JP2002218134A - Image processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: The operability of an image processing apparatus having a scanner function and a printer function is improved. When a storage medium is set in an image processing apparatus, an attribute of the storage medium is read by a multi drive, and a print mode or a scanner mode is selected according to the attribute.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus having a scanner function and a printer function.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image processing apparatus having a scanner function for reading an image of a document or the like and a printer function for outputting an image on a sheet based on image data, with an external storage device added thereto has been devised. ing. For example, JP
Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 198865 discloses such an image processing apparatus. In the image processing device disclosed in the above publication,
An original is read by a scanner function to generate an image signal, and the read image signal can be stored in a floppy (registered trademark) disk or the like by an external storage device. In the image processing apparatus, an image signal can be read from an external storage device, and an image can be printed out on a sheet or the like by a printer function based on the read image signal.

[0003]

However, in the image processing apparatus disclosed in the above publication, no consideration is given to an operation for selectively using a scanner function and a printer function. Therefore, the operability is lower than that of a device having only the scanner function or only the printer function. That is, although the user normally uses the image processing apparatus for one of the scanner function and the printer function, it is necessary to perform an operation for selecting a desired mode when using the apparatus. Become.

An image processing apparatus having such various functions is used in an office or the like, and may be provided for a paid service by being installed in a store such as a convenience store. However, when the image processing apparatus having the various functions described above is used for such a service, there is no billing system for appropriately collecting the usage fee, and the clerk needs to recognize which mode the processing is in. It is necessary to manually calculate the fee according to the mode by monitoring all the processes (printing or scanning) performed by the customer or by the clerk himself, and the operability is low. For this reason, it is difficult to effectively use such functions for such a paid service despite having abundant functions.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide an image processing apparatus having a scanner function and a printer function with improved operability.

[0006]

According to the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus comprising: a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium; In an image processing apparatus having two image processing modes, i.e., a print mode for reading image data and outputting image information to a printer unit, and an attribute determining unit for determining an attribute of the storage medium; A mode setting means for setting any one of the image processing modes according to the attribute of the medium.

With the above arrangement, the attribute of the set storage medium is determined, and the image processing mode is determined. Therefore, by automatically determining the mode from the attribute of the storage medium, the frequency of the user performing the operation for selecting the mode is reduced. Therefore, the operability of the image processing device can be improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the attribute determining means determines whether or not the storage medium cannot be additionally written as the attribute,
In a case where additional recording is impossible, the mode setting means sets a print mode.

With the above arrangement, if the storage medium is not recordable, a print mode is set. Therefore, if the attached storage medium cannot be additionally recorded, the print mode is narrowed down. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, the operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

In the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the attribute determining means determines whether or not the storage medium is recordable as the attribute, and allows the recordable. In the case of this, the mode setting means sets the scanner mode.

With the above configuration, if the storage medium is a recordable one, the scanner mode is set preferentially. Therefore, when the attached storage medium is a recordable one, the mode is narrowed down to the scanner mode.
Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, the operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

In the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the mode setting means sets a print mode when a storage medium is mounted, and thereafter, the scanner unit is operated by a user. When the operation is detected, the scanner mode is set.

With the above configuration, once the storage medium is loaded, the print mode is set once, but when the user operates the scanner unit thereafter, the print mode is set. When the scanner unit is operated by the user (mode setting, document setting, scanning start instruction, etc.), there is a high possibility that the user is going to execute the scanner mode. Here, the scanner mode is automatically set as described above. Therefore, it is possible to quickly shift to a desired image processing mode without checking whether or not the scanner unit is operated, and without checking whether or not the storage medium can be additionally written, according to the checked result. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, the operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

In the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the mode setting means sets a print mode when a storage medium is mounted, and thereafter, the scanner unit is operated by a user. When it is detected that the storage medium is recordable as a result of the discrimination by the attribute discriminating means, the scanner mode is set.

According to the above configuration, once the storage medium is mounted, the print mode is set once. However, when the scanner is operated by the user thereafter, if the storage medium can be additionally written, the print mode is set. Is set. When the scanner unit is operated by the user (mode setting, document setting, scanning start instruction, etc.), there is a high possibility that the user is going to execute the scanner mode. Here, the scanner mode is set as described above. Therefore, it is checked whether the scanner unit is operated, and if not, without checking whether the storage medium can be additionally written,
It is possible to quickly shift to a desired print mode. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, the operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

In the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the attribute determining means determines whether the storage medium is shared or private as the attribute, and the mode setting means includes If the storage medium is shared, the user is confirmed for each image data stored in the storage medium. If the storage medium is for personal use, the user is confirmed for each storage medium. It is characterized in that mode setting is performed.

With the above arrangement, if the storage medium is shared, the user is confirmed for each image data stored in the storage medium, and if the storage medium is personal, the user is confirmed for each storage medium. The mode is set only after confirmation and confirmation. Therefore, the processing of each image processing mode can be performed according to the security level of shared or personal as a storage medium attribute. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, the operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium, and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. And an image processing apparatus having two image processing modes,
It is characterized by comprising a first operation instruction section dedicated to operation instructions in the scanner mode and a second operation instruction section dedicated to operation instructions in the print mode.

For example, an operation instruction in the scanner mode is given by an operation instruction section of the image processing apparatus, and an operation instruction in the print mode is given by an operation instruction section of the external instruction apparatus connected to the image processing apparatus via communication means. To be

With the above arrangement, in the scanner mode, the user issues an instruction through the first operation instruction section dedicated to the operation instruction in the scanner mode, and in the print mode, the second operation instruction section dedicated to the operation instruction in the print mode. Give instructions through. In this way, the device that issues the operation instruction is distinguished according to the content of the processing on the storage medium. Therefore, even if an operation instruction is difficult with one operation instruction unit, it is possible to easily give an instruction with the other operation instruction unit. In addition, erroneous operation instructions are not given, and wasteful use of consumables (paper, toner) by giving useless print jobs is also eliminated. Therefore, the operability of the image processing device can be improved.

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium, and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. And an image processing apparatus having two image processing modes,
A first operation instruction unit for operating instructions in the scanner mode and the print mode, and a remote operation instruction unit arranged remotely from the printer unit.
A second operation instructing unit for instructing an operation in the print mode.

For example, an operation instruction in the scanner mode is given by an operation instruction section of the image processing apparatus, and an operation instruction in the print mode is given by an operation instruction section of the image processing apparatus.
Alternatively, it is performed by the operation instruction unit of the external instruction device connected to the image processing apparatus via the communication unit.

The second operation instructing unit is arranged remotely from the printer unit, and has a larger space for various operation units (input unit such as a keyboard and a display screen such as a display) than the first operation instructing unit. Can be taken. Therefore, for example, the second operation instructing unit has (1) a larger number of instructable processes (printing images of a plurality of files side by side on one sheet, double-sided printing, etc.) than the first operation instructing unit.
(2) Operation is simplified such that the number of operations for performing the same processing is small (eg, buttons dedicated to each processing are prepared). (3) Information that the user can know about each file (4) Types of images that can be viewed (previewed) before processing for the same file (file name, creation date, file size, reduced image, etc.) (reduced image, full size image, enlarged image) And many others). Also, for example, the second operation instructing unit has (a) a larger screen for performing an operation guidance display, (b) a higher resolution of the screen, and (c) a larger screen than the first operation instructing unit. For example, the number of colors that can be displayed is large.

With the above configuration, in the print mode, the user issues an instruction using any one of the first operation instruction section and the second operation instruction section. Therefore, even if it is difficult to give a detailed instruction with one operation instruction unit, it is possible to easily give an instruction with the other operation instruction unit. Therefore, the image processing apparatus is not occupied for a long time in order to indicate a content for which a detailed instruction is difficult. In addition, erroneous operation instructions are not given, and wasteful use of consumables (paper, toner) by giving useless print jobs is also eliminated. Therefore, the operability of the image processing device can be improved.

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention has a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium, and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. And an image processing apparatus having two image processing modes,
It is characterized by comprising a mode setting means for setting any one of the image processing modes and a charging management means for performing a charging process according to the executed image processing mode.

According to the above configuration, charging is performed in accordance with the actually executed image processing mode in the scanner mode processing or the print mode processing.

In the scanner mode process and the print mode process, consumables and replacement parts used in the image processing apparatus differ depending on the operation, and as a result, their replenishment costs also differ. For this reason, depending on which processing is performed, unless the fees corresponding to the costs sufficiently reflect the different costs, it will not be possible to operate soundly in providing these processes for a fee.

On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present invention,
Scanner mode processing or print mode processing
Billing is performed in accordance with the actually executed image processing mode. Therefore, the clerk monitors the process (print or scan) performed by the customer, including the recognition of which mode the process is in, or the clerk himself performs the process, and the clerk responds to the image processing mode each time. There is no need to manually calculate the fee, and the usage fee can be easily and appropriately collected. Therefore, the operability of the image processing device can be improved.

Further, the image processing apparatus of the present invention further comprises a mounting means for mounting the storage medium, in addition to the above configuration,
The charging management means discharges the storage medium mounted on the mounting means only when it is confirmed that the charged amount has been collected.

According to the above arrangement, only when it is confirmed that the charged amount has been collected, the storage medium mounted on the mounting means is discharged. Therefore, after the image processing is performed, the storage medium can be taken out only when the usage fee of the apparatus according to the content of the processing is paid. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, it is possible to reliably collect the usage fee of the device.

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention may further comprise, in addition to the above-described configuration, the mounting means includes a take-out means for receiving an instruction to take out the mounted storage medium. When the take-out means receives an instruction to take out the image, a charging process according to the executed image processing mode is started.

With the above arrangement, when the user issues an instruction to remove the storage medium from the mounting means, for example, when the user presses the eject button by hand, the accounting process according to the executed image processing mode is started. . Therefore, the device usage fee is calculated only by performing the operation of removing the storage medium. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration,
The operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

Further, the image processing apparatus of the present invention further comprises an attribute discriminating means for discriminating the attribute of the storage medium in addition to the above configuration, and the billing management means includes It is characterized in that the accounting process is performed only on a storage medium having a predetermined attribute based on the attribute of the storage medium.

According to the above configuration, the accounting process is performed only on a storage medium having a predetermined attribute, for example, a part of the attribute. Therefore, for example, if the attribute of “customer” or “clerk” is set in advance for each storage medium, when the image processing apparatus is installed in a store as a copy service, the storage medium can be used for the customer based on the attribute of the storage medium. The image processing apparatus determines whether the processing is for the customer or for the clerk, and automatically switches the processing such as proceeding to the charging processing for the customer and not proceeding to the charging processing for the clerk. be able to. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, the operability of the image processing device can be further improved.

It should be noted that the image processing apparatus according to the present invention has a first function of writing image information (image data) input from an image information input unit (scanner unit) into a storage medium (storage medium).
And a second image processing mode (print mode) for reading image information from a storage medium and outputting the image information to an image information output unit (printer unit). An attribute discriminating means (multi-drive) for discriminating an attribute of the storage medium mounted on the camera; and a mode selecting means (control unit) for selecting the first or second image processing mode. The mode may be selected according to the attribute of the storage medium determined by the attribute determining means.

According to the above arrangement, the attribute of the set storage medium is determined, and the image processing mode is determined. As described above, by automatically determining the mode from the attribute of the storage medium, the frequency of the user performing the operation for selecting the mode is reduced. As a result, the operability of the image processing device is improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above-mentioned configuration, the attribute discriminating means may be a device in which a mounted storage medium cannot be added (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM).
(Read Only Memory), insufficient storage media, etc.)
The mode selection means may be configured to determine whether or not the second image processing mode preferentially selects the second image processing mode if additional writing is not possible.

According to the above configuration, when the attached storage medium cannot be additionally recorded, the operability can be improved by narrowing down to the second image processing mode.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the attribute discriminating means determines whether or not the attached storage medium is a recordable (CD-R / RW, DVD-RW, etc.). It may be configured such that the mode selection means preferentially selects the first image processing mode if it is possible to determine whether the first image processing mode can be additionally written.

According to the above configuration, when the attached storage medium is a recordable medium, the operability can be improved by narrowing down to the first image processing mode.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the mode selecting means preferentially selects the second image processing mode when the storage medium is mounted, and thereafter, sets the image information. The first image processing mode may be automatically selected by detecting that the input unit has been operated by the user.

According to the above arrangement, when the image information input section is operated by the user (mode setting, document setting, scanning start instruction, etc.), there is a possibility that the user is going to execute the first image processing mode. Since it is high, the operability can be improved by automatically selecting the first image processing mode as described above.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the mode selection means preferentially selects the second image processing mode when the storage medium is mounted, and thereafter, the image information Detecting that the input unit has been operated by the user, determining the attribute of the attached storage medium by the attribute determination means, and selecting the first image processing mode if the storage medium is a recordable write-once medium. May be.

According to the above configuration, the operability can be further improved by selecting the mode based on both the user operation on the image information input unit and the attribute of the storage medium.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the attribute determining means determines the security level according to whether the attached storage medium is shared or private, and the mode selecting means includes The mode may be selected according to the determined security level.

That is, the shared storage medium performs security management for each stored image data. The personal storage medium performs security management for each storage medium.

According to the above configuration, operability can be further improved by selecting a mode according to the security level as the attribute of the storage medium.

In the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, the image information (image data) input from the image information input unit (scanner unit) is written to a storage medium (storage medium).
A digital multifunction peripheral capable of selecting an image processing mode (scanner mode) and a second image processing mode (print mode) for reading image information from a storage medium and outputting the image information to an image information output unit (printer unit). The operation instruction in the first image processing mode is performed by an operation instruction unit of the digital multifunction peripheral itself, and the operation instruction in the second image processing mode is transmitted to an external multifunction peripheral connected to the digital multifunction peripheral through a communication unit. You may comprise so that it may be performed by the operation instruction | indication part of an instruction | indication apparatus.

That is, the scanner mode is performed from the operation panel of the apparatus itself, and the printer mode is performed by an operation instruction from an external device.

According to the above arrangement, it is distinguished whether an instruction is given from the operation unit of the apparatus itself or an instruction is given from an operation unit from outside the apparatus in accordance with the content of the processing for the set storage medium. As described above, by distinguishing the device that issues the operation instruction according to the content of the processing on the storage medium, it is possible to easily issue the instruction even if the operation instruction is difficult in the digital MFP. In addition, erroneous operation instructions are not given, and wasteful use of consumables (paper, toner) by giving useless print jobs is also eliminated.

In the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, the first image information (image data) input from the image information input section (scanner section) is written to a storage medium (storage medium).
A digital multifunction peripheral capable of selecting an image processing mode (scanner mode) and a second image processing mode (print mode) for reading image information from a storage medium and outputting the image information to an image information output unit (printer unit). The operation instruction in the second image processing mode is performed by an operation instruction unit of the digital multi-function peripheral itself or an operation instruction unit of an external instruction device connected to the digital multi-function peripheral via communication means. The operation instruction from the device may be configured so that a detailed instruction can be given.

That is, in the printer mode, an operation instruction can be given from the digital multifunction peripheral itself or an external device, and a more detailed instruction can be given from the external device.

According to the above configuration, in the printer mode, an operation instruction can be given from the digital multi-function peripheral itself or an external device, and a more detailed instruction can be issued from the external device than from the digital multi-function peripheral itself. I can do it. In this way, the digital multifunction peripheral does not occupy the apparatus due to difficult operation instructions, and does not give erroneous operation instructions. Consumables (paper, toner) are not wasted.

The image processing apparatus according to the present invention has a first image processing mode (scanner) for storing image information (image data) input from an image information input unit (scanner unit) in a storage medium (storage medium). Mode) and a second image processing mode (print mode) for reading image information stored in the storage medium and outputting the read image information from the image information output unit (printer unit). A mode selecting means (control unit) for selecting the image processing mode of the first and second image processing modes;
A charging management unit (charging device) that performs charging according to which image processing mode has been executed may be provided.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to collect the usage fee of the apparatus according to the processing of the image data with the storage medium (scanner mode and print mode).

The operation from scanning the original to converting the original image into image data and writing it to the storage medium, and the operation of reading out the image data stored in the storage medium and outputting it as an image recorded matter are performed by an apparatus as a digital multifunction peripheral. Since these functions are part of the functions processed in the device, the consumables used in the apparatus and the replacement parts that operate according to the operation differ.

Therefore, by determining the machine usage according to the operation target portion of the apparatus in the operated mode or the consumables, it is possible to accurately collect usage fees and maintain the apparatus performance through regular maintenance. It becomes possible.

Further, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, includes a mounting means (multi-drive) for mounting a storage medium, and confirms that the charging management means has collected the charged amount. The storage medium mounted on the mounting means may be ejected.

According to the above configuration, after the image data is processed with the storage medium, the storage medium can be taken out when the usage fee of the apparatus according to the content of the processing is paid. This makes it possible to reliably collect the usage fee of the device.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the mounting means includes an ejecting means (eject switch) for ejecting the mounted storage medium, and for ejecting the storage medium by the ejecting means. When the above operation is performed, a charge may be made in accordance with the processing content of the image information with the storage medium.

According to the above configuration, the device usage fee is calculated only by performing the operation of taking out the storage medium, so that it is not necessary to give a special instruction to the device to perform the billing process. Operability can be improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the mounting means can determine an attribute of the mounted storage medium, and the charging management means can A configuration may be such that charging is performed only for a predetermined storage medium based on the determined attribute of the storage medium.

That is, if the storage medium is a personal storage medium, the accounting process is performed according to the processing contents of the image data with the storage medium, and if the storage medium is a store storage medium, the accounting processing is performed with the storage medium. Regardless, the billing process can be prevented from being performed.

According to the above arrangement, when the image processing apparatus is installed in a store as a copy service, it is determined whether the image processing apparatus is for a customer or a clerk from the code information on the storage medium, and the processing in the charge management means is automatically performed. By switching,
The operability can be improved without requiring a special operation.

[0065]

[Embodiment 1] An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
It is as follows.

FIG. 1 shows a digital copier 1 as a digital multifunction peripheral and a personal computer (external instruction device) 8 as a peripheral device as an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. The digital copying machine 1 includes a scanner unit (image information input unit) 2 that reads a set document and creates image data, a printer unit (image information output unit) 4 that forms an image based on image data on paper, A panel (first operation instructing unit) 5 and a paper storage unit 6 are provided. The operation panel 5 includes a display panel 5a for displaying a file name, various messages, and the like stored in the set storage medium (storage medium) 12. Also,
The digital copying machine 1 includes a control unit (mode setting means) 3 for switching and setting a mode described later. Although not shown, the control unit 3 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) for performing processing and a memory for storing necessary data. The personal computer 8 has a main body 8a, a keyboard (second operation instruction unit) 8b, and a display 8c.

For example, the scanner unit 2 of the digital copying machine 1 is provided with a multi-drive (mounting means, attribute discriminating means) 10 as an external storage device capable of inputting and outputting to and from a storage medium 12. The multi-drive 10 includes a read-only CD-ROM, a writable CD-R,
Writable / erasable CD-RW, read-only DVD
(Digital Versatile Disk)-ROM (Read Only Memo)
ry) can drive various disk-shaped storage media 12. In the future, D
A VD RAM or the like may be driven.

The multi-drive 10 can determine the attribute of the storage medium 12 to be set. In addition, the multi-drive 10 is provided with an eject switch (ejection means) 10a for ejecting the set storage medium 12. Note that the multi-drive 10 may be provided other than the scanner unit 2.

Here, the attribute is unique information indicating the characteristics of the storage medium 12 in addition to the normal data arbitrarily read and written by the user.
(1) Whether additional recording is possible or not (read-only)
(2) For personal use or for store use, and in (2) for each of personal use and store use cases, which security level is the lowest to the highest (how confidential)? Generally, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-
In the storage medium 12 such as a ROM, individual codes (serial numbers) are recorded in a manufacturing process. Therefore, in the present embodiment, by using this code, the correspondence between the code of each storage medium 12 and the above-mentioned attribute is determined by a limited user related to the digital copying machine 1 such as a clerk in advance. It can be registered in.

To register an attribute, the storage medium 12 to be registered is inserted into the multi-drive 10, a password or the like is input if necessary, and a predetermined registration button operation is performed.
Then, for example, an attribute option may be displayed on the display panel 5a, and the attribute may be manually selected specifically. Please note that only when you specifically register as "for store", "for store"
If nothing has been registered, it may be determined that it is "personal". This attribute may be changeable for the limited users such as clerks.
For example, a medium that is recordable is intentionally “unrecordable”
, Or change between "Personal" and "Store", or increase or decrease the security level of the "Store" medium by the store clerk. ) May be changeable.

Here, the registered contents of this attribute are stored in a memory (not shown) provided in the control unit 3.
As a result, by reading each storage medium 12 through the digital copying machine 1 and reading the code, for example,
In the digital copying machine 1, the attribute can be recognized, such as "appendable" and "personal".

The digital copying machine 1 is connected to a personal computer 8,
It is possible to transmit and receive image data and the like via a communication line 22 and a local area network (LAN) as communication means including a communication unit (not shown). The communication between the digital copying machine 1 and the personal computer 8 can be performed by wireless such as infrared rays, instead of using the communication line 22.

In the digital copying machine 1 having such a configuration, the following modes can be executed. A copy mode in which image data of a document image read by the scanner unit 2 is output by the printer unit 4; image data of a document image read by the scanner unit 2 is transferred to the storage medium 12 via the multi-drive 10. Scanner mode for writing (first image information processing mode) Transmission mode for transmitting image data of a document image read by the scanner unit 2 to the personal computer 8 Image data stored in the storage medium 12 by the printer unit 4 Print mode for outputting (second image information processing mode)-Receiving mode for outputting image data received from the personal computer 8 by the printer unit 4. The scanner mode and print mode are media modes using the storage medium 12. is there.

The digital copying machine 1 is a multi-drive 1
According to the attribute of the storage medium 12 inserted in the digital copying machine 1 and the state of each section of the digital copying machine 1, the control section 3 of the digital copying machine 1 narrows down a specific mode from the above modes. Next, processing for narrowing down the modes will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS.

First, a case where the mode is switched between the print mode and the scanner mode will be described with reference to FIG.

When the storage medium 12 is set in the multi-drive 10 (S1), the apparatus enters the media mode. Then, in step S2, the media information (the storage medium 12
Attributes, etc.). In step S3, it is determined whether the set storage medium 12 is read-only. This determination can be made based on individual codes registered in advance in each storage medium 12, as described above.

In step S3, it is determined that the storage medium 12 is read-only. That is, if the set storage medium 12 is read-only, image data cannot be written to the storage medium 12 in the scanner mode. Therefore, in step S4, the operation waits in the print mode. In this print mode, a file name or the like stored in the set storage medium 12 is displayed on the display panel 5a or the like of the digital copying machine 1, and print data (image data) to be printed is determined. Display a message prompting the user.

When the user determines the print data in step S5 (that is, designates image data to be printed), the determined print data is read from the recording medium 12 in step S6, and an image based on the print data is read. The output is performed by the printer unit 4 and the media mode is terminated.

On the other hand, in step S3, the storage medium 12
Is not read-only, the free space of the storage medium 12 set in step S7 is checked,
It is determined whether or not the free space is sufficient. This determination may be made, for example, by comparing the average capacity of the image to be read with the free capacity.

If the free space is not sufficient in step S7, further writing to the storage medium 12 cannot be performed, and the process proceeds to step S4.

If the free space is sufficient in step S7, the process waits in step S8 as the scanner mode. In the scanner mode, a message is displayed on the display panel 5a or the like of the digital copier 1 to urge the user to set an original on the scanner unit 2. Then, in steps S9 and S10, the process waits until a document is set on the scanner unit 2 or the print mode is selected by a user's key operation or the like. The determination as to whether or not the document has been set may be made based on a sensor or the like provided in the scanner unit 2. When it is confirmed in step S9 that the original is set, the original is scanned by the scanner unit 2 and read as image data in step S11.
The image data read in step S12 is written to the storage medium 12 by the multi-drive 10.

As described above, in the process of FIG. 2, the storage medium 12 is a read-only medium (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM).
ROM mode), the image processing apparatus determines whether the mode is the print mode or the scanner mode.

With the above processing, the user using the digital copying machine 1 can set the storage medium 12 to make the digital copying machine 1 stand by in a desired mode. The performance is improved. Note that it may be necessary to switch the mode in step S10, but the frequency of switching will be reduced.

Next, a description will be given based on FIG. In the case of FIG. 3, unlike the case of FIG. 2, when the storage medium 12 is set (S21), the attribute of the storage medium 12 (here, whether it is read-only or not, as in FIG. 2) is not determined, and In step S22, the print mode is set preferentially. Then, a list of image data stored in the storage medium 12 is displayed in step S23, and in steps S24 and S25, whether print data has been determined (that is, whether image data to be printed has been designated by the user), Alternatively, it is determined whether a document is set on the scanner unit 2.

If it is determined in step S24 that the print data has been determined, it is considered that the user is going to print out the image data in the storage medium 12, and thus in step S26, as in step S6 in FIG. Output an image.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S25 that a document has been set on the scanner unit 2, it is considered that the user is going to write image data to the storage medium 12, so that in steps S27 and S28 The original image is scanned in the same manner as in steps S11 and S12 of FIG. 2, and the obtained image data is written to the storage medium 12.

As described above, in the processing of FIG. 3, the storage medium 12 is a read-only medium (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM).
ROM), the image processing apparatus once sets the print mode without discrimination, and then determines whether or not the original has been set, and determines whether to change to the scanner mode accordingly. Has become.

This also reduces the frequency with which the user has to switch modes manually. Also, as compared with FIG.
The time required for the image processing apparatus to determine whether the medium is a read-only medium can be saved, and the time can be shortened. In such processing, it is known in advance that the storage medium 12 is a recordable medium, and the approximate size of the image is recordable and the remaining capacity is small, such as when the user knows the approximate size of the image in advance. This is particularly useful when it is known in advance that it is sufficient, especially when processing a large number of sheets, because the processing time can be greatly reduced by the determination time.

Next, a description will be given based on FIG. In the case of FIG. 4, unlike the case of FIG. 2, when the storage medium 12 is set (S31), the attribute (here, whether or not it is read-only as in FIG. 2) is determined without being determined. In step S32, the print mode is set preferentially. Then, in step S33, a list of image data stored in the storage medium 12 is displayed, and in steps S34 and S35, it is determined whether the print data has been determined or the document has been set on the scanner unit 2.

If it is determined in step S34 that the print data has been determined, it is considered that the user is about to print out the image data in the storage medium 12, so that in step S36, the process proceeds to step S26 in FIG.
An image is output in the same manner as.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S35 that a document has been set on the scanner section 2, unlike FIG.
Here, for the first time (step S37), the attribute of the storage medium 12 (whether additional recording is possible or read-only or not) is determined. In steps S37 and S38, it is determined whether each of the set storage media 12 is writable or has enough free space. Step S
The determination of the free space at 38 may be made based on the resolution of the scanner unit 2 or the amount of the set original. As the amount of the original, the size of the original and the automatic original feeder (AD
The number of documents set in F) may be considered.

If it is determined in steps S37 and S38 that the storage medium 12 is writable and the free space is sufficient, the original image is copied in steps S39 and S40 in the same manner as steps S11 and 12 in FIG. The scanned image data is written to the storage medium 12.

If it is determined in steps S37 and S38 that the image data of the document cannot be written to the storage medium 12, that fact is displayed in step S41, and the storage medium 12 is written in steps S42 and S43. It is determined whether the document has been replaced or the document has been removed. If it is determined in step S42 that the storage medium 12 has been replaced, the processing from step S37 is repeated. If it is determined in step S43 that the document has been removed, it is considered that the user has stopped the scanner mode, and the processing from step S33 is repeated.

As described above, in the process of FIG. 4, the storage medium 12 is a read-only medium (CD-
ROM, DVD-ROM), the image processing apparatus temporarily sets the print mode without discriminating whether the original is set, and then determines whether or not the original is set, and changes the mode to the scanner mode accordingly. Is decided. As a result, as in FIG. 3, the time required for the image processing apparatus to determine whether the storage medium 12 is a read-only medium can be saved, and the time can be reduced, as compared with FIG.

In the process shown in FIG. 4, when the mode is changed to the scanner mode, it is checked whether the medium can be additionally written and whether the free space is sufficient. Thus, the image can be more reliably written to the storage medium 12 as compared with the processing in FIG.

Next, a description will be given based on FIG. Here, a case will be described in which the determination is made based on another attribute of the storage medium 12, specifically, the security level set in the storage medium 12. In addition, FIG.
Although the processing of FIG. 3 is combined with the determination based on the security level, it can be similarly combined with the processing of FIG.

In general, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-
As described above, individual codes are recorded on the storage medium 12 such as the RW and the DVD-ROM. By using this code as a reference, a security level is set in each storage medium 12 in the digital copying machine 1. The security level can be divided into two stages, for example, a high-confidential personal storage medium 12 and a low-confidential shared storage medium 12 within a predetermined group. The security level is not limited to this, and may be classified by another classification method, or may be classified in multiple stages.

In this case, when the storage medium 12 is set (S51), the print mode is set preferentially in step S52. Then, the attribute of the storage medium 12 set in step S53 is determined.

If it is determined in step S53 that the set storage medium 12 is for a highly confidential personal use, an input of a password is requested in step S54, and the password input in step S55. Is determined as appropriate. In order to make this determination, the correspondence between the password and the code of each storage medium 12 is stored in, for example, a memory (not shown) provided in the control unit 3 here. If it is determined in step S55 that the password is appropriate, steps S56 to S61 are performed.
, The processes of steps S23 to S28 in FIG. 3 are performed.

If it is determined in step S53 that the set storage medium 12 is a shared medium having low security, steps S62, S63, S64, S68, and S6 are performed.
9, S70, steps S56, S57,
The same processing as S58, S59, S60, S61 is performed.
In this case, since a security level may be further set for each image data stored in the storage medium 12, each of the print data determined in steps S65 to S67 between steps S63 and S68. The security level is determined, and a password request is made. For this purpose, in the digital copying machine 1, a user may set in advance a password for each file name corresponding to the print data, including the presence or absence of the password, and store the password in the memory or the like of the control unit 3.

As described above, here, only when the user is confirmed, that is, only when it is confirmed that the user is the owner of the storage medium or the file,
Each media mode process is performed. By performing the determination based on the security level of the storage medium 12 and the like, the operability can be further improved.

In the image processing apparatus disclosed in JP-A-1-198865, a floppy disk is mainly assumed as an external storage device. However, today, storage media are diversified, and such a variety of storage media are required. The storage medium can be handled by one drive. And today, the attributes of each storage medium (read only,
In many cases, the purpose of use is different depending on whether they are readable / writable, personal, or shared. Therefore, the device handling the storage medium can predict the purpose of use according to the attribute of the storage medium, and further improvement in operability by this prediction is desired. However, as described above, in the image processing apparatus disclosed in the above publication, various storage media are not assumed, and no consideration is given to the improvement of the operability as described above. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the type of such a variety of storage media is determined, and the process according to the expected use purpose is given priority when the process is selected. . Therefore, operability can be significantly improved.

[Second Embodiment] The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIG. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as the members shown in the drawings of the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

In the first embodiment, based on FIG.
The case where the mode is switched between the print mode and the scanner mode has been described. At this time, as described above, in step S3, it is determined that the storage medium 12 is read-only. That is, if the set storage medium 12 is read-only, the image data is stored in the storage medium in the scanner mode. Since it is not possible to write data in the print mode 12, the process waits in step S4 as the print mode. In this print mode, a file name or the like stored in the set storage medium 12 is displayed on the display panel 5a or the like of the digital copying machine 1, and print data (image data) to be printed is determined. Display a message prompting the user.

In this case, however, only display information such as a file name stored in the storage medium 12 can be obtained, so that the details of the file are completely unknown in some cases.

Thus, in the present embodiment, the communication means (L
AN), the storage medium 12 set in the multi-drive 10 is accessed from the personal computer 8 connected thereto, and the image data stored in the storage medium 12 is temporarily captured. The contents of the image data are confirmed on a relatively large screen such as the display 8c of the personal computer 8 using software that displays the images of each file in a list format or in an enlarged form. Then, it is possible to determine desired image data and issue a print instruction to the digital copying machine 1. At this time, it is also possible to additionally instruct complicated print mode processing such as the number of print copies (the number of sheets), the mode for recording a plurality of pages on one sheet, the instruction for the double-sided recording mode, and the addition of the number of pages.

Of course, it is also possible to specify desired image data from a list such as a file name displayed on the display panel 5a of the digital copying machine 1 and give a printout instruction.

In the image processing apparatus disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 1-198865, a floppy disk is mainly assumed as the external storage device. Many images can be stored in one storage medium. However, as described above, the image processing apparatus disclosed in the above publication does not assume a large-capacity storage medium, and is not aware of improvement in operability when such a storage medium is used. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, it is possible to instruct the print mode process from the personal computer 8 which is remotely located from the printer unit 4, that is, the remote location here from the digital copying machine 1. ing. Since it is remotely located, a space larger than the operation panel 5, that is, an area larger than the operation panel 5, can be allocated as a place (the keyboard 8b, the display 8c, and the like) for the user to input each instruction. For this reason, in the print mode, a list of images is displayed from a large number of image files stored in such a large-capacity storage medium by using a large display area such as a computer display. You can select the desired file. Further, complicated print settings and the like can be easily performed as compared with the case where the print settings are performed from the operation panel 5 of the digital copying machine 1. Therefore, when a complicated print setting is to be performed in the print mode processing, the user is not required to provide an operation guide or the like shown in a limited narrow space such as the operation panel 5 of the digital copying machine 1 as compared with the instruction. Is less likely to be operated erroneously, and as a result, wasteful use of consumables (paper, toner) by instructing a useless print job can be prevented.

Alternatively, the print mode processing may not be performed from the operation panel 5 of the digital copying machine 1, but may be performed only from the keyboard 8b of the personal computer 8. In this case, there is no need to worry about erroneous print mode processing when trying to perform scanner mode processing in the digital copying machine 1. Conversely, the scanner mode processing may not be performed from the keyboard 8b of the personal computer 8, but may be performed only from the operation panel 5 of the digital copying machine 1. In this case, there is no fear that the personal computer 8 erroneously performs the scanner mode processing in the print mode processing. in this way,
If the device of the operation instruction is divided according to the process, there is no fear that one of the print mode process and the scanner mode process is mistakenly performed for the other. As a result, wasteful use of consumables (paper, toner) by instructing a useless print job can be prevented.

[Embodiment 3] Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
It is as follows. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as the members shown in the drawings of the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

The image processing apparatus described above is used in offices and the like, and may be provided for a paid service by being installed at a store such as a convenience store. When the image processing apparatus is used for such a service, a charging system for collecting a usage fee is required.

According to the configuration of the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the image processing system described above, which is provided with an appropriate billing system. The present embodiment relates to a scanner service (paid) for scanning a document image and providing it as electronic image data. FIG.
1 shows a digital copying machine 1 as an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, and a personal computer 8 and a charging device (charging management means) 14 as its peripheral devices. The digital copying machine 1 includes a scanner unit (image information input unit) 2 that reads a set document and creates image data, a printer unit (image information output unit) 4 that forms an image based on image data on paper, The paper storage unit 6 is provided. In addition, the digital copying machine 1 includes a control unit (mode setting means) 3 for switching and setting a mode described later. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the digital copying machine 1 is installed in a store such as a convenience store and the use thereof is provided as a service for a fee.

For example, the scanner unit 2 of the digital copying machine 1
Is provided with a multi-drive (mounting means, attribute determining means) 10 as an external storage device capable of inputting / outputting from / to a storage medium (storage medium) 12. The multi-drive 10 can drive various disk-shaped storage media 12 such as a read-only CD-ROM, a writable CD-R, a writable / erasable CD-RW, and a read-only DVD-ROM. Things.
Further, a DVD-based RAM or the like may be driven in the future.

This multi-drive 10 can determine the attribute of the storage medium 12 to be set. In addition, the multi-drive 10 is provided with an eject switch (ejection means) 10a for ejecting the set storage medium 12. Note that the multi-drive 10 may be provided other than the scanner unit 2. The attributes and their registration and recognition are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The digital copying machine 1 is connected to a personal computer 8, and the personal computer 8
It is possible to transmit and receive image data and the like to and from the device.

Further, the digital copying machine 1 includes a charging device 1
4 is connected. The charging device 14 charges the use of the digital copying machine 1 in accordance with the usage status and manages the collection of the charged fee. Therefore, the operation of the digital copying machine 1 is controlled based in part on a signal from the charging device 14.

In the digital copying machine 1 having such a configuration, a copy mode, a scanner mode, a transmission mode, a print mode, and a reception mode can be executed as in the first embodiment. The scanner mode and the print mode are media modes that use the storage medium 12.

The digital copying machine 1 is a multi-drive 1
0 is controlled by the control unit 3 of the digital copying machine 1 in accordance with the attribute of the storage medium 12 inserted into the digital copying machine 1, the state of each unit of the digital copying machine 1, and a signal from the charging device 14.

Next, the operation of the digital copying machine 1 will be described. The operation from the setting of the storage medium 12 to the completion of the print mode or the scanner mode is as described in the first embodiment with reference to FIGS. Therefore, the description is omitted here. The print mode or the scanner mode is completed as described above, and the media mode ends.

When the media mode ends, the flow shifts to a billing process shown in FIG. At that time, all processing desired by the customer (scanner mode processing, print mode processing, etc.)
After the customer confirms that the process has been completed, the customer can press the specific button to proceed to the billing process, and the process can proceed to the billing process. An eject switch 10a for taking out can be employed. In this way, the user can perform the necessary process of taking out the storage medium 12 and can proceed to the billing process.

It is to be noted that even when the user presses the eject switch 10a during the media mode or the like and an operation to remove the storage medium 12 from the multi-drive 10 is performed, it is possible to shift to the accounting process.

In step S81, as described in the first embodiment, as an attribute of the storage medium 12, it is determined whether the set storage medium 12 is a personal storage medium. Do. Here, the personal storage medium is a storage medium owned by a general customer who uses the digital copying machine 1 for a fee.

The storage media other than the personal storage media include a storage media for a store where the digital copying machine 1 is installed and a storage media for service staff who manages and maintains the digital copying machine 1. And so on. As the use of the storage medium for a store, for example, the catalog content is stored in the storage medium for the store from the head office of the store, sent to each store, and the catalog is printed out using the digital copying machine 1 at each store. Such a case is conceivable. The storage medium for the service staff may be used for the service staff to test the digital copier 1 after maintenance.

When a personal storage medium is set, the use is to provide a service, and a charge for the use should be collected. On the other hand, when a storage medium other than a personal storage medium is set, its use is for purposes other than the provision of the service, and it is not appropriate to charge. In step S81, the storage medium 12
By determining whether or not is for personal use, it can be determined whether or not to charge for each of the above cases.

For the discrimination in step S81, as described in the first embodiment, a code individually recorded for each storage medium 12 can be used.
That is, the code of the specific storage medium 12 that should not be charged, such as for a store or service staff, is stored in the digital copying machine 1 in advance. Then, the code of the set storage medium 12 is read, and it may be determined whether or not the code corresponds to the above-mentioned code of the specific storage medium 12 that should not be charged.

If it is determined in step S81 that the set storage medium 12 is not for personal use, the storage medium 12 is ejected without actually being charged, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S81 that the set storage medium 12 is for personal use, a charge for image data processing in the digital copying machine 1 is calculated in step S82. . At this time, it is preferable to set a unit price according to whether the print mode or the scanner mode is performed. This is because in the print mode, the printer unit 4 that uses paper and many consumables is mainly used, whereas in the scanner mode, the scanner unit 2 that uses few consumables is mainly used. Therefore, generally, the unit price in the print mode is set higher than the unit price in the scanner mode.

The charge calculated in step S82 is displayed on billing device 14 in step S83, and
From 84 to S86, it waits until a required fee is input. When it is confirmed in step S85 that the necessary fee has been input to the charging device 14, the storage medium 12 set in the multi-drive 10 is discharged, and the charging process ends.

If the charging process is not completed, for example, if the fee is not displayed for a predetermined period of time even though the fee is displayed, the storage medium 12 is not ejected and the storage medium 12 is mounted on the digital multi-function peripheral. A specific manager, for example, a clerk of a copy service store, is notified by the communication device. In the case of a convenience store or the like, a message or the like is displayed on a POS (Point Of Sales, point-of-sale information management) terminal in the store to guide the store clerk.

As described above, by providing the image data processing service by the digital copying machine 1, it is possible to perform charging in accordance with the executed mode, and more appropriate charging becomes possible. By discharging the storage medium 12 after confirming that the charged amount has been collected, it is possible to collect the charge more reliably.

The image processing apparatus described above is used in offices and the like, and may be provided for a paid service by being installed in a store such as a convenience store. When the image processing apparatus is used for such a service, a billing system with high operability for collecting a usage fee is required. However, in the conventional image processing apparatus, it is not assumed that charging is appropriately performed according to various modes. For example, a clerk performs each operation (print or scan) and manually sets a fee corresponding to the mode each time. It is necessary to calculate it, and during that time, other tasks cannot be performed. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the image processing apparatus can appropriately perform charging according to which mode of processing has been performed, and operability can be improved. In addition, since the process from the processing to the collection of the fee can be performed, the paid service can be completely automated, and the labor burden on the shop where the device is installed can be reduced.

[0132]

As described above, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention comprises: an attribute determining means for determining the attribute of the storage medium; and the image processing apparatus according to the attribute of the storage medium determined by the attribute determining means. And a mode setting means for setting any one of the modes.

As a result, the frequency at which the user performs an operation for selecting a mode is reduced. Therefore, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the attribute determining means determines whether or not the storage medium cannot be additionally written as the attribute.
In the case where additional recording is impossible, the mode setting means sets the print mode.

As a result, when the attached storage medium cannot be additionally recorded, the print mode is narrowed down. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

In addition, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the attribute determining means determines whether or not the storage medium is recordable as the attribute, and is capable of additionally recording. In this case, the mode setting means sets the scanner mode.

Thus, if the attached storage medium is a recordable medium, the mode is narrowed down to the scanner mode. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the mode setting means sets a print mode when a storage medium is mounted, and thereafter, the scanner unit is operated by a user. When the operation is detected, the scanner mode is set.

As a result, it is possible to quickly shift to a desired image processing mode depending on whether or not the scanner section is operated. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the mode setting means sets a print mode when a storage medium is mounted, and thereafter, the scanner unit is operated by a user. When it is detected that the storage medium is additionally recordable as a result of the discrimination by the attribute discriminating means, the scanner mode is set.

Thus, it is possible to quickly shift to a desired print mode depending on whether or not the scanner unit is operated. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the attribute determining means determines whether the storage medium is shared or private as the attribute, and the mode setting means includes If the storage medium is shared, the user is confirmed for each image data stored in the storage medium. If the storage medium is for personal use, the user is confirmed for each storage medium. This is a configuration for setting the mode.

Thus, the processing in each image processing mode can be performed according to the security level of whether the storage medium is shared or private. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

Further, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is provided with a first operation instruction section dedicated to operation instructions in the scanner mode and a second operation instruction section dedicated to operation instructions in the print mode.

Thus, even if an operation instruction is difficult with one operation instruction unit, it is possible to easily give an instruction with the other operation instruction unit. Therefore, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be improved.

The image processing apparatus of the present invention has a first operation instruction section for operating instructions in the scanner mode and the print mode, and a second operation instruction section for remotely operating the print mode, which is remotely located from the printer section. And a unit.

Thus, even if it is difficult to give a detailed instruction with one operation instruction unit, it is possible to easily give an instruction with the other operation instruction unit. Therefore, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be improved.

Further, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes mode setting means for setting any one of the image processing modes, and charging management means for performing a charging process according to the executed image processing mode. Configuration.

This eliminates the need for the store clerk to monitor the processing performed by the customer or to manually calculate the charge corresponding to the image processing mode by himself / herself, thereby easily and appropriately collecting the usage charge. can do. Therefore, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be improved.

Further, the image processing apparatus of the present invention further comprises a mounting means for mounting the storage medium, in addition to the above configuration,
The charging management means discharges the storage medium mounted on the mounting means only when it is confirmed that the charged amount has been collected.

Thus, after the image processing is performed, the storage medium can be taken out only when the usage fee of the apparatus according to the content of the processing is paid. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the usage fee of the device can be reliably collected.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the mounting means includes a take-out means for receiving an instruction to take out the mounted storage medium. When the above-mentioned take-out means receives an instruction to take out the image, a charging process according to the executed image processing mode is started.

As a result, the device usage fee can be calculated simply by performing the operation of removing the storage medium. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

Further, the image processing apparatus of the present invention further comprises an attribute discriminating means for discriminating the attribute of the storage medium in addition to the above-mentioned configuration, and the billing management means includes the attribute discriminating means discriminated by the attribute discriminating means. The configuration is such that the charging process is performed only on the storage medium having a predetermined attribute based on the attribute of the storage medium.

Thus, for example, if the attribute of “customer” or “clerk” is set in advance in each storage medium,
Processing can be automatically switched. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the operability of the image processing apparatus can be further improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a media mode process.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a media mode process.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating still another example of the media mode process.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating still another example of the media mode process.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a billing process.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Digital copier 2 Scanner part (image information input part) 3 Control part (mode setting means) 4 Printer part (image information output part) 5 Operation panel (first operation instruction part) 5a display panel 6 Paper storage part 8 Personal computer (External instruction device) 8a Main body 8b Keyboard (second operation instruction unit) 8c Display 10 Multi-drive (attachment means, attribute determination means) 10a Eject switch (take-out means) 12 Storage medium (storage medium) 14 Billing device (billing management means) 22) Communication line (communication means)

Claims (12)

[Claims] An image processing mode includes: a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium; and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. An image processing apparatus having: an attribute determining unit configured to determine an attribute of the storage medium; and a mode setting configured to set any one of the image processing modes according to the attribute of the storage medium determined by the attribute determining unit. And an image processing apparatus. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the attribute determining unit determines whether the storage medium is not recordable as the attribute.
2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the mode setting means sets the print mode if the additional writing is impossible.
The image processing apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims. 3. The attribute determining means determines whether or not the storage medium is recordable as the attribute. If the attribute is recordable, the mode setting means sets the mode to the scanner mode. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting is performed. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said mode setting means sets a print mode when a storage medium is mounted, and thereafter sets a scanner mode when it senses that the scanner section has been operated by a user. The image processing device according to claim 1. 5. The mode setting means sets a print mode when a storage medium is loaded, and thereafter, when it senses that the scanner section has been operated by a user, the mode is set as a result of the discrimination by the attribute discriminating means. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the scanner mode is set when the storage medium is recordable. 6. The attribute determining means determines whether the storage medium is shared or private as the attribute. The mode setting means determines if the storage medium is shared.
A user is confirmed for each image data stored in the storage medium, and if the storage medium is for personal use, a user is confirmed for each storage medium, and mode setting is performed only when confirmation is obtained. The image processing device according to claim 1. 7. An image processing mode comprising: a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium; and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. An image processing apparatus comprising: a first operation instruction unit dedicated to an operation instruction in a scanner mode; and a second operation instruction unit dedicated to an operation instruction in a print mode. 8. An image processing mode comprising: a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium; and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. An image processing apparatus having a first operation instructing unit for operating instructions in a scanner mode and a print mode;
An image processing apparatus comprising: a second operation instructing unit for instructing an operation in a print mode. 9. Two image processing modes: a scanner mode for writing image information input from a scanner unit to a storage medium, and a print mode for reading image information from a mounted storage medium and outputting the image information to a printer unit. An image processing apparatus comprising: a mode setting unit configured to set any one of the image processing modes; and a billing management unit configured to perform a billing process according to the executed image processing mode. Processing equipment. 10. A mounting means for mounting the storage medium, wherein the charging management means discharges the storage medium mounted on the mounting means only when it is confirmed that the charged amount has been collected. The image processing device according to claim 9, wherein: 11. The loading means includes a take-out means for receiving an instruction to take out the mounted storage medium, and the charging management means is executed when the take-out means receives the instruction to take out the storage medium. 11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein charging processing according to the selected image processing mode is started. 12. A storage medium having a predetermined attribute based on the attribute of the storage medium determined by the attribute determination means, the storage medium having attribute determining means for determining the attribute of the storage medium. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein billing processing is performed only for (i).