JP3975870B2 - Image data distribution system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image data distribution system. More specifically, the present invention relates to an image data distribution system that includes a plurality of types of distribution means capable of distributing image data and switches the distribution means based on the size of the image data.
[0002]
Note that the image data to be distributed widely includes data optically read by a scanner and data taken by a digital camera. Further, not only still image data but also moving image data is targeted.
[0003]
[Prior art]
Recently, a system in which image data read by a scanner is attached to an e-mail and distributed via a network has become widespread. When a file having a large data size (information amount) such as color image data is distributed in such a system, it is required to suppress an increase in mail server load and traffic on the network.
[0004]
Conventionally, when a file having a size exceeding a predetermined reference value (for example, 1 megabyte (MB)) is attached to an e-mail to be transmitted, an alternative file having a size smaller than the reference value from the original file A technique has been proposed in which an alternative file is attached to the e-mail and transmitted instead of the original file before being processed (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-235529). As a result, the load on the mail server and the increase in traffic on the network can be suppressed. Note that the storage location of the original file is notified to the transmission destination (recipient) by the electronic mail.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the above conventional technique, the storage location of the original file (image data) is set regardless of the transmission destination (recipient), so that depending on the storage location of the original file, the recipient may May be inaccessible and inconvenient.
[0006]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an image data distribution system that can suppress an increase in mail server load and traffic on a network and can improve user convenience.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to solve the above problem, an image data distribution system according to claim 1 is provided.
  First distribution means capable of attaching image data to an e-mail and distributing the image data to a transmission destination via a network according to the first setting content;
  Second distribution means for storing image data in a storage location accessible on the network in accordance with the second setting content and permitting access to the stored image data;
  Associating the first setting content with the second setting contentIn memorySetting content registration means to be registered;
  When the first distribution means is selected for distributing certain image data, if the size of the image data exceeds a reference value, the first distribution means is switched to the second distribution means. ,From the memoryThe second setting contents registered in association with the first setting contents areReadDistribution means switching means to apply,
  The setting content registration means includes:Pre-registered as the first setting contentsCorresponding to the destination, Set by operator inputThe second setting contents are registered, and the distribution means switching means stores the second setting contents corresponding to the transmission destination.Read from the memoryIt is characterized by applying.
[0008]
Note that “first setting content” means setting content for the first distribution means, and may include setting content other than “transmission destination”. Further, “second setting content” means setting content for the second distribution means, and may include setting content other than “storage location”.
[0009]
  In the image data distribution system according to the first aspect, the setting content registration unit associates the first setting content for the first distribution unit with the second setting content for the second distribution unit.In memorysign up.At this time, the setting content registration unit registers the second setting content set by the input of the operator in correspondence with the transmission destination registered in advance as the first setting content.The distribution means switching means determines whether or not the size of the image data is greater than or equal to a reference value when the first distribution means is selected to distribute certain image data. For example, if the size of the image data is below the reference value, the first setting content is applied while the first distribution means is selected as it is. In response to this, the first distribution means attaches the image data to the e-mail and distributes it to the transmission destination registered as the first setting content via the network. On the other hand, if the size of the image data exceeds the reference value, the second setting content registered in association with the first setting content is switched from the first distribution means to the second distribution means. TheRead from the memoryApply. In response to this, the second distribution means stores the image data in a storage location accessible on the network registered as the second setting content, and allows access to the stored image data. To do.
[0010]
  In this way, if the size of the image data exceeds the reference value, the first distribution means for distributing the image data by attaching it to an e-mail,In memorySwitching to the second distribution means for storing the image data in the registered storage location allows access to the stored image data. Therefore, an increase in mail server load and traffic on the network can be suppressed.
[0011]
  Moreover, when switching from the first distribution means to the second distribution means, the second setting contents registered in association with the first setting contents are applied. The setting content registration meansPre-registered as the first setting contentsCorresponding to the destination, Set by operator inputThe second setting contents are registered, and the distribution means switching means stores the second setting contents corresponding to the transmission destination.Read from the memoryApply. Therefore, for example, in correspondence with the transmission destination (recipient) registered as the first setting content, the storage location desired by the “transmission destination (recipient)” is set as the setting content of the second distribution means.In memoryIf registered, the image data is stored in the storage location. Therefore, the recipient of the transmission destination registered as the first setting contents can easily access the storage location and obtain the image data. As a result, user convenience can be improved.
[0012]
The image data distribution system according to claim 2 is characterized in that, in the image data distribution system according to claim 1, the storage location where the second distribution means stores the image data is a directory in a file server. To do.
[0013]
The “file server” means a computer that provides or stores a file in response to a request from each client computer.
[0014]
In the image data distribution system according to claim 2, the storage location where the second distribution means stores the image data is a directory in the file server. Therefore, according to this image data distribution system, an increase in traffic on the network can be effectively suppressed.
[0015]
The image data distribution system according to claim 3 is the image data distribution system according to claim 1, wherein a password for permitting access to the stored image data is set as the second setting content. It is characterized in that it can be registered in response to the input of or automatically.
[0016]
In the image data distribution system according to claim 3, as the second setting content, a password for permitting access to the stored image data can be registered in response to an input from the operator or automatically. It has become. When the password is registered as the second setting content, a third party is prohibited from accessing the stored image data. Accordingly, the security of the stored image data is increased.
[0017]
The password may be registered as “none” as the second setting content so that a third party can freely access the stored image data.
[0018]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image data distribution system according to the third aspect, when the distribution means switching means switches from the first distribution means to the second distribution means, the second distribution means. The password registered as the setting content is controlled to be notified by the first distribution means to the transmission destination registered as the first setting content.
[0019]
According to the image data distribution system of the fourth aspect, when switching from the first distribution means to the second distribution means, the password registered as the second setting content is used as the first setting content. The registered destination is notified by the first distribution means. Therefore, the recipient of the transmission destination registered as the first setting content can easily obtain the image data by accessing the storage location where the image data is stored and using the notified password. can do.
[0020]
The image data distribution system according to claim 5 is the image data distribution system according to claim 1, wherein when the distribution means switching means switches from the first distribution means to the second distribution means, the second distribution means. If the setting content is not registered, control is performed to prompt the operator to input the second setting content.
[0021]
  In the image data distribution system according to claim 5, when the second distribution unit is switched from the first distribution unit to the second distribution unit, if the second setting content is not registered, the operator inputs the second setting content. Prompted. In response to this, the operator, for example, corresponds to the transmission destination (recipient) registered as the first setting content, and the “transmission destination (recipient)” as the setting content of the second distribution means. Can register the desired storage location. Therefore, user convenience is enhanced.
  In the image data distribution system according to claim 6, in the image data distribution system according to claim 1, the second setting content includes an option for prohibiting storage of the image data, and the option is designated. The second distribution unit performs control to notify the transmission destination registered as the first setting content by the first distribution unit that the size of the image data exceeds a reference value. It is characterized by that.
  In the image data distribution system according to claim 6, when the option for prohibiting the storage of the image data is selected as the second setting content, the size of the image data is controlled by the control according to the second distribution unit. Is transmitted to the transmission destination registered as the first setting content by the first distribution means. For example, an e-mail text describing that the size of the image data exceeds the reference value is sent to the transmission destination registered as the first setting content. Therefore, an increase in mail server load and traffic on the network can be suppressed.
[0022]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments.
[0023]
FIG. 1 shows a block configuration of a control system of an MFP (Multi Function Peripherals) 10 which is the core of an image data distribution system according to an embodiment. The MFP 10 functions as a scanner, a function as a printer, a function as an FTP client, a file server such as an HTTP server or an FTP server, in addition to an electronic mail (e-mail) transmission / reception function as described below. It is a complex device with functions. The control system of the MFP 10 is built in the main body 1 shown in FIG. The main body 1 includes an image scanner 2 for reading a document image 90 as viewed from the outside, a printer 3 for printing, and an operation panel 4 for performing various displays and allowing an operator to input. . The operation panel 4 is provided with a display unit (not shown) for inputting various setting conditions such as a print mode and a copy mode. A transparent touch sheet is affixed to the display unit, and an input can be performed by an operator touching the touch sheet with a finger.
[0024]
As shown in FIG. 1, the control system of the MFP 10 includes a CPU 11, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, a backup memory 14, an external storage device 15, a memory control unit 16, a scanner unit 17, a printer unit 18, a network control unit 19, and an operation panel unit. 20 and an image data file conversion unit 21.
[0025]
A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 executes a program stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, arbitrates with each control unit, and performs overall control.
[0026]
The ROM 12 stores a program for the CPU 11 and the like.
[0027]
A RAM (Random Access Memory) 13 temporarily stores control data.
[0028]
The backup memory 14 is composed of a RAM, and stores data necessary for various backups such as registered contents of one-touch input settings, administrator settings, and machine settings to be described later.
[0029]
The external storage device 15 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), and stores image data and the like attached as an attached file to an e-mail. Specifically, “data converted in format by the image data file converter” and “image data compressed by the memory controller” are stored. Also, a backup file of the email that has been sent is stored here. In the HDD 15, a directory accessible from the outside through the network 150 is prepared.
[0030]
The memory control unit 16 controls compression / decompression of image data read by the image scanner 2.
[0031]
The scanner unit 17 controls the image scanner 2 to read a document image. That is, under the control of the scanner unit 17, the image scanner 2 scans a document placed on the platen glass and acquires image data. The image data read by the image scanner 2 is compressed by the memory control unit 16 and temporarily stored in the HDD 15.
[0032]
The printer unit 18 controls the printer 3 to perform printing. In addition to the received mail, the printer unit 18 prints out data read by the image scanner 2 and data input via the network. Data read by the image scanner 2 is compressed and stored in the HDD 15, decompressed by the memory control unit 16, and then printed.
[0033]
The network control unit 19 performs control for exchanging data converted in format by an image data file conversion unit 21 (to be described later) on the network according to a protocol such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol).
[0034]
The operation panel unit 20 controls display of various keys and inputs various mode settings in response to an operation through the operation panel 4 by the operator.
[0035]
The image data file conversion unit 21 decompresses the compressed image stored in the HDD 15 by the memory control unit 16 and then converts the format into a file format that can be read by a personal computer (PC). In the case of e-mail transmission, the mail text is also created.
[0036]
Next, functions of the network scanner mode of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. In the MFP 10, the function of the network scanner mode becomes effective when the operator presses a “network scanner” key (not shown) on the operation panel 4. Then, as described below, the operation of the “E-mail transmission” (Scan To E-mail) mode constituting the first distribution means, and the “FTP transmission” (Scan To File) mode constituting the second distribution means And “Scan to HDD” mode operation.
[0037]
FIG. 2A schematically shows a configuration of a distribution system when the MFP 10 performs an operation in the “E-mail transmission” mode. In this “e-mail transmission” mode, the MFP 10 attaches the read image data to the e-mail on the network 150 in accordance with the first setting content input through the operation panel 4 (see FIG. 2B). The mail is sent to the existing mail server 200. The destination client (recipient) uses the mail software (client mailer) installed in his / her personal computer 300 to access the mail server 200 via the network 150, and enters a predetermined directory of the mail server 200. The stored e-mail can be opened, and an image attached to the e-mail can be viewed (or image data is acquired).
[0038]
FIG. 3A schematically shows the configuration of the distribution system when the MFP 10 performs the operation in the “FTP transmission” mode. In the “FTP transmission” mode, the MFP 10 sends the image data file to the FTP server 400 existing on the network 150 in accordance with the second setting content input through the operation panel 4 (see FIG. 3B). It has become. The FTP client (recipient) accesses the FTP server 400 via the network 150 using browser software installed in his personal computer 500, and stores image data files stored in a predetermined directory of the FTP server 400. Can be downloaded to view images (or get image data).
[0039]
FIG. 4A schematically shows a configuration of a distribution system when the MFP 10 performs an operation in the “HDD storage” mode. In the “HDD storage” mode, the MFP 10 stores the read image data in the HDD 15 built in the main body 1 in accordance with the second setting content (see FIG. 4B) input through the operation panel 4. Then, the read image data is accumulated to work as a file server (HTTP server, FTP server, etc.). A client (recipient) accesses the MFP 10 via the network 150 using browser software installed in his personal computer 600, and downloads image data (file) stored in a predetermined directory of the HDD 15. Thus, it is possible to view an image (or obtain image data).
[0040]
FIG. 5 shows a basic screen displayed on the display unit on the operation panel 4 when the MFP 10 performs processing in the network scanner mode. This basic screen is displayed, for example, when processing in the network scanner mode is started.
[0041]
In this basic screen, a message 30 to the operator “Please enter a destination” is displayed. In addition, a file format (currently set file format) 31 for converting the read image into data and a resolution (currently set resolution) 32 for converting the read image into data are displayed. Also, an e-mail address input key 33, an FTP transmission key 34, an HDD storage key 37, an administrator key 35, a registration key 36, and eight one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 are displayed.
[0042]
When any one of the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 is pressed (selected), the registered content relating to the pressed keys adr1 to adr8 is applied (displayed) as the current set value.
[0043]
If any one of the adr1 to adr8 keys is further pressed while the registration key 36 is pressed to enter the registration mode, a transition is made to a one-touch input screen (FIG. 6) described later, and the pressed key adr1 Setting (or change) of registration contents regarding to adr8 can be performed. Since eight one-touch input keys are provided, eight types of registration can be performed accordingly.
[0044]
When the e-mail address input key 33 is pressed, an e-mail address input screen (not shown) is displayed, and an e-mail address that determines the transmission destination of the read image can be input. In the network scanner mode, the first delivery means and the second delivery means can be set in the order desired by the operator, but the e-mail address that determines the destination is directly entered on this e-mail address entry screen. In this case, even if the size of the image data exceeds the upper limit value, the second distribution unit is not set.
[0045]
When the administrator key 35, the FTP transmission key 34, and the HDD accumulation key 37 are pressed, a transition is made to an administrator setting screen (FIG. 7), an FTP transmission screen (FIG. 8), and an HDD accumulation setting screen (FIG. 9), which will be described later. To do.
[0046]
When the registration key 36 is pressed, a transition is made to a registration content setting screen relating to the currently selected one-touch input key.
[0047]
When a start key (not shown) on the operation panel 4 is pressed while the basic screen is displayed, document transmission is started.
[0048]
FIG. 6 shows a one-touch input screen for performing settings relating to the one-touch input key (for example, the adr1 key). This one-touch input screen is displayed, for example, when the registration key 36 is pressed to enter the registration mode and the adr1 key is further pressed. In this one-touch input screen, the content of the underlined portion can be changed (the same applies to FIGS. 7 to 9).
[0049]
The operator makes the necessary settings in the following fields.
[0050]
In the “1. E-mail transmission setting” field, an e-mail address that determines an e-mail transmission destination (destination) is set.
[0051]
In the “2. FTP transmission setting” field, the host name of the FTP server to which image data is to be sent from the MFP 10, the user name using the FTP server, the directory as the storage location in the FTP server, and access to the directory Set a password to allow For the password, the setting “None”, “Automatic setting” or “Manual setting” can be selected.
[0052]
In the “3. HDD accumulation” column, a user name who uses the HDD 15 of the MFP 10, a directory as a storage location in the HDD 15, and a password for permitting access to the directory are set. For the password, the setting “None”, “Automatic setting” or “Manual setting” can be selected.
[0053]
In this way, passwords for “FTP transmission” and “HDD storage” can be “automatically set” or “manually set” in response to operator input, so they are stored in the respective directories. It is possible to prohibit third parties from accessing the image data. Accordingly, the security of the stored image data is increased.
[0054]
In the “4. Common setting” column, as common settings for “E-mail transmission”, “FTP transmission”, and “HDD storage”, the image data file format (JPEG, PDF, TIFF), resolution ( Unit dpi), and settings related to a method (first transmission method, second transmission method) for distributing read image data.
[0055]
The operator can select the type of the first transmission method and the second transmission method in the desired order. As the first transmission method, any one of “E-mail transmission”, “FTP transmission”, and “HDD storage” can be selected. As the second transmission method, “not switched”, “FTP transmission”, and “HDD storage” are available. Either one can be selected.
[0056]
Although details will be described later with reference to a flowchart, the read image data is normally transmitted by the transmission method selected as the first transmission method. When e-mail transmission is selected in the first transmission method, when the size of the read image data exceeds the upper limit (reference value), the transmission method is switched to the transmission method selected in the second transmission method for the first time. The setting of the second transmission method is valid only when “E-mail transmission” is selected in the first transmission method.
[0057]
When the registration key 39 is pressed, the contents of the currently displayed one-touch input screen are written and registered in the backup memory 14 as setting contents related to the adr1 key. On the other hand, when the delete key 38 is pressed, the setting content related to the adr1 key is deleted from the backup memory 14.
[0058]
If the host name setting in the “2. FTP transmission setting” field is not entered, the FTP transmission condition is not registered. If the host name setting in the “3. HDD storage setting” field is not input, the HDD storage condition is not registered.
[0059]
FIG. 7 shows an administrator setting screen for setting the basic conditions of the network scanner mode. This administrator setting screen is displayed, for example, when the administrator setting key 35 is pressed on the network scanner mode basic screen (FIG. 5). The operator (system administrator) makes necessary settings in the following fields.
[0060]
In the “1. E-mail transmission setting” field, an upper limit value (unit MB) of the size of image data attached to an E-mail, a mail subject, and a mail transmission source are set. The settings in this field are valid when “E-mail transmission” is selected as the transmission method.
[0061]
In the “2. HDD accumulation setting” column, a period during which the read image data can be accumulated in the HDD (document accumulation period; unit is day) and an upper limit of the number of accumulated data (unit is individual) are set. The settings in this field are valid when “HDD storage” is selected as the transmission method.
[0062]
When the input confirmation key 40 is pressed, the contents of the currently displayed administrator setting screen are written and registered in the backup memory 14.
[0063]
FIG. 8 shows an FTP transmission setting screen for setting the “FTP transmission” condition. This FTP transmission setting screen is displayed, for example, when the FTP transmission key 34 is pressed on the basic screen (FIG. 5) in the network scanner mode. The setting contents of this FTP transmission setting screen are the same as the setting contents of the “2. FTP transmission setting” field on the one-touch input screen of FIG. When the input confirmation key 41 is pressed, an FTP transmission process (described later) is actually performed using the currently displayed set value.
[0064]
FIG. 9 shows an HDD accumulation setting screen for setting the “HDD accumulation” condition. This HDD accumulation setting screen is displayed, for example, when the HDD accumulation key 37 is pressed on the network scanner mode basic screen (FIG. 5). The setting contents of this HDD accumulation setting screen are the same as the setting contents of the “3. HDD accumulation setting” column in the one-touch input screen of FIG. When the input confirmation key 42 is pressed, HDD storage processing (described later) is actually performed using the currently displayed set value.
[0065]
FIG. 10 shows a one-touch registration table stored in the backup memory 14. A blank indicates a NULL state (unregistered).
[0066]
This one-touch registration table includes an email address, an FTP host name, an FTP user name, an FTP directory, an FTP password, an HDD user name, for each of the one-touch names (names of one-touch input keys) adr1 to adr8 shown in the leftmost column. Setting values for the HDD directory, HDD password, file format, resolution, first transmission method, and second transmission method are stored in association with each other.
[0067]
For example, paying attention to the adr1 key, in this example, it is understood that the first transmission method is “E-mail transmission” and the second transmission method is “FTP transmission”. The email address indicating the destination of the first transmission method “E-mail transmission” is “yo@ab.co.jp”, and the host name and user name of the second transmission method “FTP transmission”. The directory and password are “192.168.0.1”, “yoo”, “yoodir”, and “1414”, respectively.
[0068]
Next, the operation of the MFP 10 will be described in detail.
[0069]
FIG. 12 shows a main routine by the CPU 11 of the MFP 10. First, network scanner processing is performed (S1). As will be described in detail later, in this network scanner processing, processing up to reading an original image and transmitting read image data in response to an event generated by an operator operating the basic screen (FIG. 5) of the network scanner mode. Do. Next, a known copy process is performed (S2). In this copy processing, screen processing related to copying, document reading processing, print processing, and the like are performed. Next, a reply mail reception process is performed (S3). As will be described in detail later, this reply mail receiving process is performed in order to cope with a reply mail informing that the attached data capacity is exceeded from the mail server after sending an email to the mail server by the network scanner process. It is a process to be executed.
[0070]
13 to 24 show a detailed flow of the network scanner process (S1 in FIG. 12).
[0071]
When the operator presses a “network scanner” key (not shown) on the operation panel 4, the network scanner process is started as shown in FIG.
[0072]
First, it is determined whether or not there has been a transition event to the one-touch input screen (S11). If there is a transition event to the one-touch input screen, the one-touch input screen is drawn using the currently registered setting value (S12). For example, when the registration key 36 is pressed to enter the registration mode on the network scanner mode basic screen (FIG. 5) and the one-touch input key is further pressed, a one-touch input screen as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. Is done.
[0073]
Next, if an e-mail address (e-mail destination) that defines an e-mail transmission destination is input in the “1. E-mail transmission setting” field of the one-touch input screen (YES in S13 of FIG. 13), the e-mail A destination is set (S14).
[0074]
Next, if the host name of the FTP server to which image data is to be sent from the MFP 10 is input in the “2. FTP transmission setting” field of the one-touch input screen (YES in S15), FTP transmission setting screen processing described later is performed. Execute (S16).
[0075]
Next, if a user name that uses the HDD 15 is input in the “3. HDD storage” field of the one-touch input screen (YES in S17), an HDD storage setting screen process described later is executed (S18).
[0076]
Next, as shown in FIG. 14, if the image data file format (JPEG, PDF, or TIFF) for converting the read image into data is input in the “4. Common setting” field of the one-touch input screen (S19). YES), the image data file format is set (S20).
[0077]
Next, if the resolution (unit dpi) for converting the read image into data is input in the same “4. common setting” field (YES in S21), the resolution is set (S22).
[0078]
Next, if the type of the first transmission method (“E-mail transmission”, “FTP transmission” or “HDD storage”) for distributing the read image data is input in the same “4. Common setting” field (S23). And YES), the first transmission method is set (S24).
[0079]
Next, in the same “4. common setting” field, if the type of the second transmission method (“not switched”, “FTP transmission”, or “HDD storage”) for distributing read image data is input (in S25) YES), the second transmission method is set (S26).
[0080]
Next, it is determined whether or not the registration key 39 has been pressed on the one-touch input screen (S27). If the registration key 39 is pressed, the content of the currently displayed one-touch input screen is written and registered in the backup memory 14 as the setting content related to the one-touch input key (S28).
[0081]
On the other hand, if the registration key 39 is not pressed (NO in S27), it is then determined whether or not the delete key 38 is pressed on the one-touch input screen (S29). If the delete key 38 is pressed, the setting content related to the one-touch input key is deleted from the backup memory 14 (S30). Thereafter, the screen changes to the basic screen of the network scanner mode (S31).
[0082]
If the delete key 38 is not pressed in step S29 (NO in S29), the process returns to step S12 in FIG. 13 and the process is repeated.
[0083]
If there is no transition event to the one-touch input screen in step S13 of FIG. 13 described above, the process proceeds to step S41 of FIG. 15 to determine whether or not there has been a transition event to the administrator setting screen (S41). If there is a transition event to the administrator setting screen, the administrator setting screen is drawn using the currently registered setting value (S42). For example, when the administrator setting key 35 is pressed on the network scanner mode basic screen (FIG. 5), an administrator setting screen as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed.
[0084]
Next, if the upper limit (unit MB) of the size of the image data attached to the e-mail is entered in the “1. E-mail transmission setting” field of the administrator setting screen (YES in S43 in FIG. 15). The upper limit value is set (S44).
[0085]
Next, if a mail subject is input in the same “1. E-mail transmission setting” field (YES in S45), the mail subject is set (S46).
[0086]
Next, if a mail transmission source is input in the same “1. E-mail transmission setting” field (YES in S47), the mail transmission source is set (S48).
[0087]
Next, if a period during which the scanned image data can be stored in the HDD (document storage period; unit is day) is entered in the “2. HDD storage setting” field of the administrator setting screen (S49). YES), the value of the document accumulation period is set (S50).
[0088]
Next, if an upper limit value (in units) is input in the same “2. HDD storage setting” field (YES in S51), the upper limit value of the stored data number is set (S52).
[0089]
Next, it is determined whether or not the input confirmation key 40 is pressed on the administrator setting screen. If the input confirmation key 40 has been pressed (YES in S53), the contents of the currently displayed administrator setting screen are written into the backup memory 14 and the screen shifts to the network scanner mode basic screen (FIG. 5) (S54). ).
[0090]
If the input confirmation key 40 is not pressed in step S53 (NO in S53), the process returns to step S42 and the process is repeated.
[0091]
If there is no transition event to the administrator setting screen in step S41, the process proceeds to step S61 in FIG. 16 to determine whether or not there is a transition event to the FTP transmission setting screen (S61). If there is a transition event to the FTP transmission setting screen, the FTP transmission setting screen is drawn using the currently registered setting value (S62). For example, when the FTP transmission key 34 is pressed on the basic screen of the network scanner mode (FIG. 5), an FTP transmission setting screen as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.
[0092]
Next, if the host name of the FTP server to which image data is to be sent is input from the MFP 10 on the FTP transmission setting screen (YES in S63), FTP transmission setting screen processing described later is executed (S64).
[0093]
Then, the processes in steps S62 to S64 are repeated until the input confirmation key 41 is pressed in step S65.
[0094]
Next, when the input confirmation key 41 is pressed (YES in S65), an FTP transmission process to be described later is performed using the currently displayed set value (S66). Thereafter, the screen changes to the basic screen (FIG. 5) in the network scanner mode (S67).
[0095]
If there is no transition event to the FTP transmission setting screen in step S61 described above, the process proceeds to step S71 to determine whether or not there has been a transition event to the HDD accumulation setting screen (S71). If there is a transition event to the HDD accumulation setting screen, the HDD accumulation setting screen is drawn using the currently registered setting value (S72). For example, when the HDD accumulation key 37 is pressed on the basic screen of the network scanner mode (FIG. 5), an HDD accumulation setting screen as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed.
[0096]
Next, if a user name using the HDD 15 is input on the HDD accumulation setting screen (YES in S73), an HDD accumulation setting screen process described later is executed (S74). The processes in steps S72 to S74 are repeated until the input confirmation key 42 is pressed in step S75.
[0097]
Next, when the input confirmation key 42 is pressed (YES in S75), HDD storage processing described later is performed using the currently displayed setting value (S76). Thereafter, the screen changes to the basic screen (FIG. 5) in the network scanner mode (S77).
[0098]
If there is no transition event to the HDD accumulation setting screen in the above-described step S71, the process proceeds to step S81 in FIG. 17 to determine whether or not there is a transition event to the basic screen of the network scanner mode (S81). Here, if there is a transition event to the basic screen of the network scanner mode, the basic screen of the network scanner mode is drawn using the currently registered setting value (S82). For example, when a scanner key (hard key not shown) on the operation panel 4 is pressed, a basic screen of the network scanner mode as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed.
[0099]
Next, if the image data file format (JPEG, PDF, or TIFF) for converting the scanned image into data is input on the basic screen of the network scanner mode (YES in S83), the image data file format is set. (S84).
[0100]
Next, if the resolution (unit dpi) for converting the read image into data is input on the basic screen of the same network scanner mode (YES in S85), the resolution is set (S86).
[0101]
Next, if a mail address that determines the destination of the e-mail is input on the basic screen in the same network scanner mode (YES in S87), the mail address is set (S88).
[0102]
Next, when any one of the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 is pressed (selected) on the basic screen of the same network scanner mode, the registered contents relating to the pressed keys adr1 to adr8 are applied as the current setting values ( indicate.
[0103]
Next, it is determined whether or not the registration key 36 is pressed on the basic screen in the same network scanner mode (S91). If the registration key 36 has been pressed, the screen shifts to a one-touch input screen related to the selected one-touch input key (S92).
[0104]
On the other hand, if the registration key 36 has not been pressed (NO in S91), it is then determined whether or not the administrator key 35 has been pressed on the basic screen of the network scanner mode (S93). If the administrator key 35 is pressed, the screen changes to the administrator setting screen (S94).
[0105]
The processes in steps S82 to S94 are repeated until a start key (hard key not shown) on the operation panel 4 is pressed in step S95.
[0106]
Next, when the start key on the operation panel 4 is pressed in step S95 (YES in S95), a start key process described later is performed (S96).
[0107]
If there is no transition event to the basic screen of the network scanner mode in step S81 described above, the process proceeds to step S98 to determine whether or not there has been a transition event to another network scanner screen (S98). If there is a transition event to another network scanner screen, other network scanner screen processing is performed as necessary (S99).
[0108]
FIG. 18 shows a detailed flow of the FTP transmission setting screen process (S16 in FIG. 13 and S64 in FIG. 16) mentioned earlier.
[0109]
In the FTP transmission setting screen process, first, the host name of the FTP server to which image data is to be sent from the MFP 10 is set (S101).
[0110]
Next, if a user name that uses the FTP server is input (YES in S102), the user name is set (S103).
[0111]
Next, if a directory as a storage location in the FTP server is input (YES in S104), the directory is set (S105).
[0112]
Next, if a password for permitting access to the directory is input (YES in S106), the password is set (S107).
[0113]
FIG. 19 shows a detailed flow of the HDD accumulation setting screen processing (S18 in FIG. 13 and S76 in FIG. 16) mentioned earlier.
[0114]
In the HDD accumulation setting screen process, first, a user name that uses the HDD 15 of the MFP 10 is set (S111).
[0115]
Next, if a directory as a storage location in the HDD 15 is input (YES in S112), the directory is set (S113).
[0116]
Next, if a password for permitting access to the directory is input (YES in S114), the password is set (S115).
[0117]
FIG. 20 shows a detailed flow of the start key process (S96 in FIG. 17) mentioned above.
[0118]
In this start key process, first, the scanner unit 17 is instructed to read a document image (S121). Upon receiving this instruction, the scanner unit 17 controls the image scanner 2 to read a document image.
[0119]
When the reading of the document image is completed (YES in S122), it is determined whether or not the currently applied (displayed) setting value is based on the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 (S123). If the setting value currently applied (displayed) is not the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 (NO in S123), the setting value currently applied (displayed) is the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8. Even if the first transmission method is set to “e-mail transmission” (YES in S124), it is determined whether or not the size of the read image data is equal to or smaller than the upper limit value (S125).
[0120]
Here, if the size of the read image data is equal to or smaller than the upper limit value, the transmission method is set to “e-mail transmission” (S126). Next, an e-mail body is created (S127), and the format format of the read image data is converted into a format format set for “e-mail transmission” (S128). Then, the image data after format conversion is attached to the created e-mail body, and the e-mail is transmitted to the set e-mail address (destination) (S129).
[0121]
On the other hand, if the size of the read image data exceeds the upper limit value in step S125, the transmission method switching process described below is performed (S130).
[0122]
As shown in FIG. 22, in the transmission method switching process, first, it is determined whether or not the currently applied (displayed) setting value is based on the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 (S161). If the setting value currently applied (displayed) is not the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 (NO in S161), the e-mail address that determines the destination of the e-mail is directly input. At this time, an e-mail body describing that the size of the image data exceeds the upper limit value is created (S162), and the e-mail is transmitted to the input e-mail address (S163).
[0123]
If the setting value currently applied (displayed) in step S161 is the one-touch input keys adr1 to adr8 (YES in S161), it is determined whether or not the second transmission method is set to “FTP transmission”. (S164). If the second transmission method is set to “FTP transmission”, FTP transmission processing described later is performed (S165).
[0124]
On the other hand, if the second transmission method is not set to “FTP transmission” (NO in S164), it is subsequently determined whether or not the second transmission method is set to “HDD storage” (S166). If the second transmission method is set to “HDD storage”, HDD storage processing described later is performed (S167).
[0125]
If the second transmission method is not set to “HDD storage” in step S166 (NO in S166), the second transmission method is set to “not switched”. At this time, an e-mail body describing that the size of the image data has exceeded the upper limit is created (S168), and the e-mail is transmitted to the e-mail address registered for the first transmission method (S169). ).
[0126]
If the first transmission method is not set to “E-mail transmission” in step S124 in FIG. 20, the process proceeds to step S141 in FIG. 21 to determine whether or not the first transmission method is set to “FTP transmission”. Judgment is made (S141). If the first transmission method is set to “FTP transmission”, the format format of the read image data is converted to the format format set for “FTP transmission” (S142).
[0127]
Next, it is determined whether or not a password for permitting access to the directory in the FTP server is to be “automatically set” (S143). If the password is to be “automatically set”, the password is created (S144), and the created password is displayed (S145).
[0128]
Thereafter, the image data is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the set FTP server according to FTP (S146). The sent image data is stored in a set directory of the FTP server.
[0129]
If the first transmission method is not set to “FTP transmission” in step S141 described above, the first transmission method is set to “HDD storage”. At this time, the format of the read image data is converted to a format set for “HDD storage” (S151).
[0130]
Next, it is determined whether or not a password for permitting access to the directory in the HDD 15 is to be “automatically set” (S152). If the password is to be “automatically set”, the password is created (S153), and the created password is displayed (S154).
[0131]
Thereafter, the image data is stored in a set directory in the HDD 15 of the MFP 10 (S155).
[0132]
FIG. 23 shows a detailed flow of the FTP transmission processing (S66 in FIG. 16, S165 in FIG. 22) mentioned above.
[0133]
In this FTP transmission process, first, it is determined whether or not the host name of the FTP server to which image data is to be sent from the MFP 10 is registered for the selected one-touch input key (S171). If the one-touch input key is not selected, step S171 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S173. If the host name of the FTP server is not registered (NO in S171), the screen transits to the FTP transmission setting screen (FIG. 8) already described (S172).
[0134]
On the other hand, if the host name of the FTP server is registered (YES in S171), the format format of the read image data is converted to the format format set for “FTP transmission” (S173).
[0135]
Next, it is determined whether or not the password setting for permitting access to the directory in the FTP server is other than “none” (S174). If the password setting is “none”, the process proceeds to step S179 described later.
[0136]
On the other hand, if the password setting is other than “none”, it is further determined whether or not “automatic setting” is set (S175). If the password setting is “automatic setting”, a password is created (S176). Next, in either “automatic setting” or “manual setting”, an e-mail text describing password information, host name, and setting directory for “FTP transmission” is created (S177). Next, the created e-mail is transmitted to the e-mail address entered or registered for the first transmission method (S178).
[0137]
Here, as shown in FIG. 11A, the email text sent to the email address registered for the first transmission method is “if the first transmission method email transmission exceeds the read image size. "The message was sent using the second transmission method.", For example, the host name "192.168.01.1" for "FTP transmission", the setting directory "yoodir", and the password information "1414" Shall be.
[0138]
Thereafter, the image data is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the set FTP server according to the FTP (S179). The sent image data is stored in a set directory of the FTP server.
[0139]
FIG. 24 shows a detailed flow of the HDD accumulation process (S76 in FIG. 16 and S167 in FIG. 22) mentioned earlier.
[0140]
In this HDD storage process, first, it is determined whether or not a user name using the HDD 15 of the MFP 10 is registered for the selected one-touch input key (S181). If the one-touch input key is not selected, step S181 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S183. If the user name that uses the HDD 15 is not registered (NO in S181), the screen shifts to the HDD accumulation setting screen (FIG. 9) already described (S182).
[0141]
On the other hand, if the user name using the HDD 15 is registered (YES in S181), the format format of the read image data is converted to the format format set for “HDD storage” (S183).
[0142]
Next, it is determined whether or not the password setting for permitting access to the directory in the HDD 15 is other than “None” (S184). If the password setting is “none”, the process proceeds to step S189 described later.
[0143]
On the other hand, if the password setting is other than “none”, it is further determined whether or not “automatic setting” is set (S185). If the password setting is “automatic setting”, a password is created (S186). Next, for both “automatic setting” and “manual setting”, an e-mail text describing password information and setting directory for “HDD storage” is created (S187). Next, the created e-mail is transmitted to the e-mail address entered or registered for the first transmission method (S188).
[0144]
Thereafter, the image data is stored in a set directory in the HDD 15 (S189).
[0145]
Therefore, the load on the mail server 200 and the increase in traffic on the network 150 can be suppressed.
[0146]
In addition, when switching from “E-mail transmission” to “FTP transmission” or “HDD storage”, settings for “FTP transmission” or “HDD storage” registered in association with the setting contents for “E-mail transmission”. Content applies. For example, corresponding to the transmission destination (recipient) registered as the setting content for “email transmission”, the “transmission destination (recipient) as the setting content for“ FTP transmission ”or“ HDD storage ”. If the desired directory is registered, the image data is stored in that directory.
[0147]
When switching from “E-mail transmission” to “FTP transmission” or “HDD storage”, the password registered as the setting contents of “FTP transmission” or “HDD storage” is the setting for “E-mail transmission”. Notification is made by sending an e-mail to a destination registered as content. Accordingly, the recipient of the transmission destination registered as the setting content for “e-mail transmission” accesses the directory in which the image data is stored and uses the notified password to obtain the image data. It can be easily obtained.
[0148]
As a result, according to the distribution system configured by the MFP 10, user convenience can be improved.
[0149]
Note that the difference between the “FTP transmission” mode and the “HDD storage” mode is only the difference between whether the image data file is stored outside or inside the MFP body 1 from the essence of the present invention. Absent.
[0150]
FIG. 25 shows the flow of the reply mail reception process (S3 in FIG. 12) mentioned above. In this reply mail reception process, after sending an email to the mail server 200 by the network scanner process, it is determined whether or not a reply mail reporting “attached data capacity over” is returned from the mail server 200 (S201). If there is no such reply mail (NO in S201), the process returns as it is.
[0151]
On the other hand, when a reply mail informing that “the capacity of the attached data is over” is received from the mail server 200 (YES in S201), the received reply mail is transferred to the destination of the original transmission mail (S202).
[0152]
Here, as shown in FIG. 11 (b), the body of the reply mail to be transferred cannot be sent due to the capacity of the attached data being exceeded in the first transmission method e-mail transmission. And a host name “192.168.01.1” for “FTP transmission”, a setting directory “yoodir”, and password information “1414”.
[0153]
Thereafter, the transmission method switching process already described is executed (S203).
[0154]
In such a case, after sending an e-mail to the mail server 200, when a reply e-mail notifying that “the capacity of the attached data is over” is returned from the mail server 200, “e-mail transmission” to “FTP transmission” or “ By switching to “HDD storage”, access to the stored image data can be permitted. As a result, user convenience can be improved.
[0155]
【The invention's effect】
As is apparent from the above, according to the image data distribution system of the present invention, it is possible to suppress the load on the mail server and the increase in traffic on the network, and to improve the convenience for the user.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a control system of an MFP that constitutes an image data distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2A is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a distribution system when the MFP performs an operation in an “E-mail transmission” mode. (B) is a table showing a setting procedure and contents for “e-mail transmission” on the operation panel.
FIG. 3A is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a distribution system when the MFP performs an operation in “FTP transmission” mode. (B) is a table showing the setting procedure and contents for “FTP transmission” on the operation panel.
FIG. 4A is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a distribution system when the MFP performs an operation in “HDD storage” mode. (B) is a table showing a setting procedure and contents for “HDD storage” on the operation panel.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a basic screen of a network scanner mode.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a one-touch input setting screen.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an administrator setting screen.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an FTP transmission setting screen.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an HDD accumulation screen.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a one-touch registration table stored in a backup memory.
FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating an e-mail sent to a mail address registered for the first transmission method when switching from the first transmission method to the second transmission method. (B) is a diagram exemplifying a reply mail that is transferred to the destination of the original transmission mail when a reply mail informing that “the capacity of the attached data is exceeded” is returned from the mail server.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a flow of a main routine by the MFP CPU.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of network scanner processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of network scanner processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of network scanner processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of network scanner processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of network scanner processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a flow of FTP transmission setting screen processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a flow of HDD accumulation setting screen processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of start key processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a part of a flow of start key processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a flow of transmission method switching processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a flow of FTP transmission processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a flow of HDD accumulation processing by the CPU of the MFP.
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a reply mail reception process performed by the CPU of the MFP.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 MFP
15 HDD
150 network
200 mail server
400 FTP server

Claims (6)

First distribution means capable of attaching image data to an e-mail and distributing the image data to a transmission destination via a network according to the first setting content;
Second distribution means for storing image data in a storage location accessible on the network in accordance with the second setting content and permitting access to the stored image data;
Setting content registration means for associating and registering the first setting content and the second setting content in a memory ;
When the first distribution means is selected for distributing certain image data, if the size of the image data exceeds a reference value, the first distribution means is switched to the second distribution means. Distribution means switching means for reading out and applying the second setting contents registered in association with the first setting contents from the memory ,
The setting content registration means is configured to register the second setting content set by an operator input in association with the transmission destination registered in advance as the first setting content. A delivery means switching means reads out and applies the second setting content corresponding to the transmission destination from the memory . The image data distribution system according to claim 1,
An image data distribution system, wherein the second distribution means stores image data in a directory in a file server. The image data distribution system according to claim 1,
Image data characterized in that, as the second setting content, a password for permitting access to the stored image data can be registered in response to an operator input or automatically. Distribution system. The image data distribution system according to claim 3,
When the delivery means switching means switches from the first delivery means to the second delivery means, the password registered as the second setting contents is transmitted as the first setting contents. An image data distribution system which performs control to be notified by the first distribution means first. The image data distribution system according to claim 1,
When the distribution means switching means switches from the first distribution means to the second distribution means, if the second setting content is unregistered, control for prompting the operator to input the second setting content is performed. An image data distribution system characterized in that: The image data distribution system according to claim 1,
The second setting content includes an option for prohibiting the storage of the image data,
When the option is designated, the second delivery means sends the first delivery to the destination registered as the first setting content that the size of the image data exceeds a reference value. An image data distribution system that performs control to be notified by means.

Images