Patent Publication Number: US-2005129245-A1

Title: Multipurpose key employing network communications apparatus and method

Description:
COPYRIGHT NOTICE  
      A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.  
     BACKGROUND  
      1. Field of the Invention  
      The present invention relates to a communications apparatus, and in particular to a communications apparatus which executes data communications via a network while allowing a user to allocate and set an operational function to a multipurpose key.  
      2. Discussion of the Background Art  
      In general, a communications apparatus, such as a network facsimile, a complex machine, etc., having a network communication function to execute data communications via a network, is used by a great number of unspecified users. Then, a user authorization function is generally employed to inhibit an unauthorized from using the communications apparatus without permission. Further, some operations are inhibited depending upon a user type, such as a network manager, a machine manager, etc. Further, secrecy of communication documents stored in the communications apparatus is expected to improve.  
      Further, since the network facsimile and the complex machine generally include significantly huge number of operational functions, many operation keys are arranged on an operation display to allow a user to operate and use respective operational functions.  
      However, only a small number of users generally use all of the operational functions, and there is an operational function used by only a specified user.  
      One possible countermeasure to resolve such problems and enhance usability is to employ a plurality of multipurpose keys, each of which receives allocation beforehand and then designation from a user of a prescribed operational function.  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
      An object of the present invention is to address the above-noted problems and provide a new and novel communications apparatus including a plurality of multipurpose keys, each of which allows designation of an operational function separately allocated thereto, a network communication function that executes data communications via a network, and an authorization function selectively employed in the communications apparatus to authorize a user. In a preferred embodiment, the authorization function is used when it is selected and the user starts operating any of the plurality of multipurpose keys. The operational function is controlled to be performed in accordance with a result of authorization from the authorization function.  
      In another embodiment, a key definition table is provided to store a plurality of key definition information which define a plurality of operational functions allocated to the plurality of multipurpose key, respectively, per a user. In a preferred embodiment, an operational function allocated to the operated one of the plurality of multipurpose keys is specified from the key definition table based upon a user ID, which is identified during authorization from the authorization function.  
      In yet another embodiment, a validity table is provided to include validity information per each operational function. The validity information represents that an operational function designated by a user, who has been authorized by the authorization function, is either invalidated (i.e., ignored), or validated, depending upon a type of the operational function. In a preferred embodiment, the designated operational function is executed if a corresponding validity information is positive.  
      In yet another embodiment, a user type table is provided to include a plurality of availability information, each of which indicates availability per a user type, in connection with an operational function. In a preferred embodiment, an operational function allocated to an operated multipurpose key is specified from a key definition table based upon a user ID identified during the authorization, and is permitted to execute the operational function in accordance with the user type.  
      In yet another embodiment, a user is categorized into a general user when the user skipped the authorization. In a preferred embodiment, the key definition table includes a plurality of operational functions allocated to a plurality of multipurpose keys operated by the general user. A number of the plurality of operational functions is smaller than that used by a user having obtained the authorization.  
      In yet another embodiment, a network server is connected to the network and performs the authorization upon receiving a request from the communications apparatus.  
      In yet another embodiment, the authorization is executed one of by locally and remotely. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS  
      A more complete appreciation of the present disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:  
       FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary network communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary configuration of a network facsimile FX included in the network communication system of  FIG. 1 ;  
       FIG. 3A  illustrates various exemplary user registration information referred to when the network facsimile FX operates;  
       FIG. 3B  illustrates an exemplary key definition table containing information used when an operational function is allocated to a corresponding multi-purpose key;  
       FIG. 3C  illustrates an exemplary key ID table;  
       FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary method performed when a user designates and registers a prescribed functional operation through a prescribed multipurpose key;  
       FIG. 5  illustrates an exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FX when a user operates a multipurpose key;  
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  collectively illustrates an exemplary validity table containing validity information in connection with an operational function per a user;  
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FX when a user operates a multipurpose key;  
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  collectively illustrates an exemplary general user table containing information of one or more operational functions available to a general user;  
       FIG. 9  illustrates an exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FX when a user operates a multipurpose key;  
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  collectively illustrates an exemplary user type table containing information of one or more operational functions available to a user of a user type;  
       FIG. 11  illustrates an exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FX when a user operates a multipurpose key;  
       FIG. 12  illustrates an exemplary network communication system according to another embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary configuration of a network facsimile FXa included in the network communication system of  FIG. 12 ;  
       FIG. 14  illustrates an exemplary configuration of an operation display section of the network facsimile FXa;  
       FIGS. 15A and 15B  collectively illustrates an exemplary key definition table containing key definition information;  
       FIGS. 16 and 17  collectively illustrate an exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FXa in a standby mode;  
       FIGS. 18A  to  18 C illustrate an exemplary standby screen, an exemplary user ID input request screen, and an exemplary password input request screen, respectively;  
       FIG. 19  illustrates another exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FXa when a user operates a multipurpose key;  
       FIG. 20  illustrates an exemplary network authorization usage table containing information as if a user is permitted to use network authorization in connection with an operational function, which is allocated to an applicable multi-purpose key;  
       FIG. 21  illustrates another exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FXa when a user operates a multipurpose key;  
       FIGS. 22A and 22B  collectively illustrate an exemplary general user usage permission table containing information as if a user is permitted to use in connection with an operational function, which is allocated to a corresponding multi-purpose key;  
       FIG. 23  illustrates still another exemplary method executed in the network facsimile FXa when a multipurpose key is operated;  
       FIGS. 24A  to  24 D illustrate another exemplary operational function table, another validity table, another usage permission table, and another user type table, respectively; and  
       FIG. 25  illustrates still another exemplary method executed by the network facsimile FXa when a user operates a multipurpose key. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
      Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout several views, and in particular to  FIG. 1 , an exemplary network communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention is described.  
      As shown, a plurality of workstations WS 1  to WSn, a server SM, and a network facsimile FX are connected to a local area network (hereinafter referred to as a LAN) and the Internet via a router RT to communicate data with another appropriate terminal apparatus. The server SM includes a mail server function to provide known services, such as collecting and delivering electronic mail, etc., to and from a plurality of users through the workstations WS 1  to WSn. Further included is an authorization function to provide the other terminal apparatus with a user authorization function.  
      When an operation system installed in the server SM is of the Windows NT (™) series manufactured by Microsoft Co, LTD., the server SM provides an NT authorization function. An LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) and similar protocol included in a directory server function can be used as an alternative.  
      Further, the workstations WS 1  to WSn each stores various programs, such as facsimile application software that generates, displays, and outputs facsimile image information, software that communicates various data via the local area network LAN, etc., to be used by one or more specified users.  
      The network facsimile FX includes an electronic mail processing function that communicates image information and/or various reports as an electronic mail. Further included is a transmission function, which is executed through an analog public line network PSTN and transmits image information by group 3 (hereinafter referred to as a G3) facsimile transmission procedure.  
      Referring now to  FIG. 2 , an exemplary configuration of the network facsimile FX will be described.  
      A system control section  1  executes various control operations, such as controlling each of sections of the network facsimile FX, controlling a facsimile transmission sequence, etc. A system memory  2  provides the system control section  1  with a work area, and stores control operation program to be executed by the system control section  1 , and various data necessary for executing the control operation program. A parameter memory  3  stores various informations, which are inherent to the network facsimile FX. A timer circuit  4  outputs a current time.  
      A scanner  5  reads an image on an original document at a prescribed resolution. A plotter  6  prints out an image at a prescribed resolution. An operation display section  7  includes various operation keys and one or more displays to allow a user to operate and use the network facsimile FX.  
      An encoding/decoding section  8  encodes and compress an image signal, and decodes the encoded and compressed image information back to an original image signal. An image information accumulation apparatus  9  accumulates a lot of encoded and compressed image information.  
      A G3 facsimile MODEM  10  includes a low speed MODEM function (e.g. V.21 MODEM) to communicate transmission procedural signals and a high speed MODEM function (e.g. V.17, V.34, V.29, and V.27ter MODEMs) to mainly communicate image information for the G3 facsimile, and.  
      A network control apparatus  11  includes an automatic mail transmission/reception function, and connects the network facsimile FX to an analog public line network PSTN.  
      A local area network interface circuit  12  connects the network facsimile FX to a local area network LAN. A local area network transmission control section  13  controls various data communication with other data terminal apparatuses via the local area network, i.e., LAN, using various protocol suites.  
      These system control section  1 , system memory  2 , parameter memory  3 , timer circuit  4 , scanner  5 , plotter  6 , operation display section  7 , encoding/decoding section  8 , image information accumulation apparatus  9 , G3 facsimile MODEM  10 , network control apparatus  11 , and LAN transmission control section  13  are connected to an interior path  14  to communicate with each other.  
      Further, the G3 facsimile MODEM  10  and network control apparatus  11  directly perform the data communications with each other.  
      Further, a liquid crystal display (i.e., LCD, not shown) having a relatively large screen is employed in the operation display section  7 . A touch panel (not shown) is arranged on the LCD. A plurality of symbols (e.g. buttons) is displayed on the LCD to allow a user to operate. Based upon a coordinate of an operated position on the touch panel and that of the position of a symbol, the symbol given a touch may be determined. Such an operation device with the symbols is called a software switch. However, since an operation display section  7  is publicly known, description thereof is omitted here.  
      Further, the operation display section  7  includes a plurality of multipurpose keys, so called user function keys, through which a user can input and define one or more operational functions. A supervisory user, who supervises the network facsimile, generally allocates the operational functions to applicable multipurpose keys, respectively. The operational functions are previously stored in the parameter memory  3  in accordance with the allocation.  
      To increase flexibility in displaying labels, multipurpose keys are sometimes formed on software switches. Specifically, an operation section for the multipurpose keys is arranged on the LCD, and a display of operational functions allocated to the multipurpose keys is switched per a user.  
      In a preferred embodiment, some of users are permitted to use the network facsimile FX, while their information are stored in the parameter memory  3  as shown in  FIG. 3A . Specifically, the user registration information may include A plurality of user IDs for identifying respective users, a key definition table storing various key definition information each defines an operational function allocated to an applicable multipurpose key per a user, and the other registration information. The user IDs also includes information representing a general user, which has not been registered, beside a specified user.  
      Specifically, the key definition table is formed from key definition information for each of the multipurpose keys as illustrated in  FIG. 3B . Such key definition information includes a key ID, which identifies each of the multipurpose keys, and key definition information, which specifies one or more operational functions as shown in  FIG. 3C . The key definition information may define an operational function, such as printing a name of a mail sender, recording and outputting a transmission management report, and switching a network facsimile FX mode to a printer mode, etc.  
      In a preferred embodiment, data communications between the terminals apparatuses via the LAN are performed using a protocol combination (e.g. protocol suite) of a transmission protocol, which ranges up to a transport layer called TCP/IP, and a communication protocol of the upper lank layer above the transport layer. For example, when electronic mails are to be sent, an SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is adopted as a communication protocol for the upper lank layer. A predetermined protocol is used in data communication between an authorization server and a terminal apparatus, such as a network facsimile FX, workstations WS 1  to WSn, etc. However, because the protocol is publicly known, description thereof is omitted here.  
      A first exemplary operation of the network facsimile FX will be now described with reference to  FIG. 4 .  
      The system control section  1  receives designation of an operational function from a user, and then executes the operational function based on prescribed conditions. Specifically, it is initially checked whether an authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 101 . If the determination of step S 101  is positive (i.e., Yes), it is further checked whether a condition that an authorization function is used has been set in step S 102 .  
      If the determination of step S 102  is positive, an authorization guidance message is displayed (step S 103 ) as a standby mode, for example, to request a user to input a user name through the display screen of the operation display  7 . Since the user can skip the authorization here, the system control section  1  checks whether the user skips the authorization in step S 104 . If the determination in step S 104  is negative (i.e., No), the system control section  1  requests the user to input the above-mentioned authorization information, for example, a password.  
      When the authorization information is completely input and the determination in step S 106  is positive, the system control section  1  requests a prescribed authorization server SM, which has been previously registered, to authorize the user by transmitting the user name and password as inquiry information in step S 107 .  
      The server SM then executes a prescribed authorization operation (for example, requesting a user name and a password) with reference to previously registered user information. The authorization server then reports the authorization result to the network facsimile FX (step S 108 ). Information of authorization result (hereinafter referred to as authorization reporting information) includes, at least, a user ID, a positive or negative authorization result, and a user type, such as a general user, a supervisory user, etc., having different capability of usage. The network facsimile FX determines whether the authorization result is positive (step S 109 ).  
      Then, the network facsimile FX checks whether the determination in step S 109  is positive upon receiving the authorization reporting information. When the determination in step S 109  is negative, a display or sound notifying the negative authorization is output, and then the step returns to the step S 103 . Specifically, authorization is requested again. In contrast, when the determination of step S 109  is positive, the user information included in authorization reporting information is set to the user ID in step S 110 .  
      Further, when a user skips the authorization (i.e., the determination of step S 104  is positive) , when a condition that the authorization function is used has not been set (i.e., the determination of step S 102  is negative), or when the authorization function is excluded in the network communication system (i.e., the determination of step S 101  is negative), an information representing a general user is set as a user ID in step. S 111 .  
      When the information is completely set to the user ID, an operational guidance massage is displayed on the display in step S 112 . One or more inputs are then received from the user through his or her operation of the multipurpose key in step S 113 . The network facsimile FX then realizes a prescribed operational function designated by the user in step S 114 .  
      Referring now to  FIG. 5 , an exemplary operation executed when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is operated and a standby screen is displayed on a network facsimile FX will be described.  
      It is initially checked whether an authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 201 . If the determination of step S 201  is positive, it is checked whether a condition that the authorization function is used has been set in step S 202 . If the determination of step S 202  is positive, it is further checked whether the authorization result is positive in step S 203 . If the determination of the step  203  is negative (i.e., No), an error message (for example, indicating that “operation is impossible, because you are not authorized”) is displayed as alert in step S 204 , and the process is then unsuccessfully completed. In displaying the alert, a NACK sound can be generated to represent rejection of the operation. Otherwise, another sound can be generated to report denial of operation.  
      If the determination of step S 203  is positive, key definition information in the key definition table is referred to in correspondence with a user ID, and an operational function allocated to a corresponding multipurpose key is determined and read from an applicable key definition information step S 205 ) . The operational function is subsequently executed in step S 206 . Further, if one of the determinations in steps S 201  and S 202  is negative, the process advances to step S 205 , and the subsequent operations are executed.  
      Thus, according to the preferred embodiment, usability is widely improved, because one or more operational functions previously registered in a memory per a user can be automatically set to one or more corresponding multipurpose keys when user authorization operation is executed.  
      Another embodiment will now be explained. Among various operational functions automatically set to one or more multipurpose keys, there can be an undesirable function to be used by an authorized user. Specifically, the operational function is intended to be used only by a specified user, for example.  
      A validity table can be provided to describe validity information (e.g., valid or invalid), and represent whether an authorized user is practically permitted to use an allocated operational function as shown in  FIG. 6A . Specifically, a flag, indicating whether an operational function allocated to a multipurpose key for the authorized user is validated or invalidated, is. registered in connection with an operational function as shown in  FIG. 6B .  
      Referring to  FIG. 7 , an exemplary operation executed using the validity table when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is operated and a standby screen is displayed on the network facsimile FX will be explained.  
      The system control section  1  executes operation similar to that described with reference to  FIG. 4 .  
      Specifically, it is initially checked whether an authorization function is included in the network work system in step S 301 . If the determination of the step S 301  is positive, it is checked whether a condition the authorization function is used has been set in step S 302 .  
      If the determination of step S 302  is positive, it is further checked whether the authorization result of step S 303  is positive. If the determination of step S 303  is negative, an error message (such as “operation is impossible because you are. not authorized”) is displayed as an alert in step S 304 , and the process is then unsuccessfully completed. Other wise, a NACK sound is provided to notify that the operation of the multipurpose keys has been rejected. Still otherwise, a prescribed sound representing denial of the operation can be employed.  
      If the determination of step S 303  is positive, a key definition information in the key definition table is read corresponding to the user ID in step S 305 . Then, a prescribed operational function is determined and read from a corresponding key definition information. Then, the validity table is referred to and the validity information corresponding to the operational function is checked. Specifically, the valid flag is checked (step S 306 ), and it is determined whether the flag indicates the operational function is valid or invalid (step S 307 ).  
      If the determination of the step S 307  is positive, the operational function can be executed in step S 308 . In contrast, if the determination in step S 307  is negative, the process goes to step S 304 , an alert screen is displayed, and the process is then unsuccessfully completed. If one of the determinations of the steps S 302  and S 301  is negative, the process advances to step S 305 , and subsequent operations are executed.  
      As mentioned above (in connection with  FIG. 4 ), a general user information is set as a user ID, if the authorization function is not included in the network communication system, if a condition that the authorization function is used has not been set, or if a user skips user authorization.  
      In such a situation, a number of operational functions available to the general user is limited. However, it is preferable that the general user can use the network facsimile FX based upon registration information, because, authorized users and general users can be discriminated from the other.  
      However, since an unregistered user can set an operational function beforehand to the network facsimile FX, the user can enjoy the operational function even in the limited range, and freedom of usage of the network facsimile FX can be improved.  
      For example, when a general user operating the workstation WS 1  intends to use the network facsimile FX, which is commonly connected to the LAN, as a printer, and changing to a printer mode is allocated and set to a multipurpose key as an operational function available to the general user, the general user can let it perform printing when operating the multipurpose key without obtaining new authorization.  
      Substantially no security problems occur when the workstation WS 1  is used, because the general user has already obtained authorization from the authorization server SM.  
      Then, a general user table containing a plurality of information, each of which indicates availability to a general user in connection with an operational function, is provided as shown in  FIG. 8A . Specifically, a general user usage flag is used and designates whether an operational function allocated and designated by the general user as validated or invalidated is registered in connection with each of the operational functions as shown in  FIG. 8B .  
      Referring now to  FIG. 9 , an exemplary process executed when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is operated, and a general user is set as a user ID on a standby screen of the network facsimile will be described.  
      The system control section  1  executes operation similar to that described with reference to  FIG. 4 . Specifically, an operational function allocated to an operated multipurpose key is initially read from the key definition table for the general user in a step S 401 . Then, it is checked whether an applicable general user usage flag indicates that the operational function is valid with reference to the general user table.  
      If the determination of step S 403  is negative, it is checked whether an authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 404 . If the determination of step S 404  is positive, it is further checked whether a condition that the authorization function is used has been set in step S 405 .  
      If the determination of step S 405  is positive, it is further checked whether the authorization result is positive in step S 406 . If the determination of step S 406  is negative, an error message (such as “key operation is impossible because you are not authorized”) is displayed as an alert in step S 407 , and the process is then unsuccessfully completed. In place of displaying the alert, a NACK sound indicating rejection of the key operation can be generated. Otherwise, a prescribed sound representing denial of the key operation can be generated and reported. If the determination of step S 406  is positive, the operational function is executed in step S 408 .  
      Further, when the determination of step S 405  or step S 404  is negative or when the determination of step S 403  is positive, the process advances to step S 408  and the subsequent operation is then executed.  
      Further, user type information is provided to indicate availability of an operational function to a user who is categorized into a prescribed type. The user type information is linked with an operational function allocated to a prescribed multipurpose key. For example, if the user type is categorized into two, e.g. an authorization user who simply operates the network facsimile, a supervisory user who generally supervises a network communication system, to restrict their authority into proper ranges such that only the supervisory user can use a prescribed operational function, and the network facsimile FX is preferably operated.  
      Then, a user type table is provided to describe availability of each operational function in connection with the user type as shown in  FIG. 10A . Specifically, availability information is registered in connection with an operational function as shown in  FIG. 10B . Therefore, one of the authorization and supervisory users is registered as the user type information.  
      Referring now to  FIG. 11 , an exemplary operation executed with reference to the user table when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is operated and a standby screen is displayed on the network facsimile will be described.  
      The system control section  1  executes operation similar to that described with reference to  FIG. 4 . Specifically, it is initially checked whether an authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 501 . If the determination of step S 501  is positive, it is further checked whether a condition that the authorization function is used has been set in step S 502 .  
      If the determination of step S 502  is positive, it is checked whether the determination of the authorization in step S 503  is positive. If the determination of the step S 503  is negative, an error message (such as “operation is impossible because you are not authorized”) is displayed as an alert in step S 504 , and the process is thus unsuccessfully completed. In place of displaying the alert, a NACK sound representing rejection of the operation can be generated. Otherwise, a prescribed sound representing denial of the operation can be generated and reported.  
      If the determination of the step S 503  is positive, an operational function in a key definition table corresponding to the user ID is read at that time in step S 505 . Thus, an operational function allocated to a corresponding multipurpose key is determined. A user type is then checked-based on the user ID in connection with the determined operational function with reference to the user type table. Specifically, the user type information is compared with a user information included in authorization reporting information (step S 506 ) to determine whether the user of the prescribed user type has authority to execute the determined operational function (steps S 507 ). If the determination of the step S 507  is positive, the operational function determined at that time is performed in step S 506 . In contrast, if the determination of step S 507  is negative, the process goes to step S 504 , and is unsuccessfully completed while displaying an alert screen.  
      When the determination in step S 502  or step S 501  is negative, the process advances to step S 505 , and the subsequent operations are executed.  
      The above-mentioned several embodiments employ the network facsimile FX. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can employ other types of communications apparatuses. Even if the authorization server authorizes a user in the above-mentioned several embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto, and can employ a local authorization system that locally authorizes the user.  
      Referring now to  FIG. 12 , an exemplary network communication system will be described according to another embodiment of the present invention.  
      As shown, a plurality of workstations WQ 1  to WQn, a domain server DS, and a network facsimile FXa are connected to a local area network LANa and an Internet via a router RTa. Accordingly, the workstations WQ 1  to WQn, the domain server DS, and the network facsimile FXa can communicate data with other appropriate terminal apparatuses via the Internet.  
      These workstations WQ 1  to WQn, the domain server DS, and the network facsimile Fxa collectively form one domain DML.  
      The domain server DS includes a mail server function to provide known services such as electronic mail collection and delivery, etc., to users who use the workstations WQ 1  to WQn as well as the network facsimile FXa. Further included are various network server functions such as authorization function to provide the other terminal apparatus with a user authorization function. When an operation system installed in the domain server DS is one of Windows NT (™) series of Microsoft Co, LTD., the domain server DS provides the terminal apparatus with an NT authorization function. A user authorization function included in a directory server function, such as LDAP, etc., can be used as an alternative.  
      Further, various programs such as facsimile application software that generates and displays facsimile image information, and various other software including electronic mail communications program that communicates various data via the LANa are employed in the workstations WQ 1  to WQn to be used by one or more specified users.  
      The network facsimile FXa includes an electronic mail processing function to communicate image information and various reports as an electronic mail. Further included is a transmission function to engage and use an analog public line network PSTN and transmit image information by G3 facsimile transmission procedure.  
      Referring now to  FIG. 13 , an exemplary configuration of the network facsimile FXa will be described. A system control section  21  controls operations of various sections of the network facsimile FXa, a facsimile transmission control sequence, and so on. A system memory  22  provides the system control section  21  with a work area and stores control program executed by the system control section  21  as well as various data necessary when the control program is executed. A parameter memory  23  stores various informations, which are inherent to the network facsimile FXa. A timer circuit  24  outputs current time.  
      A scanner  25  reads an image of an original document at a prescribed resolution. A plotter  26  prints out an image at a prescribed resolution. An operation display section  27  includes various operation keys and display items to allow a user to operate and drive the network facsimile FXa.  
      An encoding/decoding section  28  encodes and compresses an image signal and decodes the encoded and compressed image information back to an original image signal. An. image accumulation apparatus  29  accumulates a lot of encoded and compressed image information.  
      A G3 facsimile MODEM  30  includes a lowspeed MODEM function (e.g. V.21 MODEM) to communicate transmission procedural signals and a high-speed MODEM function (e.g. V.17, V.34, V.29, and V.27ter MODEMs) to mainly communicate image information to operate the G3 facsimile.  
      A network control apparatus  31  includes an automatic mail transmission/reception function and connects the network facsimile FXa to the analog public line network PSTN. A local area network interface circuit  32  connects the network facsimile FXa to a local area network LANa. A local area network transmission control section  33  controls various data. communications with data terminal apparatuses via the local area network LANa using various Protocol suites.  
      The system control section  21 , system memory  22 , parameter memory  23 , timer circuit  24 , scanner  25 , plotter  26 , operation display section  27 , encoding/decoding section  28 , image accumulation apparatus  29 , G3 facsimile MODEM  30 , network control apparatus  31 , and LANa transmission control section  33  are connected to an interior path  34  to communicate with each other.  
      Further, the G3 facsimile MODEM  30  and the network control apparatus  31  directly perform data communications therebetween.  
      Referring now to  FIG. 14 , an. exemplary configuration of a display section  27  will be described.  
      As shown, a start key  27   a  is provided to allow input of an instruction to start operation of the network facsimile FXa. A stop key  27   b  is provided to allow input of an instruction to stop operation of the network facsimile FXa. Ten-pad keys  27   c  are provided to allow input of numeric information such as telephone number, etc.  
      An abbreviated dial key  27   d  is provided to input an instruction of abbreviated dialing. A pose/redial key.  27   e  is provided to input posing (silent code) and redialing instructions. A clear key  27   f  is provided to delete a single digit from a numeric value input by the ten-pad keys  27   c.    
      One-touch dial keys  27   g  are provided to operate and input a destination number or a mail address by single key operation. The one-touch dial keys  27   g  can also be used when alphanumeric characters forming the mail address are input.  
      An initial setting/registration key  27   h  is provided to input initial setting and register supervisory setting to the network facsimile NXa. A light emitting diode LL is attached to the initial setting/registration key  27   h  to notify a condition that the initial setting/registration key  27   h  is effectively operating.  
      A multipurpose key cluster  27   i  includes eight multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8 . Eight light emitting diodes L 1  to L 8  are respectively attached to the eight multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8 , to notify conditions that these eight multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  are operating.  
      A LCD  27   j  is provided to display various massages such as an operation guidance for the network facsimile FXa, feedback to an input, etc. Four dialog operation keys  27   k  are arranged below the LCD  27   j . The dialog operation keys  27   k  are used when a user executes responsive operation through a dialog display formed on the LCD  27   j . A cursor key  27   i  is provided to use when a selected display item is moved on the LCD  27   j.    
      Further, a buzzer (not shown) is arranged in the operation display section  27  to generate and report alarm or the like to the user.  
      In a preferred embodiment, a protocol combination (e.g. protocol suite) of transmission protocol ranging to a transport layer called TCP/IP and communication protocol of the upper lank layer above the transport layer essentially executes data communications among the terminal apparatuses connected to the LANa. For example, when electronic mails are communicated, an SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is used as a communication protocol for the upper lank layer. A prescribed protocol may be used in data communication between the authorization server and the terminal apparatus such as a network facsimile FXa, workstations WQ 1  to WQn, etc. However, because the protocol is publicly known, description thereof is omitted here.  
      A supervisory user who supervises the network communication system allocates appropriate (one or more) operational functions to the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8 . Allocated informations are stored in a key definition table shown in  FIG. 15A . Specifically, each of the key definition information of the key definition table includes a key ID, which represents one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8 , and an operational function to be set to the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  as shown in  FIG. 15B .  
      A user can optionally register one or more operational functions for one or more multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8 . However, when an optional unit (not shown) is connected to the network facsimile FXa, an operational function performed by the optional unit can be automatically registered and allocated.  
      Further, the network facsimile FXa includes a network authorization function to perform user authorization using the NT authorization function of the domain server DS. The supervisory user can appropriately set an operational condition whether the network authorization function is used.  
      Referring now to  FIGS. 16 and 17 , an exemplary operation performed by the network facsimile FXa in a standby mode will be described.  
      It is initially checked whether a network authorization function is included in the communication system in step S 601 . If the determination of step S 601  is positive, it is further checked whether a condition that an authorization function is used has been set in step S 602 .  
      When the condition has not been set (i.e., the determination in step S 602  is negative), the network facsimile FXa displays a standby screen, as shown in  FIG. 18A , on the LCD  27   j  in step S 603 . The network facsimile FXa then monitors an occurrence of an operation request in step S 604 . When a certain operation request is made (i.e., the determination in step S 604  is positive), the operation request is processed and the operation is executed in step S 605 . The process then advances to the next step.  
      In contrast, when the above-mentioned condition is set (i.e., the determination in step S 602  is positive), the network facsimile FXa displays a user ID input request screen on the LCD  27   j  to request a user to obtain authorization as an initial screen, as shown in  FIG. 18B . The network facsimile FXa then monitors if a user operates and inputs through, the dialog operation key  27   k  in steps S 606  and S 607  (i.e., negative loop).  
      Indications of cancellation, setting, and authorization skip are provided in a lower portion of the user ID input request screen and are assigned to the three dialog operation keys  27   k . A user inputs a user ID having five digits, for example, through the ten-pad keys  27   c  and activates an appropriate setting button (i.e., a corresponding dialog operation key  27   k ) when completing the input. If an input is cancelled, a cancellation button (i.e., a corresponding dialog operation key  27   k ) is activated. If authorization is skipped, an authorization skip button (i.e., a corresponding dialog operation key  27   k ) is activated.  
      When a user operates any of the dialog operation keys  27   k , i.e., the determination in step S 607  is positive, it is further determined which one of the setting, cancellation, and authorization skip buttons is operated in steps S 608  and S 609 .  
      When the cancellation button is operated (i.e., the determination in step S 609  is positive), information of the user ID input at that time is cleared in step S 610 . The process then returns to step S 606 , and the user ID input request screen is displayed again.  
      Further, when the authorization skip button is operated (i.e., the determination in step S 609  is negative), an unregistered general user is set as an operating user.  
      When a user ID is input through the user ID input request screen, and a setting button is operated (i.e., the determination in step S 608  is positive), the network facsimile FXa stores the user ID. The network facsimile FXa then displays a password input request screen on the LCD  27   j  as shown in  FIG. 18C , and monitors whether a user operates any of the dialog operation keys  27   k  in steps S 612  and S 613  (i.e., Negative Loop).  
      The user inputs a password having four to eight digits, for example, and registers in the NT authorization server, using the ten pad keys  27   c . The user may activate the setting button upon completing the input. Further, when canceling the input information, the user can activate the cancellation button.  
      When the user operates any of the dialog operation keys  27   k , i.e., the determination of step S 613  is positive, it is checked if the operated key  27   k  is either the setting button or cancellation button in step S 614 .  
      When the cancellation button is operated (i.e., the determination of step S 614  is negative), input information such as a user ID, a password, etc., is cleared in step S 615 . Then, the process returns to step S 606 , and the user ID input request screen is displayed again.  
      When the password is input through the password ID input request screen and the setting button is operated (i.e., the determination of step in S 614  is positive), the network facsimile FXa stores the input password, and starts the network authorization function. Specifically, the network facsimile FXa transmits the user ID and the password to the domain server DS as a request for a network authorization in step S 616 .  
      The domain server DS receives the network authorization request, and then applies the NT authorization to the user ID and the password. The domain server DS reports a result of the authorization to the terminal apparatus (e.g. the network terminal FXa).  
      Accordingly, the network facsimile FXa receives the authorization reporting from the domain server DS in step S 617 , and checks whether the authorization is positive in step S 618 .  
      If the authorization is negative (i.e. ,the determination in step S 618  is negative), the operation display section  27  generates an error sound in step S 619 , the process then returns to step S 606 , and the user ID input request screen is displayed again.  
      If either the authorization is positive, (i.e., the determination in step S 618  is positive), or a user operates the authorization skip button in the user ID input request screen (i.e., the determination in step S 609  is negative), and accordingly a general user is set as a user in step S 611 , the process advances to step S 620 , and a standby screen is displayed. An occurrence of an operation request is then monitored in steps S 620  and S 621  (i.e., Negative Loop).  
      If a certain operation request occurs (i.e., the determination of step S 621  is positive), the operation request is processed (i.e., the requested operation is executed), in step S 622 , and the process advances to the next stage.  
      Now, with reference to  FIG. 19 , an exemplary operation performed when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is operated and a standby screen is displayed on the network facsimile FXa will be described.  
      It is checked whether a network authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 701 . If the determination in step S 701  is positive, it is checked whether a condition that the network authorization function is used has not been set in step S 702 .  
      If the condition has been set (i.e., the determination in step S 702  is positive), an alert message is displayed on the LCD  27   j  in step S 703 , and operation of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is inhibited, because the authorization has not yet been given.  
      One of when the condition has not been set (i.e., the determination in step S 702  is negative), or when the network authorization function is excluded in the network communication system (i.e., the determination in step S 701  is negative), key definition information allocated to one of the operated multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from the key definition table in step S 704 . An operational function corresponding to the key definition information is then executed in step S 705 , because usage of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  are permitted.  
      According to the preferred embodiment, since the system supervisory user registers one or more operational functions related to system setting to be set to the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  as only available to the supervisory user, a system administrative problem that a user other than the system supervisory user can unreasonably use the one or more operational functions can be avoided or suppressed, because usage of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  are inhibited when the above-mentioned registration is executed, properly.  
      In this situation, when a security mode mentioned above is cancelled in order not to use the network authorization function, the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  can be appropriately used.  
      An exemplary operation of the network facsimile FXa will be explained below.  
      In the above-mentioned several embodiments, when a condition that a network authorization function is used is set, the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  are generally inhibited from use before the authorization. However, such inhibition restricts freedom of operation.  
      Operation of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  may be permitted as an exception, depending upon an operational function even if the above-mentioned network authorization condition has been set. As a result, usability of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  can be improved.  
      Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 20A , an operational function usage permission table is employed and includes a unit of operational function identification information identifying a operational function, and an operational function usage permission flag representing whether an operational function is permitted to be used as an exception, as shown in  FIG. 20B .  
      Referring now to  FIG. 21 , an exemplary operation executed when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  of the network facsimile FXa is operated and a standby screen is displayed will be described.  
      It is initially checked whether a network authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 801 . If the determination of step S 801  is positive, it is further checked whether a condition that a network authorization function is used has been set in step S 802 .  
      When the condition has been set (i.e., the determination of step S 802  is positive), it is checked whether an operating user is authorized by the network authorization function in step S 803 .  
      If the determination of step S 803  is positive, key definition information allocated to the operated one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from the key definition table in step S 804 .  
      Permission information corresponding to the operational function of the key definition information is then obtained from the operational function usage permission table in step S 805 , and it is determined whether the operational function is permitted to be used by checking the permission information in step S 806 . If the determination is positive in step S 806 , the operational function is executed in step S 807 . Thus, the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  can be efficiently used.  
      In contrast, when usage of the operational function is not permitted (i.e., the determination in step S 806  is negative), or when a user authorization is skipped, and accordingly a general user is set as an operating user (i.e., the determination in step S 803  is negative), an alert message is displayed on the LCD  27   j  in step S 808 . Thereby, the operation of the multipurpose key operation is ignored.  
      Further, when the network authorization function has not been set (i.e., the determination in step S 802  is negative), or when the network authorization function is excluded in the network communications system (i.e., the determination in step S 801  is negative), usage of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is permitted. Thus, prescribed key definition information allocated to the operated one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from the key definition table in step S 809 , the process then goes to step S 807 , and the operational function is executed in accordance with the key definition information.  
      Still another exemplary operation of the network facsimile FXa will be explained.  
      It is generally preferable to permit a general user to use a limited number of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8 , depending on an operational function. A general user usage flag, which represents whether usage of an operational function is permitted to the general user, is registered in connection with an operational function in a general user usage table ( FIGS. 22A and 22B ).  
      Referring now to  FIG. 23 , an exemplary operation performed with reference to the general user usage table when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  of the network facsimile FXa is operated and then a standby screen is displayed will be described.  
      It is initially checked whether a network authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 901 . If the determination of step S 901  is positive, it is further checked whether a condition that a network authorization function is used has been set in step S 902 .  
      If the condition has been set (i.e., the determination of step S 902  is positive) , it is further checked if an operating user has been authorized by the network authorization function in step S 903 . If the determination of step S 903  is positive, key definition information allocated to the operated one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from a key definition table corresponding to a user ID in step S 904 .  
      Then, a permission information registered corresponding to the operational function is obtained from the general user usage table in step S 905 . It is then checked whether the operating user is permitted to use the operational function by checking the permission information in step S 906 .  
      When the determination is positive in step  906 , the operational function is executed in step S 907 . Thus, the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  can be efficiently used.  
      In contrast, when usage of the operational function is not permitted(i.e., the determination in step S 906  is negative), an alert message is displayed on the LCD  27   j  in step S 908 , and operation of the multipurpose key is ignored at the time.  
      When a user authorization is skipped, and accordingly a general user is set as an operating user (i.e., the determination in step  903  is negative), key definition information allocated to one of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  operated by the general user is read from the key definition table in step S 910 . Then, it is checked, in step S 912 , whether the general user is permitted to use the operational function by obtaining a corresponding permission information from the general user usage table in step S 911 .  
      When the determination is positive in step S 912 , the process goes to step S 907 , and the operational function is executed. Thus, the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  can be efficiently used even in a restricted range.  
      In contrast, when the general user is not permitted to use the operational function (i.e., the determination in step  912  is negative), the process advances to step S 908 , an alert message is then displayed on the LCD  27   j , and the operation of the one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is ignored at the time.  
      Further, when the above-mentioned condition has not been set (i.e., the determination in step S 902  is negative), or when the network authorization function is excluded in the network communication system (i.e., the determination in step S 901  is negative), usage of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is permitted in a prescribed restricted range.  
      Specifically, a key definition information allocated to an operated one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from the key definition table in step S 909 , and the operational function defined in the key definition information is executed in step S 907 .  
      Still another exemplary operation performed by the network facsimile FXa will be described.  
      It is generally preferable that a user is restricted in using the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  in accordance with a user type. For example, capability of using the network facsimile FXa and a domain resource preferably is restricted in accordance with the user type, such as a supervisory user, a network supervisory user, etc.  
      Since the network facsimile FXa belongs to the domain DML, it is sometimes categorized into a type of the domain resource. Thus, the network facsimile FXa includes a function used only by the network supervisory user (i.e., other than an ordinal system supervisory user). For example, authority of setting various functions related to a network and so on is only given to the network supervisory user.  
      Since NT authorization only includes information as to whether authorization is permitted or rejected, a detail of authorization given to a user is generally unclear.  
      Then, it is preferable that user type information, which indicates an authorization range, is registered and referred to by the network facsimile FXa.  
      In this regard, information of a user type, such as an authorized user, a supervisory user, a network supervisory user, etc., is registered in connection with an operational function in a user type information table, as shown in  FIGS. 24A, 24B  and  24 C. The user type information includes a user ID and authorized range per a user type as shown in  FIG. 24D .  
       FIG. 25  illustrates an exemplary operation executed with reference to the user type information table when any of the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  of the network facsimile FXa is operated, and then a standby screen is displayed.  
      It is initially checked whether a network authorization function is included in the network communication system in step S 1001 . If the determination of step S 1001  is positive, it is further checked whether a condition that a network authorization function is used has been set in step S 1002 .  
      If the condition has been set (i.e., the determination in step S 1002  is positive), it is checked whether an operating user is authorized by the network authorization function in step S 1003 .  
      If the determination of step S 1003  is positive, an operational function defined by the key definition information registered and allocated to the operated one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from the key definition table in step S 1004 .  
      User type information corresponding to the operational function is then obtained from the user type table in step  
      Then, a user type information corresponding to the user ID input through a user ID input request screen is obtained from the user type information table in step S 1006 , and it is checked whether the operating user is permitted to use the operational function by comparing the user authority information to the user type information input through the user ID input request screen, in step S 1007 .  
      If the determination in step S 1007  is positive, the operational function is executed in step S 1008 . Thus, the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  can be efficiently used.  
      In contrast, when the operational user is not permitted to use the operational function (i.e., the determination in step S 1007  is negative), or when the operating user skips authorization, and accordingly a general user is set as an operating user (i.e., the determination in step S 1003  is negative), an alert message is displayed on the LCD  27   j  in step S 1009 , and the operation of the one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is ignored at the time.  
      Further, when the above-mentioned condition has not been set (i.e., the determination in step S 1002  is negative), and the network authorization function is excluded in the network communication system (i.e., the determination in step S 1001  is negative), the operating user is permitted to use the multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  in a prescribed restricted range.  
      Specifically, an operational function defined by a key definition information registered and allocated to the one of multipurpose keys UK 1  to UK 8  is read from the key definition table in step S 1010 . Then, the process goes to step S 1008 , and the operational function is executed.  
      Although a network facsimile is used in the exemplary embodiments discussed above, other communications apparatuses such as a complex networking machine, etc., can be similarly employed.  
      Obviously, numerous additional modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the present invention may be practiced other than as specifically described in the examples herein.  
      This specification claims priority under 35 USC §119 to Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2003-383347 filed on Nov. 13, 2003, and 2004-028975 filed on Feb. 5, 2004, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.