JP6972650B2 - Image processing systems, information processing methods and programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing system, an information processing method and a program.

A technique for detecting whether or not a digital watermark has been leaked by embedding the digital watermark data in the electronic data and tracking the digital watermark data on the Internet is already known.

For example, Patent Document 1 has a technique for tracking information in order to prevent leakage of registered information, and a technique capable of identifying a user who has leaked confidential information by leaving an operation log. It has been disclosed. According to this technique, the administrator of the registered information can track the registered information based on the data associated with the registered information.

However, according to the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, the digital watermark data embedded for leak detection is not owned by an individual, but by a company that manages the data. That is, since the individual who registered the information does not have the data for tracking the registered information, the information was leaked unless the company managing the personal information announced or notified the information leak. I couldn't tell if it wasn't.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to allow a user who has registered information to confirm for himself whether or not the registered information has been leaked.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention comprises an information input means for accepting input of information to be registered by a user, an information registration means for registering the information input by the information input means, and an information registration means for registering the information input by the information input means. A tracking data creating means for creating tracking data for tracking the information registered in the information registration means and electronically embedding it in the information, and an access information output means for outputting the tracking data. For the information registered in the information registration means, an access log associating means for associating the access right to the access log for the information with the tracking data and storing the access record for the information, and electronic embedding. A processing program that detects electronic embedding from the tracking data input means that accepts the input of the tracking data and the tracking data input by the tracking data input means and executes it when the electronic embedding is detected. According to the setting of, the access log acquisition means for acquiring the access log associated with the tracking data and the access log display means for displaying the acquired access log are provided.

According to the present invention, the user who has registered the information can confirm by himself / herself whether or not the registered information has been leaked.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image processing device. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the database. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the tracking dedicated device. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a software configuration of the image processing device. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the software configuration of the database. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a software configuration of the tracking dedicated device. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the database. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the tracking dedicated device. FIG. 11-1 is a diagram showing an outline of data registration processing performed by the image processing system. FIG. 11-2 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an outline of the access log acquisition process performed by the image processing device, the tracking dedicated device, and the database. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of the entire process performed by the image processing system. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of the initial setting process. FIG. 15-1 is a diagram showing an example of the initial setting screen. FIG. 15-2 is a diagram showing an example of a pop-up screen related to the information registration setting. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the flow of execution processing. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of the panel input process performed in the execution process. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of an information input screen. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the flow of the database registration process performed in the panel input process. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the flow of the tracking data creation process performed in the database registration process and the own machine registration process. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the flow of the own machine registration process performed in the panel input process. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the flow of the image input process performed in the execution process. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the program set to be executed. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the database in which the input information is registered. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the flow of information registration processing performed by the database. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the flow of access processing to the data table performed by the database. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the flow of access processing to the access log table performed by the database. FIG. 28 is a sequence diagram showing all the scenes in which information flows between the image processing device, the database, the tracking dedicated device, and the administrator. FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the tracking-only device that occurs at the time of initial access. FIG. 30 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the tracking dedicated device, which is generated at the time of information registration. FIG. 31 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of information between the administrator and the database, which occurs when the registered information is accessed. FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the tracking-only device that occurs when the access log is acquired.

Hereinafter, the image processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Explanation of the outline configuration of the image processing system)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image processing system 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing system 100 includes an image processing device 24, a database 40, a tracking dedicated device 52, and an Internet 54.

First, the image processing device 24 will be described.

The image processing device 24 reads personal information input by the user, such as a questionnaire result, and creates tracking data in order to track the access status of the read information. The image processing device 24 embeds the created tracking data as electronic information such as a digital watermark. As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing device 24 includes an operation display unit 2, a control unit 4, an image input unit 6, an image output unit 8, an electronic embedding unit 10, a primary storage unit 12, and 2 It includes a sub-storage unit 14, an electronic embedding detection unit 16, an authentication unit 18, a tracking unit 20, and an external communication unit 22.

Here, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the image processing device 24. As shown in FIG. 2, the image processing device 24 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 24a, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 24b, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) 24c, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 24d. , NIC (Network Interface Card) 24e, an electronic embedding unit 10, an electronic embedding detection unit 16, a touch panel device 24f, an IC card reader 24g, and an image input / output device 24h. The CPU 24a comprehensively controls the operation of the image processing device 24. The ASIC 24b is an IC (Integrated Circuit) for image processing applications having hardware elements for image processing. The image input / output device 24h is an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) or a plotter.

The ASIC24b, the HDD24d, and the NIC24e are connected to the CPU 24a via the DRAM 24c.

The electronic embedding unit 10, the electronic embedding detection unit 16, the touch panel device 24f, the IC card reader 24g, and the image input / output device 24h are connected to the ASIC 24b.

The operation display unit 2 is a touch panel device 24f including, for example, a liquid crystal display for displaying information and an operation switch for inputting information, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, and the like. The operation display unit 2 functions as an information input means for receiving information input by reading information to be registered by the user (hereinafter, simply referred to as registration information) composed of image data and document data into the image processing device 24. do. Further, the operation display unit 2 is an access log of registration information acquired or transferred by the tracking unit 20 of the image processing device 24, which will be described later, or acquired and transferred by the tracking unit 48 of the tracking dedicated device 52 (hereinafter, simply "registered"). The "information access log" is called "tracking result") and functions as a tracking result display means.

The control unit 4 is a CPU 24a. The primary storage unit 12 is a memory such as a DRAM 24c. The secondary storage unit 14 is the HDD 24d. The secondary storage unit 14 may be a storage unit such as a memory card. The secondary storage unit 14 stores the program P1. The control unit 4 executes the program P1 read from the secondary storage unit 14 to the primary storage unit 12 with the primary storage unit 12 as a work area (work area).

The control unit 4 controls various operations in the image processing device 24 by executing the program P1. The program P1 starts and executes various software belonging to the service layer of the software group described later and various software belonging to the handler layer as processes on the operating system (hereinafter referred to as OS). Further, the program P1 controls various operations in the image processing device 24 by activating and executing various software belonging to the application layer of the software group described later. Further, when the registration information is stored and stored inside the image processing device 24, the control unit 4 associates the access right to the access log for the registration information with the tracking data described later, and the tracking. It functions as an access log acquisition means for acquiring results, a means for storing tracking results, and a means for creating tracking data.

Further, the control unit 4 functions as a predetermined processing execution means for storing information for starting the program P1 (for example, a shortcut of an execution file) together with the registration information. The program P1 executed by the control unit 4 is a file in an installable format or an executable format other than being stored in the secondary storage unit 14 in advance, and is a CD-ROM, a memory card, a CD-R, or a DVD. It may be configured to be recorded and provided on a storage medium readable by a computer such as (Digital Versatile Disc).

Further, the program P1 may be stored on another computer connected to the external communication unit 22 described later, and may be provided by downloading the program P1 via the external communication unit 22. Further, the program P1 may be configured to be provided or distributed via the Internet 54.

The image input unit 6 is an ADF as the image input / output device 24h shown in FIG. The image input unit 6 functions as an input means for reading the registered information into which the image has been input into the image processing device 24. Further, the image input unit 6 is used for tracking the registration information, which will be described later, for tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1), an access destination in which the registration information is registered, or information in which a program is embedded (hereinafter,). The information in which the tracking data Tc is embedded is referred to as tracking information), which functions as a tracking information input means for reading into the image processing device 24.

The image output unit 8 is a plotter as the image input / output device 24h shown in FIG. 2, or an ASIC 24b that performs image processing. The image output unit 8 functions as an access information output means for outputting tracking data Tc as, for example, image data or document data, and as an output means for tracking information by image processing or image output.

The electronic embedding unit 10 functions as a means for embedding tracking data as a digital watermark in the registration information read by the operation display unit 2.

As described above, the primary storage unit 12 reads the program P1 from the secondary storage unit 14 and temporarily stores the registration information read by the image processing device 24 and the tracking information at the time of creating the tracking information. It functions as a work area when performing a process of embedding a digital watermark and an electronic embedding information detection process detected by the electronic embedding detection unit 16 described later.

As described above, the secondary storage unit 14 stores the program P1 executed by the control unit 4 and also stores various data used by the image processing device 24. Further, the secondary storage unit 14 also functions as a first information registration means included in the image processing device 24 for accumulating and storing registration information, if necessary.

When the user inputs the electronically embedded tracking information into the image processing device 24, the electronic embedding detection unit 16 detects the electronic embedding from the tracking information.

The authentication unit 18 is the IC card reader 24g shown in FIG. The authentication unit 18 authenticates a user who is a user based on ID information such as a passcode, which is personal information read from an IC card, or biometric information such as a user's fingerprint.

The tracking unit 20 transmits the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) to the access destination database 40 or the tracking dedicated device 52 through the external communication unit 22, so that the tracking unit 20 is transmitted from the access destination database 40 or the tracking dedicated device 52. It functions as an access log acquisition means for acquiring the tracking result of the registration information associated with the tracking data Tc. Further, the tracking unit 20 functions as a means for confirming whether the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) associated with the registered information is duplicated.

The external communication unit 22 establishes external communication by the NIC 24e shown in FIG. The external communication unit 22 communicates with the image processing device 24, the database 40, and the tracking dedicated device 52 via the Internet 54, if necessary. Through this communication, the image processing device 24 communicates with the tracking dedicated device 52 and the database 40 to create unique tracking data. Further, the external communication unit 22 transmits the read registration information and the tracking data Tc, or the registration information in which the tracking information including the tracking data Tc is electronically embedded to the database 40. Further, the image processing device 24 instructs the database 40 to track the registration information. Further, the image processing device 24 receives the tracking result from the image processing device 24, the tracking dedicated device 52, and the database 40.

The image processing device 24 can store and store the registered information inside itself and give a tracking instruction of the registered information. Alternatively, the storage and storage of the registration information and the tracking instruction of the registration information can be performed from the outside of the image processing device 24. The registration destination setting of the registration information and the tracking instruction setting are performed based on the user's instruction (initial setting process (FIG. 14) described later).

The image processing device 24 of the present embodiment realizes the electronic embedding unit 10, the electronic embedding detection unit 16, the authentication unit 18, the tracking unit 20, and the like by using dedicated hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). However, it is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 4 may realize the functions of the electronic embedding unit 10, the electronic embedding detection unit 16, the authentication unit 18, the tracking unit 20, and the like by executing the program P1.

Next, the database 40 will be described.

The database 40 functions as a second information registration means for accumulating and storing the registration information when the image processing device 24 specifies that the registration information is to be stored externally. As shown in FIG. 1, the database 40 includes a control unit 26, a primary storage unit 28, a secondary storage unit 30, an authentication unit 32, an input / output unit 34, a tracking unit 36, and an electronic embedding detection unit. 37, an external communication unit 38, and the like.

Here, FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the database 40. As shown in FIG. 3, the database 40 includes a CPU 40a, an ASIC 40b, a DRAM 40c, an HDD 40d, a NIC 40e, an electronic embedding detection unit 37, an IC card reader 40g, and an input / output device 40h. The CPU 40a comprehensively controls the operation of the database 40. The ASIC 40b is an IC for image processing applications having hardware elements for image processing.

The ASIC40b, the HDD40d, and the NIC40e are connected to the CPU 40a via the DRAM 40c.

The electronic embedding detection unit 37, the IC card reader 40g, and the input / output device 40h are connected to the ASIC 40b.

The control unit 26 is a CPU 40a. The primary storage unit 28 is, for example, a memory such as a DRAM 40c. The secondary storage unit 30 is the HDD 40d. The secondary storage unit 30 may be a storage unit such as a memory card. The secondary storage unit 30 stores the program P2 and also stores the registration information. The primary storage unit 28 reads the program P2 from the secondary storage unit 30 and functions as a work area when an access to the database 40 occurs from the outside. Further, the primary storage unit 28 functions as a work area when the tracking unit 36, which will be described later, confirms duplication of tracking data.

The control unit 26 executes the program P2 read from the secondary storage unit 30 to the primary storage unit 28. The control unit 26 controls various operations in the database 40 by executing the program P2. The program P2 starts and executes various software belonging to the service layer of the software group described later and various software belonging to the handler layer as processes on the operating system (hereinafter referred to as OS). Further, the program P2 controls various operations in the database 40 by starting and executing various software belonging to the application layer of the software group described later. Further, when the registration information is stored and stored in the database 40, the control unit 26 functions as an access log association means for associating the access right to the access log for the registration information with the tracking data, and transfers the registration information to the registration information. It functions as a means to save the access record of. Further, the control unit 26 has a function as a means for creating and managing unique data so that the tracking data Tc does not overlap.

The program P2 executed by the control unit 26 is a file in an installable format or an executable format, such as a CD-ROM, a memory card, a CD-R, or a DVD, in addition to being stored in the secondary storage unit 30 in advance. It may be configured to be recorded and provided on a computer-readable storage medium.

Further, the program P2 may be stored on another computer connected to the external communication unit 38, which will be described later, and may be provided by downloading the program P2 via the external communication unit 38. Further, the program P2 may be configured to be provided or distributed via the Internet 54.

The authentication unit 32 is an IC card reader 40 g shown in FIG. The authentication unit 32 confirms the access right to the registered information by using ID information such as a passcode, which is personal information read from the IC card.

The input / output unit 34 is the input / output device 40h shown in FIG. The input / output unit 34 manages the input / output operation generated for the registered information. Input / output operations related to registration information include editing, reference, printing, duplication, and downloading.

The electronic embedding detection unit 37 detects the content of the electronic embedding from the electronic embedding data input via the external communication unit 38. At this time, tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) or tracking information can be retrieved.

The tracking unit 36 functions as a means for confirming whether the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) associated with the registration information is duplicated.

The external communication unit 38 establishes external communication by the NIC 40e shown in FIG. The external communication unit 38 communicates with the image processing device 24 and the tracking dedicated device 52 via the Internet 54. Through this communication, the database 40 receives the registration information read from the image processing device 24 and the tracking data Tc, or the registration information in which the tracking data Tc is electronically embedded. Further, the database 40 receives an inquiry from the image processing device 24 as to whether the tracking data Tc is unique, and responds. Further, the database 40 receives the tracking instruction of the registration information from the image processing device 24. Further, the database 40 transmits the tracking result to the image processing device 24 or the tracking dedicated device 52.

The database 40 of the present embodiment is realized by hardware such as a dedicated ASIC for the authentication unit 32, the tracking unit 36, the electronic embedding detection unit 37, and the like, but the database 40 is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 26 may realize the functions of the authentication unit 32, the tracking unit 36, the electronic embedding detection unit 37, and the like by executing the program P2.

Next, the tracking-only device 52 will be described.

The tracking dedicated device 52 (access log acquisition means) creates unique tracking data Tc by the control unit 42 described later when the image processing device 24 specifies that the registration information is to be tracked externally, and is an image processing device. It is transmitted to 24, and the registration information storage destination and the tracking data Tc are stored in association with each other. When the tracking data Tc is received from the image processing device 24, the tracking data Tc is transmitted to the associated registration information storage destination, and the tracking result is transferred to the image processing device 24. As shown in FIG. 1, the tracking-only device 52 includes a control unit 42, a primary storage unit 44, a secondary storage unit 46, a tracking unit 48, and an external communication unit 50.

Here, FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the tracking dedicated device 52. As shown in FIG. 4, the tracking-only device 52 includes a CPU 52a, an ASIC 52b, a DRAM 52c, an HDD 52d, and a NIC 52e. The CPU 52a comprehensively controls the operation of the tracking dedicated device 52. The ASIC 52b is an IC for image processing applications having hardware elements for image processing.

The ASIC 52b, the HDD 52d, and the NIC 52e are connected to the CPU 52a via the DRAM 52c.

The control unit 42 is a CPU 52a. The primary storage unit 44 is a memory such as a DRAM 24c. The secondary storage unit 46 is the HDD 52d. The secondary storage unit 46 may be a storage unit such as a memory card. The secondary storage unit 46 stores the program P3, and also stores the unique tracking data Tc as information necessary for tracking the access log and the access destination associated with the tracking data Tc. The primary storage unit 44 reads the tracking-only table T5 (see FIG. 12), which will be described later, stores the access destination associated with the program P3 and the unique tracking data Tc from the secondary storage unit 46, and tracks the program P3. The dedicated device 52 functions as a work area when tracking the access log.

The control unit 42 executes the program P3 read from the secondary storage unit 46 to the primary storage unit 44. The control unit 42 controls various operations in the tracking dedicated device 52 by executing the program P3. The program P3 starts and executes various software belonging to the service layer of the software group described later and various software belonging to the handler layer as processes on the operating system (hereinafter referred to as OS). Further, the program P3 controls various operations in the tracking dedicated device 52 by activating and executing various software belonging to the application layer of the software group described later.

The program P3 executed by the control unit 42 is a file in an installable format or an executable format, such as a CD-ROM, a memory card, a CD-R, or a DVD, in addition to being stored in the secondary storage unit 46 in advance. It may be configured to be recorded and provided on a computer-readable storage medium.

Further, the program P3 may be stored on another computer connected to the external communication unit 50, which will be described later, and may be provided by downloading the program P3 via the external communication unit 50. Further, the program P3 may be configured to be provided or distributed via the Internet 54.

The tracking unit 48 transmits the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) to the access destination database 40 or the image processing device 24 through the external communication unit 50 so that the access destination database 40 or the image processing device 24 can perform the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1). It functions as an access log acquisition means for acquiring the tracking result associated with the managed tracking data Tc. Further, the tracking unit 48 functions as a means for confirming whether the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) associated with the registration information is duplicated.

The external communication unit 50 establishes external communication by the NIC 52e shown in FIG. The external communication unit 50 communicates with the database 40 and the image processing device 24 via the Internet 54, if necessary. Through this communication, the tracking dedicated device 52 receives the tracking data Tc request and the access destination from the image processing device 24, or receives the tracking data Tc, and transmits the tracking data Tc to the image processing device 24 or the database 40. , Receives tracking results from the database 40 or the image processing device 24. The tracking-only device 52 transmits the tracking result of the target to the image processing device 24.

The tracking dedicated device 52 of the present embodiment is realized by hardware such as a dedicated ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) for the tracking unit 48 and the like, but is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 42 may realize the functions of the tracking unit 48 and the like by executing the program P3.

The Internet 54 is a computer network connected to the image processing device 24, the database 40, and the tracking dedicated device 52, respectively. The user accesses the image processing device 24 connected to the Internet 54, the database 40, and the tracking-only device 52, and uses the image processing system 100.

(Explanation of software configuration of image processing system)
The software configuration of the image processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a software configuration of the image processing device 24. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a software configuration of the database 40. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a software configuration of the tracking dedicated device 52.

(Explanation of software configuration of image processing device)
As shown in FIG. 5, the image processing device 24 includes a software group 200 for realizing various operations by utilizing the engine 150 and the hardware resource 170. The software group 200 includes an application layer 250a and a platform 250e that are started on an OS such as UNIX (registered trademark).

As shown in FIG. 5, the platform 250e includes a service layer 250b, a handler layer 250c, and a hard layer 250d. Further, the platform 250e has an API (Application Program Interface) 225 that receives a processing request from the application layer 250a by a predefined function, and an engine I / that transmits a processing request to the hardware resource 170 by a predefined function. F235 and.

The application layer 250a is composed of software that integrates control according to each application included in the image processing device 24. The software implemented in the application layer 250a executes a predetermined function of each application by receiving an instruction request or a setting request from the operation screen of the image processing device 24 and making a necessary request to the platform 250e.

As shown in FIG. 5, for example, the application layer 250a includes a printer application 201 which is a printer application, a copy application 202 which is a copy application, a fax application 203 which is a facsimile application, and a scanner application 204 which is a scanner application. The net file application 205 and the like, which are applications for net files, are implemented.

The service layer 250b controls the input function, the output function, the user authentication function, the electronic embedding function, the electronic embedding detection function, and the external communication function of the image processing device 24, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 5, for example, the service layer 250b includes NCS (Network Control Service) 211, OCS (Operation panel Control Service) 212, FCS (FAX Control Service) 213, MCS (Memory Control Service) 214, and ECS (Engine). 1 such as Control Service) 215, DCS (Delivery Control Service) 216, CCS (Certification and Charge Control Service) 217, LCS (Log Control Service) 218, UCS (User Information Control Service) 219, SCS (System Control Service) 220, etc. Two or more service modules (processes) are implemented.

The NCS211 process provides services that can be commonly used for applications that require network I / O. The NCS211 distributes the data received from the network side by each protocol to each application and mediates when transmitting the data from each application to the network side. The process of OCS212 controls the operation display unit 2 that inputs the registration information, for example, the touch panel. The process of FCS213 is fax transmission / reception using the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Networks) or ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) network from the application layer 250a, registration / citation of various fax data managed by the backup memory, and fax reading. , Provides API (Application Program Interface) for receiving and printing faxes.

The process of MCS214 controls the memory of the primary storage unit 12 and the secondary storage unit 14. The process of ECS215 controls the hard layer 250d including the engine 150 and the hardware resource 170 described later. The process of DCS216 controls distribution of stored documents and the like. The CCS217 process controls authentication and billing. The process of LCS218 manages and retains log information. The process of UCS219 manages user information. The process of SCS220 performs processing such as application management, operation unit control, system screen display control, hardware resource management, and interrupt application control.

The service layer 250b further includes an SRM (System Resource Manager) 210. The SRM210, together with the SCS220, controls the system and manages the hardware resource 170. For example, the process of SRM210 performs arbitration and controls execution according to an acquisition request from an upper layer that uses the engine 150 and the hardware resource 170. Specifically, the process of SRM210 determines whether the hardware resource 170 requested to be acquired is available, and if it is available, the upper layer indicates that the hardware resource 170 requested to be acquired is available. Notice. Further, the process of SRM210 performs scheduling for using the hardware resource 170 in response to the acquisition request from the upper layer, and the request contents (for example, paper transfer and image drawing operation by the printer engine, memory allocation, file generation, etc.) ) Is executed.

The handler layer 250c controls data storage and data reading in the primary storage unit 12 and the secondary storage unit 14, and controls hardware belonging to the hardware layer 250d, which will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 5, for example, FCUH (Facsimile Control Unit Handler) 231, IMH (Image Memory Handler) 232, and MEU (Media Edit Utility) 233 are mounted on the handler layer 250c.

The FCUH231 manages a control unit that controls a facsimile function included in the hard layer 250d described later. The IMH232 allocates memory to the process and manages the memory allocated to the process. The MEU 233 is connected to the hardware layer 250d, which will be described later, and controls an MLB (Media Link Board) (not shown in FIG. 5) included in the hardware resource 170.

As shown in FIG. 5, the engine 150 and the hardware resource 170 are mounted on the hard layer 250d. The engine 150 is a hardware resource that controls a plotter, a scanner, and the like. The hardware resource 170 is a hardware resource other than the engine 150 (hardware that exchanges data with the engine 150).

(Explanation of database software configuration)
Next, the software configuration implemented in the database 40 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the database 40 includes, for example, software group 300 for realizing various operations by utilizing the I / O device 320 and the hardware resource 322. The software group 300 includes an application layer 300a and a platform 300e that are started on an OS such as UNIX (registered trademark).

The platform 300e includes a service layer 300b, a handler layer 300c, and a hard layer 300d. Further, the platform 300e is for an API (Application Program Interface) 312 that receives a processing request from the application layer 300a by a predefined function and a connection that transmits a processing request to the I / O device 320 by a predefined function. The I / F 314 and the like are provided.

The application layer 300a includes a DB management application 301 that manages the database 40. The DB management application 301 realizes the function of the application by receiving the setting request and making a request to the platform 300e.

The service layer 300b is included in the OS 310, and as shown in FIG. 6, controls each function of the user authentication 302, the file management 303, the authority management 304, and the tracking management 305.

The handler layer 300c is also included in the OS 310, and controls data storage and data reading for the primary storage unit 28 and the secondary storage unit 30 (both in FIG. 1), and control for hardware devices belonging to the hardware layer 300d, which will be described later. For example, the input from the I / O device 320 is received, the output result is displayed, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 6, for example, an I / O device 320 and a hardware resource 322 are mounted on the hardware layer 300d. The I / O device 320 is, for example, an input / output device such as a display, a keyboard, and a mouse. The hardware resource 322 is a hardware resource other than the I / O device 320 (hardware that exchanges data with the I / O device 320).

(Explanation of software configuration of tracking dedicated device)
Next, the software configuration implemented in the tracking dedicated device 52 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, the software configuration implemented in the tracking dedicated device 52 is the same as the software configuration implemented in the database 40 described above. The tracking-only device 52 includes, for example, a software group 350 for realizing various operations by using the I / O device 370 and the hardware resource 372. The software group 350 includes an application layer 350a and a platform 350e that are started on an OS such as UNIX (registered trademark).

The platform 350e includes a service layer 350b, a handler layer 350c, and a hard layer 350d. Further, the platform 350e is for an API (Application Program Interface) 362 that receives a processing request from the application layer 350a by a predefined function and a connection that transmits a processing request to the I / O device 370 by the predefined function. I / F364 and.

The application layer 350a includes a DB management application 351 that manages the tracking result or tracking data Tc stored in the tracking dedicated device 52, the tracking data Tc, and the tracking dedicated table storing the access destination. The DB management application 351 realizes the function of the application by receiving the setting request and making a request to the platform 350e.

The service layer 350b is included in the OS 360, and as shown in FIG. 7, controls each function of the user authentication 352, the file management 353, the authority management 354, and the tracking management 355.

The handler layer 350c is also included in the OS 360, and controls data storage and data reading for the primary storage unit 44 and the secondary storage unit 46 (both in FIG. 1), and control for hardware devices belonging to the hardware layer 350d, which will be described later. For example, it accepts input from the I / O device 370 and displays the output result.

As shown in FIG. 7, for example, an I / O device 370 and a hardware resource 372 are mounted on the hardware layer 350d. The I / O device 370 is, for example, a display, a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. The hardware resource 372 is a hardware resource other than the I / O device 370 (hardware that exchanges data with the I / O device 370).

(Explanation of the functional configuration of the image processing system)
Next, the functional configuration of the image processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image processing device 24. FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the database 40. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the tracking dedicated device 52.

(Explanation of the functional configuration of the image processing device)
First, the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 24 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the image processing device 24 includes an information input function 102, an authentication function 104, a tracking function 106, electronic embedding functions 108a and 108b, an image input function 110, and an electronic embedding detection function 112. It includes an access log acquisition function 114, a database editing function 116, an output function 118, a self-machine registration function 120, and an external registration function 122.

The information input function 102 performs initial setting processing (setting input) of the image processing system 100 and input of registration information (data input). The contents of the initial setting process will be described later. The operation display unit 2 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the information input function 102.

The authentication function 104 authenticates a user who is a user of the image processing system 100. If the authentication is unsuccessful, the information input function 102 is prompted to input information for authentication again. The authentication unit 18 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the authentication function 104.

When the authentication function 104 authenticates the user and the tracking data Tc is created by the own machine, the tracking function 106 is created so as to be unique data. At this time, the tracking function 106 is created by confirming whether the tracking data Tc is duplicated before registering the registration information. When the tracking data Tc is acquired from the tracking dedicated device 52, the tracking function 106 acquires the tracking data Tc by communicating with the tracking dedicated device 52. The tracking function 106 also communicates with the registration destination where the registration information is registered when the electronic embedding detection function 112 described later detects the tracking data Tc or the tracking data Tc is input by the information input function 102. The access log acquisition function 114 is requested to obtain the tracking result. The tracking unit 20 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the tracking function 106.

The electronic embedding function 108a embeds the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) described later in the registration information. Further, the electronic embedding function 108b embeds the tracking data Tc in an image so that the user who has input the registration information can own it, and outputs the tracking data Tc using the output function 118 described later. The electron embedding unit 10 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the electron embedding functions 108a and 108b. In addition to the tracking data Tc, the program that operates when the image processing device 24 detects the tracking data Tc, or the information of the registration information destination may be embedded in the registration information.

The image input function 110 reads the image in which the tracking information is embedded or the registration information into the image processing device 24. The image input unit 6 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the image input function 110.

The electronic embedding detection function 112 detects the electronic embedding information from the information input by the image input function 110. The electronic embedding detection function 112 detects an access destination or an operation program as tracking information including tracking data Tc. The electronic embedding detection unit 16 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the electronic embedding detection function 112.

The access log acquisition function 114 transmits tracking data Tc to the access destination and acquires the tracking result as an access log for the registered information. The tracking unit 20 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the access log acquisition function 114.

The database editing function 116 manages the access log for the registration information in the own machine registration function 120 described later, and associates the access log with the tracking data Tc created by the tracking function 106 or the tracking data Tc acquired from the outside. .. The control unit 4 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the database editing function 116.

The output function 118 performs error output 124 when electronic embedding cannot be detected by the electronic embedding detection setting from the image information input by the image input function 110. Further, the output function 118 outputs the tracking result acquired by the access log acquisition function 114 (access log output 126). Further, the output function 118 outputs image data 128 including electronically embedded tracking information. The operation display unit 2 and the image output unit 8 shown in FIG. 1 realize the output function 118.

The own machine registration function 120 stores and stores registration information inside the image processing device 24, and gives a tracking instruction. The secondary storage unit 14 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the own machine registration function 120.

The external registration function 122 transmits registration information and tracking data Tc to another image processing device 24 or database 40 as an outside of the image processing device 24, and gives a tracking instruction. The control unit 4 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the external registration function 122.

(Explanation of database function configuration)
Next, the functional configuration of the database 40 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the database 40 includes an external access detection function 130, an access authority reference function 132, an authentication function 134, an electronic embedding detection function 135, a database editing function 136, a tracking function 138, and an own machine. It has a registration function 140.

The external access detection function 130 detects whether the database 40 is accessed from the outside. The control unit 26 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the external access detection function 130.

The access authority reference function 132 refers to the access authority for the information registered in the database 40. The control unit 26 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the access authority reference function 132.

The authentication function 134 authenticates the user who has accessed the database 40. When the access authentication fails, the external access detection function 130 waits for re-access. The authentication unit 32 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the authentication function 134.

The electronic embedding detection function 135 detects the electronic embedding in the input information. Tracking data Tc is detected as embedded data. The electronic embedding detection unit 37 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the electronic embedding detection function 141.

The database editing function 136 manages the access log for the registration information, and also associates the tracking data Tc with the access log. The control unit 26 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the database editing function 136.

The tracking function 138 confirms whether the tracking data Tc received before the information registration is duplicated with the tracking data Tc associated with the access log table described later, which is managed by the database 40. The tracking unit 36 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the tracking function 138.

The own machine registration function 140 stores and stores the registration information in the database 40, and gives a tracking instruction. The secondary storage unit 30 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the data storage function 140.

(Explanation of the functional configuration of the dedicated tracking device)
Next, the functional configuration of the tracking-only device 52 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the tracking-only device 52 includes an external access detection function 142, an authentication function 144, a tracking database reference function 145, a tracking function 146, and an access log acquisition function 148.

The external access detection function 142 detects whether or not the tracking dedicated device 52 is accessed from the outside. The control unit 42 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the external access detection function 142.

The authentication function 144 authenticates the access authority for the accessed data (access log) in the tracking dedicated device 52. If the authentication is unsuccessful, the external access detection function 142 waits for re-access. The control unit 42 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the authentication function 144.

The tracking database reference function 145 sets an access destination from the received tracking-only data Tc by referring to the tracking-only table T5 in which the tracking data Tc registered in the tracking-only device 52 and the access destination are associated with each other. The tracking unit 48 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the tracking database reference function 145.

The tracking function 146 transmits the tracking data Tc that does not overlap from the tracking-only table T5 to the image forming apparatus 24 that has requested it. The tracking unit 48 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the tracking function 146.

The access log acquisition function 148 transmits tracking data Tc to the access destination acquired by the tracking database reference function 145, acquires the tracking result, and transfers it to the requested image forming apparatus 24. The tracking unit 48 shown in FIG. 1 realizes the access log acquisition function 148.

As described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10, the image processing system 100 stores the registered information inside the image processing device 24, and the image processing device 24 itself can acquire the tracking result. can. Further, the registered information can be stored in the database 40 outside the image processing device 24. When the registered information is stored in the database 40, the tracking result can be acquired inside the database 40. Further, the acquisition of the tracking result can also be performed by the tracking dedicated device 52.

That is, the image processing system 100 may be configured only by the image processing device 24, or may be configured to include the database 40 and the tracking dedicated device 52 in addition to the image processing device 24. The configuration should be decided in consideration of the scale of the system, the purpose of the system, and the like. Hereinafter, the outline of the processing executed by the image processing system 100 will be described. Here, the information input from the image processing device 24 is stored in the database 40, and the tracking result is acquired by the tracking dedicated device 52. It is explained as.

(Explanation of the outline of the data registration process)
An outline of the data registration process performed by the image processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11-1 and 11-2. FIG. 11-1 is a diagram showing an outline of data registration processing performed by the image processing system 100, and FIG. 11-2 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure.

As shown in FIG. 11-1, when the user inputs information I1 such as a questionnaire result to the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24, the image processing device 24 registers the input information I1 as information I2. And communicates with a dedicated tracking device to generate tracking data Tc as unique data.

The read information I2 and the tracking data Tc are uploaded to the database 40 and stored in the database 40 in the free area of the data table T1, in the example of FIG. 11-2, in the column of "003" of the data table T1. The read information I2 is written.

Further, the information I2 written in the database 40 is associated with the access log table T2 accumulating the access history for each information I2 by the tracking data Tc. The access log table T2 is further associated with the access log management authority table T3 that stores the management authority for the access log table T2. Further, the access log management authority table T3 is associated with the download management table T4.

The access log table T2 stores the number of prints, the number of edits, the number of duplicates, the number of references, and the number of downloads for the registered information as an access history (access log) in association with the tracking data Tc.

Thereby, by using the tracking data Tc, the user can refer to the access log table T2 for the information I2 written in the database 40.

The access log management authority table T3 stores the access authority to the access log table T2 in association with the tracking data Tc. According to the example of the access log table number "003" shown in FIG. 11-2, the authority to the access history (access log) of the uploaded data is given, and the access history (access log) can be referred and downloaded. ing.

The download management table T4 records the download execution record (download date and time) and the downloader for the access log table number. No data is recorded in the download management table T4 when the download is not executed.

(Explanation of the outline of access log acquisition process)
Next, the outline of the access log acquisition process performed by the image processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an outline of the access log acquisition process performed by the image processing system 100.

As shown in FIG. 12, the user who inputs the information I1 (FIG. 11-1) to the image processing device 24 receives the image data J1 in which the tracking data Tc is electronically embedded from the image processing device 24. .. The user manages the image data J1 and causes the image processing device 24 to read the image data J1 when he / she wants to check the access history to the information I1.

When the image processing device 24 reads the image data J1 and recognizes that the tracking data Tc is electronically embedded, it accesses the tracking dedicated device 52. The tracking-only device 52 determines an access destination from the tracking-only table T5 managed from the received tracking data Tc, and transmits the tracking data Tc to the database 40 which is the access destination. The database 40 refers to the access log table T2 associated with the tracking data Tc with respect to the registered data table T1. The database 40 transmits the tracking result to the tracking-only device 52 when it becomes a target in the access log table T2, and the tracking-only device 52 transfers the tracking result to the image processing device 24.

The database 40 or the tracking-only device 52 refers to the column of the tracking data Tc in the access log table T2, and reads the access log L1 of the information corresponding to the tracking data Tc. Then, the database 40 or the tracking-only device 52 transmits the read access log L1 to the image processing device 24. The image processing device 24 receives the transmitted access log L1 and displays it on the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24 as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 12, the access log L1 displayed on the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24 is the number of prints, which is the number of print executions for the registered information, the number of edits, which is the number of edits, and the duplication. The number of duplicates, which is the number of executions, the number of references, which is the number of references executed, and the number of downloads, which is the number of downloads. In addition, the access log L1 includes at least one of the download date and time and the downloader when the download is being executed.

The user browses the contents of the access log L1 displayed on the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24 and confirms whether or not the information is leaked. In the example of FIG. 12, it can be confirmed that the number of references to the registered information is a very large value. Therefore, it is presumed that the registered information may have been accessed from the outside.

(Explanation of the processing flow performed by the image processing system)
Next, the flow of a series of processes performed by the image processing system 100 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of the entire process performed by the image processing system 100.

First, the image processing device 24 performs the initial setting process (step S10). The initial setting process includes setting the registration destination of the information read by the image processing device 24, setting the acquisition destination of the access log, setting the creation location of the tracking data Tc, setting the presence / absence of detection of electronic embedding, and the like. This is the process to be performed. The flow of the initial setting process is shown in FIG.

Next, the image processing device 24 performs execution processing (step S12). The execution process is a process of acquiring a tracking result for the information based on the information read by the image processing device 24 and displaying the acquired result. The flow of execution processing is shown in FIG.

(Explanation of the flow of initial setting process)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of the initial setting process. Further, FIG. 15-1 is a diagram showing an example of the initial setting screen 400 displayed on the touch panel constituting the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24. FIG. 15-2 is a diagram showing an example of a pop-up screen 401 related to the information registration setting displayed on the touch panel constituting the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24.

First, the image processing device 24 performs an authentication process for authenticating a user who is a user (step S18).

Next, the image processing device 24 displays the initial setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 15-1 on the operation display unit 2 (touch panel) (step S20).

Subsequently, the image processing device 24 sets the information registration (step S22). Depending on the information registration settings, select whether the information is registered on the own machine (image processing device 24) or the outside (database 40), and whether to allow access from the outside when registering the information on the own machine. Select or select whether to set accessability manually each time information is entered. Specifically, necessary selection is made in the information registration setting field 400a of the initial setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 15-1.

For example, in step S22, when the information registration setting field 400a of the initial setting screen 400 is operated, the image processing device 24 displays the pop-up screen 401 shown in FIG. 15-2. In the pop-up screen 401 shown in FIG. 15-2, it is possible to select whether the information is registered in the own machine (image processing device 24) or the outside (database 40), and the storage destination when the information is registered in the own machine. Alternatively, it is possible to set the storage destination when registering information externally. In the pop-up screen 401 shown in FIG. 15-2, the own machine is selected as the information registration destination, and external access is also permitted. When the OK button 410 of the pop-up screen 401 is operated in this state, the information registration setting field 400a of the initial setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 15-1 is set.

Further, the image processing device 24 sets the access log acquisition setting (step S24). Depending on the access log acquisition settings, you can select whether to acquire the access log of the registered information on your own machine (image processing device 24) or externally (database 40 or tracking dedicated device 52), and the acquired access log. Select whether to keep it. Specifically, necessary selection is made in the access log acquisition setting field 400b of the initial setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 15-1.

Further, the image processing device 24 sets the tracking data acquisition setting (step S26). Depending on the tracking data acquisition setting, it is selected whether to create the tracking data Tc (FIG. 11-1) on its own machine (image processing device 24) or to create and acquire it on an external device (tracking dedicated device 52). Specifically, necessary selection is made in the tracking data acquisition setting field 400c of the initial setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 15-1.

Then, the image processing device 24 sets the electronic embedding (step S28). Depending on the electronic embedding settings, select whether to detect electronic embedding and set the processing program to be executed when electronic embedding is detected (acquire access log, print access log, etc.). Specifically, necessary selection is made in the electronic embedding setting field 400d of the initial setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 15-1. After that, the initial setting process is terminated.

(Explanation of execution process flow)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the flow of execution processing. First, the image processing device 24 determines whether to perform the panel input processing or the image input processing (step S30). When performing the panel input processing, the process proceeds to step S32, and when performing the image input processing, the process proceeds to step S34.

Next, the image processing device 24 performs panel input processing (step S32). The panel input process is a process for setting access to the database 40, inputting data to the database 40, and the like. When the panel input process is completed, the execution process is completed. The flow of the panel input process is shown in FIG. 17, which will be described later.

Then, the image processing device 24 performs image input processing (step S34). The image input process is a process of inputting an image in which access information to the database 40 is electronically embedded. When the image input process is completed, the execution process is completed. The flow of the image input process is shown in FIG. 22, which will be described later.

(Explanation of the flow of panel input processing)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of panel input processing. First, the image processing device 24 accepts the input of information to be registered (step S40).

Next, the image processing device 24 confirms the result of the information registration setting in the initial setting process (FIG. 14), and confirms whether or not the information is registered in the database 40 (step S42). When the information is registered in the database 40 (step S42; Yes), the process proceeds to step S44, and at other times (step S42; No), the process proceeds to step S46.

The image processing device 24 performs a database registration process for registering the input information in the database 40 (step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S48. The flow of the database registration process is shown in FIG. 19, which will be described later.

The image processing device 24 performs a self-machine registration process for registering the input information in the image processing device 24 itself (step S46). Then, the process proceeds to step S48. The flow of the own machine registration process is shown in FIG. 21, which will be described later.

The image processing device 24 determines whether to output the tracking data Tc (step S48). The image processing device 24 may determine that the tracking data Tc is output when the information registration destination has an access log management function for managing the access log. When the tracking data Tc is output (step S48; Yes), the process proceeds to step S50, and in other cases (step S48; No), the panel input process is terminated.

The image processing device 24 outputs an image in which the tracking data Tc, the registration destination of the input information, and the program that operates at the time of detection are electronically embedded, or outputs the tracking information to the operation screen (step S50). After that, the panel input process is terminated.

Next, the flow of the database registration process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the image processing device 24 establishes communication with the selected database 40 (step S60).

The image processing device 24 confirms whether communication with the database 40 has been established (step S62). When communication is established (step S62; Yes), the process proceeds to step S64, and at other times (step S62; No), the process proceeds to step S76.

The image processing device 24 confirms whether the database 40 has an access log management function (step S64). When the database 40 has the access log management function (step S64; Yes), the process proceeds to step S66, and at other times (step S64; No), the process proceeds to step S72.

The image processing device 24 performs a tracking data creation process for creating tracking data Tc (step S66). The flow of the tracking data creation process is shown in FIG. 20, which will be described later.

The image processing device 24 uploads the created tracking data Tc and the input information to the database 40 (step S68).

The image processing device 24 receives a notification from the database 40 indicating that the tracking data Tc is associated with the access log of the input information (step S70). After that, the database registration process is terminated.

In step S64, when the database 40 does not have the access log management function (step S64; No), the image processing apparatus 24 confirms whether to only register information to the user (step S72). When only information registration is performed (step S72; Yes), the process proceeds to step S74, and at other times (step S72; No), the process proceeds to step S76.

The image processing device 24 uploads the input information to the database 40 (step S74). After that, the database registration process is terminated.

When communication is not established between the image processing device 24 and the database 40 in step S62 (step S62; No), or when it is determined in step S72 that only information registration is not performed (step S72). In (No), the image processing device 24 displays an error indicating that communication is not possible on the operation display unit 2 (touch panel) (step S76). After that, the database registration process is terminated.

Next, the flow of the tracking data creation process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the image processing device 24 determines whether to create the tracking data Tc by its own machine (image processing device 24) by checking the setting contents of the initial setting process (FIG. 14) (step S80). When the tracking data Tc is created by the own machine (step S80; Yes), the image processing apparatus 24 creates the tracking data Tc (step S82) and proceeds to step S86.

In step S86, the image processing device 24 confirms whether or not the same tracking data Tc as the created data is in the information registration destination. When the image processing device 24 determines that the same tracking data Tc as the created information exists in the information registration destination (step S86; Yes), the image processing apparatus 24 returns to step S82 and creates the tracking data Tc again (step S82). .. When the image processing device 24 determines that the same as the created tracking data Tc is not in the information registration destination (step S86; No), the image processing device 24 ends the tracking data creation process.

On the other hand, when the tracking data Tc is received from the outside without being created by the own machine (step S80; No), the image processing apparatus 24 proceeds to step S84.

The image processing device 24 instructs the external device that creates the tracking data Tc to create the tracking data Tc, and receives the created tracking data Tc (step S84). After that, the tracking data creation process is terminated.

Next, the flow of the own machine registration process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the image processing device 24 confirms whether or not it has an access log management function (step S90). When the image processing device 24 has the access log management function (step S90; Yes), the process proceeds to step S92, and at other times (step S90; No), the process proceeds to step S98.

The image processing device 24 performs a tracking data creation process for creating tracking data Tc (step S92). The flow of the tracking data creation process is as described above (FIG. 20).

The image processing device 24 stores the tracking data Tc and the input information in its own machine (image processing device 24) (step S94).

The image processing device 24 confirms that the tracking data Tc is associated with the access log of the input information (step S96). After that, the self-machine registration process is completed.

In step S90, when the image processing device 24 does not have the access log management function (step S90; No), the image processing device 24 stores the input information in its own machine (image processing device 24) (step S98). ). After that, the self-machine registration process is completed.

Here, an example of the panel input process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of an information input screen 402 displayed on a touch panel constituting the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24 when performing panel input processing.

As shown in FIG. 18, after completing the input of the information 402a to be registered, the upload destination of the information is specified. FIG. 18 is an example in which ABC is input in the registration destination 402b field and information is registered in the ABC server.

Next, in the access log access form output field 402c, it is set whether or not the tracking data Tc for referring to the tracking result is output. FIG. 18 is an example in which the output of the image in which the tracking data Tc is embedded is selected. After that, when the operation button 402d is pressed, uploading of the registered information is started.

(Explanation of the flow of image input processing)
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the flow of the image input process. First, the image processing device 24 confirms whether the information is registered by inputting the image as the registration information at the time of operation input (step S111). In the case of information registration (step S111: Yes), the image processing apparatus 24 proceeds to step S112, and in other cases, proceeds to step S100.

Next, the image processing device 24 confirms whether or not the information is registered in the database 40 (step S112). When the image processing apparatus 24 registers the information in the database 40 (step S112; Yes), the image processing apparatus 24 proceeds to step S113. When the image processing apparatus 24 does not register the information in the database 40 (step S112; No), the image processing apparatus 24 proceeds to step S114.

The image processing device 24 performs a database registration process for registering the input information in the database 40 (step S113), and proceeds to step S115. Since the flow of the database registration process is the same as that of FIG. 19 described above, the description thereof will be omitted here.

The image processing device 24 performs a self-machine registration process for registering the input information in the image processing device 24 itself (step S114), and proceeds to step S115. Since the flow of the own machine registration process is the same as that of FIG. 21 described above, the description thereof will be omitted here.

Next, the image processing device 24 determines whether to output the tracking data Tc (step S115). The image processing device 24 may determine that the tracking data Tc is output when the information registration destination has an access log management function for managing the access log. The image processing apparatus 24 proceeds to step S116 when the tracking data Tc is output (step S115; Yes), and ends the image input process at other times (step S115; No).

The image processing device 24 outputs an image in which tracking information is electronically embedded, or outputs tracking information to an operation screen (step S116), and ends the image input process.

The image processing device 24 confirms whether or not the setting is set to detect electronic embedding at the time of image input by the above-mentioned initial setting process (FIG. 14) (step S100). When it is set to detect electronic embedding (step S100; Yes), the process proceeds to step S102, and when it is not set (step S100; No), the process proceeds to step S110.

The image processing device 24 detects the electronic embedding (tracking data Tc) from the input image (step S102).

The image processing device 24 confirms whether or not there is a program detected as electronic embedding (step S104). If there is a program detected as electronic embedding (step S104; Yes), the process proceeds to step S106, and if not (step S104; No), the process proceeds to step S108.

The image processing device 24 operates the program detected as electronic embedding (step S106). FIG. 23 shows an example of the processing performed by the program detected as electronic embedding. When the operation of the program ends, the image input process ends.

The image processing device 24 displays the electronically embedded contents (contents of tracking data Tc, access destination code set at the time of output, etc.) on the operation display unit 2 (step S108). After that, the image input process ends.

The image processing device 24 outputs the input image as it is (step S110). After that, the image input process ends.

(Explanation of program processing flow)
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of a program that is embedded in advance by the image processing device 24 and set to be executed when the tracking data Tc is detected. Note that FIG. 23 shows the flow of processing of the program for acquiring the tracking result.

The image processing device 24 confirms whether the detected electronic embedding is the tracking data Tc and the access destination (step S120). When the detected electron embedding is the tracking data Tc and the access destination (step S120; Yes), the process proceeds to step S122, and when the other time (step S120; No), the process proceeds to step S140.

The image processing device 24 acquires the tracking data Tc detected from the electronic embedding and the access destination (step S122).

The image processing device 24 confirms whether the acquired access destination is external (step S124). When the access destination is external (step S124; Yes), the process proceeds to step S126, and when the access destination is other than that (step S124; No), the process proceeds to step S134.

The image processing device 24 establishes communication with the access destination (step S126).

The image processing device 24 confirms whether communication has been established with the access destination (step S128). When communication is established (step S128; Yes), the process proceeds to step S130, and at other times (step S128; No), the process proceeds to step S136.

The image processing device 24 transmits the tracking data Tc to the access destination and acquires the tracking result (step S130).

The image processing device 24 displays the acquired access log on the operation display unit 2 (step S132). At this time, for example, the access log L1 shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the touch panel constituting the operation display unit 2 of the image processing device 24. After that, the program operation is terminated.

In step S120, when the detected electronic embedding is not the access destination to the tracking data Tc, the image processing device 24 operates another program (step S140). After that, the program operation is terminated. Since the separate program is not related to this embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

In step S124, when the acquired access destination is not external (that is, when the input information is registered in the own machine), the image processing device 24 refers to the access log by the own machine by the tracking data Tc. It is confirmed whether or not the user has the authority (step S134). When the user has the authority to refer to the access log (step S134; Yes), the process proceeds to step S138, and at other times (step S134; No), the process proceeds to step S136.

When the image processing device 24 has the authority to refer to the access log of the information registered in the own machine (step S134; Yes), the access log table T2 (FIG. 11-2) that matches the tracking data Tc is acquired. And display it on the operation display unit 2 (step S138). After that, the program operation is terminated.

When the image processing device 24 does not have the authority to refer to the access log of the information registered in the own machine (step S134; No), or in step S128, between the image processing device 24 and the access destination. When communication is not established (step S128; No), the operation display unit 2 displays that there is no information (step S136). After that, the program operation is terminated.

(Explanation of the flow of processing executed by the database)
Next, with reference to FIG. 24, the flow of processing performed in the database 40 or the image processing device 24 in which the input information is registered when the image processing system 100 performs the series of processing shown in FIG. explain. Note that FIG. 24 shows the flow of processing when the input information is registered in the external (database 40). When the input information is registered in the own machine (image processing device 24), the same processing as described below is performed on the image processing device 24.

The database 40 confirms whether or not there is access from the image processing device 24 (step S150). When there is access (step S150; Yes), the process proceeds to step S152, and at other times (step S150; No), step S150 is repeated.

The database 40 confirms whether the access destination of the image processing device 24 is the data table T1 (FIG. 11-2) or the access log table T2 (FIG. 11-2) (step S152). When the access destination of the image processing device 24 is the data table T1, the process proceeds to step S154, and when the access destination of the image processing device 24 is the access log table T2, the process proceeds to step S160.

The database 40 confirms whether the image processing device 24 requests the registration of information (step S154). When the image processing device 24 requests the registration of information (step S154; Yes), the process proceeds to step S156, and at other times (step S154; No), the process proceeds to step S158.

The database 40 performs information registration processing (step S156). After that, the process of FIG. 24 is terminated. The flow of the information registration process is shown in FIG.

The database 40 performs an access process to the data table T1 (step S158). After that, the process of FIG. 24 is terminated. The flow of access processing to the data table T1 is shown in FIG.

The database 40 performs access processing to the access log table T2 (step S160). After that, the process of FIG. 24 is terminated. FIG. 27 shows the flow of access processing to the access log table T2.

(Explanation of the flow of information registration process)
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the flow of information registration processing performed by the image processing device 24 and the database 40. Here, it is assumed that the database 40 performs. First, the database 40 confirms whether there is a space in the data table T1 for registering new information (step S170). When there is a vacancy (step S170; Yes), the process proceeds to step S172, and when there is no space (step S170; No), the process proceeds to step S180.

Next, the database 40 registers information in the free area of the data table T1 (step S172).

The database 40 confirms whether the tracking data Tc is included in the data sent from the image processing device 24 (step S174). When there is tracking data Tc (step S174; Yes), the process proceeds to step S176, and when there is no tracking data Tc (step S174; No), the process proceeds to step S178.

The database 40 grants an access right by registering the tracking data Tc in the access log management authority table T3 (FIG. 11-2) corresponding to the data table T1 in which the information is registered (step S176).

The database 40 notifies the image processing device 24 that the information registration has been successful (step S178). After that, the information registration process is terminated.

When it is determined in step S170 that there is no space for registering new information in the data table T1 (step S170; No), the database 40 registers the information with the image processing device 24. Notify that it cannot be done (step S180). After that, the information registration process is terminated.

(Explanation of the flow of access processing to the data table)
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the flow of access processing to the data table T1 performed by the image processing device 24 and the database 40. Here, it is assumed that the database 40 performs. First, the database 40 confirms the access content from the image processing device 24 (step S190). If the access content is "edit", the process proceeds to step S192. If the access content is "reference", the process proceeds to step S194. If the access content is "print", the process proceeds to step S196. If the access content is "duplicate", the process proceeds to step S198. If the access content is "download", the process proceeds to step S201.

In the database 40, the edit count is added to obtain the number of edits (step S192).

The database 40 adds the reference counts to obtain the number of references (step S194).

In the database 40, the print count is added to obtain the number of prints (step S196).

In the database 40, the duplication count is added to obtain the number of duplications (step S198).

In the database 40, the download count is added to obtain the number of downloads (step S201). In addition, the database 40 records the downloader (step S202) and records the download date and time (step S203).

The database 40 reflects each addition result of the number of edits, the number of references, the number of prints, the number of duplicates, and the number of downloads, the downloader, and the download date and time in the access log table T2 (step S200). After that, the access process to the data table T1 is terminated.

(Explanation of the flow of access processing to the access log table)
FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the flow of access processing to the access log table T2 performed by the image processing device 24 and the database 40. Here, it is assumed that the database 40 performs. First, the database 40 confirms whether or not there is tracking data Tc (step S210). When there is tracking data Tc (step S210; Yes), the process proceeds to step S212, and when there is no tracking data Tc (step S210; No), the process proceeds to step S220.

Next, the database 40 refers to the access log management authority table T3 and confirms whether or not the access log has access authority (step S212). When there is an access authority (step S212; Yes), the process proceeds to step S214, and when there is no other access authority (step S212; No), the process proceeds to step S218.

The database 40 acquires the access log corresponding to the tracking data Tc from the access log table T2 (step S214).

The database 40 responds to the image processing device 24 with the acquired access log (step S216). After that, the access process to the access log table T2 is terminated.

In step S212, when there is no access authority to the access log (step S212; No), the database 40 notifies the image processing apparatus 24 that the access authority is not available (step S218). After that, the access process to the access log table T2 is terminated.

In step S210, when there is no tracking data Tc (step S210; No), the database 40 notifies the image processing device 24 that access to the access log is not possible (step S220). After that, the access process to the access log table T2 is terminated.

(Explanation of the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the dedicated tracking device)
Next, the flow of information between the image processing device 24, the database 40, the tracking dedicated device 52, and the administrator will be described step by step using drawings. FIG. 28 is a sequence diagram showing all the scenes in which the flow of information occurs between the image processing device 24, the database 40, the tracking dedicated device 52, and the administrator. Although the registration destination of the information will be described as being outside the image processing device 24, the flow of the generated information is the same even when the information is registered in the image processing device 24 itself.

As shown in FIG. 28, when the registration of information is started, the image processing device 24 first generates initial access to the database 40 and the tracking dedicated device 52 (step S300). Details of step S300 (FIG. 29) will be described later.

Next, before actually registering the information, an access for creating tracking information occurs between the image processing device 24 and the tracking dedicated device 52 (step S301).

Next, when the information is actually registered, a flow of information occurs between the image processing device 24, the tracking dedicated device 52, and the database 40 (step S302). Details of step S302 (FIG. 30) will be described later.

The administrator accesses the database 40 as necessary, and performs operations such as editing, reference, printing, and duplication of the registered information (step S304). Details of step S304 (FIG. 31) will be described later.

When acquiring the tracking result, the image processing device 24 exchanges necessary information with the database 40 and the tracking dedicated device 52 (step S306). Details of step S306 (FIG. 32) will be described later.

(Explanation of the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the dedicated tracking device at the time of initial access)
FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of information between the image processing device 24, the database 40, and the tracking-only device 52 that occurs at the time of initial access.

The image processing device 24 specifies the access destination of the database 40 (step S310).

The image processing device 24 sends a notification (accessability notification) confirming accessability to the database 40 (step S312).

The database 40 notifies the image processing device 24 that it is accessible (normal notification) (step S314).

The image processing device 24 further sends a notification (access management confirmation) to the database 40 to confirm the presence / absence of the access management function (step S316).

The database 40 receives an inquiry from the image processing device 24 and confirms the presence or absence of the access management function (step S318).

The database 40 notifies the image processing apparatus 24 that it has an access control function (step S320).

Upon receiving the notification from the database 40, the image processing device 24 determines that the database 40 can acquire the access log (step S322).

The image processing device 24 sends a notification (access availability notification) confirming whether the tracking dedicated device 52 can be accessed (step S324).

Upon receiving the notification, the tracking-only device 52 confirms whether or not the tracking data has been created (step S326). The tracking line device 52 notifies the image processing device 24 that it is accessible (normal notification) (step S328).

Upon receiving the normal notification, the image processing device 24 determines that the tracking data can be acquired (step S329).

Specifically, the series of processes shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 29 is realized by the processes of steps S60, S62, and S64 of the flowchart of FIG. 19 described above. When the data is registered in the own machine (image processing device 24), the series of processes shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 29 is specifically realized by the process of step S90 in the flowchart of FIG. 21 described above. NS.

(Explanation of the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the dedicated tracking device when registering information)
FIG. 30 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of information between the image processing device 24, the database 40, and the tracking dedicated device 52, which is generated at the time of information registration.

First, when the registered information is input (step S331), the image processing device 24 enters a process for creating tracking data Tc.

First, the image processing device 24 requests the tracking data Tc from the tracking dedicated device 52 and notifies the registration destination information (step S332).

The tracking-only device 52 creates and stores unique tracking data Tc associated with the registration destination information in the tracking-only table T5 (step S333).

The tracking-only device 52 responds to the image processing device 24 with the created tracking data Tc (step S334).

The image processing device 24 transmits the tracking data Tc and the registration information to the database 40 (step S335).

The database 40 registers information (step S336).

The database 40 is further set so that the access log can be accessed by the tracking data Tc (step S337).

The database 40 notifies the image processing apparatus 24 that the registration of information is completed (step S338).

The image processing device 24 outputs an image in which the tracking data Tc is electronically embedded (step S339).

Specifically, the series of processes shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 30 is realized by the processes of steps S40, S44, and S50 in the flowchart of FIG. 17 described above. When the data is registered in the own machine (image processing device 24), the series of processes shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 30 is specifically described in steps S40, S46, S50 of the flowchart of FIG. 17 described above. It is realized by the processing of.

(Explanation of information flow between administrator and database)
FIG. 31 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of information between the administrator and the database 40, which occurs when the registered information is accessed.

The administrator accesses the database 40 (step S350).

The database 40 processes the registered information with the contents specified by the administrator, and counts the access logs corresponding to the processed (step S352).

The database 40 notifies that the designated process has been completed (step S354).

Specifically, the series of processes shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 31 is realized by each process of the flowchart of FIG. 26 described above.

(Explanation of the flow of information between the image processing device, the database, and the dedicated tracking device when acquiring the access log)
FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of information between the image processing device 24, the database 40, and the tracking dedicated device 52 that occurs when the access log is acquired.

The image processing device 24 detects the electronic embedding (step S361).

The image processing device 24 detects the tracking data Tc from the detected electronic embedding (step S362).

The image processing device 24 transmits the tracking data Tc to the tracking dedicated device 52 (step S363).

The tracking-only device 52 searches for an access destination (database 40) associated with the received tracking data Tc (step S364).

The tracking-only device 52 transmits the tracking data Tc to the access destination (database 40) associated with the received tracking data Tc (step S365).

The database 40 searches the access log associated with the received tracking data Tc (step S366).

The database 40 notifies the tracking dedicated device 52 of the access log which is the searched tracking result (step S367).

The tracking-only device 52 notifies the image processing device 24 of the access log, which is the searched tracking result (step S368).

The image processing device 24 receives the access log, which is the tracking result, and outputs the content to the operation display unit 2 (step S369).

Specifically, the series of processes shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 32 is realized by the processes of step S102 of the flowchart of FIG. 22 and steps S130 and S132 of the flowchart of FIG. 23 described above.

As described above, according to the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 4 of the image processing device 24 provides tracking data Tc for tracking the information (registered information) input from the operation display unit 2. (Tracking data creating means) creates and registers it in the database 40 (second information registration means) together with the input information. At this time, the control unit 26 (access log associating means) of the database 40 associates the access right to the access log for the registered information with the tracking data Tc. The image output unit 8 (access information output means) of the image processing device 24 outputs an image in which tracking data Tc, a registration destination of input information, and the like are electronically embedded.

The tracking unit 20 (access log acquisition means) of the image processing device 24 looks at the registration destination of the tracking data Tc and the input information from the image input from the image input unit 6 (tracking data input means), and the access log. The tracking result as is obtained from the database 40.

The tracking unit 48 (access log acquisition means) of the tracking-only device 52 looks at the access destination associated with the tracking-only data Tc received from the image forming device 24 in the tracking-only table T5, and obtains the tracking result as an access log. Obtained from database 40. Since the tracking unit 48 of the tracking-only device 52 creates and stores unique tracking data Tc associated with the registration destination information in the tracking-only table T5, the tracking data Tc associated with the registration information is duplicated. You can check if it is not.

Then, the tracking dedicated device 52 acquires the tracking result from the access destination associated with the tracking data Tc, transfers the tracking result to the image processing device 24, and displays the tracking result on the operation display unit 2 (access log display means). Therefore, the user who has registered the information can confirm for himself whether or not the registered information has been leaked without bothering the information administrator.

Further, according to the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the tracking data Tc is electronically embedded in the registered information. Therefore, since the tracking data Tc is not seen by others, the confidentiality can be improved.

In the image processing device 24 of the present embodiment, the tracking data Tc created for the registration information input by the user is embedded as electronic information such as a digital watermark and registered as tracking information. , Not limited to this. For example, the image processing device 24 may register the registration information input by the user and the created tracking data Tc as tracking information.

Then, according to the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the database 40 (second information registration means) is connected to the image processing device 24 via the external communication units 22 and 38 (communication means). .. Therefore, since the registered information can be managed in a place different from the image processing device 24, there is no restriction on the installation place of the image processing system 100, and the convenience can be improved.

Further, according to the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the tracking dedicated device 52 (access log acquisition means) is connected to the image processing device 24 via the external communication units 22, 50 (communication means). Further, the tracking dedicated device 52 is connected to the database 40 (second information registration means) via the external communication units 38 and 50 (communication means). Therefore, since the tracking dedicated device 52 can be installed in a place different from the image processing device 24 and the database 40, the restriction on the installation place of the image processing system 100 can be further relaxed and the convenience can be enhanced. ..

Further, according to the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the image processing system 100 has detected the tracking data Tc from the information input by the image input unit 6 (tracking data input means). As a condition, it has a control unit 4 (predetermined process executing means) for storing information for activating a predetermined process (program P1). Therefore, the tracking result can be confirmed without going through complicated procedures.

Although the embodiment has been described above, the specific configuration of each part, the content of the process, and the like are not limited to those described in the embodiment.

For example, in the above embodiment, the image processing system 100 of the present invention has been described by using an example applied to the image processing device 24, but the application example of the image processing system 100 is not limited to this. That is, the image processing system 100 of the present invention can also be applied to, for example, an image processing device such as a projector, a medical device, or a video conference system. Further, the image processing system 100 of the present invention can also be applied to communication terminals such as mobile phones, portable information terminals, and in-vehicle devices.

Further, the image processing apparatus 24 implements a dedicated ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) having the same arithmetic functions and control functions as those executed by the program P1 instead of operating the program P1 by the control unit 4. It may be operated in terms of hardware.

2 Operation display unit (information input means, access log display means)
4 Control unit (access log acquisition means, access log association means, predetermined processing execution means)
6 Image input unit (tracking data input means)
8 Image output unit (access information output means)
10 Electronic embedding part (data creation means for tracking)
14 Secondary storage unit (first information registration means)
20,36 Tracking unit (access log acquisition means)
22, 38, 50 External communication unit (communication means)
24 Image processing device 26 Control unit (access log acquisition means, access log association means)
40 database (second information registration means)
52 Tracking-only device (access log acquisition means)
100 Image processing system Tc tracking data

Japanese Patent No. 5264945

Claims (11)

Information input means that accepts user input of information to be registered,
An information registration means for registering the information input by the information input means, and an information registration means.
A tracking data creating means for creating tracking data for tracking the information registered in the information registration means and electronically embedding it in the information, and a tracking data creating means.
The access information output means for outputting the tracking data and
For the information registered in the information registration means, an access log association means for associating the access right to the access log for the information with the tracking data and storing the access record for the information.
An electronically embedded tracking data input means that accepts input of the tracking data,
Electronic embedding is detected from the tracking data input by the tracking data input means, and the access log associated with the tracking data is acquired according to the setting of the processing program to be executed when the electronic embedding is detected. Access log acquisition method and
Provided with an access log display means for displaying the acquired access log.
An image processing system characterized by that. The information registration means is a database, and the information input means is an image processing device.
The information registration means is connected to the information input means via a communication means.
The image processing system according to claim 1. The information registration means is a database, the information input means is an image processing device, and the access log acquisition means is a tracking-only device.
The access log acquisition means is connected to the information input means or the information registration means via a communication means.
The image processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the image processing system is characterized in that. It has a predetermined processing execution means for activating a predetermined processing on condition that the tracking data is detected from the information input by the tracking data input means.
The image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image processing system is characterized in that. The access log acquisition means acquires the number of download executions for the information registered by the information registration means as the access log.
The image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the image processing system is characterized in that. The access log acquisition means acquires at least one of the download date and time and the downloader at the time of downloading the information registered by the information registration means as the access log.
The image processing system according to claim 5. A means for displaying a setting screen that accepts at least one of the settings related to the information registration means, the settings related to the access log acquisition means, and the settings related to the tracking data creating means.
The image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the image processing system is characterized in that. Further equipped with a data registration device for data registration,
The image processing system according to claim 1. Further equipped with a dedicated tracking device,
The image processing system according to claim 1. It is an information processing method executed by an image processing system.
The information input process that accepts the input of information to be registered by the user,
An information registration process for registering the information input by the information input process, and
A tracking data creation step of creating tracking data for tracking the information registered by the information registration step and electronically embedding it in the information,
The access information output process for outputting the tracking data and
For the information registered by the information registration step, an access log association step of associating the access right to the access log for the information with the tracking data and storing the access record for the information, and
In response to the input of the electronically embedded tracking data output by the access information output step, the electronic embedding is detected from the tracking data, and the processing program to be executed when the electronic embedding is detected is set according to the setting. The access log acquisition process for acquiring the access log associated with the tracking data, and
The access log display process that displays the acquired access log, and
An information processing method characterized by including. Against the computer
An information input step that accepts the input of information to be registered by the user,
An information registration step for registering the information input by the information input step, and
A tracking data creation step of creating tracking data for tracking the information registered by the information registration step and electronically embedding it in the information,
The access information output step for outputting the tracking data, and
For the information registered by the information registration step, an access log association step for associating the access right to the access log for the information with the tracking data and storing the access record for the information, and the access log association step.
In response to the input of the electronically embedded tracking data output by the access information output step, the electronic embedding is detected from the tracking data, and the processing program to be executed when the electronic embedding is detected is set according to the setting. The access log acquisition step for acquiring the access log associated with the tracking data, and
An access log display step that displays the acquired access log, and
A program to execute.

Images