Image processing apparatus facilitating information management

A new box storing information sorted for each individual or each prescribed department is to be registered with a first image processing apparatus, notification of a request to return a box name is transmitted to obtain additional information including a name(s) of a box(es) possessed by a second image processing apparatus. The second image processing apparatus responds to the notification by returning to the first image processing apparatus additional information including the name(s) of the box(es) that the second image processing apparatus possesses. The first image processing apparatus refers to the additional information obtained from the second image processing apparatus including the box name(s) to add to the new box the additional information including a box name and register the same.

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-19928 filed with Japan Patent Office on Jan. 29, 2003, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to image processing apparatuses, additional-information notification systems, image information communication systems and image processing methods, and particularly to image processing apparatuses, additional-information notification systems, image information communication systems and image processing methods that facilitate information management.

2. Description of the Related Art

In an image processing apparatus a storage device such as a hard disk is employed to store read image information or image information received through a communication function.

Furthermore, a technique used to sort received information for each destination is disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 11-196206. More specifically, the document discloses a facsimile device including the step of sorting received, faxed information, and having a technique to sort received information into divided, address-only boxes for each address recognized from the received information.

Furthermore, in recent years, a printing device, a scanner device and a facsimile device that are combined together, or a so-called multi-function peripheral MFP) or other similar image processing apparatus is used for example to store data read via the scanner device and transmit such data to another image processing apparatus.

In such a conventional image processing apparatus, received data to be printed, faxed data or the like may not be printed out and instead be stored as electronic data. In such a case, the electronic data is stored to a sortation storage that stores information sorted for each individual or each prescribed department.

Normally, such a sortation storage is referred to for example as a box, and this box has added thereto a box name or the like corresponding to additional information. A box with such a box name is stored to an image processing apparatus by performing a prescribed registration operation in the apparatus.

If an image processing apparatus has a scanner function an image read via the scanner function can be sorted into the aforementioned box and stored as electronic data. Furthermore, received faxed data is sorted and stored as electronic data. After an appropriate period of time has elapsed, the stored electronic data is printed out by the apparatus.

However, when such a conventional processing apparatus is operated to create the aforementioned box it cannot reference boxes of other networked image processing apparatuses to create a box having a new box name. This can result in the apparatus erroneously registering a box having added thereto a box name identical or similar to a box that another apparatus has.

Furthermore, an image processing apparatus of interest can disadvantageously be prevented from registering therewith a box having a box name similar to a box that another image processing apparatus has. Thus the user cannot register a box name as intended.

Furthermore, the conventional image processing apparatus cannot print out directly on a sheet the electronic data stored in a box of a remote image processing apparatus. To allow the apparatus of interest to print such data it is necessary to once obtain the data for the apparatus. This involves a waiting time corresponding to an amount of electronic data before the data is obtained from the remote location and the user must wait in front of the image processing apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus, additional-information notification system, image information communication system and image processing method that can help a user to control image information or other similar information.

The above object of the present invention can be achieved by an image processing apparatus including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store information sorted by each prescribed condition for the prescribed condition; an information adding portion adding additional information to the sortation memory portion; an acquisition portion acquiring from a different image processing apparatus information including additional information; a comparison and display portion comparing the additional information acquired by the acquisition portion from the different image processing apparatus with the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion, and displaying similar additional information; and a registration portion selectively registering one of the additional information displayed by the comparison and display portion and the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, in effect, single information of an original can be held on the network, and unnecessary consumption of storage capacity can be avoided.

The present invention in another aspect provides the image processing apparatus including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store sorted information; an information adding portion adding additional information to the sortation memory portion; an acquisition portion acquiring from a different image processing apparatus information including additional information; a comparison portion comparing the additional information acquired by the acquisition portion from the different image processing apparatus with the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion to output a result of the comparing; and a registration portion driven by the result to register the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the image processing apparatus including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store information of an original sorted by identification information; a registration portion registering information with the sortation memory portion; a notification portion notifying a different image processing apparatus of information registered by the registration portion; an acquisition portion acquiring from the different image processing apparatus information of an original sorted stored in the different image processing apparatus at a sortation memory portion having registered therewith information identical to information imparted by the notification portion; and a storage portion storing to the sortation memory portion information of an original acquired by the acquisition portion from the different image processing portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, information present in a box within a different, remote image processing apparatus can be readily obtained.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the image processing apparatus including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store sorted information; an information adding portion adding additional information to the sortation memory portion; an acquisition portion acquiring from a different image processing apparatus information including additional information; a decision portion deciding whether there exists in the image processing apparatus additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion that is identical to additional information acquired by the acquisition portion from the different image processing apparatus; and an erasure portion driven by a result of a decision made by the decision portion and the additional information acquired by the acquisition portion from the different image processing apparatus to erase the information stored in the sortation memory portion that is associated with the additional information acquired by the acquisition portion from the different image processing apparatus.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, in effect, single information of an original can be held on the network, and unnecessary consumption of storage capacity can be avoided.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the image processing apparatus including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store information of an original sorted by additional information added to an image of the original; a detection portion detecting that the additional information has at least a portion designated; an erasure portion erasing from the sortation memory portion additional information detected by the detection portion as having been designated and the information of the original with the additional information added thereto; and a notification portion notifying a different image processing apparatus of the additional information erased by the erasure portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, a different image processing apparatus can also have appropriate additional information erased therefrom.

The present invention in still another aspect provides an additional-information notification system including a plurality of image processing apparatuses each including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store sorted information; an information adding portion adding additional information to the sortation memory portion; a first notification portion notifying a different image processing apparatus of the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion; a decision portion deciding whether there exists in the image processing apparatus additional information identical or similar to additional information imparted by the first notification portion from a different image processing apparatus; a second notification portion notifying of a result of a decision made by the decision portion the different image processing apparatus notified by the first notification portion of the additional information; and a registration portion driven by the result informed by the second notification portion from a different image processing apparatus to register with the image processing apparatus of interest the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, each box's information can be shared in real time.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the additional-information notification system including a plurality of information processing apparatuses including first and second image processing apparatuses, the first and second image processing apparatuses including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store sorted information; an information adding portion adding additional information to the sortation memory portion; an identification information production portion producing identification information identifying information stored in the sortation memory portion having the additional information added thereto; a transmission portion transmitting to the first image processing apparatus the identification information produced by the identification information production portion; a reception portion receiving identification information transmitted by the transmission portion from the second image processing apparatus; a first storage portion driven by the additional information added by the information adding portion to the sortation memory portion to store to the sortation memory portion the identification information received by the reception portion from the second image processing portion; a select portion selecting the identification information stored by the first storage portion to the sortation memory portion; a request portion driven by the identification information selected by the select portion to request information stored in the second image processing apparatus at the sortation memory portion; a return notification portion operative in response to a request from the first image processing apparatus by the request portion to return to the first image processing apparatus the information stored in the sortation memory portion; and a second storage portion storing to the sortation memory portion the information returned by the return notification portion from the second image processing portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, information present in a box within a different, remote image processing apparatus can be readily obtained.

The present invention in still another aspect provides an image information communication system including an image processing apparatus and a communication terminal, the image processing apparatus including: a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store sorted information; a notification portion notifying the communication terminal of identification information used to identify information stored in the sortation memory portion; an instruction reception portion receiving a printing instruction from the communication terminal; and a transmission portion driven by the printing instruction received by the instruction reception portion from the communication terminal to transmit to a different image processing apparatus the information stored in the sortation memory portion.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, information present in a box within a different, remote image processing apparatus can be readily printed out.

The present invention in still another aspect provides an image information processing method including the steps of: adding additional information to a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store information sorted by each prescribed condition for the prescribed condition; acquiring from a different image processing apparatus information including additional information; comparing the additional information acquired from the different image processing apparatus at the step of acquiring with the additional information added to the sortation memory portion at the step of adding, and displaying similar additional information; and selectively registering one of the additional information displayed at the step of comparing and displaying and the additional information added to the sortation memory portion at the step of adding.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, in effect, single information of an original can be held on the network, and unnecessary consumption of storage capacity can be avoided.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the image processing method including the steps of: adding additional information to a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area to store sorted information; acquiring from a different image processing apparatus information including additional information; comparing the additional information acquired from the different image processing apparatus at the step of acquiring with the additional information added to the sortation memory portion at the step of adding; and registering the additional information added to the sortation memory portion at the step of adding, as based on a result of a comparison made at the step of comparing.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the image processing method including the steps of: registering information with a sortation memory portion provided in a form of a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area storing information of an original sorted by identification information; notifying a different image processing apparatus of information registered at the step of registering; acquiring from the different image processing apparatus the information of the original sorted stored in the different image processing apparatus's sortation memory portion having registered therewith information identical to that imparted at the step of notifying; and storing to the sortation memory portion the information of the original acquired from the different image processing apparatus at the step of acquiring.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, information present in a box within a different, remote image processing apparatus can be readily printed out.

The present invention in still another aspect provides the image processing method including the steps of: detecting that additional information added to an image of an original is at least partially designated; erasing from a sortation memory portion the additional information detected as having been designated at the step of detecting and information of the original having the additional information added thereto, the sortation memory portion being a virtually sorted, prescribed memory area storing information of an original sorted by additional information added to an image of the original; and notifying a different image processing apparatus of the additional information erased at the step of erasing.

Thus boxes corresponding to sortation memory portions of the same name produced in networked image processing apparatuses, respectively, can be shared as if they were a single box. Furthermore, a different image processing apparatus can also have appropriate additional information erased therefrom.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter reference will be made to the drawings to describe the present invention in embodiment. In the following description, like components are denoted by like reference characters. Their names and functions are accordingly identical. Accordingly their detailed description will not be repeated.

With reference toFIG. 1, a system using an image processing apparatus of the present embodiment includes image processing apparatuses1a,1b,1c(hereinafter representatively referred to as an image processing apparatus1) connected to a network6, and a server5connected to network6and having a storage device.

Image processing apparatus1communicates with a different image processing apparatus and transmits or receives a variety of information through network6.

Network6may be a network using a local area network (LAN) or other similar dedicated line, a network using a general line, or a network via radio communication.

Then with reference toFIG. 2, image processing apparatus1is controlled by a control portion15to read an image from an original, a photograph or the like via a scan device or other similar image reading device10. The image read by image reading device15can be passed to and printed out by an image forming device11. Furthermore the image read by image reading device15can be stored to a box16possessed by a storage device12.

Image forming device11prints out data stored in box16possessed by storage device12. Furthermore image forming device11outputs information of the image read by image reading device10to another image processing apparatus via a network interface13.

Box16possessed by storage device12is a region of storage device12that is sectioned for each individual or department. It indicates a region within storage device12that corresponds to the individual or department and stores information sorted for each individual or department.

Network interface13transmits the data in box16possessed by storage device12, additional information of box16input or the like via network16to another image forming device. The box's additional information includes the box's name (hereinafter referred to as a “box name”). Note that in the following description when a box name is referred to it may include information other than a box name corresponding to additional information of the box of interest.

Control portion15controls image reading device10, image forming device11, storage device12and network interface13, and they are connected by an address and data bus100.

Storage device12stores information communicated on network6and image information read by image reading device10. Furthermore, storage device12includes the aforementioned box16to classify and sort communicated information, image information or the like for each individual or department and store the sorted information thereto. If different image processing apparatuses1have box16of the same name, any of the different image processing apparatuses1can freely use the sorted information within box16of the same name possessed by another one of the different image processing apparatuses1.

Image processing apparatus1registers box16with storage device12and adds additional information to each registered box16. Furthermore, image processing apparatus1(e.g., image processing apparatus1a) notifies a prescribed image processing apparatus1(e.g., image processing apparatus1b) of the additional information added to box16.

The prescribed image processing apparatus1having been notified from image processing apparatus1of the additional information added to box16stores additional information of all boxes16registered with its storage device12and when it receives a request from a different image processing apparatus1it returns the additional information of all boxes16.

For example, with reference toFIG. 1, if image processing apparatuses1a-1care each installed in a different office, a user in an office7, which has image processing apparatus1binstalled therein, can use mobile equipment4to indicate additional information including a box name of box16registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12and information related to sorted information stored in box16(hereinafter, sorted information stored in box16will be referred to as “original data”) so as to allow another image processing apparatus1bto directly output the original data of box16registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12. Furthermore, mobile equipment4can also be used for example to register a box with image processing apparatus1, server5or the like and erase the box.

Note that mobile equipment4includes a communication function and a storage means and corresponds to mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), personal notebook computers and the like. They have general configurations and will not be described specifically.

Mobile equipment4notifies image processing apparatus1of information excluding original data. As such, the information has a small amount of data and preferably it is imparted from mobile equipment4to image processing apparatus1by radio communication8. Furthermore, image processing apparatus1notifies image processing apparatus2of original data having a size of an amount of data that generally corresponds to image data. Accordingly, image processing apparatus1notifies image processing apparatus2preferably through optical fiber communication, which is different in manner from communication8.

Server5stores in a storage device all of additional information of box6included in image processing apparatus1and data possessed in box16. Server5returns additional information of box16requested by image processing apparatus1and data held in that box16. If server5possesses the above described information, image processing apparatus1may not store a box name or data possessed by a box.

Note that server5is constructed by using for example a general personal computer and includes a keyboard or a similar input function to allow the box16name to be input. The remaining configuration of server5will herein not be described in detail.

Server5notifies image processing apparatus1of an input box name and in image processing apparatus1a registration process is effected in accordance with a registration sequence, which will be described hereinafter. Furthermore, server5may receive a box name input in a method similar to a method of operating image processing apparatus1, as will be described hereinafter, or any other methods. For example, the server may receive a name input on a keyboard for example of personal computer (not shown) connected to network6to provide further convenience.

With reference toFIG. 3, control portion15includes a central processing unit (CPU)101executing a program, a flash read only memory (Flash ROM)102storing firmware thereof, a working, static random access memory (S-RAM)103, a non-volatile RAM (NV-RAM)104backed up by a battery and storing various types of set values, a console panel106, a clock integrated-circuit (clock IC)107counting time, and an address and data bus100connecting these components and devices together.

Address and data bus100has connected thereto storage device12formed for example of an HDD storing image information and information related to the image information, image reading device10, image forming device11and network interface13.

Furthermore with reference toFIG. 4console panel106includes a touch panel display portion1004allowing a box name to be input and a different image processing apparatus's box name to be displayed or registered, a copy count display portion1000displaying a copy count set when image processing apparatus1is operated to make a copy, keys1001including a numeral key pressed to set a copy count, a CLEAR (C) key pressed to erase a set copy count, a STOP (S) key suspending a copy operation and other keys, a PRINT key1003pressed to input an instruction to start a copy operation, a console area1005starting a box creation or erasure operation, a box creation key1006pressed to create a new box16, and a box erasure key1002pressed to erase box16present in storage device12.

On console panel106when box creation key1006is pressed on touch panel display portion1004displays a registration operation screen for registering a new box. Furthermore, when box erasure key1002is pressed on touch panel display portion1004displays an erasure operation screen for erasing a box. The registration and erasure operation screens will be described hereinafter with reference to a specific example.

The present image processing apparatus performs a process in a flow, as will be described hereinafter with reference to a sequence diagram (FIGS. 5-9). Initially will be described a process effected to register a new box16with image processing apparatus1and store it to storage device12.

A new-box creation sequence is shown specifically as a first new-box creation sequence by way of example inFIG. 5. In this sequence when a new box is to be registered with image processing apparatus1aall box names possessed by another image processing apparatus1bare obtained and before registration whether there exists an identical or similar box name is confirmed.

InFIG. 5, image processing apparatus1ais operated by a user to register box16. Image processing apparatus1bnotifies image processing apparatus1aof a box name possessed by image processing apparatus1bor notifies image processing apparatus1of link information of original data present in a box existing in apparatus1band having a box name identical to that which apparatus1ahas registered.

Furthermore, image processing apparatus1bhas on network6an address previously registered with image processing apparatus1a. This address is registered, as will be described hereinafter. Note that image processing apparatus1amay receive address information of image processing apparatus1bpreviously registered with server5and register the same.

With reference toFIG. 5, a user of image processing apparatus1apresses on box creation key1006. In response, image processing apparatus1a, which will create a new box, transmits notification T1to image processing apparatus1b. Notification T1is a request to return a box name(s) for obtaining the same from a different image processing apparatus.

Image processing apparatus1ahaving box creation key1006pressed on displays a registration operation screen on touch panel display portion1004and the user can perform an operation to input a box name and determine and register a name. The operation to determine a name adds to a box additional information corresponding to a box name. The registration operation screen will be described hereinafter with reference to a specific example. When the user presses the registration operation screen at a name decision key a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus has is displayed. When the user presses the registration operation screen at a name registration key an input box name can be registered without confirming any box names that a different image processing apparatus has.

Image processing apparatus1breceives notification T1from image processing apparatus1aand in response forms a list of names of boxes possessed by image processing apparatus1bstored at its storage device12and returns the box name list to image processing apparatus1aby return notification T2. The returned name list includes the box names possessed by image processing apparatus1band each box's registration date and time.

Note that image processing apparatus1bmay create a box name list at a time other than when notification T1is received. Image processing apparatus1bmay produce the list any time as long as box names possessed by image processing apparatus1bcan be returned to image processing apparatus1a.

For example, box names possessed by image processing apparatus1bmay be imparted, one box for each communication. Thus from image processing apparatus1bto image processing apparatus1aa plurality of communications may be effected to notify image processing apparatus1aof all box names.

Furthermore as a box's additional information a box name may be replaced with a code or abbreviation attached for each box. Note that if a box's additional information is a code or abbreviation, the code or abbreviation is set by a user whenever a box is registered.

The code, as specifically exemplified, is preferably a unique code such as an employee code. Furthermore, the abbreviation, as specifically exemplified, is preferably converted to a short name associatable with an input name, such as an abbreviation formed by a portion of the name of interest and thus transmitted. For example, for the name “Production Department1,” an abbreviation such as “Production,” “P1” “PD” or the like is preferable.

Furthermore, for each box, information of a date and time at which the box was registered is preferably included in the box's additional information.

When image processing apparatus1areceives return notification T2from image processing apparatus1b, image processing apparatus1aallows touch panel display portion1004to display all of received box names on a registration operation screen displayed before a box name is input. The user inputs a box name on the registration operation screen and presses the name decision key. In response, a received box name that is identical or similar to the input name is extracted and displayed. Preferably, a box name that has been registered during a prescribed period of time (for example within one month) as counted from a date of the registration operation is extracted and displayed. Thus comparing a registration date and time included in a box's additional information can narrow down candidates to help to rapidly register a new box name. Furthermore, a new box having an identical box name can also be created correctly.

Note that if image processing apparatus1areceives return notification T2from image processing apparatus1bafter a user inputs a box name and presses the name decision key, then when image processing apparatus1areceives return notification T2from image processing apparatus1bimage processing apparatus1aextracts from return notification T2a box name identical or similar to the input name and displays it on the registration operation screen.

The user confirms a candidate box name displayed on the registration operation screen and presses the name registration key or numeral key1001indicating a candidate's number. In response, a new box name is registered and a new box is registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12.

When a new box is thus registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12, image processing apparatus1atransmits to image processing apparatus1binformation indicating that the new box has been registered, by notification T3including a registered box name.

Image processing apparatus1breceives notification T3from image processing apparatus1aand determines whether it has a box having a name identical to the box name received from image processing apparatus1a. If image processing apparatus1bhas stored in its storage device12a box having an identical name, image processing apparatus1bproduces link information having three pieces of information, i.e., additional information including the box name of the box having the identical name, the apparatus's address (e.g., IP address) on a network, and the original data's name, and returns the produced link information to image processing apparatus1aby return notification T4. Thus in referencing information stored in a box of a different image processing apparatus, link information including identification information identifying the information stored in the different apparatus's box and information indicative of the location can be transmitted to significantly further reduce a communication load and thus prevent it from increasing than when the information stored in the different apparatus's box is exactly transmitted.

Image processing apparatus1areceives return notification T4from image processing apparatus1band stores the received link information to the new, registered box having the same name as a box name included in return notification T4. Thus the address of image processing apparatus1bhaving registered therewith a box having the same box name added thereto, is registered with image processing apparatus1a.

Note mobile equipment4can be used to register a new box with image processing apparatus1athrough theFIG. 5sequence in the same manner except that image processing apparatus1ais replaced with mobile equipment4. More specifically, mobile equipment4has a box creation key, which is pressed on by a user to transmit notification T1to image processing apparatus1bto request it to return a box name for obtaining the same from a different image processing apparatus to display it at mobile equipment4. Note that mobile equipment4has a console panel including the equipment's box creating key, as will be described later with reference to a specific example.

Mobile equipment4having the box creation key pressed on, as described above, displays a registration operation screen and the user can perform an operation to input and determine a box name and register the name. On the registration operation screen a name decision key is pressed and a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus is in response displayed. Furthermore on the registration operation screen a name registration key can be pressed to register an input box name without confirming a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus.

Image processing apparatus1breceives notification T1from mobile equipment4, and in response forms a list of names of boxes held in image processing apparatus1bat its storage device12and returns the list by return notification T2to mobile equipment4. The returned name list includes box names that image processing apparatus1bhas and each box's registration date and time.

Note that image processing apparatus1bmay create a box name list at a time other than when notification T1is received. Image processing apparatus1bmay produce the list any time as long as box names possessed by image processing apparatus1bcan be returned to mobile equipment4.

For example, box names possessed by image processing apparatus1bmay be imparted, one box for each communication. Thus from image processing apparatus1bto mobile equipment4a plurality of communications may be effected to notify mobile equipment4of all box names.

Furthermore as a box's additional information a box name may be replaced with a code or abbreviation attached for each box. Note that if a box's additional information is a code or abbreviation, the code or abbreviation is set by a user whenever a box is registered.

The code, as specifically exemplified, is preferably a unique code such as an employee code. Furthermore, the abbreviation, as specifically exemplified, is preferably converted to a short name associatable with an input name, such as an abbreviation formed by a portion of the name of interest, and thus transmitted. For example, for the name “Production Department1,” an abbreviation such as “Production,” “P1” “PD” or the like is preferable.

Furthermore, if a box's additional information includes the code, image processing apparatus1bmay notify mobile equipment4of both a box name and the code. In that case, the box name as well as the code are transmitted, and image processing apparatus1bthus communicates increased data to mobile equipment4. However, mobile equipment4having received the data can use the code to conduct a search. The search can thus be readily conducted.

Mobile equipment4having received return notification T2from image processing apparatus1bdisplays the received box name(s) on the registration operation screen. Then on the screen a box name is input and the name decision key is pressed. In response, a received box name that is identical or similar to the input name is extracted and displayed.

Note that if mobile equipment4receives return notification T2from image processing apparatus1bafter a user inputs a box name and presses the name decision key, then when mobile equipment4receives return notification T2from image processing apparatus1bmobile equipment4extracts from return notification T2a box name identical or similar to the input name and displays it on the registration operation screen.

The user confirms a candidate box name displayed on the registration operation screen and presses the name registration key or numeral key1001indicating a candidate's number. In response, a new box name is registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12.

When a box is thus registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12, mobile equipment4transmits to image processing apparatus1binformation indicating that the new box has been registered, by notification T3including a registered box name.

Image processing apparatus1breceives notification T3from mobile equipment4and determines whether it has a box having a name identical to the box name received. If image processing apparatus1bhas stored in its storage device12a box having an identical name, image processing apparatus1bproduces link information having three pieces of information, i.e., additional information including the box name of the box having the identical name, the apparatus's address on a network, and the original data's name, and returns the produced link information to mobile equipment4by return notification T4.

Mobile equipment4receives return notification T4from image processing apparatus1band stores the received link information to the new, box registered with image processing apparatus1athat has the same name as a box name included in return notification T4.

Note that while theFIG. 5sequence has been described above with image processing apparatus1areplaced by mobile equipment4, after mobile equipment4is operated to input a box name image processing apparatus1amay be notified of the input box name by mobile equipment4and may perform that portion of theFIG. 5process subsequent to inputting the box name. More specifically, after mobile equipment4is operated to input a box name theFIG. 5image processing apparatuses1aand1bsequence can be started at transmitting notification T1. The sequence subsequent to the transmission of notification T1will not be described as it has been described hereinabove.

Furthermore, performing a sequence similar to the above described sequence allows server5to also have a new box registered therewith.

In the present image processing apparatus the above described new-box creation sequence1allows image processing apparatus1a, which is operated by a user for registration, to obtain from another image processing apparatus1ball box names registered with apparatus1band display an identical or similar box name. Image processing apparatus1acan thus be prevented from registering a box name identical to a box having been registered with image processing apparatus1b. Furthermore if a user desires to intentionally register with image processing apparatus1aa name identical to a box having been registered with another image processing apparatus1bthe user can correctly register the same box name.

Furthermore in the present image processing apparatus when the above described new-box creation sequence1is performed, complete information present in a box within another image processing apparatus existing at a remote location can be readily obtained without the necessity of inputting another apparatus's address.

As another specific example of the new-box creation sequence a second new-box creation sequence is shown inFIG. 6. The second new-box creation sequence allows a new box to be registered with image processing apparatus1aafter whether there exists in another image processing apparatus a box name identical or similar to an input box name is confirmed.

InFIG. 6, image processing apparatus1ais operated by a user to register box16therewith. Image processing apparatus1btransmits and receives information required in a process for registering a new box with image processing apparatus1a.

With reference toFIG. 6, the user of image processing apparatus la presses box creation key1006. In response, image processing apparatus1atransmits new-box name notification T11to image processing apparatuses1band1cto request them to return any identical or similar box names.

Notification T11may not be transmitted in response only to image processing apparatus1acreating a new box. It may be transmitted in response to image processing apparatus receiving a new box name from external equipment. The external equipment corresponds for example to a personal computer equipped with a keyboard or any other similar input means and includes software displaying a registration operation screen. From this external equipment the input means is operated to input a box name and a name decision key is pressed on to transmit the input name to image processing apparatus1a. Image processing apparatus1areceives the name from the external equipment and in response similarly transmits notification T11to image processing apparatus1band1c.

In image processing apparatus1ain response to box creation key1006pressed on touch panel display portion1004displays a registration operation screen and the user can perform an operation to input and determine a box name and register the name. On the registration operation screen a name decision key can be pressed to display a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus. Furthermore on the registration operation screen a name registration key can be pressed to register an input box name without confirming any box names that a different image processing apparatus has.

Image processing apparatuses1band1creceive notification T11from image processing apparatus1aand in response determine whether they have identical or similar box names stored in their respective storage devices12. If so then the identical or similar box names are returned to image processing apparatus1atogether with each box's registration date by notification of possible, similar box name T12. Herein, the term “similar” corresponds for example for the name “Production Department1” to “Production,” “P1,” “PD” or the like. Note that herein similarity can be determined by a method generally employed to determine similarity.

InFIG. 6, image processing apparatus1bdoes not have any identical or similar box name stored in storage device12. Accordingly, image processing apparatus1bdoes not return notification T12. Furthermore inFIG. 6image processing apparatus1chas a box of an identical or similar name(s) stored in storage device12. Accordingly, image processing apparatus1creturns notification T12to image processing apparatus1a.

Image processing apparatus1areceives notification T12from image processing apparatus1cand displays the received, possible, identical or similar box name(s) on a registration operation screen displayed on touch panel display portion1004.

The user confirms the possible box name(s) displayed on the registration operation screen and presses a name registration key or numeral key1001indicating the number of a candidate box name to select it. Thus a new box name is registered with image processing apparatus1aand stored to its storage device12.

When image processing apparatus1ahas a new box registered therewith and stored to its storage device12, image processing apparatus la transmits to image processing apparatus1cinformation indicating that the new box has been registered, by notification including the registered box name T13.

Image processing apparatus1creceives notification T13from image processing apparatus1aand in response determines whether it has a box having a name identical to the box name received from image processing apparatus1a. If image processing apparatus1chas a box of an identical name stored in storage device12, image processing apparatus1cproduces link information having three pieces of information, i.e., additional information including the box name of the box having the identical name, the apparatus's address indicating its location on a network, and the original data's name, and returns the produced link information to image processing apparatus1aby notification returning link information T14. Furthermore, if the box having the identical name has original data stored therein, the original data may be returned instead of the link information as notification T14.

Image processing apparatus1areceives notification T14from image processing apparatus1cand stores the received link information to the box having a name identical to the box name included in notification T14, i.e., the new, currently registered box.

[Link Information Acquisition Sequence and Original-Data Acquisition Sequence]

FIG. 7shows a specific example of a sequence effected to resister a box name without confirming whether there exist any identical or similar box names.

With reference toFIG. 7, a user of image processing apparatus1apresses on the console panel106box creation key, inputs a name on a registration operation screen displayed on touch panel display portion1004, and presses on a name registration key. In response, image processing apparatus1atransmits to image processing apparatuses1band1ca confirmation including the new registered box name for confirming whether there exist any identical boxes T21.

Image processing apparatus1receives confirmation T21from image processing apparatus1aand determines whether it has stored in its storage device12a box having a name identical to the box name included in confirmation T21. If not then the apparatus does not issue a return notification to image processing apparatus1a. InFIG. 7, image processing apparatus1bdoes not have stored in its storage device12a box having a name identical to the box included in confirmation T21. Accordingly, image processing apparatus1bdoes not issue a return notification to image processing apparatus1a.

Furthermore inFIG. 7image processing apparatus1chas stored in its storage device12a box having a name identical to the box name included in confirmation T21. Accordingly, image processing apparatus1cnotifies processing apparatus1aby notification T22that there exists an identical box. That an identical box exists in the image processing apparatus1cstorage device12is thus imparted. Furthermore, image processing apparatus1creturns to image processing apparatus1alink information by notification returning link information T23, or original data.

When image processing apparatus1adetects that notification T22is received from image processing apparatus1c, image processing apparatus1acorrelates the address of the image processing apparatus having a box with a name identical to the new, created box name, i.e., the address of image processing apparatus1chaving transmitted notification T22, with the new created box and thus stores the same.

Furthermore when image processing apparatus1adetects that notification T23has been received from image processing apparatus1c, image processing apparatus1astores received link information to a box identical to the box name induded in the link information. Alternatively, when image processing apparatus1adetects that notification T23has been received from image processing apparatus1c, image processing apparatus1astores received original data to a new created box.

Then when link information is designated in image processing apparatus1aa request to return original data T24is imparted to a destination of notification included in the link information (inFIG. 7, an image processing apparatus1c). The link information is designated in image processing apparatus1ain a method as will be described later with reference to a specific example.

Image processing apparatus1creceives request T24from image processing apparatus1aand is driven by link information included in request T24to search its storage device12for original data within a box and returns the original data by notification returning original data T25.

Image processing apparatus1areceives notification T25from image processing apparatus1cand stores the received original data to a box having stored therein the link information transmitted by request T24. Note that image processing apparatus1acan also print out the data on a sheet via image forming device11, rather than store the data to a box.

With reference toFIG. 8, when a user of image processing apparatus1apresses on box erasure key1002of console panel106image processing apparatus1atransmits to a different image processing apparatus1bnotification of information including a box name to be erased T31.

Image processing apparatus1breceives notification T31from image processing apparatus1a, and if image processing apparatus1bhas in its storage device12a box having added thereto a box name identical to that to be erased included in notification T31, image processing apparatus1berases link information stored in the box having the identical name that includes the received box name and has the address of image processing apparatus1a.

When the present image processing apparatus effects the box erasure sequence, an erasure operation is being performed at image processing apparatus1awhile a different image processing apparatus1bcan be prevented from performing an excessive communication erroneously erasing link information free of original data. Furthermore, the sequence can also prevent a communication error from occurring in image processing apparatus1bas a result of communication. Furthermore while an image processing apparatus has erased therefrom information stored in a box produced for each individual or department it is not necessary to perform an operation to erase related information present in a different image processing apparatus.

[Sequence of a Printing Instruction from Mobile Equipment4]

Mobile equipment4is operated to allow original data stored in a box held by an image processing apparatus existing at a location to be printed out by a different, nearest image processing apparatus through a sequence.FIG. 9shows a specific example of the sequence.

Mobile equipment4sets on its console panel the link information of original data to be printed out and an address of an image processing apparatus printing out the data, i.e., the image processing apparatus1baddress on a network and transmits to image processing apparatus1a, which has the original data, by notification issued to remotely print out data in accordance with link information T41. Notification T41is information including link information of original data and an address of an image processing apparatus printing out the original data. How mobile equipment4is operated to select information to be imparted will be described later with reference to a specific example.

Image processing apparatus1areceives notification T41from mobile equipment4. From the original data's name and a box name included in the link information included in notification T41, image processing apparatus1adetermines original data stored in a box having a name identical to the box name. Note that original data to be determined is not limited to original data present in the image processing apparatus1astorage device12. Original data present for example in a different image processing apparatus1or server5may be determined via network6.

Then image processing apparatus1atransmits the original data and a printing instruction by an instruction to print original data T42to the address of an image processing apparatus printing out the data, as included in notification T41, i.e., image processing apparatus1b.

Image processing apparatus1breceives instruction T42from image processing apparatus1aand prints out the original data included in instruction T42.

In the image processing apparatus the above described sequence allows a user of mobile equipment4working in an office having image processing apparatus1binstalled therein to print out via image processing apparatus1boriginal data stored in a box of image processing apparatus1ainstalled at a remote location such as a different office.

Furthermore in the present image processing apparatus the above sequence can eliminate a waiting time corresponding to an amount of data of information that elapses before the information is obtained from a remote location. Thus a user can use mobile equipment4such as mobile phone to instruct a nearest image processing apparatus to print out data and estimate when the data will completely be printed out so that the user can go to the image processing apparatus at his/her estimated time to pick up the printout and thus does not need to wait in front of the image processing apparatus for the data to be printed out. Furthermore, employing a mobile phone or other similar, familiar mobile equipment to operate the image processing apparatus can provide enhanced operability by user.

Information produced when the above described new-box creation sequence is effected will now be described with reference to a specific example of a box registered with image processing apparatus1and stored to its storage device12, as shown inFIGS. 10-12.

With reference toFIG. 10, image processing apparatus1ahas stored in its storage device12ten boxes having box names “Suzuki,” “Inoue,” “Sakurai,” “Yamaguchi,” “Mori,” “Namino,” “Noguchi,” “Saijo,” “Asaka” and “Morimoto” attached thereto. Furthermore, each box has information of the box's registration date and time stored therein.

Furthermore, each box also has stored therein a box code corresponding to information that identifies the box. In the present system when a new box is created, image processing apparatus1attaches this box code automatically to the new created box, as counted from one successively. In theFIG. 10example, boxes are registered from the box names “Suzuki” to “Morimoto” successively and box codes1-10are attached to the boxes successively. A box code may not be attached by image processing apparatus1aautomatically and may alternatively be set when a user registers a new box. For example, if a box code is input in the form of an employee number then instead of a box name the box code can be used as information for identify a box.

Furthermore each box may store therein data received from a different image processing apparatus and data read via image reading device10. InFIG. 10, a box of box code1corresponding to the box name “Suzuki” has stored therein data received from a different image processing apparatus, which is data with “game result. TXT” serving as a file name corresponding to information that identifies the file, and a box of box code3corresponding to the box name “Sakurai” has stored therein files1and2of original data of an image read via image reading device10.

Note that the box of box code3has stored therein “information of link to file3,” which is information of a link to a file3corresponding to original data stored in a box of the same box name “Sakurai” that a different image processing apparatus (image processing apparatus1bin a specific example described later) has.

This information of the link to file3includes “the image processing apparatus1baddress on network,” “file3,” which is a file name of a file of a destination of the link, and name of box stored this information of the link to file3, i.e., “Sakurai.” Such information of the link to file3is produced by image processing apparatus1bwhen file3is stored to image processing apparatus1bin the box having the box name “Sakurai.” The produced information is transmitted to image processing apparatus1aand stored thereto in the box having the box name “Sakurai.”

Then, with reference toFIG. 11, image processing apparatus1bhas stored in storage device12five boxes having box names “Baba,” “Sakaguchi,” “S akurai,” “Yamaguchi” and “Mori” attached thereto. Furthermore, each box has stored therein information of the box's registration date and time.

Furthermore, each box has stored therein a box code corresponding to information that identifies the box. In the present system when a new box is created a box code is attached automatically by image processing apparatus1from one successively. If a box name is registered with image processing apparatus1bsuch that boxes are registered successively from that of the box name “Baba” while image processing apparatus1ahas a box, then image processing apparatus1bwhen registering a box previously obtains the following number from image processing apparatus1avia network6and attaches a box code to each box, starting at11, successively.

Image processing apparatus1bhas registered therewith the box names “Sakurai,” “Yamaguchi” and “Mori,” which are identical to box names that image processing apparatus1ahas. Accordingly, the same box codes as those in image processing apparatus1aare attached. These identical codes are attached in creating a box in image processing apparatus1bby adopting a code transmitted from image processing apparatus1atogether with box name.

Furthermore, with reference toFIG. 11, the box with the box name “Sakurai” has stored therein file3corresponding to original data, information of a link to file1, and information of a link to file2. File3corresponding to original data is information stored after the box of interest is created, and the information of the link to file1and that of the link to file2are information obtained from image processing apparatus1ain creating the box.

Then, with reference toFIG. 12, image processing apparatus1chas stored in storage device12three boxes with box names “Matsuda,” “Kaga” and “Esumi” attached thereto. TheFIG. 12example shows that storage device12in that state has therein a new box created with the box name “Sakurai” attached thereto. Furthermore, each box has stored therein information of the box's registration date and time.

To register a box with image processing apparatus1c, similarly as has been described for registering a box with image processing apparatus1b, to successively register boxes starting from that with the box name “Matsuda” the following number is obtained via network6from image processing apparatuses1aand1band box codes are attached successively from20to the boxes.

As the box with the box name “Sakurai” additionally registered with image processing apparatus1cis identical to a box name possessed by image processing apparatuses1aand1b. Accordingly, a box code identical to that in image processing apparatuses1aand1bis attached. These identical codes are attached in creating a box in image processing apparatuses1aand1bby adopting a code transmitted from image processing apparatuses1aand1btogether with box name.

Furthermore, with reference toFIG. 12, since the box with the box name “Sakurai” has additionally been created, it still does not have original data stored therein. However, it has stored therein the information of the link to file1, that of the link to file2, and that of the link to file3. The information of the link to file1and that of the link to file2are information obtained from image processing apparatus1ain creating the box and that of the like to file3is information obtained from image processing apparatus1b.

FIG. 13represents an example showing that mobile equipment4has a new box created in its storage device that has the box name “Sakurai” attached thereto by way of example.

With reference toFIG. 13, the new registered box with the box name “Sakurai” is identical to a box name possessed by image processing apparatuses1a,1b,1c. Accordingly, a box code identical to that in image processing apparatuses1a,1b,1cis attached. These identical codes are attached in creating a box in image processing apparatuses1a,1b,1cby adopting a code transmitted from image processing apparatuses1a,1b,1ctogether with box name.

Note that mobile equipment4registers a box with image processing apparatus1or erases a box from image processing apparatus1and stores to a box present in its storage device link information of original data. More specifically, with reference toFIG. 13, the box with the box name “Sakurai” has stored therein the information of the link to file1, that of the link to file2and that of the link to file3. The information of the link to file1and that of the link to file2are information obtained from image processing apparatus1ain creating the box and that of the link to file3is information obtained from image processing apparatus1b. As such, mobile equipment4is not required to have a large storage capacity, which can increase users' convenience.

While in theFIGS. 10-13examples a box name is a user's individual name, it may be department name input. For example, if the box name “Sakurai” is replaced with a box name “Development Department” and files1,2and3are used by all staff members of a development department for the sake of illustration, each image processing apparatuses1a,1b,1chas the box “Development Department” and the staff members can use image processing apparatus1closest to their desks to use files1,2and3.

Image processing apparatus1is operated for each of theFIGS. 5-8specifically exemplified sequences, as described hereinafter by referring to each operating screen specifically exemplified.

In theFIG. 5sequence when theFIG. 4box creation key1006is pressed on image processing apparatus1transmits notification T1a request to obtain a box name that a different image processing apparatus has. TheFIG. 4touch panel display portion1004displays a registration operation screen shown inFIG. 14.

With reference toFIG. 14, the registration operation screen includes Roman alphabetical keys a-z, an @ key, a comma (shown as “,” inFIG. 14) key, numeral keys, a minus (shown as “−” inFIG. 14) key and an underbar (shown as “_” inFIG. 14) key. These keys are used to input a box name. The input box name is displayed by a box name display portion.

Image processing apparatus1has a function to convert an alphabetical letter input via a Roman alphabetical key to Japanese and the box name display portion ofFIG. 14displays a letter that has been converted into Japanese. A Roman alphabetical letter is converted to Japanese by pressing S key1001shown inFIG. 4. Note that pressing S key1001allows the conversion function to function only when theFIGS. 14-16screens are displayed. When these screens are not displayed, S key1001functions as a key indicating an instruction to stop a copy operation when it is pressed.

Then the user operates the registration operation screen to press on a name decision key to complete inputting a box name displayed on the box name display portion. Then image processing apparatus1stores an input box name to storage device12-to use it as a keyword to be compared with in searching for any box names possessed by a different image processing apparatus that are possible, identical or similar box name.

Then the user operates the registration operation screen to press on a name registration key. Content displayed by the box name display portion is registered as a box name to complete creating a new box.

Furthermore, operating the registration operation screen to input a prescribed letter and subsequently press on a supplementation key allows a thereafter registered new box to have its box name followed by the input, prescribed letter to supplement the name. More specifically, a new box name registered thereafter is followed by information input by pressing on the supplementation key to supplement the name. For example, the supplementation key is pressed on to input “_JP” as information as a supplement and if a thereafter registered box name is “Japan” then the name “Japan_JP” is applied in registering a new box.

In performing the above described operation to register a new box when theFIG. 5notification returning a box name list T2is received from a different image processing apparatus the user can operate theFIG. 14screen to press on the name registration key to switch theFIG. 14screen to theFIG. 15screen to display a box name(s) and each box's registration date included in notification T2together with a number for selection. Thus displaying a box name received from a different image processing apparatus can prevent a user from erroneously inputting as a new box name a box name similar to that possessed by the different image processing apparatus.

When theFIG. 15screen is operated to input a box name and press on the name decision key, the input box name is temporarily stored to storage device12. Then theFIG. 15screen switches to theFIG. 16screen displaying a box name included in notification T2received from the different image processing apparatus that is similar to a box name possessed by the different image processing apparatus. Note thatFIG. 16shows an example provided when theFIG. 15screen is operated to input “Production Department1” as a box name. A box name displayed at that time preferably displays a box name registered during a prescribed period of time (for example of one month) as counted from the date of the registration operation, as has been described previously, and on theFIG. 16screen is shown a specific example of a registration operation screen displayed for performing the operation on May 1, 2001 and inputting “Production Department1” as a box name.

On theFIGS. 15 and 16screens a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus that is identical or similar to an input box name and each box's registration date together with a number for selection. The registration date may be displayed to include a registration time, i.e., a registration date and time may be displayed.

By operating theFIG. 15or16screen to press on the name registration key, a box is registered with an input box name. If a candidate box name displayed on theFIG. 15or16screen is to be selected and registered, a displayed number is selected via numerical key1001shown inFIG. 4to change a name to a selected box name for registration.

Note that for theFIG. 6sequence when box creation key1006shown inFIG. 4is pressed on, touch panel display portion1004displays theFIG. 14screen. Then when the notification of a possible, similar box name T12shown inFIG. 6is received from a different image processing apparatus, theFIG. 14screen switches to theFIG. 15screen.

TheFIG. 15screen is operated to input a box name and presses on the name decision key. In response, theFIG. 15screen switches to theFIG. 16screen displaying a candidate box name included in notification T12that is identical or similar to the input name. TheFIG. 16screen is operated to confirm the displayed candidate box name and press the name registration key or numeral key1001corresponding to the candidate's number to select it. In response, a box name is registered with image processing apparatus1and stored to its storage device12. As image processing apparatus1now has a new box registered therewith and stored to its storage device12, image processing apparatus1transmits to a different image processing apparatus theFIG. 6notification of the registered box name T13to impart the input box name.

Note that theFIG. 15screen may be adapted to display a box name previously stored in image processing apparatus1currently operated and may be operated select a displayed box name by number to register a new box's name.

Furthermore on theFIGS. 15 and 16screens a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus that is identical or similar to an input box name and each box's registration date are displayed together with a number for selection. By operating theFIG. 15or16screen to press on the name registration key, a box is registered with an input box name. If a candidate box name displayed is to be selected and registered, a displayed number is selected via numerical key1001shown inFIG. 4to change a name to a selected box name for registration.

Note that for theFIG. 7sequence when box creation key1006shown inFIG. 4is pressed on, touch panel display portion1004displays theFIG. 14screen. Then theFIG. 14screen is operated to input a box name and press on the name registration key to register the input box name with image processing apparatus1and store it to the apparatus's storage device12.

In theFIG. 8sequence when box erasure key1002ofFIG. 4is pressed on image processing apparatus1transmits to a different image processing apparatus the notification of information of a box to be erased T31and theFIG. 4touch panel display portion1004displays an erasure operation screen shown inFIG. 17.

On theFIG. 17screen the number of a box name to be erased is input via numeral key1001shown inFIG. 4and an erasure key is pressed on to start theFIG. 8erasure sequence.

[Operation at Mobile Equipment4]

With reference toFIG. 18, mobile equipment4has a console panel including a touch panel display portion1010and a group of keys1011and operated to input a box having data to be printed stored therein, data to be print, and an address of an image processing apparatus that prints out data.

The group of keys1011is used to register a box and input an instruction to start an instruction to print data. It includes an “a” key used to register a new box. In theFIG. 9sequence when theFIG. 18console panel is operated to press on the “a” key touch panel display portion1010displays a screen similar to theFIG. 14registration operation screen displayed by the image processing apparatus1on touch panel display portion1004. Similarly as has been described above for image processing apparatus1, the user can operate a registration operation screen displayed on the mobile equipment4touch panel display portion1010to perform an operation to input and determine a box name and register the name.

Then the registration operation screen is operated to press on the name decision key to display a box name possessed by image processing apparatus1. Furthermore the screen is operated to press on the name registration key to register an input box name without confirming the box name(s) possessed by image processing apparatus1. Thereafter an operation similar to that described in theFIG. 5sequence is performed.

The group of keys1011also includes a “b” key. When the “b” key is pressed on, theFIG. 14screen displayed on touch panel display portion1010switches to a printout operation screen shown inFIG. 19for allowing original data possessed by image processing apparatus1ato be printed out by a different, nearest image processing apparatus1b. With reference toFIG. 19, the printout operation screen includes keys1021and1022for making a selection and an ENTER key1023pressed to make a decision.

On theFIG. 19screen key1021or1022is pressed on to select a name of a box having stored therein link information of data to be print. In theFIG. 19example, the boxes with the box names “Sakurai” and “Esumi” registered by mobile equipment4with image processing apparatus1aare selectably displayed. This example is a specific example corresponding to a specific example of a box registered with mobile equipment4when the equipment is used to register a box with image processing apparatus1and store it to the apparatus's storage device12.

TheFIG. 19.screen, as specifically exemplified, shows that the box name “Sakurai” displayed at the top is underlined, which indicates that the box name “Sakurai” has been selected. When key1021is pressed on with “Sakurai” selected, the underline moves to the box name “Esumi” and the box with the box name “Esumi” is selected. When key1022is pressed on with “Esumi” selected, the underline is again moved to the box name “Sakurai” and the box name “Sakurai” is again selected.

Then theFIG. 19screen is operated to press on ENTER key1023to determine selection of a currently selected box. Then theFIG. 19screen displayed on touch panel display portion1010switches to a screen operated to select data to be printed, as shown inFIG. 20, to display a name of a file of original data present in the selected box. With reference toFIG. 20, the screen operated to select data to be printed includes keys1024and1025for making a selection and an ENTER key1026operated to make a decision.

Note that data that can be stored to a box registered by mobile equipment4with image processing apparatus1(or server5) is link information of original data, as has been described previously. As such, theFIG. 20screen, as specifically exemplified, shows that the box with the box name “Sakurai” shown inFIG. 13has been selected and entered by way of example and as data to be printed, files1,2and3are selectably displayed.

TheFIG. 20screen, as specifically exemplified, shows file1, displayed at the top, is underlined, which indicates that file1has been selected. When key1024is pressed on with file1selected, the underline moves to file2and file2is thus selected as data to be printed. When key1025is pressed on with file2selected as data to be printed, the underline is again moved to file1and file1is thus again selected.

Then theFIG. 20screen is operated to press ENTER key1026to enter selection of a currently selected data name. Then theFIG. 20screen displayed on touch panel display portion1010switches to a screen operated to set an address of an apparatus that prints out data, as shown inFIG. 21. With reference toFIG. 21, the screen operated to set an address of an apparatus that prints out data, as well as theFIG. 14registration operation screen, includes Roman alphabetical keys a-z, an @ key, a, comma (,) key, numeral keys, a minus (−) key and an underbar (_) key pressed to input an address, an address decision key pressed to enter that an address has been determined, and an address display portion displaying an input address. On this screen a user performs an operation to input an address of image processing apparatus1that prints out data to be printed. The user then presses on the address decision key and mobile equipment4in response transmits theFIG. 9notification issued to remotely print data in accordance with link information T41to image processing apparatus1ahaving stored therein original data corresponding to the data to be printed.

To implement each of the above described sequences, image processing apparatus1performs a process, as will be described with reference to the flow charts shown inFIGS. 22-26. TheFIGS. 22-26flow charts represent a process performed in image processing apparatus1by control portion15configured of CPU101reading firmware stored in Flash ROM102and developing it on S-RAM103for execution.

TheFIG. 22process is started for example by plugging in image processing apparatus1or pressing a power supply button (not shown) to supply power.

With reference toFIG. 22, when the process starts, initially step (S)1000is performed to set an initial value of each set value of CPU101to allow addresses and data to be communicated for Flash ROM102, S-RAM103, NV-RAM104and console panel106. Furthermore, each block shown inFIG. 2is initialized to allow the image processing apparatus1image reading device10, image forming device11and storage device12to operate.

After the S1000initialization completes, S1010is performed to effect copy control. This step is a step for implementing a copy operation started by pressing on print key1002shown inFIG. 4, and control for outputting data to be printed that is received through network6. This step will not herein be described as it is generally performed in image processing apparatuses.

Then S1020is performed to effect a box process. This process is performed by an image processing apparatus when control of registering a box, a sequence performed in the registration, and printing in response to an instruction from mobile equipment are performed. The S1020box process will be described with reference to a subroutine more specifically hereinafter.

After S1020completes, the control proceeds with S1030to effect other operations and returns to S1010. Note that the other operations at S1030correspond to controlling image reading device10, controlling storage device12, handling network interface13, and the like, which are operations generally performed in image processing apparatuses.

The S1020box process will now be described with reference toFIGS. 23-26flow charts. S1100-S1260, or theFIG. 23flow chart, are process steps performed in an image processing apparatus registering a new box therewith. TheFIG. 20flow chart, or S1300-S1340, are process steps effected in an image processing apparatus performing an operation to erase a box. TheFIGS. 24-25S1350-S1600are process steps performed in an image processing apparatus receiving information transmitted by an image processing apparatus registering a new box therewith. Note that inFIG. 26, S1700and S1710are steps performed in an image processing apparatus instructed via mobile equipment4to print out data.

[Process Effected at Image Processing Apparatus1that Instructs Registration of New Box]

With reference toFIG. 23, initially at S1100image processing apparatus1detects whether box creation key1006has been pressed on. Herein, it detects when box creation key1006is pressed on. Hereinafter when a key is pressed on will be referred to as an “ON edge.” For box creation key1006continuously held down, an ON edge is once detected, and a subsequent ON edge will not be detected until box creation key1006is released and again pressed on.

Then at S1100if apparatus1detects an ON edge of box creation key1006(YES at S1100) it proceeds with S1110to transmit to a different image processing apparatus the notification to request it to return a box name (indicated inFIG. 5by T1).

Furthermore at S1100if apparatus1detects an ON edge of box creation key1006then at S1110the notification to request an apparatus to return a box name is transmitted and touch panel display portion1004also displays theFIG. 14registration operation screen. Herein, the registration operation screen's data previously stored at a memory location for example of Flash ROM102is read and placed at a memory location for causing touch panel display portion1004to display the data to display the registration operation screen on touch panel display portion1004. The control then proceeds with S1120.

At S1100if apparatus1does not detects an ON edge of box creation key1006(NO at S1100) it proceeds with S1230and effects a sequential process, which will be described later, introduced after a box name has been registered.

Then at S1120a box name is input and whether a name has been attached to a box is determined. This decision is made by detecting an ON edge of the name decision key on theFIG. 14screen. If the name decision key's ON edge is detected (YES at S1120) the control proceeds with S1140.

If the name decision key's ON edge is not detected (NO at S120) then the control proceeds with S1130to determine whether a box has been registered. This decision is made by detecting an ON edge of the name registration key on theFIG. 14screen. If the name registration key's ON edge is detected (YES at S1130) the control proceeds with S1160.

At S1160, a confirmation of whether there exists an identical box (indicated inFIG. 7by T21) is transmitted to the different image processing apparatus and the control proceeds with S1230.

If at S1130an ON edge is not detected (NO at S1130) then the control returns to S1120. More specifically, S1120or S1130is performed to detect an ON edge of the name decision key or the name registration key on theFIG. 14screen and wait until an ON edge of either one of the keys is detected.

At S1140, notification of a new box name (indicated inFIG. 6by T11) is transmitted to the different image processing apparatus to notify the apparatus of a request to obtain any identical or similar box names possessed by the different apparatus.

Then the control proceeds with S1150, at which step the control determines whether notification returning a box name list Indicated inFIG. 5by T2) is received from the different image processing apparatus as notification returned in response to the notification issued at S1110to request the apparatus to return a box name.

At S1150if notification returning a box name list has been received from the different image processing apparatus (YES at S1150) the control proceeds with S1170, at which step the box name list received from the different image processing apparatus is compared with the box name input at S1120and if there exist any identical or similar box names in the list the names are extracted. Then at S1190the extracted box names are displayed on theFIG. 16registration operation screen.

In this step, a code attached for each box included in the box name list can be used to help to perform a process in CPU101to rapidly perform an identity decision process. Furthermore, by S1170, a box name that a different image processing apparatus has can be confirmed before a new box name is registered with image processing apparatus1of interest. This can prevent erroneous registration with image processing apparatus1of a box name identical to a box possessed by the different image processing apparatus. Furthermore it can also prevent erroneous registration of a different box name when a new box of a name identical to a box name possessed by a different image processing apparatus is registered with image processing apparatus1of interest.

If at S1150there is no box name list received from the different image processing apparatus (NO at S1150) the control proceeds with S1180, at which step the control determines whether notification of a possible, similar box name indicated inFIG. 6by T12) is received from the different image processing apparatus as notification returned in response to the notification issued at S1140.

If so (YES at S1180) then the control proceeds with S1190, at which step a box name received from the different image processing apparatus is displayed.

If at step S1180there is not any notification of a possible, similar box name received from the different image processing apparatus (NO at S1180) the control returns to S1150and repeats the step of detecting whether notification that returns a box name list has been received from the different image processing apparatus and the step S1180of detecting whether notification of a possible, similar box name has been received.

At S1200, the control waits until an operation is performed to select a box name from a candidate box name(s) displayed on theFIG. 16screen or an operation is performed to press on the name registration key, and if either one of the operations is performed (YES at S1200) the control proceeds with S1210.

At S1210, an input box name is registered and notification of the registered box name (indicated inFIGS. 5 and 6by T3and T13, respectively) is transmitted to the different image processing apparatus and the control then proceeds with S1230. At S1200, a box name can be selected from a candidate box name(s) displayed on theFIG. 16screen. Thus a box name can efficiently be registered.

Then at S1230the control determines whether notification returned from the different image processing apparatus that there is an identical box (indicated inFIG. 7by T22) has been received in response to the confirmation transmitted at S1160as to whether there is any identical box. If so (YES at S1230) the control proceeds with S1240, at which step, received information of an address of the image processing apparatus on a network is correlated with a registered box and thus stored and the control proceeds with S1250.

If at S1230no reception of notification from the different image processing apparatus that there is an identical box is detected (NO at S1230) then the control skips S1240and proceeds with S1250.

At S1250the control determines whether notification returning link information (indicated inFIGS. 5,6and7by T4, T14and T23, respectively) has been received from the different image processing apparatus. If so (YES at S1250) the control proceeds with S1260, at which step the link information received from the different apparatus is stored to a box of image processing apparatus1that has attached thereto a box name included in the link information. The control then proceeds with theFIG. 24S1300.

If at S1250no reception of notification from the different image processing apparatus returning link information is detected (NO at S1250) then the control skips S1260and proceeds with theFIG. 24S1300.

[Process Effected at Image Processing Apparatus1that Instructs Erasure of Box]

Then, with reference toFIG. 24, at S1300image processing apparatus1determines whether box erasure key1002has been pressed on. If at S1300an ON edge of box erasure key1002is detected (YES at S1300) the control proceeds with S1310, at which step, touch panel display portion1004displays theFIG. 17erasure operation screen. Again, the erasure operation screen's data previously stored at a memory location for example of Flash ROM102is read and placed at a memory location for causing touch panel display portion1004to display the data to display the erasure operation screen on touch panel display portion1004.

On theFIG. 17erasure operation screen, numeral key1001is used to select a box to be erased and an erasure decision key is pressed to erase the box of interest from image processing apparatus1.

On theFIG. 17screen, numeral key1001is pressed to input a number, which is displayed for example on copy count display portion1000shown inFIG. 4, and when theFIG. 17screen's erasure decision key is pressed on, content displayed on copy count display portion1000changes to a set sheet count for duplication.

After at step S1310touch panel display portion1004displays the erasure operation screen, the control proceeds with S1320, at which step the control determines whether there is detected an ON edge of the erasure decision key of theFIG. 17screen. At S1320, the control waits until the erasure decision key's ON edge is detected, and if the ON edge is detected (YES at S1320) the control proceeds with S1330.

At step S1330, notification of information of a box to be erased (indicated inFIG. 8by T31) is transmitted to the different image processing apparatus, and at S1340a box determined to be erased is erased from storage device12. The control then proceeds with S1350.

If at S1300the box erasure key1002ON edge is not detected (NO at S1300) then the control skips S1310-S1340and proceeds with S1350.

At S1350the control determines whether notification issued to remotely print out data in accordance with link information (indicated inFIG. 9by T41) has been received from mobile equipment4. If so (YES at S1350) then the control proceeds with S1360, at which step an instruction to print out original data Indicated inFIG. 9by T42) is transmitted to an image processing apparatus included in the notification received at S1350. Note that the instruction transmitted at S1360includes original data as well as an instruction for executing printing out. The control then proceeds with S1370.

If at S1350there is no notification received from mobile equipment4to remotely print out data in accordance with link information (NO at S1350) the control skips S1360and proceeds with S1370.

Note that S1370and the subsequent steps are effected at image processing apparatus1receiving notification from an image processing apparatus performing the above described box registration and erasure operations.

In other words, S1370and S1380indicate process steps performed by image processing apparatus1receiving notification of a request to return a box name to obtain a box name possessed by image processing apparatus1included in the present system when a new box is to be registered.

At S1370image processing apparatus1determines whether notification of a request to return a box name has been received from the different image processing apparatus and if so (YES at S1370) then S1380is performed to list a name(s) of a box(es) possessed by image processing apparatus1and by notification returning a box name list (indicated inFIG. 5by T2) return the list to the different image processing apparatus. The control then proceeds with S1390.

If at S1370notification of a request to return a box name is not received from the different image processing apparatus (NO at S1370) then the control skips S1380and proceeds with S1390.

S1390and S1400indicate process steps performed at image processing apparatus1receiving notification of a registered box name transmitted from an image processing apparatus having registered a new box therewith.

At S1390image processing apparatus1determines whether notification of a registered box name has been received from the different image processing apparatus. If so (YES at S1390) the control proceeds with S1400, at which step if there exists in image processing apparatus1a box having a name identical to an imparted, registered box name then link information stored in that box is produced and returned (indicated inFIGS. 5 and 6by T4and T14, respectively) to the different image processing apparatus. The control then proceeds with theFIG. 25S1500.

If at S1390notification of a registered box name is not received from the different image processing apparatus (NO at S1390) then the control skips S1400and proceeds with theFIG. 25S1500.

[Process Effected at Image Processing Apparatus1Other than Image Processing Apparatus Performing the Above Process]

In theFIG. 25flow chart, S1500-S1530indicate process steps performed at image processing apparatus1receiving notification of a new box name from an image processing apparatus registered a new box. This corresponds inFIG. 6to a process performed at image processing apparatuses1band1creceiving notification of a new box name T11from image processing apparatus1a.

With reference toFIG. 25, initially at S1500the control determines whether notification of a new box name has been received from a different image processing apparatus having received a box name to register a new box name. If so (YES at S1500) a new box's name received from the different image processing apparatus is stored at S1510to storage device12. Furthermore at S1520the control determines whether there already exists in the image processing apparatus1storage device12a box having a name identical or similar to the received new box's name.

If not (NO at S1520) then the control skips S1530, that is, the control does not provide a return notification process as image processing apparatus1cdoes, as shown inFIG. 6, and the control proceeds with S1540.

If at S1520image processing apparatus1has stored in storage device12a box having a name identical or similar to the received new box name (YES at S1520) then at S1530the identical or similar box name existing in the image processing apparatus1storage device12is returned to the different image processing apparatus by notification of a possible, similar box name. In other words, as has been described with reference toFIG. 6for image processing apparatus1b, an identical box name or a similar box name is returned by notification of a possible, similar box name T12to image processing apparatus1a.

Thus the present image processing apparatus at S1520and S1530can notify an image processing apparatus registering a new box of a result of deciding whether there exists a box having a name identical or similar to a new box's name. A smaller amount of information can be imparted than when all box names existing in the apparatus of interest are imparted. This can eliminate communication load concentration and prevent a network from having abnormality, failure and the like.

In theFIG. 25flow chart, S1540-S1570indicate process steps performed at image processing apparatus1receiving a conformation of the presence/absence of an identical box from an image processing apparatus registering a new box therewith without obtaining a new box possessed by a different image processing apparatus. This corresponds inFIG. 7to a process performed at image processing apparatus1b,1creceiving a conformation of whether there is an identical box T21from image processing apparatus1a.

At S1540image processing apparatus1determines whether a conformation of whether there exists an identical box has been received from a different image processing apparatus having a new box name registered therewith. If so (YES at S1540) then at S1550a decision is made as to whether image processing apparatus1of interest has a box identical to a box name included in the received conformation. If so (YES at S1550) then the control proceeds with S1560, at which step, notification that there exists an identical box (indicated inFIG. 7by T22) is transmitted to the different image processing apparatus. Furthermore S1570is performed to produce link information of original data stored in the identical box and return (indicated inFIG. 7by T23) the link information to the different image processing apparatus. The control then proceeds with S1580. Note that these process steps, as seen inFIG. 7, are performed by image processing apparatus1c.

If at S1540there is not received from the different image processing apparatus a conformation of whether there exists an identical box (NO at S1540) or at S1550there is not possessed a box identical to a box name included in such conformation received from the different image processing apparatus (NO at S1550) then the control skips S1560and S1570and proceeds with S1580. Note that these process steps, as seen inFIG. 7, are performed by image processing apparatus1b.

Then in theFIG. 25flow chart S1580-S1600indicate process steps performed at image processing apparatus1receiving notification of information of an erased box from an image processing apparatus erasing a box. This corresponds inFIG. 8to a process performed at image processing apparatus1breceiving from image processing apparatus1athe notification of information of an erased box T31.

At S1580image processing apparatus1determines whether notification of information of an erased box has been received from a different image processing apparatus having a box erased therefrom. If so (YES at S1580) then at S1590a decision is made as to whether there exists in image processing apparatus1a box having a box name identical to the erased box name included in the received notification of information of an erased box. If so (YES S1590) then the control proceeds with S1600, at which step, link information stored in the identical box existing in image processing apparatus1of interest that has an address of the different image processing apparatus, is removed. The link information to be erased is determined by an address of an apparatus having original data and a box name that are included in link information.

If at S1580no notification of information of an erased box is received from the different erase processing apparatus (NO at S1580) then the control proceeds with theFIG. 26S1700. Furthermore, if at S1590there does not exist in image processing apparatus1of interest a box having a name identical to an erased box name included in the received notification of information of an erased box (NO at S1590) the control also proceeds with theFIG. 26S1700.

In theFIG. 26flow chart, S1700and S1710indicate process steps performed by image processing apparatus1receiving an instruction from mobile equipment4to print out data. This corresponds inFIG. 9to a process performed at image processing apparatus1breceiving an instruction T42from mobile equipment4to print out original data.

At S1700, image processing apparatus1determines whether an instruction has been received from mobile equipment4to print out original data. If so (YES at S1700) then at S1710it prints out original data received from mobile equipment4. The control then proceeds with S1720.

If at S1700there is not received an instruction from mobile equipment4to print out original data (NO at S1700) then the control skips S1710and proceeds with S1720.

At S1720image processing apparatus1determines whether information has been received from a different image processing apparatus through network6. Information received at S1720corresponds to original data of an individual or department transmitted from a different image processing apparatus. Then at S1730image processing apparatus1stores original data received from a different image processing apparatus to a box in storage device12and produces link information. Subsequently at S1740the link information produced at S1730is transmitted to mobile equipment4.

If at S1720there is not received information from a different image processing apparatus (NO at S1720) then the control proceeds with S1750, at which step a decision is made as to whether a request to return original data (indicated inFIG. 7by T24) has been received from a different image processing apparatus. If so (YES at S1750) then at S1760the request is accommodated by returning (indicated inFIG. 7by T25) original data to the different image processing apparatus. At S1760image processing apparatus1returns only original data requested by the different image processing apparatus and required original data alone is accordingly returned at S1760.

Then at S1770image processing apparatus1determines as to whether original data returned has been received from a different image processing apparatus. If so (YES at S1770) then at S1780image processing apparatus1stores the received original data to a box stored in storage device12or prints out the data.

Image processing apparatus1thus provides the box process indicated inFIG. 22by S1020.

[Process in Mobile Equipment4]

Hereinafter a process effected in mobile equipment4will be described with reference to theFIG. 27flow chart. TheFIG. 27flow chart represents a process implemented by the mobile equipment4control portion (not shown) configured of a CPU reading and executing a program stored in a storage portion. TheFIG. 27process is started for example by powering on (not shown) mobile equipment4to supply the equipment with power.

With reference toFIG. 27, when the process starts, initially at S1800the mobile equipment4CPU and communication portion (not shown) and theFIG. 18touch panel display portion are initialized and the control proceeds with S1810.

At S1810a decision is made as to whether an input has been entered to start an operation selecting data to be printed out. This decision is made by detecting an ON edge of the b key1011shown inFIG. 18. If the b key1011ON edge is detected (YES at S1810) then at S1820theFIG. 19printout operation screen is displayed on touch panel display portion1010and at S1830theFIG. 19keys1021and1022are used to accept selection of a name of a box having stored therein link information of data to be printed. Then the control waits until an ON edge of theFIG. 4S key is detected, waiting for a box name to be determined.

Then if at S1830a name of a box having stored therein link information of data to be printed is determined (YES at S1830) then the control proceeds with S1840, at which step theFIG. 20screen operated to select data to be printed is displayed on touch panel display portion1010.

Then at S1850theFIG. 20keys1024and1025are used to accept selection of a name of a file indicating data to be printed. Then the control waits until theFIG. 4S key's ON edge is detected, waiting for a file name to be determined.

At S1850if a name of a file indicating data to be printed is determined (YES at S1850) then the control proceeds with S1860, at which step theFIG. 21screen operated to set an address of an apparatus printing out data is displayed on touch panel display portion1010. However, mobile equipment4has an address of an image processing apparatus having a name of a file of original data and a box name alone. Accordingly, link information of original data will have in effect been selected.

Then the control proceeds with S1870and the Roman alphabetical and numeral keys are pressed to input an address of an image processing apparatus that prints out data. Then the control waits until theFIG. 21address decision key's ON edge is detected, waiting for an address to be determined.

Then at S1870the address of the image processing apparatus printing out data that has been input is determined (YES at S1870) the control proceeds with S1880, at which step, notification issued to remotely print out data in accordance with link information (indicated inFIG. 9by T41) is transmitted to an image processing apparatus included in the link information selected at S1850. The notification transmitted at S1880includes the selected link information and an address of an apparatus printing out data that is set at S1860. The selected link information and the address of an apparatus printing out data are information required to allow an image processing apparatus receiving the information and the address to transmit original data to an image processing apparatus printing out data.

After the transmission at S1880the control proceeds with S1890, at which step a process unique to mobile equipment4is performed. Thereafter the control returns to S1810. S1890is a step effected in a typical mobile phone or similar mobile equipment4.

The present image processing apparatus that performs the above described process allows a name or other similar additional information-added box to be used to control information. Furthermore, the above described process can help for example to produce and change additional information, as intended.

Furthermore if the present image processing apparatus is used in a system configured of a plurality of networked image processing apparatuses and one of the apparatuses registers a new box therewith, a decision is made as to whether there exists in the other apparatuses a box having an identical or similar name. In doing so, the present image processing apparatus that performs the above described process imparts a result of a decision of identity or similarity, rather than imparting via the network all box names possessed by the other image processing apparatuses. This can eliminate communication load concentration for example in producing and changing additional information.

Furthermore, the above described image processing apparatus performs an information management method, which can be provided in the form of a program. Such a program can be recorded on computer readable recording media such as a flexible disk, compact disk-ROM (CD-ROM), ROM, RAM and a memory card attached to a computer, and thus provided as a program product. Alternatively, it may be recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk incorporated in a computer for provision. The program can also be downloaded via a network for provision.

The program product provided is installed in a program storage unit such as a hard disk and executed. Note that the program product includes the program itself and a recording medium having the program recorded therein.