Abstract:
The present invention provides an image processing apparatus which comprises connection means for connecting to a computer, input means for inputting image data from the computer via the connection means, and output means for visibly outputting the image data input by the input means, comprises generation means for generating a code, notification means for notifying the code generated by the generation means, to the computer from which the image data is input by the input means, and storage means for storing the image data input by the input means, wherein the output means visibly outputs the image data input by the input means, in a case where a code corresponding to the code generated by the generation means is input, whereby a secret of the output image can effectively be protected.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to image processing apparatus and method for processing image data, and more particularly to the image processing apparatus and method for visibly outputting the image data transmitted from an external apparatus such as a computer or the like. 
     2. Related Background Art 
     Conventionally, it has been known that a computer is connected to an apparatus of this type, e.g., a printer apparatus, via an external interface, document data or the like generated by the computer is input to the printer apparatus, and then the input document data is printed out on a recording paper (or sheet) as an invisible image. In this case, a computer side transmits image data to the printer apparatus as well as a print instruction, and the printer apparatus to which the print instruction is transmitted sequentially records or outputs on the recording paper an image based on the transmitted image data. 
     However, in such a conventional case, when a secret (or confidential) document is to be output, if the computer is placed apart from the printer apparatus, it is feared that an output paper can be seen by an another person (or stranger) until a user comes to the printer apparatus to take the output paper. 
     Further, in a case where the image data is transferred from the computer to a copy machine having a printer function, if a third person is carrying out a copy operation, there is a problem that the user cannot know when the transferred image data is output. 
     Furthermore, in a case where there is a single output paper discharge tray in the printer apparatus, various output papers are output at random on the paper discharge tray, so that the output papers remain on the tray without sorting out or grouping them. Moreover, in an apparatus such as an image formation apparatus having a plurality of functions, e.g., printer function, facsimile function, copy function and the like, even if a single discharge tray is not provided but a plurality of discharge trays are provided respectively corresponding to these functions, any means for sorting out or grouping independently-output sets of papers is not provided on the discharge tray corresponding to any one function. Therefore, since the output papers from such the apparatus are placed at random on the discharge tray, the user cannot discriminate which set of papers is a desired one. 
     Therefore, in case of taking the desired set of papers, the user must reluctantly take all of the sets of papers from the tray at one time, look for the desired set and then return the remaining sets to the discharge tray. Under such a condition, it is feared that all or part of the output documents are lost. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An object of the present invention is to provide image processing apparatus and method for solving the above-mentioned problems. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide image processing apparatus and method for easily protecting a secret of an output image. 
     Still another object of the present invention is to provide image processing apparatus and method capable of outputting output papers at a timing desired by an operator. 
    
    
     The above and other objects of the present invention will be apparent from the following description in conjunction with the drawings. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a construction of an image formation apparatus according to a first embodiment; 
     FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing a reader unit  1  and a printer unit  2 ; 
     FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a construction of the reader unit  1 ; 
     FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a construction of a core unit  308 ; 
     FIG. 5 is a view showing an operation display panel included in a console unit  115 ; 
     FIG. 6 is a view showing a network construction according to the first embodiment; 
     FIG. 7 is a view showing a print command format; 
     FIGS. 8 and 9 are flow charts showing a process for instructing to form, edit and print a document file; 
     FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process of a reception task; 
     FIG. 11 which composed of FIGS. 11A and 11B is a flow chart showing a process of a print task; 
     FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a schematic construction of a copy machine according to a second embodiment; 
     FIG. 13 is a view showing a connection example in a case where a copy machine  1200  is connected to a local area network (LAN); 
     FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a process in a case where a document formed by a personal computer (PC)  1301  is transferred to the copy machine  1200 ; and 
     FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a process in a case where the document stored in a hard disk (HD)  1202  in the copy machine  1200  is printed out. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     It will be explained hereinafter the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the attached drawings. 
     First Embodiment 
     FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a construction of an image formation apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A reader unit  1  reads an original image and outputs image data according to the original image to a printer unit  2  and an image input/output control unit  3 . The image input/output control unit  3  is connected to the reader unit  1 , and consists of a facsimile unit  301 , a file unit  303 , a network interface unit  305 , a formatter unit  306 , an image memory unit  307 , a core unit  308  and the like. An original feeder  4  is connected to the reader unit  1 , and a paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  is connected to the printer unit  2 . The original feeder  4  and the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  are both detachable. In this case, in a case where the image formation apparatus is utilized as a stand-alone copy machine, the image input/output control unit  3  may be omitted. 
     The facsimile unit  301  expands compressed image data received via a telephone line, and transfers the expanded image data to the core unit  308 . Further, the facsimile unit  301  compresses the image data transferred from the core unit  308 , and transmits the compressed image data via the telephone line. A hard disk  302  is connected to the facsimile unit  301 , whereby the received compressed image data can temporarily be stored in the hard disk  302 . An optomagnetic disk drive unit  304  is connected to the file unit  303 . The file unit  303  compresses the image data transferred from the core unit  308 , and then stores the compressed image data together with a keyword for searching it in an optomagnetic disk which is set on the optomagnetic disk drive unit  304 . Further, the file unit  303  searches the compressed image data stored in the optomagnetic disk on the basis of the keyword transferred via the core unit  308 , reads and expands the searched image data, and then transfers the expanded image data to the core unit  308 . The network interface unit  305  acts as an interface between a personal computer (PC) or work station (WS) (to be referred as a PC/WS hereinafter) connected to a local area network (LAN)  6  and the core unit  308 . The formatter unit  306  develops code data representing an image transferred from the PC/WS to the image data which can be recorded by the printer unit  2 . The image memory unit  307  temporarily stores the data transferred from the PC/WS. Although the core unit  308  will be explained later in detail, the core unit  308  is used to control data flows among the reader unit  1 , the facsimile unit  301 , the file unit  303 , the network interface unit  305 , the formatter unit  306  and the image memory unit  307 . 
     FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing the reader unit  1  and the printer unit  2 . The original feeder  4  provided on the reader unit  1  feeds an original from its final page sequentially one by one onto a platen glass  101 , and discharges the original on the platen glass  101  after a reading operation of the original terminates. When the original is fed onto the platen glass  101 , a lamp  102  is turned on. Then, a scanner unit  104  starts in moving to perform an exposure scan of the original. In this case, a reflected light from the original is introduced into a CCD image sensor (to be referred as a CCD hereinafter)  108  by means of mirrors  103 ,  105  and  106  and a lens  107 , whereby the image of the scanned original is read by the CCD  108 . Image data output from the CCD  108  is subjected to a predetermined process and then transferred to the printer unit  2  and the core unit  308  in the image input/output control unit  3 . 
     In the above operation, it should be noted that it is not always necessary to read the original by using the original feeder  4 . That is, the original may be directly placed on the platen glass  101  by lifting up the original feeder  4  which also acts as an original pressure board. 
     A laser driver  212  in the printer unit  2  is to drive a laser beam generation unit  201 . That is, the laser driver  212  causes the laser beam generation unit  201  to generate a laser beam according to the image data output from the reader unit  1 . The laser beam is irradiated to a photosensitive drum  202 , so that a latent image according to the laser beam is formed on the photosensitive drum  202 . A developer is adhered or added to a latent-image portion on the drum  202  by a development unit  203 . A recording paper is fed from either one of cassettes  204  and  205  to a transfer unit  206  at a timing in synchronism with an irradiation start timing of the laser beam, to transfer the developer adhered on the photosensitive drum  202  onto the recording paper. The recording paper on which the developer is transferred is fed to a fixing unit  207 , so that the developer is fixed to the recording paper due to heat and pressure caused by the fixing unit  207 . The recording paper after passing through the fixing unit  207  is discharged by discharge rollers  208 . Then, the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  sorts the discharged recording papers by holding them in respective bins. Further, the unit  5  performs a stapling process in accordance with a user&#39;s instruction. In a case where a sorting process is not being set, the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  holds the recording papers in the most-upper bin. In a case where a two-face recording is being set, the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  feeds the recording paper up to the discharge rollers  208  and thereafter reverses a rotational direction of the discharge rollers  208  to introduce the recording paper to a paper re-feed path by using a flapper  209 . In a case where a multiple recording is being set, the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  introduces the recording paper to the paper re-feed path by using the flapper  209  such that the recording paper is not fed up to the discharge rollers  208 . The recording paper introduced into the paper re-feed path is again fed to the transfer unit  206  at the timing explained above. 
     Further, in a case where the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  is not used, a tray is provided to receive the recording papers directly discharged from the discharge rollers  208 . 
     FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the reader unit  1 . Image data output from a CCD  108  is analog-to-digital converted and also shading corrected by an analog-to-digital conversion and shading correction unit  110  (to be referred as A/D &amp; SH unit  110  hereinafter). The image data processed by the A/D &amp; SH unit  110  is transferred to the printer unit  2  via an image process unit  111  and also transferred to the core unit  308  in the image input/output control unit  3  via an interface  113 . A central process unit (CPU)  114  controls the image process unit  111  and the interface  113  in accordance with contents set by a console unit  115 . For example, in a case where a copy mode for performing a trimming process and then a copy operation is being set by the console unit  115 , the image data is subjected to the trimming process by the image process unit  111  and then transferred to the printer unit  2 . On the other hand, in a case where a facsimile transmission mode is being set by the console unit  115 , the image data and a control command according to the set mode are transferred from the interface  113  to the core unit  308 . A control program of the CPU  114  for performing above operations has been stored in a memory  116 , so that the CPU  114  performs controlling with referring to the memory  116 . It should be noted that the memory  116  is used as a working area of the CPU  114 . 
     FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the core unit  308 . The image data from the reader unit  1  is transferred to a data process unit  121  via an interface  122 , and also the control command from the reader unit  1  is transferred to a CPU  123  via the interface  122 . The data process unit  121  performs an image process such as an image rotation process, a zoom process or the like. The image data transferred from the reader unit  1  to the data process unit  121  is then transferred to the facsimile unit  301 , the file unit  303  and the network interface unit  305  via an interface  120 , in accordance with the control command transferred from the reader unit  1 . The code data representative of the image which is input via the network interface unit  305  is transferred to the data process unit  121 , and then transferred to the formatter unit  306  to be developed to the image data. This image data is transferred to the data process unit  121 , and then transferred to the facsimile unit  301  and the printer unit  2 . The image data from the facsimile unit  301  is transferred to the data process unit  121 , and then transferred to the printer unit  2 , the file unit  303  and the network interface unit  305 . Further, the image data from the file unit  303  is transferred to the data process unit  121 , and then transferred to the printer unit  2 , the facsimile unit  301  and the network interface unit  305 . The CPU  123  controls such operations as mentioned above in accordance with the control program stored in a memory  124  and the control command transferred from the reader unit  1 . It should be noted that the memory  124  is used as a working area of the CPU  123 . As above, it can be performed mainly by the core unit  308  the process which is composed of various functions as to an image read, an image print, an image transmit, an image reception, an image storage, a data input into computer, a data output from computer and the like. 
     FIG. 5 is a view showing an operation/display panel  600  included in the console unit  115  of the reader unit  1 . As shown in FIG. 5, various keys explained later and a display section  601  composed of a liquid crystal display and the like are provided on an operation surface of the operation/display panel  600 . The display section  601  displays information relating to a state of apparatus, the number of papers to be copied (the number of copies), a magnification, a paper (sheet) selection and other various operations. A touch-panel system is applied to the display section  601 , whereby various modes can be displayed and selected by depressing the various keys. 
     Reference numeral  602  denotes a copy start key which is depressed to start a copy operation. Reference numeral  603  denotes a clear/stop key which has a function of clear key when depressed during a stand-by state, and has a function of stop key when depressed during a copy record operation. The clear/stop key  603  is depressed when releasing the set number of copies. Reference numeral  604  denotes a ten key which is depressed when setting the number of copies. Reference numeral  605  denotes copy density keys which are depressed when manually adjusting a copy density. Reference numeral  606  denotes an automatic density adjustment (AE) key which is depressed when automatically adjusting the copy density according to a density of original or when changing an AE mode to a manual density adjustment mode. 
     Reference numeral  607  denotes a cassette selection key which is depressed when selecting one of the plurality of cassettes  204 ,  205  and the like. In a case where the original is placed on the original feeder  4 , an automatic paper selection (APS) mode can be selected by means of the cassette selection key  607 . In the APS mode, the cassette of which recording paper size accords to a size of the image to be output is automatically selected. 
     Reference numeral  608  denotes a same-size key which is depressed when performing the copy operation of which size is the same as an image size of the original. Reference numeral  609  denotes a zoom key which is depressed when designating an arbitrary magnification within a range of 64% to 142%. Reference numerals  610  and  611  denote fixed-size zoom keys which are depressed when designating fixed-size reduction and enlargement operation. 
     Reference numeral  612  denotes selection keys for selecting operation modes of the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5 . That is, the selection key  612  can select or release one of three paper discharge modes (staple mode, sort mode and group mode). Further, in a case where a stapler capable of stapling the papers after recording is connected to the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5 , the selection key  612  can select or release one of the three modes, i.e., staple mode, sort mode and recorded-paper folding (sectional Z and V shapes) mode. 
     Reference numerals  613 ,  614  and  615  denote keys for setting various processes, e.g., a two-face mode process, a binder-margin set process, a photograph mode process, a multiple process, a page continuous copy process, a two-in-one (2-in-1) mode process and the like. Reference numeral  616  denotes selection keys for selecting operation modes. Reference numeral  617  denotes a card reader for reading information recorded on an ID card. Further, reference numeral  620  denotes an ID input key. When the ID input key  620  is depressed, the console unit  115  comes to be in an ID input waiting mode. An ID code is input from the ten key  604  when the console unit  115  is in an ID input waiting state, and then the ID input key  620  is again depressed after the input operation terminates, whereby the ID code is established. 
     FIG. 6 is a view showing a network construction of an image formation system according to the first embodiment. 
     As explained in FIG. 1, the image formation apparatus is composed of the reader unit  1  for reading the original image, the printer unit  2  for outputting the input image data, the image input/output control unit  3  having the network control function, the original feeder  4  for automatically feeding the original to be read by the reader unit  1 , and the paper (sheet) post-process unit  5  for holding the papers discharged from the printer unit  2  into one of the plurality of bins. 
     The LAN  6  is a network which connects a plurality of information devices or apparatuses and allows data exchanges between the arbitrary devices or apparatuses. A work station (WS)  7  and a personal computer (PC)  8  which form, correct and display the document are connected to the LAN  6  for exchanging the data to/from an external device or apparatus. A file server  9  is a large-capacity memory apparatus which is accessible from the image input/output control unit  3 , the WS  7 , the PC  8  and the like via the LAN  6 . A telephone line  10  is connected to the image input/output control unit  3  to be used for transmitting and receiving facsimile data. Further, an arbitrary device or apparatus can be connected to the reader unit  1 , the printer unit  2  or the LAN  6  to access a distant network. 
     The first embodiment of the present invention can be realized in the network circumstances shown in FIG.  6 . 
     A user forms the document by using the WS  7  or the PC  8 . When such a document formation terminates and the obtained document is output onto the paper, the user inputs print procedures (designation of image formation apparatus, designation of the number of outputs, designation of post-process method, designation of immediate print and the like) and then generates a print command. 
     When there is a print instruction via the LAN  6 , the image formation apparatus once stores the data into the image memory unit  307 , and thereafter causes the print function to act with making reference to various print procedure information in the print command. Further, in a case where the image formation apparatus is in a copy job process, an interruption process is possible by the user&#39;s instruction. 
     FIG. 7 shows a command format for instructing the print operation from the WS  7  or PC  8  in FIG. 6 to the image formation apparatus. The command is composed of (1) an ID representing a command function, (2) a user ID representing the user who generated the command, (3) a document file to be printed, or a file identifier in a case where the document file is stored in the file server  9  or the optomagnetic disk set on the optomagnetic disk drive unit  304 , (4) a process method for storing information as to designation of the number of papers/copies, designation of post-process method, document data holding form (image data developed to code data/bit map) and the like in case of no immediate print, and (5) a flag representing whether immediate print is possible or impossible. 
     FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing a process in a case where the document data formed and edited by the WS  7  or PC  8  in FIG. 6 is stored in a hard disk which is managed by the WS  7  or PC  8 . That is, this flow chart shows the process which is performed based on a program code installed in the WS  7  or PC  8 . 
     Immediately after a power source is turned on, the flow waits for a command input from the user (step S 1 ). In this case, if it is instructed to form a new file, a display is performed for urging the user to input a file name, so that the user inputs the file name (step S 2 ). If it is instructed to edit the file, the display is performed for urging the user to input (or select) the file name of the file to be edited, so that the user inputs (or selects) the file name (step S 3 ). Then, after inputting (or selecting) the file name, the flow enters into an edit mode to edit the document of the file in accordance with the user&#39;s instruction (step S 4 ). When the edit process terminates, the document data is stored in a memory such as the hard disk or the like which is managed by the WS  7  or PC  8 , in accordance with the user&#39;s instruction (step S 5 ). If the user instructs to print out the document, the display is first performed for urging the user to input (or select) the document file to be printed out, so that the user inputs (or selects) the file name (step S 6 ). Then, the display is performed for urging the user to input the process methods such as the designation of the image formation apparatus which is caused to print out the document file, the designation of the number of papers/copies, the designation of the post-process method, the holding form of the document data and the like, so that the user inputs the respective process methods (step S 7 ). Thereafter, the display is performed for urging the user to input whether or not the immediate print is to be performed, so that the user inputs it (step S 8 ). The print command (in FIG. 7) including the document file (substance) of which file name is input in the step S 6  and the user ID is generated to the image formation apparatus which was designated in the step S 7  (step S 9 ), and then the flow waits for a response from this image formation apparatus (step S 10 ). If there is the response, a message according to the response is output to be displayed (step S 11 ). As this message, “print request of (file name) was accepted”, “print request of (file name) can not be accepted due to lack of memory vacancy”, “print of (file name) terminated” or the like is displayed. It should be noted that a further input is possible for this message. 
     FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a process in a case where the document data formed and edited by the WS  7  or PC  8  in FIG. 6 is stored in an external file server  9  on the LAN  6 . That is, this flow chart shows the process which is performed based on the program code installed in the WS  7  or PC  8 . 
     Processes in steps S 12  to S 15  are performed in the same manner as in the above-explained steps S 1  to S 4 . In a step S 16 , the file server  9  is designated to store the document file, whereby the document file is transferred and stored in the designated file server  9  together with the file name. 
     Processes in steps S 17  to S 19  are performed in the same manner as in the above-explained steps S 6  to S 8 . In a step S 20 , the file name (not including the substance of the document file) input in the step S 17  and the print command including the user ID are generated to the image formation apparatus which was designated in the step S 18 . The information representing the file name in the print command also includes the information representing that the document file of such the file name is being stored in the file server  9 . 
     In steps S 21  and S 22 , the message is output according to the response from the image formation apparatus in the same manner as in the above-explained steps S 10  and S 11 . It should be noted that a further input is possible for this message. 
     It will be then explained the flow of process at a side of the image formation apparatus. The process explained below is controlled by the CPU  123  on the basis of a program code stored in the memory  124 . It should be noted that the respective flows of processes are performed in parallel under the management of a multi-task monitor. 
     FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process performed by a reception task. 
     In an idle state, the flow waits for the command from the LAN  6  (step S 23 ). Then, if the print command is received (step S 24 ), it is judged from the process contents included in the command whether or not the holding form of the document data is designated to be made by code data (step S 26 ). If the holding form of the document data is not designated to be made by the code data but is designated to be made by image data developed to the bit map image, it is judged whether or not there is enough vacancy in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk (step S 27 ). If there is enough vacancy, the code data of the document file to be printed is developed to the bit map image by the formation unit  306  (step S 28 ), and other user ID of the document data, the process method, the flag state representing whether or not the immediate print is to be performed are stored in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk, with correlating them with others (step S 29 ). In this case, it has previously been determined which of the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk is to store these data. Then, it is output to the terminal (WS  7  or PC  8 ) on the LAN  6  which requested the print an acceptance response message representing that the print acceptance could normally be performed (step S 30 ). On the other hand, if there is no enough vacancy on the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk, it is output to the terminal on the LAN  6  which requested the print an acceptance impossible message representing that the print can not be accepted due to lack of memory capacity (step S 31 ). Then, the flow waits for a response to this message which is transmitted from the terminal on the LAN  6  (step S 32 ). If there is no response or there is the response for requesting to change the operation to hold the data in the form of code data, the document file is maintained to be in the form of code data, and the user ID, the process method and the flag state are stored in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk, with correlating them with others (the step S 29 ). On the other hand, if there is the response for requesting a cancel, the flow returns to the step S 23 . If there is no print command in the step S 24 , other command process is performed (step S 25 ), and then the flow returns to the step S 23 . 
     FIGS. 11A and 11B are a flow chart showing a process performed by a print task. 
     In the idle state, it is always checked whether or not there is the data to be printed in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk (step S 33 ). If there is the data to be printed, the state of the flag representing whether the immediate print is possible or impossible is checked (step S 34 ). Then, if the immediate print is possible, the print starts in the designated process method (step S 37 ). However, in this case, if a copy job is already being executed (step S 35 ), the flow waits for the process until the copy job terminates (step S 36 ). 
     On the other hand, if the immediate print is impossible, it is first confirmed whether or not the copy job is being executed (step S 38 ). In this case, if the copy job is being executed and there is an interruption instruction (step S 39 ), the flow enters into an interruption mode (step S 40 ). That is, the copy job which is being executed is interrupted and instead a print job starts, then the flow waits for the ID card to be input into the card reader  617  shown in FIG. 5 (step S 41 ). If the ID card is input, it is checked whether or not the user ID recorded on the ID card coincides with the user ID stored with correlating it with the document data to be printed (step S 42 ). If not coincided, an alarm display is performed on the operation display panel (step S 43 ). 
     If the user IDs coincide with each other, it is judged whether or not the substance of the corresponding document file has been stored in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk (step S 44 ). If not stored, the substance of such the document file is stored in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk, by designating the file name of the document file to be printed via the LAN  6  (step S 45 ). 
     Then, it is judged whether or not the document data to be printed has been stored in the image memory unit  307  or the optomagnetic disk in the form of (or in the state of) code data (step S 46 ). If the code data, the document file is transferred to the formatter unit  306  to develop it to the bit map image (step S 47 ). Thereafter, the print of document data is performed in the designated process method. If the print terminates normally, a normal end response is returned to the terminal on the LAN  6  which requested the print (step S 48 ). After the print terminates, it is judged whether or not the process is in the interruption (step S 49 ). If in the interruption, the interrupted copy job restarts (step S 50 ). 
     In the above explanation, the user ID is input by means of the ID card. However, the present invention is not limited to such an operation. That is, the user ID may be input by means of a ten key or the like on the console unit  115 . 
     According to the first embodiment, the print can start at a timing desired by the user. 
     Further, if the document file has previously been developed to a non-compressed bit map image, a waiting time until the print starts can be shortened. In this case, if the vacant capacity of the memory is small, the document file is held in the form of code data as it is, whereby it can be prevented that the print acceptance becomes impossible due to lack of memory vacant capacity. 
     Furthermore, in case of performing a stapling process, such that the stapling process can start when the user stands in front of the image formation apparatus, whereby it can be prevented that the output papers are erroneously stapled together with other output papers. 
     Furthermore, the jobs for the plurality of the document files have previously been spooled, whereby these document files can be printed out at one time, in response to the input of the user ID. 
     Second Embodiment 
     In the above-mentioned first embodiment, the user ID has previously been determined and then the print starts in response to the input of this user ID. However, in the second embodiment, a unique ID is generated at random and the generated ID is notified to a user who requests a print, and then the print starts in response to an input of this ID. 
     FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a schematic construction of a copy machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 
     A CPU  1201  is a microprocessor which controls a copy machine  1200  as a whole and operates on the basis of a real-time operation system (OS). 
     A large-capacity hard disk (HD)  1202  stores therein a plurality of applications to be used when the CPU  1201  operates, and is controlled or managed by the CPU  1202 . 
     A memory  1203  is a work memory to be used when the CPU  1201  operates and is accessible at a high speed from the CPU  1201 . The memory  1203  stores a program to be used when the CPU  1201  controls an operation of the copy machine  1200 , so that the CPU  1201  controls each unit of the copy machine  1200  by reading the stored program. 
     A high-speed CPU bus  1204  is a bus for connecting the CPU  1201 , the HD  1202 , the memory  1203  and each functional unit (explained later) of the copy machine  1200 . That is, the bus  1204  transfers data processed by the CPU  1201  to each functional unit, and performs a high-speed data transfer (DMA transfer) among the respective functional units. 
     A raster image processor (RIP) unit  1205  is the functional unit which receives an image formation command input from an external interface connected to a computer (explained later) and then converts the command into a bit map image in accordance with contents of the command. In this case, the image formation command is input from the high-speed CPU bus  1204  and is to output an image to a high-speed image bus  1216  (explained later). 
     An image process unit  1206  is the functional unit which performs a filtering process, e.g., a smoothing process, an edge process or the like, of the image input from the high-speed image bus  1216  in accordance with a process instruction from the CPU  1201 . 
     Further, the image process unit  1206  has a character recognition (OCR) function for the image input from the high-speed image bus  1216  and an image separation function for separating an image portion from a character portion in the image. 
     A compression/expansion unit  1207  compresses the image input from the high-speed image bus  1216  in a known compression method, e.g., MH, MR, MMR, JPEG or the like, and transmits the compressed data to the high-speed CPU bus  1204  or again to the high-speed image bus  1216 . Conversely, the compression/expansion unit  1207  expands the compressed data input from the bus  1204  or  1216  in a compression method according to this functional unit, and then transmits the expanded data to the high-speed image bus  1216 . 
     A bus bridge  1208  is a bus bridge controller which connects the high-speed CPU bus  1204  to a low-speed CPU bus  1209  (explained later) so as to adjust a difference in processing speed between the buses. According to the bus bridge  1208 , the CPU  1201  which operates at a high speed can access the functional unit which is connected to the low-speed CPU bus  1209  and thus operates at a low speed. 
     The low-speed CPU bus  1209  is a bus of which transfer speed is lower than that of the high-speed CPU bus  1204  and which connects the functional unit of which process speed is relatively low. 
     A modem  1210  is the functional unit positioned between a public line  1211  and the low-speed CPU bus  1209 . The modem  1210  has a function for modulating digital data from the low-speed CPU bus  1209  such that the digital data can be transmitted to the public line  1211 , and has a function for converting modulated data from the public line  1211  into the digital data which can be processed within the copy machine  1200 . 
     A local area network (LAN) interface  1212  is the functional unit which connects the copy machine  1200  to a LAN  1213  which is a local network, and is to transmit/receive the data to/from the local network. 
     A computer interface  1214  is the functional unit which connects the copy machine  1200  to the computer. That is, via the computer interface  1214 , a control command is transmitted from the computer to the copy machine  1200  and a status of the copy machine  1200  is returned to the computer. 
     A panel interface  1215  is the functional unit which manages various control signals to a console unit  1221  (explained later). That is, the panel interface  1215  transmits a signal of an input switch such as a key or the like provided on the console unit  1221  to the CPU  1201 , and performs a resolution conversion for displaying the image data formed by the RIP unit  1205 , the image process unit  1206  and the compression/expansion unit  1207  on a liquid crystal display unit provided on the console unit  1221 . 
     The high-speed image bus  1216  connects image input/output buses in the various image formation units (RIP unit  1205 , image process unit  1206 , compression/expansion unit  1207 ), and a scanner interface  1217  and a printer interface  1219  (both explained later) with others. The bus  1216  is not controlled by the CPU  1201  but is controlled by a bus controller to transfer the data. 
     A scanner unit  1218  is a visible image reading apparatus which has an automatic original feeder. The scanner unit  1218  has a three-line (RGB) CCD color sensor, or a one-line black/white CCD line sensor. The image data read by the scanner unit  1218  is transferred to the high-speed image bus  1216  by the scanner interface  1217 . 
     In the scanner interface  1217 , the image data read by the scanner unit  1218  is optimally digitized on the basis of the contents of the following processes. Further, the scanner interface  1217  has a function for performing a serial/parallel conversion according to a bus width (data width) of the high-speed image bus  1216  and a function for converting the read RGB three-primary color data into CMYBK data. 
     A printer unit  1220  prints the image data obtained from the printer interface  1219  (explained later), on a recording paper as visible image data. 
     The printer interface  1219  transfers the image data transmitted from the high-speed image bus  1216  to a printer unit. The printer interface  1219  has a bus-width conversion function for converting the bus width of the high-speed image bus  1216  into a bus width according to a gradation of the printer unit  1220  from which the data output is to be performed, and a function for adjusting a difference between a print speed of the printer unit  1220  and a transfer speed of image data by the high-speed image bus  1216 . 
     The console unit  1221  has the liquid crystal display unit, a touch-panel input device attached on the display unit and a plurality of hard keys. The signal input by a touch panel or the hard key is transmitted to the CPU  1201  via the panel interface  1215 , and the liquid crystal display unit displays the image data transmitted from the panel interface  1215 . Further, the liquid crystal display unit displays the functions in the operation of the copy machine  1200 , the image data and the like. 
     With reference to FIG. 13, it will be explained hereinafter an example of the construction in case of connecting the copy machine  1200  to the LAN  1213  in FIG.  12 . 
     As shown in FIG. 12, the copy machine  1200  is the image formation apparatus which has the large-size liquid crystal touch panel and is connected to the LAN  1213 . Further, the copy machine  1200  has the scanner function and the printer function. Furthermore, the copy machine  1200  itself has the copy function, and has a function as an electronic filing apparatus by connecting an optomagnetic disk unit  1311  to the copy machine  1200 . Moreover, the copy machine  1200  has the printer function for printing the data transmitted from the computer and the like. Therefore, when a document or the like formed by a personal computer (PC)  1301  or  1302  is received via the LAN  1213  as image formation command data (code data such as PDL code data or the like), the copy machine  1200  develops the received data to bit map image data, and the printer unit  1220  performs the print. Also, a copy machine  1300  at a communication partner which connected via the public line  1211  has the same functions. 
     A facsimile machine  1307  is an image formation apparatus which has substantially the same construction as that of the copy machine  1200 . That is, the facsimile machine  1307  has a large-size liquid crystal touch panel, and is connected to the LAN  1213  and also to the public line  1211 . The facsimile machine  1307  itself has a simple copy function and a G 3  facsimile function, and also acts as a gate way to a LAN  1310  at the communication partner via the public line  1211 . Also, a facsimile machine  1309  at the communication partner has the same functions. 
     The PC  1301  is ordinarily used by the user, and can form the document and manage an electronic mail to other computers connected to the LAN  1213 . Also, a PC  1308  at the communication partner has the same function. 
     The PC  1302  is substantially the same as the PC  1301 . That is, the PC  1302  is connected to the LAN  1213 , and is connected with a scanner unit  1303  and a printer unit  1304  respectively via interfaces  1305  and  1306  which are general for a computer and essentially provided in the PC  1302 . The scanner unit  1303  is used to incorporate an image read by the scanner unit  1303  onto a document formed by the PC  1302 , and the printer unit  1304  is used to print out the document formed by the PC  1302 . A system consisting of the PC  1302 , the scanner unit  1303  and the printer unit  1304  has a simple copy function for printing out the image read by the scanner unit  1303  via the printer unit  1304  in response to an operation from the PC  1302 . 
     Then, it will be explained hereinafter a process flow in a case where the data formed in the PC  1301  is printed out by the copy machine  1200 . 
     First of all, according to a flow chart shown in FIG. 14, it will be explained a sequence in which the PDL code data transmitted from the PC  1301  is received by the copy machine  1200  and the image data developed by the RIP unit  1205  is stored in the HD  1202 . 
     In a step S 101 , it is started in response to the print start instruction from the user the transfer process of the document data formed by the user in the PC  1301 , from the PC  1301  to the copy machine  1200 . In this case, the user instructs to print a secret (or confidential) document. 
     In a step S 102 , prior to the transfer of document data, the PC  1301  notifies a job start as to the print of secret document, to the copy machine  1200  via the LAN  1213 . 
     In a step S 103 , the CPU  1201  renders a unique different ID number to each jog accepted by the copy machine  1200 . The ID number may be determined by increasing the number one by one every time the job is accepted. However, in this case, in order to prevent that an other person or a third person prints out the document data without permission, a random number of four figures or so is generated to be used as the ID number. 
     In a step S 104 , the CPU  1201  of the copy machine  1200  declares to start the file formation, i.e., performs a create process of the file, as a preparation for storing the image data into the HD  1202 . At this time, the above ID number is used as a file name. 
     In a step S 105 , the CPU  1201  of the copy machine  1200  notifies, via the LAN  1213 , the ID number determined in the step S 103  to the PC  1301  which requested the print of secret document. 
     In a step S 106 , the PC  1301  displays the notified ID number on an image plane to notify it to the user. 
     In a step S 107 , the PC  1301  transfers the formed document as the PDL code data, via the LAN  1213 . Then, the copy machine  1200  receives the PDL code data in a step S 108 . 
     In a step S 109 , the CPU  1201  of the copy machine  1200  transfers the PDL code data received from the LAN  1213 , to the RIP unit  1205 . 
     In a step S 110 , the RIP unit  1205  converts the received PDL code data into the image data. 
     In a step S 111 , the converted image data is transmitted, in unit of page, from the RIP unit  1205  to the compression/expansion unit  1207  via the high-speed image bus  1216 . Then, the transmitted data is converted into the compressed data. In a step S 112 , the data compressed by the compression/expansion unit  1207  is transmitted to the HD  1202  via the high-speed CPU bus  1204 , to be stored with correlating it with the ID number. When the compressed data is stored in the HD  1202 , a capacity of the HD  1202  can effectively be utilized because the data has been compressed. 
     The steps S 107  to S 112  are repeated until the processes of all of the PDL code data transmitted from the PC  1301  are completed. In this case, it should be noted that the processes of the CPU  1201 , the RIP unit  1205 , the compression/expansion unit  1207  and the HD  1202  are independently performed in parallel. 
     In a step S 113 , the PC  1301  notifies that the transfer of the PDL code data terminates, to the copy machine  1200  via the LAN  1213 . 
     In a step S 114 , the CPU  1201  confirms that the reception of the PDL code data terminates and all of the PDL code data are converted into the image data to be stored in the HD  1202 . After such a confirmation, the CPU  1201  performs a close process of the file. 
     In a step S 115 , the copy machine  1200  notifies that the storage of the image data into the HD  1202  terminates, to the PC  1301  via the LAN  1213 . 
     In a step S 116 , the PC  1301  displays on the image plane that the development/storage process of the PDL data terminates in the copy machine, to notify it to the user. 
     As explained above, the flow terminates the processes that the PDL code data is received from the PC  1301  and then the image data is stored in the HD  1202  as the file. In this case, it should be noted that the plurality of files can be stored in the HD  1202 . 
     Then, according to a flow chart shown in FIG. 15, it will be explained hereinafter a sequence in which the image data stored in the hard disk in the above manner is printed out by the user&#39;s operation. 
     In a step S 201 , after the storage process of the image data terminates, the user inputs the ID number notified in the step S 105 , from the console unit  1221  of the copy machine  1200 . 
     In a step S 202 , the input ID number is notified to the CPU  1201  via the panel interface  1215 . 
     In a step S 203 , the CPU  1201  searches the file corresponding to the notified ID number, from among the plurality of files stored in the HD  1202 , and then opens it. 
     In a step S 204 , the image data of the searched file is read out from the HD  1202 , in unit of page. The read image data is transferred to the compression/expansion unit  1207  via the high-speed CPU bus  1204  to be expanded. Then, the expanded data is transferred to the printer interface  1219  via the high-speed image bus  1216 , and is printed out by the printer unit  1220 . 
     The process in the step S 204  is repeated plural times corresponding to the number of pages of the image data stored in the HD  1202  as the file. 
     In a step S 205 , it is confirmed that the data was normally printed out, and then the CPU  1201  deletes the corresponding file in the HD  1202 . 
     As above, the flow terminates the sequence for printing out the image data stored in the HD  1202 . 
     As explained above, according to the second embodiment, the image data is not printed out as it is, but is once stored in the hard disk. Therefore, since the image data once stored in the hard disk is then printed out when the user instructs the output start by using the console unit of the copy machine, security protection of output results can be realized. 
     Further, according to the second embodiment, the ID number to be used for printing out the image data is generated at the copy machine  1200  side and notified to the PC  1301 . Therefore, an operator of the PC  1301  who requested the print of the image data can print out the secret document by simple operation without the another person seeing it, by transferring the image data to the copy machine  1200  without setting the ID number and by inputting the notified ID number. 
     Furthermore, since the unique ID number is generated for each job at the copy machine  1200  side, the same ID number is not generated doubly. Therefore, it can be prevented that the secret document is erroneously printed out by the another person. 
     Furthermore, even if the document to be printed out is not the secret document, since the image data is printed out by inputting the ID number from the console unit  1221  in the above manner, it can be prevented that the plurality of operators perform the print processes and thus the miscellaneous output papers are mixed with others. 
     The above effects can be applied not only to the document received via the LAN interface  1212  but also to the document received via the computer interface  1214 . 
     In the above second embodiment, it has been explained that the image data transferred from the computer is printed out by the copy machine  1200 . However, the second embodiment is not limited to such the operation, but can be applied to the case where the image data transferred from the computer is printed out by the facsimile machine  1307 . 
     The present invention may be applied to the system which is composed of the plurality of devices (e.g., host computer, interface, reader, printer and the like) or to the single apparatus which is composed of the single device (e.g., copy machine, facsimile machine or the like). 
     In order to realize the functions in the above embodiments by operating the various devices, a program code of software to be used for realizing the above functions may be supplied to equipments connected to the above various devices or to a computer in the system, so as to operate the computer (e.g., CPU or MPU) in the system or the device in accordance with a stored program. Also, such an operation is included in the category of the present invention. 
     In this case, since the program code of software itself realizes the functions in the above embodiments, the program code itself and a means, e.g., a storage medium to store such the program code, for supplying the program code to the computer all constitute the present invention. 
     As the storage medium which can store the program code, e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, an optomagnetic disk, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM and the like can be used. 
     By applying a detachable means as the storage medium, the present invention can easily be correspond to an apparatus which has a device capable of reading the program code stored in the detachable storage means. 
     Further, when the computer executes the supplied program code, the functions in the above embodiments can be realized. In addition, when the program code is co-operated with an operating system (OS), other application software or the like in the computer, the functions in the above embodiments can also be realized. In this case, the program code is of course included in the category of the present invention. 
     Furthermore, after the supplied program code is stored in a memory provided on a function expansion board of computer or a function expansion unit connected to computer, a CPU or the like which is provided in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit can perform whole or part of actual processes on the basis of an instruction from the stored program code, so as to realize the functions in the above embodiments. Such an operation is also included in the category of the present invention. 
     The present invention has been explained by the preferred embodiments thereof, but the present invention is by no means limited to such the embodiments and is subjected to various further modifications with the cope and spirit of the appended claims.