Data management device and data communication system

Abstract

Conveniently store files in a shared folder within a hierarchical structure of multiple folders. [Solution] In the data communication system (10), the image reading device (100) includes a reading unit (130) that reads a sheet and generates scan data, and a communication unit (150) that can communicate with a data management device (300) that manages multiple folders, including a shared folder, in a hierarchical structure. The communication unit (150) transmits the scan data and folder specification information that specifies a shared folder from among the multiple folders managed in a hierarchical structure by the data management device (300) to the data management device (300).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a data management apparatus and a data communication system.

Background Art

[0002] Scan data obtained by reading a sheet with a scanner can be transmitted to a server on the cloud, and the scan data can be received from the cloud at a remote location, thereby enabling sharing of the scan data. For example, when using a cloud service of a printer, it is known to authenticate scan information (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an authentication system in which a response sheet of a test taker is read by a scanner, the scan information is transmitted to a server on the cloud, and a grader at a remote location receives the scan information from the cloud and prints the response sheet. In the authentication system of Patent Document 1, by causing the server device to authenticate the validity of the scan information based on the time from printing to scanning, a mechanism is provided that enables taking an exam remotely.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

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

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an image reading apparatus and a data communication system that can easily store scan data in a shared folder within a plurality of folders managed in a hierarchical structure.

[0007] A data management device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of folders including a shared folder to manage A data management device comprising: a communication unit for receiving scan data; a storage unit for associating and storing specified character data and the folder; a recognition unit for recognizing the character data included in the scan data received by the communication unit; and a control unit that, if the character data recognized by the recognition unit includes the specified character data, stores the scan data in the folder associated with the specified character data, and does not store the scan data in the folder associated with the specified character data if the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not include the specified character data.

[0008] A data communication system according to another aspect of the present invention includes a reading unit that reads a sheet and generates scanned data, and a plurality of folders including a shared folder. to manage The data management device includes: an image reading device comprising: a first communication unit capable of communicating with a data management device; a second communication unit that receives 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; and a control unit that stores the scan data in the folder stored in the storage unit in association with the designated character data when the character data included in the scan data recognized by the recognition unit includes designated character data stored in the storage unit in association with the folder.

[0009] A data communication system according to another aspect of the present invention includes: a reading unit that reads a sheet and generates scan data; a recognition unit that recognizes character data contained in the scan data; a storage unit that stores designated character data in association with the folder of the data management device; and, if the character data recognized by the recognition unit includes the designated character data, a folder designation information that specifies the folder associated with the designated character data, and a storage unit that stores the scan data in the folder designated by the folder designation information based on the folder designation information. Furthermore, if the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not include any of the specified character data, the scan data will not be stored in the folder associated with the specified character data, but will be stored in a different folder from the folder associated with the specified character data. It includes a control unit that controls it in this manner. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, scanned data can be easily stored in a shared folder within multiple folders managed in a hierarchical structure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a data communication system equipped with an image reading device according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of a data communication system equipped with an image reading device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the uploading of scan data to a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart illustrating how to upload scanned data to a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of downloading print data from a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the process of downloading print data from a shared folder in the data communication system of this embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram of a data communication system equipped with an image reading device according to this embodiment. [Figure 8]It is a block diagram of a data communication system including the image reading apparatus of the present embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram of the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram of the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a block diagram of the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart for uploading scan data to a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart for downloading print data from a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart for downloading print data in the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a schematic diagram of the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 16] (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams for explaining uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 17] (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams for explaining uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment. [Figure 18] (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams for explaining uploading of scan data and downloading of print data using a shared folder in the data communication system of the present embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of an image reading apparatus and a data communication system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0013] First, referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of the data communication system 10 including the image reading apparatus 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the data communication system 10 including the image reading apparatus 100.

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

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

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

[0017] The data management device 300 manages the 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 also 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 also have an image forming function. In this case, the image reading device 100 forms an image on the sheet. In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 is, for example, a printer, copier, or multifunction device. For example, the image reading device 100 forms an image on the sheet using an inkjet method. Alternatively, the image reading device 100 may form an image on the sheet using 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] As shown in Figure 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. In addition to the plurality of image reading devices 100, the data communication system 10 may also include the data management device 300.

[0021] The image reading device 100 comprises 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 memory elements. The storage unit 120 includes a main memory element such as a semiconductor memory and an auxiliary memory element such as a semiconductor memory and / or a hard disk drive. The storage unit 120 may also include removable media. The processor of the control unit 110 executes the computer programs stored in the memory elements of the storage unit 120 to control each component of the image reading device 100.

[0024] For example, computer programs are stored in non-temporary computer-readable storage media. Non-temporary computer-readable storage media include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, magnetic disk, or optical data storage devices.

[0025] The reading unit 130 is a scanner equipped with a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) or CCD (Charge Coupled Device), etc. The reading unit 130 reads a sheet and generates scan data. The sheet can be, 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 control unit 140 receives instructions from the operator. The control unit 140 includes buttons or a keyboard. Alternatively, the control unit 140 may include a touch sensor. The control unit 140 outputs a signal indicating the instruction corresponding to the operated button, keyboard, or touch panel to the control unit 110, etc.

[0027] The display unit 150 displays the operation screen or the results of various processes. If the reading unit 130 reads the 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 (electroluminescence) display, or a plasma display. The operation unit 140 and the display unit 150 may be an integrated touch panel.

[0029] The communication unit 160, for example, is equipped with a network interface and communicates with external devices. 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 image forming mechanism equipped with an inkjet head, or an electrophotographic image forming mechanism equipped with a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, and a fixing device, etc. The forming unit 170 forms an image on a sheet according to the image data. The forming unit 170 may form the image on the sheet with toner. Alternatively, the forming unit 170 may form the image on the 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. Therefore, the operator can view the image data before the forming unit 170 forms the image on the 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 an arithmetic element. The arithmetic element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). The processor may also include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

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

[0035] For example, computer programs are stored in non-temporary computer-readable storage media. Non-temporary computer-readable storage media include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, magnetic disk, or optical data storage devices.

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

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

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

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

[0040] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 6, the uploading of scanned data and the downloading of printed data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the uploading of scanned data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, and Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the uploading of scanned data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the downloading of printed data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment, and Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the downloading of printed data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment.

[0041] First, with reference to Figure 3, the uploading of scan data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be explained.

[0042] In the data management device 300, the storage unit 320 stores multiple folders managed in a hierarchical structure. Here, in the folder hierarchical structure, folder A is the upper layer, and folders B1 to B3 are included in folder A. Here, at least folders B1 and 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 a shared folder for storing scan data.

[0043] The image reader 100 transmits the scanned data to the data management device 300. Before transmitting the scanned data to the data management device 300, the image reader 100 specifies the shared folder where the scanned data will be stored. For example, if the data management device 300 plans to store the scanned data in shared folder B2, the image reader 100 specifies the shared folder where the scanned data will be stored before transmitting the scanned data to the data management device 300.

[0044] The image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of the folders in the data management device 300. Typically, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of the folders in the data management device 300 according to the operator's instructions. In this case, the image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300 indicating the hierarchical structure of the folders in the data management device 300. The display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of the folders in the data management device 300 according to the hierarchical structure display signal.

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

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

[0047] The data management device 300 receives shared folder designation information and 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 reader 100a reads the sheet and generates scan data SDa. The image reader 100a sends shared folder specification information, specifying shared folder B2, and the scan data SDa to the data management device 300. The data management device 300 receives the shared folder specification information and scan data SDa from the image reader 100a. The data management device 300 stores the scan data SDa in shared folder B2, which was specified in the shared folder specification information.

[0049] The image reader 100b also reads the sheet and generates scan data SDb. The image reader 100b sends shared folder specification information, specifying shared folder B2, and the scan data SDb to the data management device 300. The data management device 300 receives the shared folder specification information and scan data SDb from the image reader 100b. The data management device 300 stores the scan data SDb in shared folder B2, which was specified in the shared folder specification information.

[0050] Similarly, the image reader 100c reads the sheet and generates scan data SDc. The image reader 100c sends shared folder specification information, specifying shared folder B2, and the scan data SDc to the data management device 300. The data management device 300 receives the shared folder specification information and scan data SDc from the image reader 100c. The data management device 300 stores the scan data SDc in shared folder B2, which was specified in the shared folder specification information.

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

[0052] In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 allows for easy specification of a shared folder for storing scanned data. By using the operation unit 140 and display unit 150 of the image reading device 100 to specify the shared folder for storing scanned data in the data management device 300, the shared folder for storing scanned data can be easily specified.

[0053] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 4, the uploading of scan data in the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be explained. 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, multiple 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 layer of folder B1 and is included in folder B1. Here, the target scan data is stored in folder B2.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, in step Spa, the image reading device 100 accepts an upload mode transition operation. Specifically, when the operation unit 140 receives an upload mode transition operation from the operator to transition to upload mode, the control unit 110 transitions to upload mode.

[0055] In step Spb, the image reading device 100 transmits an upload mode transition signal to the data management device 300, indicating that it has transitioned to upload mode. Specifically, when the control unit 110 transitions to 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 an upload mode transition signal from the image reading device 100. More specifically, 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 to the image reading device 100, indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. More specifically, 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. More specifically, 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 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. More specifically, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation from 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 the storage unit 320 where the scan data will be stored. Typically, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation from the operator to specify a shared folder in the folder hierarchy where the scan data will be stored.

[0061] In step Spf, the image reading device 100 scans the sheet. Specifically, the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the operator to perform a sheet scan, and then the reading unit 130 scans the sheet and generates scan data. If necessary, the storage unit 120 may store the scan data.

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

[0063] In step Scc, the data management device 300 receives scan data and shared folder designation information from the image reading device 100. More specifically, the communication unit 330 receives scan data and 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. More specifically, 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, the shared folder for storing scanned data can be easily specified. Therefore, the image reading device 100 can upload scanned data to a predetermined shared folder on the data management device 300.

[0066] Although Figures 3 and 4 describe how the scan data from the image reader 100 is uploaded to the data management device 300 in the data communication system 10, the data from the data management device 300 may also be downloaded to the image reader 100 in the data communication system 10. In this case, it is preferable that the image reader 100 forms an image according to the data transmitted from the data management device 300.

[0067] Next, referring to Figure 5, the data download process in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described.

[0068] In the data management device 300, multiple folders are managed in a hierarchical structure in the storage unit 320. In this folder hierarchy, folders B1 to B3 are lower layers of folder A and are included in folder A. Furthermore, folder C is lower layer of folder B1 and is included in folder B1. For example, the 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 display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to the operator's actions. The image reading device 100 receives a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300, which indicates the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320.

[0070] When the operator specifies the print data contained in folder B1 as the data to be read from the folder hierarchical structure of the data management device 300 displayed on the display unit 150, the operation unit 140 accepts the operation to specify the print data contained in folder B1 from the folder hierarchical structure. Subsequently, the communication unit 160 transmits a print data specification signal to the image reading device 100 to specify the print data. The communication unit 330 receives the print data specification signal from the image reading device 100.

[0071] The control unit 310 reads the print data from the storage unit 320 for a predetermined folder indicated by the print data specification signal, 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 forming unit 170 forms an image on the sheet according to the print data.

[0072] Next, referring to Figures 5 and 6, the download of print data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, in step Sqa, the image reading device 100 accepts a download mode transition operation. Typically, when the operation unit 140 accepts the operator's download mode transition operation to switch to download mode, the control unit 110 switches to download mode.

[0074] In step Sqb, the image reading device 100 transmits a download mode transition signal to the data management device 300, indicating that it has entered download mode. More specifically, 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, multiple folders are managed in a hierarchical structure in the storage unit 320. In this folder hierarchy, folders B1 to B3 are lower layers of folder A and are included in folder A. Furthermore, folder C is lower layer 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 to the image reading device 100, indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. More specifically, 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. More specifically, the communication unit 160 receives the hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300.

[0078] In step Sqd, the image reading device 100 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. More specifically, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the operator, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300.

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

[0080] In step Sqf, the image reading device 100 reads the print stored in the shared folder. A print data specification signal specifying the print data is sent to the data management device 300. More specifically, the communication unit 160 sends a print data specification signal to the data management device 300.

[0081] In step Sdc, the data management device 300 receives a print data specification signal from the image reading device 100. More specifically, the communication unit 330 receives the print data specification 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. Specifically, the control unit 310 identifies a shared folder containing the print data specified in the print data specification signal from 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 print data from the data management device 300. More specifically, the communication unit 160 receives print data from the data management device 300.

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

[0085] In this embodiment, the image reading device 100 can download print data from a predetermined shared folder on the data management device 300 and form an image 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 scanned data stored in the shared folder may have a specified image size.

[0087] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Figure 7 has the same configuration as the data communication system 10 in Figure 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 specification information that specifies the size of the image. To avoid redundancy, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0088] As shown in Figure 7, in the data management device 300, the storage unit 320 stores image size specification information. Similarly, in the image reading device 100, the storage unit 120 stores image size specification information. The image size specification information specifies the sheet size when the scanned data stored in the shared folder is printed.

[0089] The image reading device 100 may, under the control of the control unit 110, limit the size of the sheets that the reading unit 130 scans according to the image size specification information. For example, if the size of the sheet to be scanned differs from the size specified in the image size specification information, the reading unit 130 may not scan the sheet, and the display unit 150 may display a message indicating that the sheet size is different. The control unit 110 controls the reading unit 130 to read only sheets that match the sheet size specified by the image size specification 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 the image size specification information from the communication unit 330 to the image reading device 100.

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

[0091] Alternatively, the data management device 300 may limit the size of the scan data received from the image reader 100 according to the image size specification information. For example, if the size of the scan data transmitted from the image reader 100 to the data management device 300 differs from the size specified in the image size specification information, the data management device 300 may discard the scan data without storing it. Alternatively, the data management device 300 may change the size of the scan data according to the image size specification information after receiving the scan data from the image reader 100.

[0092] Thus, the image size specification 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 the image size specification information that specifies the size of the image. For example, the image size specification 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 specification information and scan data to the data management device 300. However, the operator may incorrectly specify the folder to store the scan data. In this case, it is preferable that the data communication system 10 can notify the operator that the folder may have been specified incorrectly.

[0094] Next, the configuration of the data communication system 10 will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Figure 8 has the same configuration as the data communication system 10 in Figure 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 specified character data, and the image reading device 100 further includes a recognition unit 180. To avoid redundancy, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0095] As shown in Figure 8, in the data management device 300, the storage unit 320 stores specified character data. The specified character data specifies the characters that should be included in the scan data stored in the shared folder. The storage unit 320 stores the specified character data in association with the folder.

[0096] Furthermore, in the image reading device 100, the storage unit 120 stores specified character data. The specified character data specifies the characters that should be included in the scan data stored in the shared folder. The storage unit 120 stores the specified character data in association with the folders of the data management device 300.

[0097] The image reading device 100 further comprises a recognition unit 180. The recognition unit 180 recognizes character data contained in the scanned data. Specifically, the recognition unit 180 converts the image data of the scanned data into character code data and recognizes the character data using a portion of the character code data.

[0098] The recognition unit 180 converts the image data into character code data. The recognition unit 180 may also generate the data converted from image data to character code data as a new file using 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 Extensible Markup Language (XML), PDF, word processing software, spreadsheet software, or presentation software.

[0099] The image reading device 100 may determine whether or not to transmit the scanned data to the data management device 300 according to the character data recognized by the recognition unit 180. For example, if the scanned character data contains the characters shown in the specified character data, the image reading device 100 may transmit the scanned data to the data management device 300, but may not transmit the scanned data to the data management device 300 if the scanned character data does not contain the characters shown in the specified character data.

[0100] If the character data recognized by the recognition unit 180 includes specified character data, the control unit 110 sets the folder specification information to specify the folder associated with the specified character data. At this time, the image reading device 100 may notify the operator so that they can recognize which folder is associated with the specified character data, i.e., which folder is the storage location for the scanned data. The notification may be displayed by the display unit 150 or output as sound. Furthermore, if the character data recognized by the recognition unit 180 does not include specified character data, the image reading device 100 may display a message to prompt the operator to specify a folder where the scanned data should be stored. In addition, if the operator has specified a specific folder as the storage location for the scanned data, and the folder associated with the specified character data included in the scanned character data does not match the specified folder, the image reading device 100 may notify the operator to change the folder specification.

[0101] Furthermore, the image reading device 100 may transmit character code data along with the scan data to the data management device 300. Alternatively, the data management device 300 may be equipped with 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 specified character data. For example, if the scan data does not contain a predetermined character specified in the specified character data, the data management device 300 does not have to store the scan data received from the image reading device 100 in the storage unit 320.

[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, if the scan data does not contain the predetermined characters 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 specification information.

[0103] The specified character data 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 the specified character data. For example, the specified character data may be stored in the data management device 300 and transmitted from the data management device 300 to the image reading device 100.

[0104] In the explanation with reference to Figures 1 to 8, the specification of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation were performed by the image reading device 100, but this embodiment is not limited to this. At least one of the specification of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation may be performed by an information processing device that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100. Furthermore, when at least one of the specification of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation is performed by an information processing device that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100, the information processing device may display the folder hierarchical structure 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 Figure 9. Figure 9 is a block diagram of the data communication system 10. The data communication system 10 in Figure 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] The information processing device 800 may have an application program installed that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100. For example, a general-purpose information processing device can be used as the information processing device 800 by installing an application program that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100. For example, the information processing device 800 can function when an application program is installed from the data management device 300 to the information processing device.

[0107] As shown in Figure 9, the information processing device 800 includes 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 an arithmetic element. The arithmetic element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). The processor may also include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0109] The memory unit 820 stores various types of data. For example, the memory 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 controls each component of the information processing device 800 by executing the computer program stored in the memory elements of the memory unit 820.

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

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

[0113] Furthermore, 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 in the same way as the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. Furthermore, the operation unit 840 of the information processing device 800 may function in the same way as the operation unit 140 of the image reading device 100.

[0115] The information processing device 800 receives a 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 according to the operator's instructions. The display unit 830 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320 according to the hierarchical structure display signal.

[0117] Here, the display unit 830 displays the entire hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. The display unit 830 displays the entire hierarchical structure of the folders. The display unit 830 displays at once (within the same display screen) that in the folder hierarchical structure, folder A is the upper layer, folders B1 to B3 are included in folder A, and folder C is included in folder B1.

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

[0119] The display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of the folders in the storage unit 320 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. The display unit 150 sequentially displays that in the folder hierarchical structure, folder A is the upper layer, folders B1 to B3 are included in folder A, and folder C is included in folder B1.

[0120] More specifically, the display unit 150 displays a screen 152a showing folder A. When the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the user to select folder A, the display unit 150 displays a screen 152b showing folders B1 to B3 and the return button R.

[0121] When the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the user to select folder B1, the display unit 150 displays a display screen 152c showing folder C and the return button R. When the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the user to select folder B2 or B3, the display unit 150 displays the files contained in folder B2 or B3.

[0122] When the display unit 150 is displaying screen 152b, if the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the user to select the return button R, the display unit 150 switches to a display screen that shows screen 152a, which indicates folder A. Similarly, when the display unit 150 is displaying screen 152c, if the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the user to select the return button R, the display unit 150 switches to a display screen that shows screen 152b, which indicates folders B1 to B3 and the return 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 according to 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 in the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100 is smaller than the number of pixels in the display unit 830 of 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 according to the hierarchical structure display signal in a different manner than 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. Also, 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, if the data communication system 10 includes an image reading device 100 and an information processing device 800, the image reading device 100 does not need to include a display unit 150. Similarly, if the data communication system 10 includes an image reading device 100 and an information processing device 800, the image reading device 100 does not need to include an operation unit 140.

[0126] In the above description with reference to Figures 1 to 8, the specification of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation were performed on the image reading device 100, but this embodiment is not limited to this. At least one of the specifications of the shared folder, the scanning operation, and the printing operation may be performed on an information processing terminal that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100.

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

[0128] As shown in Figure 10, the data communication system 10 of this embodiment comprises a plurality of image reading devices 100a to 100c and a plurality of information processing terminals 200a to 200c. Image reading device 100a operates in cooperation with information processing terminal 200a. Image reading device 100b operates in cooperation with information processing terminal 200b. Image reading device 100c operates in cooperation with information processing terminal 200c. In this specification, information processing terminals 200a to 200c may be collectively referred to as information processing terminal 200. 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 display unit 150 of the image reading device 100.

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

[0131] An application program that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100 may be installed on the information processing terminal 200. For example, a general-purpose information processing terminal can be used as an information processing terminal 200 by installing an application program that operates in conjunction with the image reading device 100. For example, an application program can be installed on the information processing terminal from the data management device 300, thereby enabling it to function as an 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] As shown in Figure 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] Each information processing terminal 200a to 200c has 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 also include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0136] The memory unit 220 stores various types of data. For example, the memory 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. More specifically, the processor of the control unit 210 executes the computer program stored in the memory elements of the memory unit 220 to control each component of the information processing terminal 200.

[0137] The display unit 230 displays the 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 a display unit 150. Typically, even if the image reading device 100 has a display unit 150, the display unit 230 of the information processing terminal 200 has a larger display screen than 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 an integrated touch panel. The touch panel may display, for example, various keys for indicating the job type and job content. Alternatively, the operation unit 240 may include buttons or a keyboard.

[0140] The communication unit 250 communicates with external devices. In this case, the communication unit 250 transmits a specific signal to the image reading device 100. The communication unit 250 receives a specific signal from the image reading device 100. You may do so.

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

[0142] The information processing terminal 200 may further have an imaging unit 260 capable of taking images. The imaging unit 260 includes an image sensor. For example, the image sensor is a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor.

[0143] The information processing terminal 200 may perform any of the following operations: specifying a shared folder, performing a scan operation, or performing a print operation. The information processing terminal 200 may specify a shared folder to store scanned data. The information processing terminal 200 may also specify print data to be read from the shared folder. The information processing terminal 200 may receive an operation to perform a scan on the image reader 100 and send a signal to the image reader 100 instructing it to perform the scan. The information processing terminal 200 may receive an operation to perform a print on the image reader 100 and send a signal to the image reader 100 instructing it to perform the print operation.

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

[0145] As shown in Figure 12, in step Sra, the image reading device 100 switches to upload mode. More specifically, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the operator, the control unit 110 switches to upload mode.

[0146] In step Srb, the image reader 100 displays authentication information. More specifically, the display unit 150 displays authentication information specific to the image reader 100. The authentication information indicates that the image reader 100 is authenticated by the data management device 300. For example, the authentication information may be a two-dimensional code. The authentication information may also be a password.

[0147] In step Sma, the information processing terminal 200 acquires authentication information. Specifically, the imaging unit 260 captures the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. Alternatively, the operation unit 240 accepts the operation of an 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. Specifically, the communication unit 250 transmits the authentication signal to the data management device 300. The authentication signal indicates that the image reading device 100 intends to upload scanned data to the data management device 300.

[0149] In StepSea, the data management device 300 receives an authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. More specifically, the communication unit 330 receives the authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. The control unit 310, based on the authentication signal, authorizes the uploading of scan data from the image reading device 100.

[0150] In step Seb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal to the information processing terminal 200, indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. More specifically, 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 a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. More specifically, 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 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. More specifically, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 240 receives an operation from 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 specifies a shared folder to store the scanned data. Typically, the operation unit 240 accepts an operation to specify the shared folder as the storage destination in the folder hierarchy. The operation unit 240 also accepts an operation to start scanning the sheet in the image reading device 100.

[0154] In step Smf, the information processing terminal 200 transmits shared folder specification information to the image reading device 100, which specifies a shared folder in the folder hierarchy structure of the data management device 300 where the scanned data will be stored. For example, when the operation unit 240 receives an operation to perform a scan on the image reading device 100, the communication unit 250 transmits shared folder specification information to the image reading device 100.

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

[0156] In step Srd, the image reading device 100 scans the sheet. Specifically, the reading unit 130 scans the sheet and generates 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 shared folder designation information to the data management device 300. More specifically, the communication unit 160 transmits the scan data and shared folder designation information to the data management device 300.

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

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

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

[0161] In the explanation referring to Figure 12, scan data from the image reading device 100 was transmitted to the data management device 300. However, in the data communication system 10, print data from 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, referring to Figures 10 to 13, the download of print data in the data communication system 10 equipped with the image reading device 100 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a flowchart of the download of print data from a shared folder in the data communication system 10 of this embodiment.

[0163] As shown in Figure 13, in step Ssa, the image reading device 100 switches to download mode. When the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the operator to switch to download mode, the control unit 110 switches to download mode.

[0164] In step Ssb, the image reader 100 displays authentication information. The display unit 150 displays authentication information specific to the image reader 100. The authentication information indicates that the image reader 100 is authenticated by the data management device 300.

[0165] In step Sna, the information processing terminal 200 acquires authentication information. Imaging unit 260 The system captures the authentication information displayed on the display unit 150 of the image reading device 100. Alternatively, the operation unit 240 accepts the operation of an operator who inputs 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 planning 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. More specifically, 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 to the image reading device 100, indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. More specifically, 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. More specifically, 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 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. More specifically, the display unit 150 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation from 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 in the folder hierarchy of the storage unit 320 where print data is stored. Typically, the operation unit 140 accepts an operation to specify a shared folder in the folder hierarchy where print data is stored.

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

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

[0174] In step Sfd, the data management device 300 transmits the print data specified in the print data specification signal to the image reading device 100. Specifically, the control unit 310 identifies a shared folder containing the print data specified in the print data specification signal from 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.

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

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

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

[0178] In the above description with reference to Figure 13, the data management device 300 transmitted 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, referring to Figure 14, the download of print data in the data communication system 10 of this embodiment will be explained.

[0180] As shown in Figure 14, in step Sta, the image reading device 100 switches to download mode. When the operation unit 140 receives an operation from the operator, the control unit 110 switches to download mode.

[0181] In step Stb, the image reader 100 displays authentication information. The display unit 150 displays authentication information specific to the image reader 100. The authentication information is information that indicates the authentication of the image reader 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 the authentication information. The imaging unit 260 captures 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 to the data management device 300 based on the authentication information. The communication unit 250 transmits an 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. More specifically, the communication unit 330 receives the authentication signal from the information processing terminal 200. The control unit 310, based on the authentication signal, authorizes the download request from the image reading device 100.

[0185] In step Sgb, the data management device 300 transmits a hierarchical structure display signal to the information processing terminal 200, indicating the hierarchical structure of folders in the storage unit 320. More specifically, 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 a hierarchical structure display signal from the data management device 300. More specifically, 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 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. More specifically, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300 according to the hierarchical structure display signal. Typically, when the operation unit 240 receives an operation from the operator, the display unit 230 displays the hierarchical structure of folders in the data management device 300.

[0188] In step Soe, the information processing terminal 200 accepts an operation to specify a folder in the folder hierarchy of the storage unit 320 where print data will be stored. Typically, the operation unit 240 accepts an operation to specify a folder in the folder hierarchy where print data will be stored.

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

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

[0191] In step Sgd, the data management device 300 transmits the print data specified in the print data specification signal to the image reading device 100. Specifically, the control unit 310 identifies the folder containing the print data specified in the print data specification signal from the folders in the storage unit 320, and reads the print data from the identified folder. The communication unit 330 transmits the print data to the image reading device 100.

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

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

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

[0195] Although the data communication system 10 shown in Figures 1 to 14 includes multiple image reading devices 100, the functions of the multiple image reading devices 100 do not have to be the same. Also, although the data communication system 10 shown in Figures 10 to 14 includes multiple information processing terminals 200 in addition to the multiple image reading devices 100, the functions of the multiple information processing terminals 200 do not have to be the same.

[0196] Next, the data communication system 10 of this 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 redundant explanations will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0197] As shown in Figure 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 image reading device 100t. The functions of image reading devices 100a to 100c are equivalent to each other. On the other hand, the function of image reading device 100t is different from the functions of image reading devices 100a to 100c. Image reading device 100t has functions that are not permitted for image reading devices 100a to 100c.

[0198] The data communication system 10 of this embodiment may also 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 information processing terminal 200t. The functions of information processing terminals 200a to 200c are equivalent to those of each other. On the other hand, the functions of information processing terminal 200t are different from those of information processing terminals 200a to 200c. Information processing terminal 200t has functions that are not permitted for information processing terminals 200a to 200c.

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

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

[0201] Next, the data communication system 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 18. Figures 16(a) to 18(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the uploading of scanned data and the downloading of printed 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 referred to as operator T. Also, the operator of the image reading device 100a and the information processing terminal 200a is referred to as operator A, the operator of the image reading device 100b and the information processing terminal 200b is referred to as operator B, and the operator of the image reading device 100c and the information processing terminal 200c is referred to as operator C.

[0202] As shown in Figure 16(a), the image reading device 100t scans the task sheet SS to generate task scan data SSD. The image reading device 100t then transmits the task scan data SSD to the data management device 300.

[0203] The data management device 300 has a shared folder consisting of an assignment folder and a submission folder. The assignment folder is used for distributing assignment sheets SS. The submission folder is used when submitting answer sheets RS in which answers have been written on assignment sheets SS. The assignment folder and submission folder may also be created in the data management device 300 using the image reader 100t or the information processing terminal 200t.

[0204] The image reading device 100t transmits the task scan data SSD to the data management device 300 along with shared folder specification information that specifies the task folder.

[0205] The data management device 300 receives the issue scan data SSD along with shared folder specification information that specifies the issue folder. The data management device 300 stores the issue scan data SSD in the hierarchical issue folder structure. In this way, the issue scan data SSD is uploaded to the hierarchical issue folder structure on the data management device 300.

[0206] As shown in Figure 16(b), the image reading devices 100a to 100c read and receive the task scan data SSD from the hierarchical task folder in the data management device 300. This downloads the task scan data SSD from the hierarchical task folder in 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 problem scan data SSD. Thus, the image reading device 100a can form the problem sheet SSa.

[0208] Similarly, image reading devices 100b and 100c form images on sheets according to the task scan data SSD. Thus, image reading devices 100b and 100c can form task sheets SSb and SSc. Typically, task sheets Ssa to SSC from image reading devices 100a to 100c are the same.

[0209] Typically, operator A then writes the answer on the task sheet SSa. This transforms the task sheet SSa into the answer sheet RSa.

[0210] Similarly, operator B writes their answer on the task sheet SSb. This transforms the task sheet SSb into the answer sheet RSb. Operator C writes their answer on the task sheet SSc. This transforms the task sheet SSc into the answer sheet RSc.

[0211] As shown in Figure 17(a), the image reader 100a generates scan data RSDa from the scanned answer sheet RSa and sends it to the data management device 300. At this time, the image reader 100a specifies the hierarchical submission folder in the data management device 300 where the scan data RSDa will be stored and sends the scan data RSDa. As a result, the scan data RSDa is uploaded from the image reader 100a to the hierarchical submission folder in the data management device 300.

[0212] Similarly, the image reader 100b generates scan data RSDb from the scanned answer sheet RSb and sends it to the data management device 300. At this time, the image reader 100b specifies the hierarchical submission folder in the data management device 300 where the scan data RSDb will be stored and sends the scan data RSDb. As a result, the scan data RSDb is uploaded from the image reader 100b to the hierarchical submission folder in the data management device 300.

[0213] Similarly, the image reader 100c generates scan data RSDc from the scanned answer sheet RSc and sends it to the data management device 300. At this time, the image reader 100c sends the scan data RSDc specifying the hierarchical submission folder in the data management device 300 where the scan data RSDc will be stored. As a result, the scan data RSDc is uploaded from the image reader 100c to the hierarchical submission folder in the data management device 300.

[0214] If the operator's operator information is registered in the image reading device 100, the image reading device 100 may set the data name of the scanned response data obtained from scanning the response sheet to a name that includes 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 submitted response sheet.

[0215] As shown in Figure 17(b), the image reader 100t reads the response scan data RDa~RSDc from the submission folder in the data management device 300 and forms images on a sheet. Thus, the response scan data RDa~RSDc is downloaded from the submission folder in the folder hierarchy structure of the data management device 300 to the image reader 100t. The image reader 100t forms images on a sheet according to the response scan data RDa~RSDc. From this, the image reader 100t can form the response sheets RSa~RSc.

[0216] Typically, operator T then writes evaluations to answer sheets RSa~RSc, as shown in Figure 18(a). For example, operator T scores answer sheets RSa~RSc. This converts answer sheets RSa~RSc into evaluation result sheets ESa~ESc. Image reader 100t scans evaluation result sheets ESa~ESc to generate evaluation result scan data ESDa~ESDc. The image reader 100t then transmits the evaluation result scan data ESDa~ESDc to the data management device 300.

[0217] Here, the data management device 300 has a shared folder that includes an assignment folder, a submission folder, and a return folder. The return folder is used for returning evaluation result sheets ESa to ESc. The return folder may be created in the data management device 300 using the image reader 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, along with shared folder designation information specifying the return folder.

[0219] The data management device 300 receives the evaluation result scan data ESDa~ESDc along with shared folder specification information that specifies 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 is uploaded to the hierarchical return folder in the data management device 300.

[0220] As shown in Figure 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 return folder in the folder hierarchical 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. Thus, the image reading device 100a can form the evaluation result sheet ESa.

[0222] Similarly, image reading devices 100b and 100c form images on sheets according to the evaluation result scan data ESDb and ESDc. Thus, image reading devices 100b and 100c can form task sheets ESb and ESC.

[0223] As described above, this embodiment allows for the efficient distribution of tasks, collection of responses, evaluation of responses, and communication of evaluation results.

[0224] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings schematically show each component in order to make them easy to understand, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual dimensions due to the convenience of drawing creation. Also, the material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are examples and are not particularly limited, and various modifications are possible without substantially departing from the effects of the present invention. [Industrial applicability]

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

Claims

1. A data management device that manages multiple folders, including a shared folder, A communication unit that receives scan data, A storage unit that stores specified character data in association with the aforementioned folder, A recognition unit that recognizes character data contained in the scan data received by the communication unit, A data management device comprising: a control unit that, when the character data recognized by the recognition unit contains only one of the specified character data, stores the scan data in the folder associated with the specified character data, and when the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not contain any of the specified character data, controls the storage of the scan data in the folder associated with the specified character data.

2. The data management device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stores the scanned data in a folder different from the folder associated with the designated character data if the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not include any of the designated character data.

3. An image reading device comprising: a reading unit that reads a sheet and generates scanned data; and a first communication unit capable of communicating with a data management device that manages multiple folders, including a shared folder; 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 specified character data in association with the folder of the data management device, A data management device comprising: a control unit that controls the storage unit to store the scan data in the folder associated with the specified character data when the character data included in the scan data recognized by the recognition unit includes only one specified character data stored in the storage unit in association with the specified character data; A data communication system composed of the following.

4. A reading unit that reads the sheet and generates scanned data, A recognition unit that recognizes character data contained in the scanned data, A storage unit that stores specified character data in association with a folder on a data management device, A data communication system comprising: a control unit that, when the character data recognized by the recognition unit contains only one of the specified character data, sets folder specification information to specify the folder associated with the specified character data, stores the scan data in the folder specified by the folder specification information based on the folder specification information, and when the character data recognized by the recognition unit does not contain any of the specified character data, does not store the scan data in the folder associated with the specified character data, but controls the system to store the scan data in a folder different from the folder associated with the specified character data.

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