image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300.

[0078] In step Sqd, image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in storage unit 320 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. In detail, display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator, display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in data management device 300.

[0079] In step Sqe, the image reading device 100 accepts an operation to specify print data stored in the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. Typically, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation to specify print data from a specific shared folder in the hierarchical structure of folders.

[0080] In step Sqf, the image reading device 100 transmits a print data designation signal that designates the print data stored in the shared folder to the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 transmits the print data designation signal to the data management device 300.

[0081] In step Sdc, the data management device 300 receives a print data designation signal from the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the print data designation signal from the image reading device 100.

[0082] In step Sdd, the data management device 300 transmits the print data specified in the print data specification signal to the image reading device 100. In detail, the control unit 310 identifies a shared folder that contains the print data specified in the print data specification signal from among the folders in the storage unit 320, and reads the print data from the identified shared folder. The communication unit 330 transmits the print data to the image reading device 100.

[0083] In step Sqg, the image reading device 100 receives the print data from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the print data from the data management device 300.

[0084] In step Sqh, the image reading device 100 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data. In detail, the forming unit 170 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data.

[0085] In the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, print data can be downloaded from a predetermined shared folder in the data management device 300, and an image can be formed on a sheet according to the print data.

[0086] The size of the sheet to be scanned may be specified in the image reading device 100. Alternatively, the image size may be specified for the scan data stored in the shared folder.

[0087] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Fig. 7 has a similar configuration to the data communication system 10 in Fig. 2, except that the storage unit 120 of the image reading device 100 and the storage unit 320 of the data management device 300 store image size designation information that designates the size of an image, and therefore, in order to avoid redundancy, a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0088] 7, in the data management device 300, the storage unit 320 stores image size designation information. In the image reading device 100, the storage unit 120 stores image size designation information. The image size designation information designates the sheet size when the scan data stored in the shared folder is printed.

[0089] Under the control of the control unit 110, the image reading device 100 may limit the size of the sheet scanned by the reading unit 130 in accordance with the image size designation information. For example, if the size of the sheet to be scanned is different from the size designated in the image size designation information, the reading unit 130 may not scan the sheet, and the display unit 150 may display that the sheet size is different. The control unit 110 performs control such as making the reading unit 130 read only sheets having the sheet size designated by the image size designation information. In this case, for example, when the data management device 300 transmits the hierarchical structure display signal to the image reading device 100, it also transmits image size designation information to the image reading device 100 from the communication unit 330.

[0090] Alternatively, image reading device 100 may limit the size of scan data generated by scanning a sheet according to the image size designation information under the control of control unit 110. If the size of the sheet to be scanned is different from the size designated in the image size designation information, control unit 110 may process the scan data so that the image size of the scan data becomes the size designated in the image size designation information. For example, control unit 110 converts data generated by having reading unit 130 read a sheet into data having an image size designated by the image size designation information.

[0091] Alternatively, the data management device 300 may limit the size of scan data received from the image reading device 100 according to the image size designation information. For example, if the size of scan data transmitted from the image reading device 100 to the data management device 300 is different from the size designated in the image size designation information, the data management device 300 may discard the scan data without storing it. Alternatively, after receiving the scan data from the image reading device 100, the data management device 300 may change the size of the scan data according to the image size designation information.

[0092] In this manner, the image size designation information may be used in either the image reading device 100 or the data management device 300. For this reason, at least one of the storage unit 120 of the image reading device 100 and the storage unit 320 of the data management device 300 may store image size designation information that designates the size of an image. For example, the image size designation information may be stored in the data management device 300 and transmitted from the data management device 300 to the image reading device 100.

[0093] As described above, the image reading device 100 transmits folder designation information and scan data to the data management device 300. However, an operator may mistakenly designate a folder in which to store the scan data. In this case, it is preferable that the data communication system 10 is capable of notifying the operator that a folder may have been mistakenly designated.

[0094] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Fig. 8 has a similar configuration to the data communication system 10 in Fig. 2, except that the storage unit 120 of the image reading device 100 and the storage unit 320 of the data management device 300 store designated character data, and the image reading device 100 further includes a recognition unit 180, and therefore, in order to avoid redundancy, a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0095] 8, in data management device 300, storage unit 320 stores designated character data. The designated character data designates characters to be included in scan data stored in a shared folder. Storage unit 320 stores the designated character data in association with a folder.

[0096] In addition, in the image reading device 100, the storage unit 120 stores designated character data. The designated character data designates characters to be included in the scan data stored in the shared folder. The storage unit 120 stores the designated character data in association with a folder of the data management device 300.

[0097] The image reading device 100 further includes a recognition unit 180. The recognition unit 180 recognizes character data included in the scan data. In detail, the recognition unit 180 converts the image data of the scan data into character code data, and recognizes the character data by using a part of the character code data.

[0098] The recognition unit 180 converts image data into character code data. The recognition unit 180 may generate a new file by converting the image data into character code data through optical character recognition (OCR) processing. The file format of the character code data is not particularly limited. For example, the file format of the character code data may be any of Extensible Markup Language (XML), PDF, word processing software, spreadsheet software, and presentation software.

[0099] The image reading device 100 may determine whether or not to transmit the scan data to the data management device 300 according to the character data recognized by the recognition unit 180. For example, when the scanned character data includes a character indicated in the designated character data, the image reading device 100 may transmit the scan data to the data management device 300, whereas when the scanned character data does not include a character indicated in the designated character data, the image reading device 100 may not transmit the scan data to the data management device 300.

[0100] When the character data recognized by the recognition unit 180 includes the designated character data, the control unit 110 sets the folder designation information so that the folder designation information designates a folder associated with the designated character data. At this time, the image reading device 100 may notify the operator so that the operator can recognize the folder associated with the designated character data, i.e., which folder is the storage destination of the scan data. The notification may be a display by the display unit 150 or may be an audio output. Furthermore, when the character data recognized by the recognition unit 180 does not include the designated character data, the image reading device 100 may display a message to request the operator to designate a folder in which the scan data should be stored. Furthermore, when the operator has designated a specific folder as the storage destination of the scan data, if the folder associated with the designated character data included in the scan character data does not match the designated specific folder, the image reading device 100 may notify the operator to prompt the operator to change the designated folder.

[0101] Furthermore, the image reading device 100 may transmit character code data together with the scan data to the data management device 300. Alternatively, the data management device 300 may include a recognition unit that recognizes character data included in the scan data. In these cases, the data management device 300 may determine whether or not to store the scan data received from the image reading device 100 in the storage unit 320 according to the designated character data. For example, the data management device 300 may not store the scan data received from the image reading device 100 in the storage unit 320 if the scan data does not include a predetermined character designated in the designated character data.

[0102] Alternatively, the data management device 300 may select a folder to store the scan data received from the image reading device 100 according to the character data recognized by the recognition unit. For example, when the scan data does not include a predetermined character specified in the specified character data, the data management device 300 may store the scan data received from the image reading device 100 in a folder different from the folder designation information.

[0103] The designated character data may be used in either image reading device 100 or data management device 300. Therefore, at least one of storage unit 120 of image reading device 100 and storage unit 320 of data management device 300 may store the designated character data. For example, the designated character data may be stored in data management device 300 and transmitted from data management device 300 to image reading device 100.

[0104] 1 to 8, the designation of a shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation are performed in the image reading device 100, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. At least one of the designation of a shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation may be performed in an information processing device that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100. Furthermore, when at least one of the designation of a shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation is performed in an information processing device that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100, the information processing device may display the hierarchical structure of folders in a manner different from that of the image reading device 100.

[0105] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Fig. 9 includes an information processing device 800 in addition to the image reading device 100. The information processing device 800 has a display screen larger than the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. The information processing device 800 is a so-called personal computer.

[0106] An application program that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100 may be installed in the information processing device 800. For example, by installing an application program that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100 in a general-purpose information processing device, the information processing device can be used as the information processing device 800. For example, by installing an application program from the data management device 300 in the information processing device, the information processing device functions as the information processing device 800.

[0107] 9, the information processing device 800 has a control unit 810, a storage unit 820, a display unit 830, an operation unit 840, and a communication unit 850. The control unit 810 controls the storage unit 820, the display unit 830, the operation unit 840, and the communication unit 850.

[0108] The control unit 810 includes a computing element. The computing element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). The processor may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0109] The storage unit 820 stores various data. For example, the storage unit 820 stores a control program for driving the information processing device 800. The control unit 810 controls the operation of the information processing device 800 by executing the control program. In detail, the processor of the control unit 810 executes a computer program stored in a memory element of the storage unit 820 to control each component of the information processing device 800.

[0110] The display unit 830 displays an operation screen or the results of various processes. The display unit 830 includes a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display unit 830 has a display screen.

[0111] The operation unit 840 receives instructions from an operator. The operation unit 840 includes a button or a keyboard. Alternatively, the operation unit 840 may include a touch sensor. The display unit 830 and the operation unit 840 may be integrated into a touch panel. A signal indicating an instruction corresponding to an operated button, keyboard, or touch panel is output to the control unit 810, etc.

[0112] The communication unit 850 includes, for example, a network interface, and communicates with an external device. Here, the communication unit 850 transmits a specific signal to the image reading device 100. The communication unit 850 may receive a specific signal from the image reading device 100.

[0113] In addition, the communication unit 850 may transmit a specific signal to the data management device 300. In addition, the communication unit 850 may receive a specific signal from the data management device 300.

[0114] The display unit 830 of the information processing device 800 may function similarly to the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. Moreover, the operation unit 840 of the information processing device 800 may function similarly to the operation unit 140 of the image reading device 100.

[0115] The information processing device 800 receives the hierarchical structure display signal. The information processing device 800 may receive the hierarchical structure display signal directly from the data management device 300. Alternatively, the information processing device 800 may receive the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300 via the image reading device 100.

[0116] The display unit 830 has a relatively large display screen. The display unit 830 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with an instruction from an operator. The display unit 830 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 in accordance with a hierarchical structure display signal.

[0117] Here, display unit 830 displays the entire hierarchical structure of folders in storage unit 320 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. Display unit 830 displays the entire hierarchical structure of folders. Display unit 830 simultaneously (within the same display screen) displays that in the hierarchical structure of folders, folder A is at the top level, folders B1 to B3 are included in folder A, and folder C is included in folder B1.

[0118] The image reading device 100 receives the hierarchical structure display signal. The display unit 150 has a relatively small display screen. The display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to an instruction from an operator.

[0119] In response to the hierarchical structure display signal, display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in storage unit 320. Display unit 150 displays, in order, that in the hierarchical structure of folders, folder A is at the top level, folders B1 to B3 are included in folder A, and folder C is included in folder B1.

[0120] In detail, the display unit 150 displays a display screen 152a showing a folder A. When the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator to select the folder A, the display unit 150 displays a display screen 152b showing the folders B1 to B3 and a back button R.

[0121] When operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator to select folder B1, display unit 150 displays display screen 152c showing folder C and back button R. When operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator to select folder B2 or B3, display unit 150 displays the files included in folder B2 or B3.

[0122] When the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator to select the back button R while the display unit 150 is displaying the display screen 152b, the display unit 150 switches to a display screen that displays the display screen 152a showing the folder A. Similarly, when the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator to select the back button R while the display unit 150 is displaying the display screen 152c, the display unit 150 switches to a display screen that displays the display screen 152b showing the folders B1 to B3 and the back button R.

[0123] Both the image reading device 100 and the information processing device 800 display the hierarchical structure of the folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. However, typically, the display screen of the display unit 150 in the image reading device 100 is smaller than the display screen of the display unit 830 in the information processing device 800. Also, the number of pixels of the display unit 150 in the image reading device 100 is smaller than the number of pixels of the display unit 830 in the information processing device 800. For this reason, it is preferable that the image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of the folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal in a manner different from that of the information processing device 800.

[0124] As described above, the display unit 830 of the information processing device 800 may operate in the same manner as the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. In addition, the operation unit 840 of the information processing device 800 may operate in the same manner as the operation unit 140 of the image reading device 100.

[0125] Therefore, when the data communication system 10 includes the image reading device 100 and the information processing device 800, the image reading device 100 does not need to include the display unit 150. Similarly, when the data communication system 10 includes the image reading device 100 and the information processing device 800, the image reading device 100 does not need to include the operation unit 140.

[0126] 1 to 8, the designation of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation are performed in the image reading device 100, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. At least one of the designation of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation may be performed in an information processing terminal that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100.

[0127] Next, the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of a data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Fig. 10 has the same configuration as the data communication system 10 shown in Fig. 1, except that it further includes information processing terminals 200a-200c that operate in cooperation with the image reading devices 100a-100c, and therefore, duplicated descriptions will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 10, the data communication system 10 of this embodiment includes a plurality of image reading devices 100a to 100c and a plurality of information processing terminals 200a to 200c. The image reading device 100a operates in cooperation with the information processing terminal 200a. The image reading device 100b operates in cooperation with the information processing terminal 200b. The image reading device 100c operates in cooperation with the information processing terminal 200c. In this specification, the information processing terminals 200a to 200c may be collectively referred to as the information processing terminal 200. The information processing terminal 200 may be a so-called smartphone, mobile phone, or tablet.

[0129] The information processing terminal 200 may be used to authenticate data communication between the image reading device 100 and the data management device 300. Alternatively, the information processing terminal 200 may be used to complement or substitute for the operation unit 140 and / or the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100.

[0130] When the data communication system 10 includes the image reading device 100 and the information processing terminal 200, the image reading device 100 does not need to include the display unit 150. Similarly, when the data communication system 10 includes the image reading device 100 and the information processing terminal 200, the image reading device 100 does not need to include the operation unit 140.

[0131] An application program that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100 may be installed in the information processing terminal 200. For example, an application program that operates in cooperation with the image reading device 100 may be installed in a general-purpose information processing terminal, so that the terminal can be used as the information processing terminal 200. For example, an application program is installed in the information processing terminal from the data management device 300, so that the information processing terminal functions as the information processing terminal 200.

[0132] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 11 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10.

[0133] 11, the data communication system 10 includes a plurality of image reading devices 100. As described above, the image reading devices 100 communicate with the data management device 300.

[0134] The information processing terminals 200a to 200c each include a control unit 210, a storage unit 220, a display unit 230, an operation unit 240, and a communication unit 250. The control unit 210 controls the storage unit 220, the display unit 230, the operation unit 240, and the communication unit 250.

[0135] The control unit 210 includes an arithmetic element. The arithmetic element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). The processor may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0136] The storage unit 220 stores various data. For example, the storage unit 220 stores a control program for driving the information processing terminal 200. The control unit 210 controls the operation of the information processing terminal 200 by executing the control program. In detail, the processor of the control unit 210 executes a computer program stored in a memory element of the storage unit 220 to control each component of the information processing terminal 200.

[0137] The display unit 230 displays an operation screen or the results of various processes. The display unit 230 includes a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display unit 230 has a display screen.

[0138] As described above, the image reading device 100 may or may not have the display unit 150. Typically, even if the image reading device 100 has the display unit 150, the display unit 230 of the information processing terminal 200 has a display screen larger than that of the display unit 150.

[0139] The operation unit 240 may include a touch sensor. The display unit 230 and the operation unit 240 may be integrated into a touch panel. On the touch panel, for example, various keys for instructing the type of job and the contents of the job are displayed. Alternatively, the operation unit 240 may include buttons or a keyboard.

[0140] The communication unit 250 communicates with an external device. Here, the communication unit 250 transmits a specific signal to the image reading device 100. The communication unit 250 may receive a specific signal from the image reading device 100.

[0141] Moreover, the communication unit 250 transmits a specific signal to the data management device 300. Furthermore, the communication unit 250 may receive at least a specific signal from the data management device 300.

[0142] The information processing terminal 200 may further include an imaging unit 260 capable of capturing an image. The imaging unit 260 includes an imaging element. For example, the imaging element is a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor.

[0143] The information processing terminal 200 may specify a shared folder, perform a scan operation, or perform a print operation. The information processing terminal 200 may specify a shared folder in which to store scan data. The information processing terminal 200 may also specify print data to be read from a shared folder. The information processing terminal 200 may accept an operation to execute a scan on the image reading device 100, and transmit a signal to the image reading device 100 instructing the image reading device 100 to execute a scan. The information processing terminal 200 may accept an operation to execute a print on the image reading device 100, and transmit a signal to the image reading device 100 instructing the image reading device 100 to execute a print.

[0144] Next, uploading of scan data in the data communication system 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 12. Figure 12 is a flow diagram of uploading scan data to a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment.

[0145] 12, in step Sra, the image reading device 100 transitions to the upload mode. In particular, when the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator, the control unit 110 transitions to the upload mode.

[0146] In step Srb, the image reading device 100 displays the authentication information. In detail, the display unit 150 displays the authentication information unique to the image reading device 100. The authentication information is information indicating that the image reading device 100 is authenticated by the data management device 300. For example, the authentication information is two-dimensional code information. The authentication information may be a password.

[0147] In step Sma, the information processing terminal 200 acquires the authentication information. In detail, the imaging unit 260 captures an image of the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. Alternatively, the operation unit 240 accepts an operation by the operator to input the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150.

[0148] In step Smb, the information processing terminal 200 transmits an authentication signal to the data management device 300 based on the authentication information. In detail, the communication unit 250 transmits the authentication signal to the data management device 300. The authentication signal indicates that the image reading device 100 plans to upload scan data to the data management device 300.

[0149] In step Sea, the data management device 300 receives an authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. The control unit 310 permits uploading of scan data from the image reading device 100 in response to the authentication signal.

[0150] In step Seb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal indicating the hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 to the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 transmits the hierarchical structure display signal to the information processing terminal 200.

[0151] In step Smc, the information processing terminal 200 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 250 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300.

[0152] In step Smd, the information processing terminal 200 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. In detail, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 240 accepts an operation by the operator, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300.

[0153] In step Sme, the information processing terminal 200 designates a shared folder in which to store the scan data. Typically, the operation unit 240 accepts an operation to designate a shared folder as a storage destination in a hierarchical folder structure. The operation unit 240 also accepts an operation to start scanning a sheet in the image reading device 100.

[0154] In step Smf, the information processing terminal 200 transmits to the image reading device 100 shared folder designation information that designates a shared folder for storing scan data in the hierarchical folder structure of the data management device 300. For example, when an operation to execute a scan by the image reading device 100 is accepted by the operation unit 240, the communication unit 250 transmits the shared folder designation information to the image reading device 100.

[0155] In step Src, the image reading device 100 receives the shared folder designation information from the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the shared folder designation information transmitted from the communication unit 250.

[0156] In step Srd, the image reading device 100 scans the sheet. In detail, the reading unit 130 scans the sheet to generate scan data. If necessary, the storage unit 120 may store the scan data.

[0157] In step Sre, the image reading device 100 transmits the scan data and the shared folder designation information to the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 transmits the scan data and the shared folder designation information to the data management device 300.

[0158] In step Sec, the data management device 300 receives the scan data and the shared folder designation information from the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the scan data and the shared folder designation information from the image reading device 100.

[0159] In step Sed, the data management device 300 stores the scan data in the folder designated in the shared folder designation information.

[0160] According to the image reading device 100 of the present embodiment, a shared folder for storing scan data can be easily specified. Furthermore, even if the functions of the control unit 110 are restricted, authentication of the data management device 300 can be easily performed using the information processing terminal 200. This allows the image reading device 100 to upload scan data to the data management device 300.

[0161] 12, the scan data of the image reading device 100 is transmitted to the data management device 300. However, in the data communication system 10, the print data of the data management device 300 may be transmitted to the image reading device 100. In this case, it is preferable that the image reading device 100 forms an image according to the print data transmitted from the data management device 300.

[0162] Next, downloading of print data in the data communication system 10 including the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10 to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a flow diagram of downloading print data from a shared folder in the data communication system 10 of this embodiment.

[0163] 13, in step Ssa, the image reading device 100 transitions to the download mode. When the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator to transition to the download mode, the control unit 110 transitions to the download mode.

[0164] In step Ssb, the image reading device 100 displays the authentication information. The display unit 150 displays the authentication information unique to the image reading device 100. The authentication information is information indicating to the data management device 300 that the image reading device 100 is authenticated.

[0165] In step Sna, the information processing terminal 200 acquires authentication information. The imaging unit 260 captures an image of the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. Alternatively, the operation unit 240 accepts an operation by an operator to input the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150.

[0166] In step Snb, the information processing terminal 200 transmits an authentication signal to the data management device 300 based on the authentication information. The communication unit 250 transmits the authentication signal to the data management device 300. The authentication signal indicates that the image reading device 100 is going to download print data from the data management device 300.

[0167] In step Sfa, the data management device 300 receives an authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200.

[0168] In step Sfb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal indicating the hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 to the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 transmits the hierarchical structure display signal to the image reading device 100.

[0169] In step Ssc, the image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300.

[0170] In step Ssd, the image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. In detail, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300.

[0171] In step Sse, the image reading device 100 accepts an operation to specify a shared folder for storing the print data from the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. Typically, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation to specify a shared folder for storing the print data from the hierarchical structure of folders.

[0172] In step Ssf, the image reading device 100 transmits a print data designation signal designating the data stored in the shared folder to the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 transmits the print data designation signal to the data management device 300.

[0173] In step Sfc, the data management device 300 receives a print data designation signal from the image reading device 100. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the print data designation signal from the image reading device 100.

[0174] In step Sfd, data management device 300 transmits the print data specified in the print data specification signal to image reading device 100. In detail, control unit 310 identifies a shared folder that contains the print data specified in the print data specification signal from among the folders in storage unit 320, and reads the print data from the identified shared folder. Communication unit 330 transmits the print data to image reading device 100.

[0175] In step Ssg, the image reading device 100 receives the print data from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the print data from the data management device 300.

[0176] In step Ssh, the image reading device 100 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data. In detail, the forming unit 170 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data.

[0177] In the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, print data can be downloaded from a predetermined shared folder in the data management device 300, and an image can be formed on a sheet according to the print data.

[0178] 13, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal to the image reading device 100 after receiving an authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The data management device 300 may transmit a hierarchical structure display signal to the information processing terminal 200 after receiving an authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200.

[0179] Next, downloading of print data in the data communication system 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0180] 14, in step Sta, the image reading device 100 transitions to the download mode. When the operation unit 140 accepts an operation by the operator, the control unit 110 transitions to the download mode.

[0181] In step Stb, the image reading device 100 displays the authentication information. The display unit 150 displays the authentication information unique to the image reading device 100. The authentication information is information that indicates authentication of the image reading device 100 to the data management device 300. For example, the authentication information is two-dimensional code information.

[0182] In step Soa, the information processing terminal 200 captures an image of the authentication information. The imaging unit 260 captures an image of the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100.

[0183] In step Sob, the information processing terminal 200 transmits an authentication signal based on the authentication information to the data management device 300. The communication unit 250 transmits the authentication signal to the data management device 300.

[0184] In step Sga, the data management device 300 receives an authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. The control unit 310 permits the download request from the image reading device 100 in response to the authentication signal.

[0185] In step Sgb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal indicating the hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 to the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 transmits the hierarchical structure display signal to the information processing terminal 200.

[0186] In step Soc, the information processing terminal 200 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 250 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300.

[0187] In step Sod, the information processing terminal 200 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. In detail, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 in accordance with the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 240 accepts an operation by the operator, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300.

[0188] In step Soe, information processing terminal 200 accepts an operation to designate a folder in which print data is to be stored from the hierarchical structure of folders in storage unit 320. Typically, operation unit 240 accepts an operation to designate a folder in which print data is to be stored from the hierarchical structure of folders.

[0189] In step Sof, the information processing terminal 200 transmits a print data designation signal designating the data stored in the folder to the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 250 transmits the print data designation signal to the data management device 300.

[0190] In step Sgc, the data management device 300 receives a print data designation signal from the information processing terminal 200. In detail, the communication unit 330 receives the print data designation signal from the information processing terminal 200.

[0191] In step Sgd, data management device 300 transmits the print data specified in the print data specification signal to image reading device 100. In detail, control unit 310 identifies a folder in storage unit 320 that contains the print data specified in the print data specification signal, and reads the print data from the identified folder. Communication unit 330 transmits the print data to image reading device 100.

[0192] In step Stc, the image reading device 100 receives the print data from the data management device 300. In detail, the communication unit 160 receives the print data from the data management device 300.

[0193] In step Std, the image reading device 100 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data. In detail, the forming unit 170 forms an image on a sheet according to the print data.

[0194] In this embodiment, print data can be downloaded from a predetermined shared folder in the data management device 300, and an image can be formed on a sheet in accordance with the print data.

[0195] The data communication system 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 14 includes a plurality of image reading devices 100. The image reading devices 100 do not have to have the same functions. Furthermore, the data communication system 10 shown in Fig. 10 to Fig. 14 includes a plurality of information processing terminals 200 in addition to a plurality of image reading devices 100, but the functions of the plurality of information processing terminals 200 do not have to be the same.

[0196] Next, a data communication system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 15. Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Figure 15 has the same configuration as the data communication system 10 shown in Figures 10 to 14, except that the functions of the image reading device 100 and the information processing terminal 200 are different, and therefore, duplicated descriptions will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0197] As shown in Fig. 15, the data communication system 10 of this embodiment has a plurality of image reading devices 100. The plurality of image reading devices 100 include image reading devices 100a to 100c and an image reading device 100t. The image reading devices 100a to 100c have the same functions. On the other hand, the image reading device 100t has functions different from the functions of the image reading devices 100a to 100c. The image reading device 100t has functions that are not permitted to the image reading devices 100a to 100c.

[0198] The data communication system 10 of the embodiment may include a plurality of information processing terminals 200 that operate in cooperation with a plurality of image reading devices 100. The plurality of information processing terminals 200 include information processing terminals 200a to 200c and an information processing terminal 200t. The information processing terminals 200a to 200c have the same functions. On the other hand, the information processing terminal 200t has functions that are not permitted to the information processing terminals 200a to 200c.

[0199] The data communication system 10 of this embodiment is suitable for use in distributing assignments, collecting answers, evaluating the answers, and returning the evaluation results. In this case, the image reading device 100t and the information processing terminal 200t are suitable for use by assignment distributors who distribute assignments. For example, assignment distributors include administrators, teachers, and instructors.

[0200] The image reading devices 100a to 100c and the information processing terminals 200a to 200c are preferably used by respondents who answer questions. For example, the respondents include people under supervision, pupils, and students.

[0201] Next, the data communication system 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 18. Figs. 16(a) to 18(b) are schematic diagrams for explaining uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system 10 of this embodiment. Here, the operator of the image reading device 100t and the information processing terminal 200t is assumed to be an operator T. Also, the operator of the image reading device 100a and the information processing terminal 200a is assumed to be an operator A, the operator of the image reading device 100b and the information processing terminal 200b is assumed to be an operator B, and the operator of the image reading device 100c and the information processing terminal 200c is assumed to be an operator C.

[0202] 16(a), the image reading device 100t scans the task sheet SS to generate task scan data SSD. Then, the image reading device 100t transmits the task scan data SSD to the data management device 300.

[0203] The data management device 300 has an assignment folder and a submission folder as shared folders. The assignment folder is used to distribute the assignment sheet SS. The submission folder is used when submitting the answer sheet RS on which the answers are written in the assignment sheet SS. The assignment folder and the submission folder may be created in the data management device 300 using the image reading device 100t or the information processing terminal 200t.

[0204] The image reading device 100t transmits the assignment scan data SSD to the data management device 300 together with shared folder designation information that designates the assignment folder.

[0205] The data management device 300 receives the assignment scan data SSD together with the shared folder designation information that designates the assignment folder. The data management device 300 stores the assignment scan data SSD in the hierarchical assignment folder. As a result, the assignment scan data SSD is uploaded to the hierarchical assignment folder in the data management device 300.

[0206] 16(b), the image reading devices 100a to 100c read and receive the challenge scan data SSD from the hierarchical task folder in the data management device 300. As a result, the challenge scan data SSD is downloaded from the task folder in the hierarchical folder structure of the data management device 300 to the image reading devices 100a to 100c.

[0207] The image reading device 100a forms an image on a sheet according to the challenge scan data SSD, thereby forming the challenge sheet SSa.

[0208] Similarly, the image reading device 100b and the image reading device 100c form an image on a sheet according to the challenge scan data SSD. As a result, the image reading device 100b and the image reading device 100c can form the challenge sheets SSb and SSc. Typically, the challenge sheets SSa to SSc of the image reading devices 100a to 100c are the same.

[0209] After that, typically, the operator A writes the answers on the task sheet SSa, whereby the task sheet SSa becomes an answer sheet RSa.

[0210] Similarly, operator B writes answers in task sheet SSb. As a result, task sheet SSb becomes answer sheet RSb. Operator C writes answers in task sheet SSc. As a result, task sheet SSc becomes answer sheet RSc.

[0211] 17(a), the image reading device 100a scans the answer sheet RSa to generate answer scan data RSDa and transmits it to the data management device 300. At this time, the image reading device 100a transmits the answer scan data RSDa by specifying a hierarchically structured submission folder in the data management device 300 that stores the answer scan data RSDa. As a result, the answer scan data RSDa is uploaded from the image reading device 100a to the hierarchically structured submission folder in the data management device 300.

[0212] Similarly, the image reading device 100b scans the answer sheet RSb to generate answer scan data RSDb and transmits it to the data management device 300. At this time, the image reading device 100b transmits the answer scan data RSDb by specifying a hierarchically structured submission folder in the data management device 300 that stores the answer scan data RSDb. As a result, the answer scan data RSDb is uploaded from the image reading device 100b to the hierarchically structured submission folder in the data management device 300.

[0213] Similarly, the image reading device 100c scans the answer sheet RSc to generate answer scan data RSDc and transmits it to the data management device 300. At this time, the image reading device 100c transmits the answer scan data RSDc by specifying a hierarchically structured submission folder in the data management device 300 that stores the answer scan data RSDc. As a result, the answer scan data RSDc is uploaded from the image reading device 100c to the hierarchically structured submission folder in the data management device 300.

[0214] When the operator information of the operator is registered in the image reading device 100, the image reading device 100 may set the data name of the answer scan data obtained by scanning the answer sheet to a name including the registered operator information. Typically, the operator is the respondent, and the operator information is the respondent's name. This allows the operator T to easily know which respondent submitted the answer sheet.

[0215] As shown in Fig. 17(b), the image reading device 100t reads the answer scan data RSDa to RSDc from the submission folder in the data management device 300 and forms an image on a sheet. As a result, the answer scan data RSDa to RSDc is downloaded from the submission folder in the folder hierarchy of the data management device 300 to the image reading device 100t. The image reading device 100t forms an image on a sheet according to the answer scan data RSDa to RSDc. As a result, the image reading device 100t can form the answer sheets RSa to RSc.

[0216] Then, typically, as shown in FIG. 18(a), the operator T writes an evaluation on the answer sheets RSa to RSc. For example, the operator T grades the answer sheets RSa to RSc. As a result, the answer sheets RSa to RSc become evaluation result sheets ESa to ESc. The image reading device 100t scans the evaluation result sheets ESa to ESc to generate evaluation result scan data ESDa to ESDc. The image reading device 100t then transmits the evaluation result scan data ESDa to ESDc to the data management device 300.

[0217] Here, the data management device 300 has a return folder in addition to the assignment folder and the submission folder as shared folders. The return folder is used to return the evaluation result sheets ESa to ESc. The return folder may be created in the data management device 300 using the image reading device 100t or the information processing terminal 200t.

[0218] The image reading device 100t transmits the evaluation result scan data ESDa to ESDc to the data management device 300 together with shared folder designation information that designates the return folder.

[0219] The data management device 300 receives the evaluation result scan data ESDa-ESDc together with shared folder designation information that designates the return folder. The data management device 300 stores the evaluation result scan data ESDa-ESDc in the hierarchical return folder. As a result, the evaluation result scan data ESDa-ESDc are uploaded to the hierarchical return folder in the data management device 300.

[0220] 18(b), the image reading devices 100a to 100c read and receive the evaluation result scan data ESDa to ESDc from the hierarchical return folder in the data management device 300. As a result, the evaluation result scan data ESDa to ESDc are downloaded from the hierarchical return folder in the folder structure of the data management device 300 to the image reading devices 100a to 100c.

[0221] The image reading device 100a forms an image on a sheet according to the evaluation result scan data ESDa, thereby forming an evaluation result sheet ESa.

[0222] Similarly, the image reading device 100b and the image reading device 100c form images on sheets according to the evaluation result scan data ESDb and ESDc, thereby allowing the image reading device 100b and the image reading device 100c to form assignment sheets ESb and ESc.

[0223] As described above, according to this embodiment, distribution of assignments, collection of answers, evaluation of answers, and transmission of evaluation results can be suitably executed.

[0224] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components across different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings are mainly shown schematically for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of drawing. In addition, the material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are only examples and are not particularly limited, and various changes are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0225] The present invention is suitably used in image reading devices and data communication systems.

Claims

1. A data management device that manages a plurality of folders, including a shared folder, in a hierarchical structure, comprising: A communication unit for receiving scan data; a storage unit that stores designated character data and the folder in association with each other; a recognition unit that recognizes character data included in the scan data received by the communication unit; a control unit that stores the scan data in a folder associated with the designated character data when the character data recognized by the recognition unit includes the designated character data, and does not store the scan data in the folder associated with the designated character data when the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not include the designated character data.

2. an image reading device including a reading unit that reads a sheet and generates scan data, and a first communication unit that can communicate with a data management device that manages a plurality of folders including a shared folder in a hierarchical structure; a second communication unit that receives the scan data from the image reading device; a recognition unit that recognizes character data included in the scan data received by the second communication unit; a storage unit that stores designated character data in association with the folder of the data management device; A data communication system including a data management device having a control unit that stores the scan data in a folder stored in association with the designated character data in the storage unit when character data included in the scan data recognized by the recognition unit includes designated character data stored in association with the folder in the storage unit.

3. a reading unit that reads the sheet and generates scan data; a recognition unit that recognizes character data included in the scan data; a storage unit that stores designated character data in association with the folder of the data management device; a control unit that, when the character data recognized by the recognition unit includes the specified character data, sets folder designation information to designate a folder associated with the specified character data, and stores the scan data in a folder designated by the folder designation information based on the folder designation information.

Images