Processing device, image processing device, and processing method - Patents.com

Abstract

To provide a processing device and the like which enable transmission / reception of information by releasing restrictions when a prescribed condition is satisfied even in a case where the restrictions based on function setting and user authority are imposed on transmission / reception of information.SOLUTION: A processing device comprises: a communication unit which can transmit / receive information by using management information; and a control unit which can restrict transmission / reception of the information via the communication unit based on restriction setting. The control unit, when the management information is the management information acquired from a terminal device, releases the restriction setting and performs transmission / reception of the information via the communication unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Image processing devices such as multifunction peripherals are known to have, for example, a fax mode that enables image data generated by scanning with a scanner device to be sent by fax, and an e-mail mode that enables image data to be attached to an e-mail and sent.

[0003] When sending a fax or email, a user can execute a job related to the fax mode or email mode by specifying a destination address from the address information managed by the image processing device. Note that the address information related to the present disclosure refers to information for identifying a communication destination, such as a telephone number, email address, fax number, account information, address, or place of employment. The image processing device can accumulate address information for each communication destination and manage it as an address book. Here, in the present disclosure, the address information managed internally by the image processing device and the address book that accumulates the address information are collectively referred to as internal address information.

[0004] In recent years, when the internal address information managed by an image processing device does not include the desired destination information, or when the job is executed by temporarily using an image processing device installed in a convenience store, copy service provider, etc., destination information managed by a terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, or mobile phone (hereinafter referred to as external address information) is temporarily transferred to the image processing device. A user can execute a job such as fax or e-mail by specifying a destination using the destination information transferred to the image processing device.

[0005] In such an image processing device, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a multifunction system that, when some instruction is given to the multifunction system from a mobile terminal, obtains some information from the mobile terminal that can identify the mobile terminal or some information that can identify the individual using the mobile terminal, and determines whether to execute the instruction from the mobile terminal based on the results of comparing this information with information that the multifunction system has previously stored. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-135865 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The technology described in Patent Document 1 restricts the users who can realize the functions of an image processing device (e.g., sending email or fax) when the functions are realized using destination information stored in a terminal device, so as to prevent the functions from being used fraudulently.

[0008] The image processing device exemplified in Patent Document 1 is managed by an administrator with management authority. Generally, the administrator of an image processing device varies depending on the installation location, and the settings of the image processing device and the operation system also vary depending on the administrator.

[0009] Under such circumstances, for example, it may happen that an image processing apparatus installed in one location can execute a job using a terminal device, but an image processing apparatus installed in another location cannot execute a job using a terminal device. This is not only due to the user management settings made by the administrator, but also when some kind of restriction setting is imposed on the function settings (system settings) or the like, the execution of a job may be restricted, and the convenience of executing a job using a terminal device may be significantly impaired.

[0010] The present disclosure aims to provide a processing device, etc., that enables the transmission and reception of information by lifting the restrictions when certain conditions are met, even if restrictions based on function settings or user permissions are imposed on the transmission and reception of information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In order to solve the above problem, the processing device of the present disclosure comprises a communication unit capable of sending and receiving information using management information, and a control unit capable of restricting the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit based on a restriction setting, and is characterized in that when the management information is management information obtained from a terminal device, the control unit cancels the restriction setting and sends and receives information via the communication unit.

[0012] In addition, the processing device according to the present disclosure includes a communication unit capable of sending and receiving information using management information, an authority determination unit that determines whether an authenticated user has been granted authority to send and receive information, and a control unit that can restrict the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit, and the control unit is characterized in that it restricts the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit based on the determination result by the authority determination unit.

[0013] An image processing device according to the present disclosure is characterized by including the processing device described above and an image processing unit.

[0014] In addition, the processing method according to the present disclosure includes a communication process for transmitting and receiving information using management information, and a control process for restricting the transmission and reception of information in the communication process based on a restriction setting, and is characterized in that in the control process, if the management information is management information obtained from a terminal device, the restriction setting is released and information is transmitted and received.

[0015] Here, the management information according to the present disclosure may be destination information managed by a processing device or a terminal device, or may be, for example, setting information including destination information related to the execution of a job under each mode such as fax mode or e-mail mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present disclosure, even if restrictions based on function settings or user permissions are imposed on the transmission and reception of information, if certain conditions are met, it is possible to provide a processing device, etc., that allows the transmission and reception of information by lifting the restrictions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view illustrating the overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view illustrating the overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of a terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a user authority management table. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction peripheral having functions such as a copy mode, a scan mode, a fax mode, and an e-mail mode will be described as one form of a processing device or an image processing device equipped with such a processing device. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description set forth in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0019] [1 First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, when the destination information as management information is external address information obtained from a terminal device, the imposed restriction setting is lifted and it is possible to send and receive information such as e-mail via the communication unit.

[0020] [1.1 Functional Configuration] [1.1.1 About the Multifunction Device 10] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating the overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral 10 according to a first embodiment. The multifunction peripheral 10 is configured to be able to communicate with a terminal device 30. The communication method is not particularly limited, but short-range wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-fi (registered trademark), Wi-sun (registered trademark), and Irda can be used. Note that while FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the multifunction peripheral 10 communicates directly with the terminal device 30, communication via a network (not shown), such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet, is also possible.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the overall configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 3 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0022] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is configured, for example, with one or more arithmetic units (CPUs (Central Processing Units) and the like). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0023] The display unit 13 displays various types of information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0024] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with hard keys (for example, a numeric keypad), buttons, etc. The operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input detection method of the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0025] As described above, the communication unit 17 includes a short-range wireless communication interface such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Wi-Sun, Irda, etc. The communication unit 17 may also include a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices via a network (not shown) such as a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line.

[0026] Image forming unit 19 forms an image based on an image on paper as a recording medium. Image forming unit 19 feeds paper from paper feed unit 25, forms an image based on the image on the paper, and then discharges the paper to paper discharge unit 27. Image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that uses an electrophotographic method. Image forming unit 19 forms an image using toner supplied from toner cartridges (not shown) that correspond to toner colors (for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black)).

[0027] The image reading unit 21 generates scan data by scanning and reading the document image to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). There are no particular limitations on the configuration of the image reading unit 21, as long as it is configured to read a reflected light image from the document image with the image sensor and generate scan data consisting of RGB (R: Red, G: Green, B: Blue) analog signals.

[0028] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 23 can be configured with a storage device such as a RAM (Random access memory), an HDD (Hard disk drive), an SSD (Solid state drive), or a ROM (Read only memory).

[0029] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a display processing program 232, a destination information acquisition program 233, and a restriction setting determination program 234, and reserves a destination information storage area 235.

[0030] The job execution program 231 is a program read by the control unit 11 to perform processing on a job-by-job basis in each mode, such as copy mode, scan mode, fax mode, e-mail mode, etc. The control unit 11 reads the job execution program 231 and executes each job by controlling the communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, image reading unit 21, etc.

[0031] The display processing program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when displaying a setting screen that accepts input of various setting values ​​related to job execution, execution instructions, or termination instructions, an initial screen (e.g., a home screen) that displays the setting screen in a switchable manner, an authentication screen for user authentication, an address book screen for displaying internal address information, external address information, etc., various message screens, etc.

[0032] The destination information acquisition program 233 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when acquiring external address information from the terminal device 30. After reading the destination information acquisition program 233, the control unit 11 controls the communication unit 17 and the like to communicate with the terminal device 30 and acquires destination information managed by the terminal device 30 as external address information. For example, when Bluetooth is used as the communication method, the control unit 11 can acquire all of the destination information managed by the terminal device 30 in vCard format in accordance with PBAP (Phonebook access profile).

[0033] The restriction setting determination program 234 is a program read by the control unit 11 when determining whether restriction settings on information transmission and reception via the communication unit 17, such as "prohibition of selection from an address book" or "prohibition of direct input (prohibition of direct specification)," have been imposed through the system settings of the multifunction peripheral 10, or whether a user has been granted authority to execute a job, such as faxing or e-mailing. The control unit 11 that reads the restriction setting determination program 234 permits the communication unit 17 to execute a function or imposes a restriction on the execution of the function, based on the determination result. Here, "imposing a restriction" in the present disclosure refers to the control unit 11 outputting a prohibition command to the communication unit 17 so as to disable a function or part of a function that the communication unit 17 can implement (e.g., control of various interfaces for communicating with other devices in addition to transmitting and receiving information). Upon receiving the prohibition command, the communication unit 17 is restricted from executing the function until the restriction is lifted by the control unit 11 (i.e., unless a prohibition lift command is output).

[0034] The destination information storage area 235 is a storage area for storing destination information (external address information) acquired from the terminal device 30 and destination information (internal address information) managed internally by the multifunction peripheral 10.

[0035] [1.1.2 Terminal Device 30] 4 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 according to the present disclosure is assumed to be, for example, a so-called mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, mobile phone, or laptop computer, but is not limited to these. The terminal device according to the present disclosure also includes a stationary terminal device such as a desktop computer, provided that it is in an environment where it can communicate with the multifunction peripheral 10.

[0036] Such a terminal device 30 includes a control unit 31 , a display unit 33 , an operation input unit 35 , a communication unit 37 , and a storage unit 39 .

[0037] The control unit 31 controls the entire terminal device 30. The control unit 31 is configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPUs, etc.). The control unit 31 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 39.

[0038] The display unit 33 displays various information to the user. The display unit 33 can be configured with, for example, an LCD or an organic EL display.

[0039] The operation input unit 35 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 35 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 33. In this case, the input detection method of the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0040] The communication unit 37 includes a short-range wireless communication interface such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Wi-Sun, Irda, etc. The communication unit 37 may also include a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices via a network (not shown) such as a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line.

[0041] The storage unit 39 stores various programs and various data required for the operation of the terminal device 30. The storage unit 39 can be configured by a storage device such as a RAM, an HDD, an SSD, or a ROM.

[0042] The storage unit 39 stores an application program 391 and a destination information management program 392 , and reserves a destination information storage area 393 .

[0043] The application program 391 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when executing various applications such as calls, e-mail, fax, SNS, video and music viewing, and games.

[0044] The destination information management program 392 is a program read by the control unit 31 when managing destination information such as telephone numbers, email addresses, fax numbers, and accounts of recipients used in applications such as calls, emails, faxes, and social networking services. The control unit 31 performs processes such as new registration, editing, and deletion of destination information based on user instructions. The control unit 31 also reads and outputs the managed destination information based on a request for destination information from the multifunction device 10. If the request for destination information is made based on PBAP, the control unit 31 can write out the destination information in vCard format. Note that the destination information can also be written in CSV format. In this case, the control unit 31 can write out all the destination information and then transmit it all at once to the multifunction device 10. Note that the destination information management program 392 may be configured as a management program incorporated into the application program 391.

[0045] The destination information storage area 393 is a storage area that stores, for example, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, fax numbers, accounts, and the like as destination information managed by the terminal device 30.

[0046] [1.2 Processing flow] Next, processing according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The processing described in Fig. 5 is a form in which a determination is made as to whether to maintain or release the restriction setting depending on whether the destination information as management information is external address information acquired from the terminal device 30 or internal address information managed internally by the multifunction peripheral 10. The processing described in Fig. 5 is executed by the control unit 11 reading out the job execution program 231, the display processing program 232, the restriction setting determination program 234, etc.

[0047] The control unit 11 receives a mode selection instruction input from the user via the home screen or the like, such as copy mode, scan mode, e-mail mode, fax mode, or the like (step S100).

[0048] The control unit 11 determines whether the fax mode or the e-mail mode has been selected from the modes selected (step S110).

[0049] When the control unit 11 determines that the fax mode or the e-mail mode has been selected by the user, it displays a setting screen for the fax mode or the e-mail mode on the display unit 13 (step S110; Yes→step S120).

[0050] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the information transmission is using external address information in fax transmission in fax mode or e-mail transmission in e-mail mode (step 130). Here, if the control unit 11 has completed acquisition of external address information from the terminal device 30, it can determine that the information transmission is using external address information by receiving an instruction to select destination information included in the acquired external address information. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 has not completed acquisition of external address information from the terminal device 30, it can determine that the information transmission is using external address information by receiving a request to acquire external address information.

[0051] If it is determined that the information is transmitted using external address information, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a restriction setting is imposed on the multifunction device 10 (step S130; Yes→step S140).

[0052] If the control unit 11 determines that a restriction setting has been imposed on the multifunction device 10, it determines whether the imposed restriction setting is a setting (system restriction) relating to restrictions on sending and receiving information via the communication unit 17, such as "prohibition of selection from the address book" or "prohibition of direct input" (step S140; Yes → step S150).

[0053] If it is determined that a setting relating to a restriction on the transmission and reception of information has been imposed, the control unit 11 temporarily cancels the restriction setting (step S150; Yes→step S160).

[0054] Then, the control unit 11 transmits the information to the destination specified by the destination information (step S170). The control unit 11 reapplies the restriction setting that was temporarily released in step S160, and ends the process (step S180).

[0055] Meanwhile, if it is determined in step S110 that the fax mode or e-mail mode has not been selected by the user, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen (e.g., a copy setting screen) relating to the other mode selected by the user on the display unit 13 (step S110; No → step S190).

[0056] When the control unit 11 receives a job execution instruction input in another mode, it executes the job related to that mode and ends the process (step S200 to step S210).

[0057] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S130 that the information transmission is not using external address information, the control unit 11 determines whether the information transmission is using internal address information (step S130; No → step S220). Here, the control unit 11 can determine that the information transmission is using internal address information by receiving an instruction to select destination information included in the internal address information.

[0058] When the control unit 11 determines that the information is transmitted using the internal address information, it maintains the restriction setting and ends the process (step S220; Yes→step S250).

[0059] On the other hand, if it is determined that the information transmission does not utilize internal address information, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a direct input of a destination address has been accepted (step S220; No→step S230).

[0060] If the control unit 11 determines that direct input of the destination has been accepted, it maintains the restriction setting and ends the process (step S230; Yes → step S250). If the control unit 11 determines that direct input of the destination has not been accepted, it determines that the process is other and executes an operation corresponding to the other process (step S230; No → "other operation").

[0061] Meanwhile, if it is determined in step S140 that no restriction setting is imposed on the multifunction peripheral 10, the control unit 11 transmits information to the destination in the destination information, and ends the process (step S140; No→step S240).

[0062] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S150 that no settings regarding restrictions on the transmission and reception of information have been imposed, the control unit 11 follows other restriction settings, maintains the restriction settings, and ends the process (step S150; No→step S250).

[0063] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation of the first embodiment will be described. Figures 6 and 7 are diagrams illustrating an example of operation when information is sent using internal address information managed inside the multifunction device 10 when restriction settings (system restrictions) such as "prohibition of selection from address book" and "prohibition of direct input" are imposed on the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit 17. Note that this example of operation corresponds to the processes of step S120, step S130 (No), step S220, step S230, step S250, etc. in Figure 5.

[0064] 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a settings screen W10 for email mode. The settings screen W10 includes a mode display area R10, a setting value display area R12, a function selection area R14, an address book button B10, a start button B12, a destination input box Bx10, and a subject and other input box Bx12.

[0065] The mode display area R10 is a display area that displays icons representing each mode. Since Fig. 6 shows an example of the configuration of the setting screen W10 related to the E-mail mode, in the mode display area R10, an underscore is added below the icon representing the E-mail mode to indicate that the E-mail mode has been selected.

[0066] The setting value display area R12 is a display area that displays the setting values ​​(setting items) for email transmission executed via the setting screen W10. Fig. 6 shows an example in which setting values ​​related to an email transmission job, such as color mode "black and white / black and white binary," resolution "200 x 200 dpi," and format "PDF," are displayed.

[0067] The function selection area R14 is a display area that displays function selection keys that accept the selection of configurable functions when executing e-mail transmission. Fig. 6 shows an example in which function selection keys such as a "Browse Mobile Address Book key," a "Recent Job key," and a "Transmission History key," which will be described later, are displayed.

[0068] The address book button B10 is a button that accepts input of an instruction to refer to internal address information managed by the multifunction device 10. When an instruction to select the address book button B10 is received, the control unit 11 displays an address book screen, which will be described in the next figure.

[0069] The start button B12 is a button that accepts input of an instruction to send an e-mail to the e-mail address set in the destination input box Bx10.

[0070] The destination input box Bx10 is an input box that accepts input of an e-mail address as a destination to which e-mail is to be sent. In the first embodiment, when restrictions are imposed on the sending and receiving of information, direct input of destination information into the destination input box Bx10 is restricted.

[0071] The subject etc. input box Bx12 is an input box that accepts input of the subject of the e-mail, the file name of the file to be attached, and the like.

[0072] Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an address book screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to selection input of the address book button B10 on the setting screen W10 of Fig. 6. The address book screen W20 includes a destination information display area R16.

[0073] The destination information display area R16 is a display area that displays internal address information managed by the multifunction device 10. However, if a restriction setting is imposed on the sending and receiving of information as a restriction setting, the displayed destination information is grayed out, and the destination information cannot be selected.

[0074] In this way, when restriction settings (system restrictions) such as "prohibition of selection from address book" and "prohibition of direct input" are imposed on the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit 17, it is not possible to send information using internal address information managed within the multifunction device 10. Although the specifications of the multifunction device 10 do not allow the e-mail mode itself to be prohibited, as shown in the examples of Figures 6 and 7, it is possible to indirectly restrict sending in e-mail mode by prohibiting the selection of destination information from internal address information or the direct input of destination information.

[0075] Next, we will explain an example of operation when information is sent and received using external address information obtained from terminal device 30 when restriction settings (system restrictions) such as "prohibition of selection from address book" and "prohibition of direct input" are imposed on the sending and receiving of information via communication unit 17.

[0076] Fig. 8 is the same as the setting screen W10 for sending e-mails described in Fig. 6. The user can use external address information by selecting the "Refer to mobile address book" key K10 provided in the function selection area R14. When an instruction to select the "Refer to mobile address book" key K10 is received, the control unit 11 displays the address book screen described in the next figure.

[0077] Fig. 9 shows one configuration of the address book screen W20 that the control unit 11 displays in response to selection of the "See mobile address book key" K10 on the setting screen W10 of Fig. 8. The address book screen W20 illustrated in Fig. 9 can have the same configuration as the address book screen W20 illustrated in Fig. 7.

[0078] Unlike the example in FIG. 7, in FIG. 9, destination information for user names "User01" to "User06" (for example, email address: aa01@sample.com) is displayed as selectable external address information.

[0079] The user can select desired destination information from the external address information displayed in the destination information display area R16 and set it as the destination for E-mail transmission.

[0080] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating how a user selects one piece of destination information (e.g., User01 (aa01@sample.com)) from the external address information displayed in the destination information display area R16, and sets the selected destination information in the destination input box Bx10.

[0081] The user can confirm that the selected destination information has been set in the destination input box Bx10 and select the start button B12 to perform e-mail transmission using the selected destination information as the transmission destination.

[0082] In this way, even if restriction settings (system restrictions) such as "prohibition of selection from address book" or "prohibition of direct input" are imposed on the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit 17, when external address information obtained from the terminal device 30 is used, the restriction setting of "prohibition of selection from address book" is lifted, and it becomes possible to select destination information from the external address information.

[0083] In the setting screen W10 for sending e-mails, specific destination information selected from external address information can be set as the sending destination. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, if the address information as management information is external address information obtained from a terminal device, the imposed restriction setting can be lifted and information such as e-mail transmission can be sent and received via the communication unit.

[0084] [2 Second embodiment] The second embodiment is a form in which, in response to a request for external address information from a terminal device, if the restriction setting relates to a communication connection restriction, the imposed restriction setting is cancelled, making it possible to acquire the external address information.

[0085] [2.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration according to the second embodiment can be the same as that of the multifunction peripheral 10 and the terminal device 30 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0086] [2.2 Processing flow] 11 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing in the second embodiment. The processing described in FIG. 11 is executed by the control unit 11 reading out the job execution program 231, the display processing program 232, the destination information acquisition program 233, etc. The processing described below is started in response to a selection instruction of a mobile address book button provided on the home screen, which will be described later.

[0087] The control unit 11 displays the home screen as an initial screen at an appropriate timing, such as when the power is turned on, when the device is restored from sleep mode, or when the device is initialized (step S300). Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a request to acquire external address information has been received via the home screen (step S310).

[0088] In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether or not a request to acquire external address information has been input by receiving a selection instruction input for a mobile address book button provided on the home screen.

[0089] If it is determined that a request to obtain external address information has been received, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a restriction setting regarding communication connection, such as "prohibition of communication via Bluetooth," has been imposed on the multifunction device 10 (step S310; Yes → step S320).

[0090] If the control unit 11 determines that a restriction setting regarding communication connection is imposed on the multifunction peripheral 10, it (temporarily) cancels the restriction setting (step S320; Yes→step S330).

[0091] Next, the control unit 11 controls the communication unit 17 to send a request to acquire external address information to the terminal device 30, and determines whether or not the external address information has been acquired from the terminal device 30 (step S340 → step S350). When the terminal device 30 receives the request to acquire external address information, it outputs the destination information it manages as external destination information.

[0092] In step S350, if it is determined that external address information has been acquired from the terminal device 30, the control unit 11 re-applies the temporarily released restriction setting and ends the process (step S350; Yes → step S360). Note that if address information cannot be acquired from the terminal device 30, the control unit 11 waits until address information is acquired (step S350; No).

[0093] Meanwhile, if an input requesting acquisition of external address information has not been received, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a mode selection instruction input has been received. That is, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a mode selection instruction input of copy mode, scan mode, e-mail mode, or fax mode has been received by the user via the home screen or the like (step S310; No→step S370).

[0094] If the control unit 11 determines that the user has input a mode selection instruction of copy mode, scan mode, e-mail mode, or fax mode via the home screen or the like, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen for the mode selected by the user on the display unit 13 (step S370; Yes → step S380). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the user has not input a mode selection instruction, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S300 (step S370; No → step S300).

[0095] When the control unit 11 receives a job execution instruction input via the mode setting screen, it executes the job and ends the process (step S390 to step S400).

[0096] In step S320, if the control unit 11 determines that no restriction settings regarding communication connections have been imposed on the multifunction device 10, and if restriction settings other than communication connections have been imposed, the control unit 11 maintains the restriction settings and terminates the processing (step S320; No → step S410).

[0097] [2.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of the operation of the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 12 shows an example of the configuration of the home screen W30 of the multifunction peripheral 10. The home screen W30 is an initial screen that is displayed on the display unit 13, for example, when the power is turned on, when the multifunction peripheral 10 is in standby mode, when the multifunction peripheral 10 is restored from sleep mode, and accepts operation inputs from the user. The home screen W30 includes a system information button B14, a mode selection button B16, a device status display area R18, and a function selection button B18.

[0098] The system information button B14 is a button that accepts an instruction to display a system information screen, which will be explained in the next drawing. When the system information button B14 is selected and input by the user, the control unit 11 displays the system information screen W40.

[0099] The mode selection button B16 is a button that accepts the selection of a mode. When the mode selection button B16 is selected and input, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen for the corresponding mode. The mode selection buttons B16 include a "Mobile Address Book" button B161 that accepts input of a request to acquire external address information. When the "Mobile Address Book" button B161 is selected and input by the user, the control unit 11 executes the processing from step S320 onwards in FIG. 11 and acquires external address information from the terminal device 30.

[0100] The device status display area R18 is an area that displays the device status of the multifunction device 10. The example in Fig. 12 shows an example in which the remaining amount of toner is displayed in the device status display area R18.

[0101] The function selection button B18 is a button that accepts change instructions, reference instructions, etc. related to the function settings of the multifunction device 10. When the control unit 11 receives a selection input of the function selection button B18, it displays each setting screen (not shown) for executing the change instruction or reference instruction for the corresponding function.

[0102] FIG. 13 shows an example of the system information screen W40 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to a selection input of the system information button B14 on the home screen W30. The system information screen W40 displays information related to the system of the multifunction device 10. The system information screen W40 includes an information display area R20 that displays, for example, information about device maintenance such as paper shortage or firmware updates, and machine information related to communication settings. To enable communication via Bluetooth, the user can enable communication via Bluetooth by setting the slider S10 provided in the machine information to the "On" state. In FIG. 13, the slider S10 is in the "Off" state, indicating that restrictions are imposed on the communication connection (Bluetooth).

[0103] FIG. 14 shows an example of the configuration of the message screen M10 that is displayed after the "Mobile Address Book" button B161 of the mode selection button B16 on the home screen W30 is selected and input, and until a connection with the terminal device 30 is established (pairing).

[0104] The message screen M10 can have the same configuration as a message screen displayed between devices attempting to connect using general Bluetooth. That is, the message screen displays the name of the device to be connected (in the example of FIG. 14, the device name is: BP-aaaa(bb:cc:dd:ee)). Although not shown in FIG. 14, a passkey for establishing the connection (e.g., passkey: 1234) may also be displayed. If the user permits connection with the device, the user can establish the connection by entering the passkey.

[0105] 15 shows an example of the configuration of a message screen M12 that is displayed after a connection is established with the terminal device 30. When a connection is established with the terminal device 30, the control unit 11 starts transferring destination information. A message notifying the transfer status of the destination information is displayed on the message screen M12.

[0106] When the transfer of the destination information as external address information is completed, the control unit 11 can display the acquired external address information in the destination information display area R16 of the address book screen W20 as exemplified in FIG.

[0107] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in response to a request to acquire external address information from a terminal device, if the restriction setting relates to a communication connection restriction, the imposed restriction setting can be cancelled and the external address information can be acquired.

[0108] [3 Third embodiment] The third embodiment is a form in which the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit is restricted based on the result of an authority determination as to whether an authenticated user is granted operation authority for fax mode, e-mail mode, etc.

[0109] [3.1 Functional Configuration] 16 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction device 50 according to the third embodiment. The configuration of the multifunction device 50 according to the third embodiment can be substantially the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted, and only different configurations will be described.

[0110] The multifunction device 50 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 53.

[0111] In the third embodiment, the storage unit 53 stores a job execution program 231, a display processing program 232, a destination information acquisition program 233, a user authentication program 531, and an authority determination program 532, and reserves a destination information storage area 235.

[0112] The user authentication program 531 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when authenticating a user (login user) who logs in to the multifunction device 50. When the user authentication function is enabled, the control unit 11 that reads out the user authentication program 531 displays an authentication screen (described later) on the display unit 13. For example, the control unit 11 can perform user authentication by previously storing a login user name and a login password in association with each other, and comparing the login user name and the login password entered via the login screen. Note that user authentication can be performed using knowledge authentication based on the input of the login user name and login password, as well as possession authentication using a token, key, IC card, smartphone, etc., or biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication, palm print authentication, or face authentication.

[0113] The authority determination program 532 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when, for example, a fax mode or an e-mail mode is selected via the home screen. The control unit 11 that reads the authority determination program 532 can determine whether or not the user who selected the mode has been granted operation authority by, for example, referring to a user authority management table.

[0114] Here, Fig. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of a user authority management table. As shown in Fig. 17, the user authority management table can be configured by associating each login user name with a Yes / No indicating whether the login user has operation authority for each mode (fax mode, e-mail mode, etc.). Operation authority for each mode for a login user can be granted as user management information registered and managed by an administrator via a system setting screen (not shown), for example. The results of registration and management by the administrator are reflected in the user authority management table.

[0115] [3.2 Processing flow] Fig. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing in the third embodiment. The processing described in Fig. 18 is executed by the control unit 11 reading out the job execution program 231, the display processing program 232, the user authentication program 531, the authority determination program 532, etc. The processing described in Fig. 18 is based on the premise that the user authentication function is enabled.

[0116] The control unit 11 performs user authentication via an authentication screen described in the next figure (step S500). For example, the control unit 11 performs user authentication using a login user name and a login password entered by the user via the authentication screen. If the user authentication is successful, the control unit 11 displays a home screen as an initial screen on the display unit 13 (step S500; Yes → step S510). If the login authentication is unsuccessful, the control unit 11 waits until a correct login user name and login password are entered (step S500; No).

[0117] The control unit 11 receives a mode selection instruction input from the logged-in user via the displayed home screen (step S520). Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the received mode is a fax mode, an e-mail mode, or another mode (step S530).

[0118] If it is determined that the accepted mode is the fax mode or the e-mail mode, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen for the fax mode or the e-mail mode on the display unit 13 (step S530; Yes→step S540).

[0119] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the information transmission is using external address information in fax transmission in fax mode or e-mail transmission in e-mail mode (step 550). Here, if the control unit 11 has completed acquisition of external address information from the terminal device 30, it can determine that the information transmission is using external address information by receiving an instruction to select destination information included in the acquired external address information. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 has not completed acquisition of external address information from the terminal device 30, it can determine that the information transmission is using external address information by receiving a request to acquire external address information.

[0120] If it is determined that the information is being sent using external address information, the control unit 11 determines whether the logged-in user has operation authority for the fax mode or e-mail mode (step S550; Yes → step S560). The control unit 11 can determine whether the logged-in user has operation authority for the fax mode or e-mail mode by referring to the user authority management table exemplified in FIG.

[0121] If it is determined that the logged-in user has operation authority for the fax mode or the e-mail mode, the control unit 11 transmits information to the destination specified by the destination information and ends the process (step S560; Yes→step S570).

[0122] On the other hand, if it is determined that the logged-in user does not have the operation authority for the fax mode or the e-mail mode, the control unit 11 restricts the transmission of information (step S560; No→step S580), and then the control unit 11 displays an error message on the display unit 13 and ends the process (step S590).

[0123] Meanwhile, if it is determined in step S530 that the fax mode or the e-mail mode has not been selected by the user, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 a setting screen (e.g., a copy setting screen) relating to the other mode selected by the user (step S530; No → step S600).

[0124] When the control unit 11 receives a job execution instruction input in another mode, it executes the job related to that mode and ends the process (step S610 to step S620).

[0125] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S550 that the information transmission is not using external address information, the control unit 11 determines whether the information transmission is using internal address information (step S550; No → step S630). Here, the control unit 11 can determine that the information transmission is using internal address information by receiving an instruction to select destination information included in the internal address information.

[0126] If it is determined that the information was sent using the internal address information, the control unit 11 determines whether the logged-in user has operation authority for the fax mode or e-mail mode (step S630; Yes → step S560). The control unit 11 can determine whether the logged-in user has operation authority for the fax mode or e-mail mode by referring to the user authority management table exemplified in FIG.

[0127] If it is determined that the logged-in user has operation authority for the fax mode or the e-mail mode, the control unit 11 transmits information to the destination specified by the destination information and ends the process (step S560; Yes→step S570).

[0128] On the other hand, if it is determined that the logged-in user does not have the operation authority for the fax mode or the e-mail mode, the control unit 11 restricts the transmission of information (step S580), and then the control unit 11 displays an error message on the display unit 13 and ends the process (step S590).

[0129] Meanwhile, if it is determined in step S630 that the transmission of information is not using internal address information, the control unit 11 determines that it is another operation and executes an operation corresponding to the other processing (step S630; No → "other operation").

[0130] [3.3 Example of operation] Next, an operation example of the third embodiment will be described. In the explanation of the operation example of the third embodiment, it is assumed that the E-mail mode is selected as the mode related to information transmission by a login user who does not have the operation authority for the E-mail mode.

[0131] 19 shows an example of the configuration of an authentication screen W50 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13. The authentication screen W50 can be configured as a login screen that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 after reading out the user authentication program 531 when the user authentication function is enabled.

[0132] The authentication screen W50 includes a login user name input box Bx14, a login password input box Bx16, an authentication destination designation button B20, an OK button B22, and a cancel button B24.

[0133] The login user name input box Bx14 is an input box that accepts input of a login user name. A user attempting to log in to the multifunction device 50 inputs a login user name into the login user name input box Bx14. The login user name can also be selected from a separately provided user name list.

[0134] The login password input box Bx16 is an input box that accepts input of a login password corresponding to a login user name. A user attempting to log in to the multifunction peripheral 50 inputs the login password in addition to the login user name.

[0135] The authentication destination designation button B20 is a button that accepts designation of the user's authentication destination. The user authentication destination may be a device alone, or, for example, an authentication server or the like separately provided on a network (NW) can also be designated. When authentication on a device alone is designated as the user authentication destination, the control unit 11 performs user authentication by comparing the input login user name and login password with pre-prepared authentication information (for example, a combination of a user name and a password, etc.). On the other hand, when an authentication server or the like provided on the network (NW) is used, the control unit 11 can perform user authentication by transmitting the input login user name and login password to the authentication server and receiving the authentication result from the authentication server.

[0136] The OK button B22 is a button that accepts a user's input to confirm an input operation. The user selects the OK button B22 to confirm the input into the login user name input box Bx14 or the login password input box Bx16, or to confirm the designation of the user authentication destination via the authentication destination designation button B20. The cancel button B24 is a button that accepts a user's input to cancel an input operation.

[0137] FIG. 20 shows an example of the configuration of the home screen W60 of the multifunction peripheral 50. The home screen W60 differs from the example home screen W30 in FIG. 12 in that the mode selection button B16 includes an E-mail button B163 and a login user name display area R22 that displays the name of the currently logged-in login user. The E-mail button B163 is a mode selection button that accepts selection of E-mail mode as one of the modes. When the control unit 11 accepts a user's selection instruction input for the E-mail button B163, it displays a settings screen W70 related to the E-mail mode, which will be described in the next figure. The login user name display area R22 is a display area that displays the login user name of a user who has successfully been authenticated. For example, FIG. 20 shows an example in which "User01" is displayed as the login user name.

[0138] Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a settings screen W70 related to E-mail mode. The settings screen W70 can have the same configuration as the settings screen W10 illustrated in Figure 6. Figure 21 shows an example of operation in which, when the logged-in user selects the Address Book button B10, which accepts the selection and input of internal address information as management information, a message screen M14 is displayed indicating that the logged-in user does not have the authority to operate the E-mail mode.

[0139] 22 shows an example of operation when a logged-in user selects specific destination information "test" from the internal address information as management information and enters it in the destination input box Bx10. In this case, too, a message screen M14 is displayed indicating that the user does not have the operating authority for the E-mail mode.

[0140] Furthermore, Fig. 23 is a diagram illustrating a message screen M15 that the control unit 11 displays when a selection input of the start button B12 by the logged-in user is accepted on the setting screen W70 illustrated in Fig. 22. Fig. 23 shows an example of operation in which, in addition to the message screen M14 illustrated in Figs. 21 and 22, a message to the effect that "The administrator has placed restrictions on destinations and other settings. Transmission cannot be performed" is displayed on the message screen M15.

[0141] In this way, if the logged-in user does not have the operation authority for the E-mail mode, even if the internal address information is selected as the management information, the sending of information based on the E-mail mode is restricted.

[0142] Similarly, Figure 24 shows an example of operation in which, when the logged-in user selects the "Refer to Mobile Address Book" key K10, which accepts the selection and input of external address information as management information, a message screen M14 is displayed indicating that the logged-in user does not have the authority to operate the email mode.

[0143] 25 shows an example of operation when a logged-in user selects specific destination information "aa01@sample.com" from an external address book as management information and enters it in the destination input box Bx10. In this case, too, a message screen M14 is displayed indicating that the user does not have the operating authority for the email mode.

[0144] Furthermore, Fig. 26 is a diagram illustrating a message screen M15 that the control unit 11 displays when the control unit 11 receives a selection input of the start button B12 by the logged-in user on the setting screen W70 illustrated in Fig. 25. Fig. 26 shows an example of operation in which, in addition to the message screen M14 illustrated in Figs. 24 and 25, a message to the effect that "The administrator has placed restrictions on destinations and other settings. Transmission cannot be performed" is displayed on the message screen M15.

[0145] In addition, when using specific destination information from an external address book as management information, it is possible to take into consideration the convenience of the logged-in user and display an email sending screen W80, as shown in Figure 27, which allows the user to send an email to the administrator inquiring about restrictions on sending information.

[0146] In this way, if the logged-in user does not have the operation authority for the E-mail mode, even if the external address information is selected as the management information, the sending of information based on the E-mail mode is restricted.

[0147] As described above, according to the third embodiment, the sending and receiving of information via the communication unit is restricted based on the result of the authority determination as to whether an authenticated user is granted operation authority for fax mode, e-mail mode, etc. The administrator of the multifunction peripheral can manage whether to grant authority to the owner of the terminal device that manages external address information, thereby ensuring security.

[0148] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0149] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments are described separately for the sake of convenience, they may of course be combined and executed within the scope of technical feasibility.

[0150] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0151] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, etc.), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc. Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-described embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0152] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 10, 50 multifunction devices 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23, 53 Storage section 30 Terminal Equipment 31 Control Unit 33 Display section 35 Operation input section 37 Communications Department 39 Memory section 231 Job Execution Program 232 Display Processing Program 233 Destination Information Acquisition Program 234 Restriction Setting Judgment Program 235 Destination information storage area 531 User Authentication Program 532 Authority Determination Program

Claims

1. A communication unit capable of sending and receiving information using destination information; a control unit that can restrict transmission and reception of information via the communication unit based on a restriction setting, The control unit A processing device characterized in that, when transmitting information using the destination information obtained from a terminal device, even if the restriction setting is imposed, the restriction setting is canceled, the information is transmitted via the communication unit, and the canceled restriction setting is applied again.

2. The control unit 2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the restriction setting is maintained when the destination information is internally managed destination information.

3. The limit setting is:

2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein selection of the destination information or direct specification of the destination information is prohibited.

4. The control unit 2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein, when a request to acquire the destination information is made to the terminal device and the restriction setting is a restriction setting relating to a communication connection restriction, the processing device cancels the restriction setting and acquires the destination information from the terminal device.

5. The processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4; and an image processing unit.

6. A communication step of transmitting and receiving information using destination information; a control step of restricting transmission and reception of information in the communication step based on a restriction setting, In the control step, A processing method characterized by the fact that, when transmitting information using the destination information obtained from a terminal device, even if the restriction setting is imposed, the restriction setting is released, the information is transmitted, and the released restriction setting is reapplied.

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