Patent Publication Number: US-9898236-B2

Title: Image processing apparatus and program for printing template images using keyword data

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-148086, filed on Jul. 1, 2012, the entire subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Aspects of the present invention relate to a technique of associating a keyword with image data. 
     BACKGROUND 
     As a technique for searching for desired image data from a plurality of image data, there has been proposed a management system which stores search a keyword in association with image data. 
     However, work for associating a keyword selected by a user with image data may deteriorate user convenience. For example, a user is required to operate a computer to input image data to the computer and additionally required to operate a computer to input a keyword. This problem is not limited to a case where a keyword is associated for search purposes, but is common to cases where a keyword is associated with image data regardless of their purposes. 
     SUMMARY 
     An aspect of the present invention provides a technique capable of improving convenience in associating a keyword with image data item. 
     According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus including: a processor; and memory storing computer readable instructions, when executed by the processor, causing the apparatus to operate as: a template image data generating unit configured to generate template image data representing a template image including a body area for writing information therein, and also including a keyword area for writing information therein for specifying a keyword to be associated with target image data representing a target image including the body area having information written therein, from among plural keywords; and a template image data providing unit configured to provide the template image data to a printing unit. 
     According to the above configuration, a user can write on a sheet with the template image printed thereon, to select a keyword to be associated with target image data. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience in associating a keyword with target image data. 
     The present invention can be implemented in various forms such as an image processing method, an image processing apparatus, a computer program for implementing the function of the image processing method or apparatus, and a recording medium (for example, a non-transitory recording medium) having the computer program recorded thereon. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and other aspects of the present invention will become more apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of illustrative embodiments of the present invention taken in conjunction with the attached drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a document storing system  1000 ; 
         FIG. 2  is a flow chart illustrating a template image data generating process; 
         FIG. 3  is a flow chart illustrating a keyword candidate determining process; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view illustrating an example of an authentication database  244 ; 
         FIGS. 5A to 5C  are views illustrating examples of a template image TI; 
         FIGS. 6A to 6C  are views illustrating use modes of a memo sheet MS; 
         FIG. 7  is a flow chart illustrating a division document generating process; 
         FIG. 8  is a flow chart illustrating a storage destination specifying process; 
         FIGS. 9A to 9C  are explanatory views illustrating the division document generating process; 
         FIGS. 10A to 10C  are explanatory views illustrating the division document generating process; 
         FIG. 11  is a view illustrating an example of a management table MT; 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating an area image data generating process; 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  are views illustrating generation of a PDF file; 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic view illustrating another example of the management table; 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic view illustrating a keyword area according to another illustrative embodiment; and 
         FIGS. 16A and 16B  are schematic views illustrating a storage destination specifying area according to another illustrative embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A. First Illustrative Embodiment 
     A-1. Configuration of Document Storing System  1000   
       FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a document storing system  1000 . The document storing system  1000  includes an image process server  200 , a multi-function apparatus  300 , a personal computer  400 , and storage servers  510 ,  520 , and  530 . The multi-function apparatus  300  and the personal computer  400  are used by the same user, and are connected to each other through a LAN  600  to be communicable with each other. The multi-function apparatus  300  and the personal computer  400  are connected to the Internet  700  through the LAN  600 . Each of the image process server  200  and the storage servers  510 ,  520 , and  530  is connected to the Internet  700 . 
     The multi-function apparatus  300  includes a CPU  310  for controlling the entire multi-function apparatus  300 , a volatile storage device  330  such as a RAM, a non-volatile storage device  340  such as a flash memory, a communication unit  320  for connection with an external device (such as a device which is connected to the multi-function apparatus  300  through a network, or an external storage device such as a USB memory), an operating unit  350  including various buttons, a display unit  360  such as a liquid crystal panel, a printing unit  370  which is an ink jet or laser printer engine, an image reading unit  380 , and a media card interface  390  which is an interface for inserting or pulling a portable storage device. 
     The image reading unit  380  is a scanner which uses a one-dimensional image sensor having a structure having plural photoelectric conversion elements such as CCDs or CMOSs lined up in row to optically read a document to generate document image data (also referred to as scan data or original image data). The image reading unit  380  can include, for example, an automatic document feeder to sequentially read plural sheets of document to automatically generate plural document image data. 
     The non-volatile storage device  340  stores a computer program  341 . The computer program  341  can be recorded on a CD-ROM or the like to be provided. The CPU  310  executes the program  341  to function as an apparatus control unit  312  for controlling the entire multi-function apparatus  300 . The apparatus control unit  312  includes a template image acquiring unit  314  (hereinafter, also referred to as a “template acquiring unit  314 ”), and a document image transmitting unit  316 . These functional units perform processes to be described below. 
     The image process server  200  includes a CPU  210 , a volatile storage device  230  such as a RAM, a non-volatile storage device  240  such as a hard disk, and a communication unit  220  including an interface for connection with the Internet  700 . The non-volatile storage device  240  stores a computer program  241 , an authentication database  244 , and an account database  246 . The computer program  241  can be recorded on a CD-ROM or the like to be provided. 
     The CPU  210  executes the computer program  241  to function as a keyword acquiring unit  40 , a template image data generating unit  50  (also referred to as a “template image generating unit  50 ” or a “template generating unit  50 ”), a template image data providing unit  60  (also referred to as a “template providing unit  60 ”), an account processing unit  70 , and a document image processing unit  100 . The document image processing unit  100  includes a document image acquiring unit  110 , an image information acquiring unit  120 , a page number acquiring unit  130 , a generation order specifying unit  140 , an unnecessity condition determining unit  150 , an area image generating unit  160 , a file generating unit  170 , an association setting unit  180 , and a file providing unit  190 . The image information acquiring unit  120  includes a keyword specifying unit  122  and a storage destination specifying unit  124 . These functional units perform processes to be described below. 
     The first storage server  510  is a general computer, and includes a CPU  512  which executes a server program (not shown) to provide a service to store or save user&#39;s data. Specifically, a user can store document image data representing a document, in the storage server  500  through the multi-function apparatus  300  and the image process server  200  as will be described below. Similarly to the first storage server  510 , the second storage server  520  (a CPU  522 ) and the third storage server  530  (a CPU  532 ) are general computers for providing services to store or save data. 
     The personal computer  400  includes a CPU  410  which executes a corresponding program to function as a driver (not shown) for controlling the multi-function apparatus  300 , or a client to access the image process server  200 . The user can use the personal computer  400  to access to document image data stored in the storage servers  510 ,  520 , and  530 . 
     A-2. Operation of Document Storing System  1000   
     The operation of the document storing system  1000  will be described with a focus on a process which the image process server  200  performs. 
     A-2-1: Template Image Data Generating Process 
       FIG. 2  is a flow chart illustrating a template image data generating process. The template image data generating process is a process of generating template image data for generating a memo sheet. If the image process server  200  receives a generation request to request generation of template image data, the template image data generating process is performed by the image process server  200 . According to an instruction of the user of the multi-function apparatus  300 , the template image acquiring unit  314  of the multi-function apparatus  300  transmits the generation request to the image process server  200 . For example, the user&#39;s instruction is a print instruction to cause the printing unit  370  of the multi-function apparatus  300  to print a template image of a memo sheet. 
     First, in Step S 105 , the multi-function apparatus  300  logs in to the image process server  200 . The image process server  200  manages various information for each account, as will be described below. The multi-function apparatus  300  can designate an account to log in to require the image process server  200  to perform a process based on information associated with the designated account (for example, to generate template image data). For example, the template image acquiring unit  314  of the multi-function apparatus  300  transmits an account name (an account identifier) and a password to the image process server  200 . The account database  246  of the image process server  200  stores an appropriate combination of an account name and a password. If the account name and the password received have been registered in the account database  246 , the account processing unit  70  of the image process server  200  accepts the login. Also, the template image acquiring unit  314  uses an account name and a password pre-associated with the multi-function apparatus  300 . Alternatively, the template image acquiring unit  314  may use an account name and a password determined on the basis of information input through the operating unit  350 . 
     Next, if receiving a generation request from the multi-function apparatus  300  in Step S 110 , in Step S 120 , the template image generating unit  50  acquires setting information included in the received generation request. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the setting information includes layout information designated by the user. The layout information includes an allocation number AN, a sheet size PS, and a ruled line type LT to be described below. The sheet size PS is the size of sheet predetermined to be used for printing a template image, and is any one of general sheet sizes for printing, such as A4, A3, B5, B4, and so on. Examples of the ruled line type LT include ruled lines of writing sheet (horizontal ruled lines), ruled lines of graph sheet or manuscript sheet (square ruled lines), and so on. All or part of the layout information may be predetermined and fixed values. The setting information may include other information in addition to the layout information. 
     Next, in Step S 122 , the template generating unit  50  selects (specifies) one storage destination of target image data from plural candidates according to an instruction of the user. The target image data is image data which is obtained using document image data (original image data) generated by the image reading unit  380  (which will be described in detail). As a method of acquiring an instruction of the user, arbitrary methods can be used. For example, the template generating unit  50  transmits information representing plural storage destination candidates (candidate information) to the multi-function apparatus  300 . The template image acquiring unit  314  of the multi-function apparatus  300  uses the received information to display the plural storage destination candidates on the display unit  360 .  FIG. 2  shows an example of an image which is displayed on the display unit  360 . The user can operate the operating unit  350  to select one candidate. The template acquiring unit  314  uses a signal from the operating unit  350  to specify the selected one storage destination, and transmits information representing the specified storage destination (storage destination selection information) to the image process server  200  (the template generating unit  50 ). Instead of acquiring the candidate information from the image process server  200 , the template acquiring unit  314  may use plural predetermined candidates. The storage destination selection information may be included in the setting information. 
     Next, in Step S 123 , the template generating unit  50  prepares storage destination image data representing an image (referred to as a “storage destination image”) associated with the specified storage destination. In the present illustrative embodiment, the storage destination image is a QR code (registered trademark). The storage destination image (QR code) is generated by coding a text representing the name of the storage destination such as a media card, the first storage server, or the like. Also, the template generating unit  50  acquires the storage destination image data associated with the specified storage destination, from storage destination image data prepared for each storage destination candidate. The storage destination image data of each candidate is stored in advance in the non-volatile storage device  240  (not shown). Alternatively, the template generating unit  50  may generate storage destination image data when performing Step S 123 . 
     Next, in Step S 128 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  determines keyword candidates.  FIG. 3  is a flow chart illustrating a keyword candidate determining process. First, in Step S 210 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  determines whether the storage destination is a specific storage server. The “specific storage server” which is determined in Step S 210  is a storage server having a function of storing a data file in association with a keyword. For example, the CPU  512  of the first storage server  510  has a function of storing data files in association with keywords, a function of using a keyword designated by the user to search for a data file, and a function of providing the search result to the user (these keywords are also called tags). Also, the CPU  522  of the second storage server  520  has a function of using keywords as folder names and storing data files in folders named by the keywords. In the present illustrative embodiment, examples of the specific storage server include the first storage server  510  and the second storage server  520 . 
     If the storage destination is different from the specific storage server (No in Step S 210 ), the keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires predetermined keyword candidates in Step S 260 , and proceeds to Step S 250 . The predetermined keyword candidates are incorporated in the computer program  241  in advance. 
     If the storage destination is the specific storage server (Yes in Step S 210 ), in Step S 220 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires authentication information with reference to the authentication database  244 . The authentication information includes a user ID and a password necessary to log in to each storage server. 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic view illustrating an example of the authentication database  244 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the authentication database  244  stores authentication information of each of the plural storage servers  510 ,  520 , and  530  for each account of the image process server  200 . Each authentication data is registered in advance by the user (for example, the user can register the authentication information in the image process server  200  through the multi-function apparatus  300 ). The keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires authentication information associated with the combination of the account and the storage destination received in Step S 105  of  FIG. 2 , from the authentication database  244 . 
     Next, in Step S 230  of  FIG. 3 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  uses the authentication information acquired in Step S 220 , to log in to the storage server which is the storage destination. Then, in Step S 240 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires keywords associated with user IDs, from the logged-in storage server. The acquired keywords are keywords having already registered in the storage server (for example, tags or folder names).  FIG. 3  shows examples of keywords associated with a first user, and examples of keywords associated with a second user. As shown in  FIG. 3 , plural users can use the same keyword, or different keywords. That is, even if some keywords are commonly used, it can be said that the set of the plural keywords associated with the first user is different from the set of the plural keywords associated with the second user. 
     Next, in Step S 250 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  selects keyword candidates from the acquired one or more keywords, according to an instruction of the user. As a method of acquiring an instruction of the user, arbitrary methods can be used. For example, the keyword acquiring unit  40  transmits information representing a keyword list to the multi-function apparatus  300 . The template acquiring unit  314  of the multi-function apparatus  300  uses the received information to display the keyword list on the display unit  360 . The user can operate the operating unit  350  to select one or more keywords (in the present illustrative embodiment, the maximum value of the total number of selectable keywords is “4”). The template acquiring unit  314  uses a signal from the operating unit  350  to specify the selected one or more keywords, and transmits information representing the selected one or more keywords (keyword selection information) to the image process server  200  (the keyword acquiring unit  40 ). In response to completion of selecting the keyword candidates, the process of  FIG. 3  terminates. 
     In Step S 130  of  FIG. 2 , the template image generating unit  50  uses the setting information including the layout information to determine the layout of a template image and the contents of unit images  10  to be disposed in the template image. In Step S 140 , the template image generating unit  50  generates template image data having the unit images  10  representing the determined contents and disposed in the determined layout. The unit images  10  correspond to partial images of the template image. 
       FIGS. 5A to 5C  are views illustrating examples of a template image TI which is represented by template image data.  FIGS. 6A to 6B  are views illustrating use modes of a memo sheet MS.  FIG. 5A  shows an example of the unit image  10 .  FIG. 5B  shows a first type of template image TIA having an allocation number AN of 2, and  FIG. 5C  shows a second type of template image TIB having an allocation number AN of 4.  FIG. 6A  shows a use mode of a first type of memo sheet MSA having the first type of template image TIA printed thereon, and  FIG. 6B  shows a use mode of a second type of memo sheet MSB having the second type of template image TIB printed thereon. Incidentally, in a case of distinguishing specific types of template images TI and memo sheets MS, alphabets (for example, ‘A’ or ‘B’) are further added to the ends of their reference symbols. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5B and 5C , a template image TI includes (AN-number of) unit images  10 , the number of which corresponds to the allocation number AN. In other words, in a case of printing the template image TI on a sheet to generate a memo sheet MS, the allocation number AN is the number of unit images  10  to be printed on (one side of) one sheet. The first type of template image TIA includes two unit images  10 A and  10 B, and the second type of template image TIB includes four unit images  10 C,  10 D,  10 E, and  10 F. Incidentally, in a case of distinguishing specific unit images  10 , alphabets (for example, ‘A’ or ‘B’) are further added to the ends of their reference symbols. This is similarly applied to areas SA of the memo sheets MS to be described below. 
     The memo sheets MS having the template images TI printed thereon are folded as shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B  and are used in the folded states. Specifically, the first type of memo sheet MSA ( FIG. 6A ) is folded along a first folding line which is a line connecting the middle points CP 1  and CP 2  of two long sides of rectangular sheet, one time, and is used in the folded state. The second type of memo sheet MSB ( FIG. 6B ) is folded along a second folding line which is a line connecting the middle points CP 3  and CP 4  of two long sides of the sheet folded one time (which were short sides before the folding), one more time, and is used in the folded state. By the folding lines when the memo sheets MS have been folded, one face of each memo sheet MS is divided into plural areas SA. Specifically, one face of the first type of memo sheet MSA is divided into two areas SAA and SAB ( FIG. 6A ), and the second type of memo sheet MSB is divided into four areas SAC, SAD, SAE, and SAF ( FIG. 6B ). 
     It is assumed that each area SA of the memo sheet MS is used as a memo area for one page. For example, in the first type of memo sheet MSA, the area SAA is used as a memo area of a first page, and the area SAB is used as a memo area of a second page. In the second type of memo sheet MSB, the four areas SAC, SAD, SAE, and SAF are used as memo areas of first to fourth pages, respectively. 
     The unit images  10  are printed to each of the areas SA of the memo sheet MS, one per area. That is, one unit image  10  is configured to be convenient when used as a memo area of one page. Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 5A , one unit image  10  includes a ruled line area MA which includes ruled lines RL of the type designated by the layout information, a header area HA which is adjacent to the upper side of the ruled line area MA, and a footer area FA which is adjacent to the lower side of the ruled line area MA. The ruled line area MA is also called a body area MA, and the header area HA and the footer area FA are also called peripheral areas positioned at the periphery of the ruled line area MA (the body area MA). The ruled line area MA is a substantially blank area which includes the ruled lines RL but does not include any substantial objects such as characters, figures, and drawings. Herein, the body area MA may be a plain area without ruled lines or the like. 
     The header area HA includes a top marker  11 , a page information area  12 , a title area  13 , and an unnecessity check box  14 . The top marker  11  may be disposed at the left corner of the header area HA (the upper left corner of the unit image  10 ), and have a shape including a part parallel to a horizontal direction, and a part parallel to a vertical direction (a shape obtained by rotating the character “L” 90 degrees clockwise). In the page information area  12 , the page number of the unit image  10  in the template image TI is written. The title area  13  is an area for allowing the user to write a title for each unit image  10 . The unnecessity check box  14  is an area for allowing the user to write a check mark in a case where it is unnecessary to store the unit image  10 . 
     The footer area FA includes a keyword area KA and a bottom marker  17 . The keyword area KA includes plural character images  15  representing plural keywords, respectively, and plural mark areas  16  corresponding to the plural character images  15  (keywords), respectively. The specific contents of the keywords (such as ‘MEMO’, ‘MINUTES’, ‘SEMINAR’, and ‘IDEA’) are determined in Step S 128  of  FIG. 2 . The mark areas  16  are areas which the user can fill to specify all or some of the plural keywords. Keywords corresponding to filled mark areas  16  are associated with the unit image  10 . The bottom marker  17  may have a shape obtained by rotating the top marker  11  180 degrees clockwise. As can be seen from the above, even if the ruled line area MA is substantially blank, in other words, even if the contents of the ruled line area MA have not been determined, keywords candidates (character images  15 ) to be associated can be printed onto the memo sheet MS having the template image TI printed thereon. 
     Each unit image  10  is disposed inside the template image TI such that it is convenient in a case of using a memo sheet MS having the template image TI printed thereon in a folded state as described with reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B . 
     Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 5B , two unit images  10 A and  10 B of the first type of template image TIA are disposed in areas corresponding to the two areas SAA and SAB shown in  FIG. 6A , respectively. The two unit images  10 A and  10 B are disposed in the same direction inside the first type of template image TIA such that an upper side (an arrow in  FIG. 6A ) which is assumed in a case where the first type of template image TIA is used in the folded state and the upper sides (arrows in  FIG. 5B ) of the two unit images  10 A and  10 B match with each other. 
     Also, as shown in  FIG. 5C , the four unit images  10 C to  10 F of the second type of template image TIB are disposed in areas corresponding to the four areas SAC to SAF shown in  FIG. 6B , respectively. Then, two unit images  10 C and  10 F and two unit images  10 D and  10 E are disposed in opposite directions to each other inside the second type of template image TIB such that an upper side (an arrow in  FIG. 6B ) which is assumed in a case where the second type of template image TIB is used in the folded state and the upper sides of the four unit images  10 C to  10 F (arrows in  FIG. 5C ) match with each other. In other words, the two unit images  10 C and  10 F and the two unit images  10 D and  10 E are in opposite directions to each other with a line in the second type of template image TIB corresponding to the above-mentioned first folding line and interposed between the two unit images  10 C and  10 F and the two unit images  10 D and  10 E. 
     In  FIGS. 5B and 5C , numerals (following “P-”) shown in the unit images  10  show page numbers assigned to the corresponding unit images  10  inside the template image TI. As can be seen from those numerals, the page numbers of the unit images  10  are assigned according to an order of use which is assumed in the above-mentioned folded state. As described above, each page number is shown in the page information area  12  ( FIG. 5A ). 
     Further, the template image TI includes one storage destination specifying area SSA as shown in  FIGS. 5B and 5C . In  FIGS. 5B and 5C , the storage destination specifying area SSA is disposed at the lower left corner the template image TI. The storage destination specifying area SSA includes a storage destination image  18  (a QR code in the present illustrative embodiment) prepared in Step S 123  of  FIG. 2 . The destination specifying area SSA is included in one unit image  10  of plural unit images  10  in the template image TI. The QR code may include various information, which are usable in a division document generating process to be described below. 
     As can be appreciated from the above explanation, the sizes of unit images  10  included in one template image TI are the same. Also, in a case where the sheet size is fixed, as the allocation number AN increases, the sizes of unit images  10  decrease, and as the allocation number AN decreases, the sizes of unit images  10  increase. Specifically, in the case where the sheet size is fixed, if the allocation number AN doubles, the area of each unit image  10  becomes nearly half. Also, in a case where the allocation number AN is fixed, that is, in a case where the number of unit images  10  to be included in one template image TI is fixed, as the sheet size increases, the size of each unit image  10  increases, and as the sheet size decreases, the size of each unit image  10  decreases. Specifically, if the sheet area doubles, the area of each unit image  10  also doubles. Also, as can be appreciated from the explanation on the folded states of  FIGS. 6A and 6B , in the present illustrative embodiment, the number of unit images  10  to be included in one template image TI (the allocation number AN) has the value of the Z power of 2 (here, Z is a natural number). In other words, the allocation number AN has any one of 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, . . . . 
     If the template image data is generated in Step S 140  of  FIG. 2 , the template providing unit  60  transmits (provides) the template image data to the multi-function apparatus  300  in response to a generation request from the multi-function apparatus  300 , in Step S 150 , and terminates the process. As the format of the transmitted template image data, various data formats can be used, print data subjected to a rasterizing process or a halftone process may be used, and vector data such as image data described in a page description language may also be used. 
     The apparatus control unit  312  of the multi-function apparatus  300  uses the received template image data to print the template image TI on a sheet to generate a memo sheet MS. The generated memo sheet MS can be used by the user. 
       FIG. 6C  is a schematic view illustrating an example of a used memo sheet MS. In  FIG. 6C , a portion corresponding to one unit image  10  is shown. As shown in  FIG. 6C , in the body area MA, arbitrary information (for example, characters TX) are written by the user. Also, in the keyword area KA, mark areas  16  associated with some keywords are filled. This memo sheet MS can be used as a document. 
     A-2-2: Division Document Generating Process 
       FIGS. 7 and 8  are flow charts illustrating a division document generating process. The document generating process is a process of generating a file (which is target image data and is a portable document format (PDF) file in the present illustrative embodiment) for computerizing and storing a memo sheet MS having write information written (handwritten) by the user. The document generating process is performed by the document image processing unit  100  of the image process server  200  if the image process server  200  receives document image data from the multi-function apparatus  300 . The document image transmitting unit  316  generates document image data by reading the written memo sheet MS with using the image reading unit  380  of the multi-function apparatus  300 . The document image transmitting unit  316  stores the generated document image data, for example, in one transmission file, which is transmitted to the image process server  200 . In a case where there are plural document image data to be transmitted, the plural document image data are disposed or arranged in an order of generation (an order of read) in a transmission file. That is, plural document image data are transmitted such that the generation order specifying unit  140  of the image process server  200  can specify the order of generation of the plural document image data. 
       FIGS. 9A-9C and 10A-10C  are explanatory views illustrating the division document generating processes. First, a document image SI which is represented by document image data (original image data) will be described. In  FIG. 9A  shows a first type of document image SIA which is represented by a first type of document image data which is generated by reading a first type of memo sheet MSA, and in  FIG. 10A  shows a second type of document image SIB which is represented by a second type of document image data which is generated by reading a second type of memo sheet MSB. Incidentally, in a case of distinguishing document images SI of specific types, alphabets (for example, ‘A’ or ‘B’) are further added to the ends of their reference symbols. A document image SI includes plural area images  20  corresponding to plural unit images  10  which is included in one template image TI printed on one memo sheet MS. Each area image  20  corresponds to a partial image of the memo sheet MS. One area image  20  represents one unit image  10  having various information written thereon. The number of area images  20  which are included in one document image SI is the same as the number of unit images  10  which are included in one template image TI, and is the value of the Z power of 2 (here, Z is a natural number), specifically, any one of 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, . . . . Also, the sizes of plural area images  20  which are included in one document image SI are almost the same as the sizes of corresponding unit images  10 . Specifically, the first type of document image SIA shown in  FIGS. 9A-9C  includes two area images  20 A and  20 B, and the second type of document image SIB shown in  FIGS. 10A-10C  includes four area images  20 C to  20 F. Incidentally, in a case of distinguishing specific area images  20 , alphabets (for example, ‘A’ or ‘B’) are further added to the ends of their reference symbols. The area images  20  may include corresponding unit images  10  (see  FIGS. 5A to 5C ) and include write information  19  (also referred to as write image) written on the memo sheet MS by the user. The write information  19  can be included in the ruled line area MA of each unit image  10  (see  FIG. 5A ), and can also be included in the peripheral areas of each unit image  10  (the header area HA and the footer area FA (see  FIG. 5A )). Specifically, the write information  19  written by the user includes characters written in the ruled line area MA, main information such as figures (contents to be stored), and various sub-information (such as checking of the unnecessity check box  14 , filling of the mark areas  16 , and writing in the title area  13 ) ( FIG. 9A ) written in the peripheral areas. Hereinafter, a case of generating data files (target image data) from three sheets of document obtained by printing the template image TIB of  FIG. 5C , that is, a case of processing three document image data each of which represents a document image SI including four area images  20  will be described as an example. In this case, twelve area images  20  are processed. 
     In  FIG. 7 , first, in Step S 302 , the multi-function apparatus  300  logs in to the image process server  200 . The process of Step S 302  is the same as the process of Step S 105  of  FIG. 2 . 
     Next, in Step S 304 , the document image acquiring unit  110  receives one or more document image data from the multi-function apparatus  300  (the document image transmitting unit  316 ). 
     Next, in Step S 308 , the storage destination specifying unit  124  of the image information acquiring unit  120  ( FIG. 1 ) analyzes the document image data to specify a storage destination.  FIG. 8  is a flow chart illustrating a storage destination specifying process. First, in Step S 600 , the storage destination specifying unit  124  analyzes the document image data to detect the storage destination image  18  (QR code) in the storage destination specifying area SSA, and analyzes the detected storage destination image  18  to specify the storage destination. Next, in Step S 610 , the storage destination specifying unit  124  determines whether the specified storage destination is a storage server. If the storage destination is different from the storage server, the process of  FIG. 8  terminates. 
     If the storage destination is the storage server (Yes in Step S 610 ), in Step S 620 , the storage destination specifying unit  124  acquires authentication information associated with the combination of the account received in Step S 302  of  FIG. 7  and the storage server which is the storage destination, with reference to the authentication database  244  ( FIG. 4 ). 
     Next, in Step S 630 , the storage destination specifying unit  124  specifies the storage destination (hereinafter, referred to as a “personal storage destination”) assigned to the user ID on the storage server, according to the storage server which is the storage destination, and the user ID included in the authentication information. The personal storage destination is, for example, a storage area (a storage area assigned to the user ID) accessible by logging in to the storage server. This personal storage destination is specified, for example, according to an URL determined according to the user ID. In response to completion of specifying the personal storage destination, the process of  FIG. 8  terminates. 
     In Step S 310  of  FIG. 7 , the document image processing unit  100  selects one document image data to be processed. If the transmission file from the multi-function apparatus  300  includes plural document image data, the document image data are selected one by one in the order of generation of the document image data. For example, if the document image data are arranged in the order of generation in the transmission file, the document image data are selected one by one in the order of arrangement in the transmission file. 
     In Step S 320 , the generation order specifying unit  140  determines a number for the selected document image data (a document image number SN). Here, document image numbers SN are numbers to specify the document image data, and are attached in the order of generation. In the present illustrative embodiment, since the document image data are selected in the order of generation in Step S 320 , the document image numbers SN are attached in the order of selection in Step S 320 . In other words, the document image numbers SN make it possible to specify the order of generation of the document image data. 
     In Step S 330 , the image information acquiring unit  120  detects markers included in the document image SI, and specifies the layout of the document image SI. Specifically, the image information acquiring unit  120  analyzes the document image data to detect the top marker  11  and bottom marker  17  (see  FIGS. 5A to 5C ) of each unit image  10  included in the document image SI. As the analyzing method to detect the markers, known pattern matching or the like can be used. The image information acquiring unit  120  specifies the number and positions of area images  20  (which are the same as the number and positions of unit images  10 ) included in the document image SI, on the basis of positions where the markers  11  and  17  are detected. 
     In Step S 340 , the page number acquiring unit  130  acquires a page number (a document image page number SPN) corresponding to each area image  20  which is inside the document image SI and is represented by a document image data to be processed. Specifically, the page number acquiring unit  130  analyzes the document image data to acquire the page number included in the page information area  12  (see  FIG. 5A ) corresponding to each area image  20 . The page number acquiring unit  130  specifies the document image page numbers SPN of the individual area images  20  according to the acquired page numbers. Also, the page number of each area image  20  may be included in the information embedded in the QR code  18  (see  FIG. 5A ) such that correspondence to the corresponding area image  20  can be specified. In this case, the page number acquiring unit  130  may read the QR code  18  to acquire a page number corresponding to each area image  20 . 
     In Step S 350 , the unnecessity condition determining unit  150  determines whether each area image  20  is a subject of skip. Specifically, the image information acquiring unit  120  analyzes the document image data to detect whether there is write information (specifically, a check mark) written in a unnecessity check box  14  (see  FIG. 5A ) included in each area image  20 . The unnecessity condition determining unit  150  determines that an area image  20  corresponding to a unnecessity check box  14  having write information written therein is a subject of skip, and determines that an area image  20  corresponding to a unnecessity check box  14  having no write information written therein is not a subject of skip. An area image  20  determined as a subject of skip is excluded from targets to be stored in a PDF file to be generated later, as will be described below. 
     In Step S 360 , the keyword specifying unit  122  of the image information acquiring unit  120  acquires a keyword associated with each area image  20  (an associated keyword KW). Specifically, the keyword specifying unit  122  analyzes the document image data to detect whether there is write information (specifically, filling) written in the plural mark areas  16  (see  FIG. 5A ) included in each area image  20 . The keyword specifying unit  122  acquires keywords (see the character images  15  in  FIG. 5A ) corresponding to the mark areas  16  having write information written therein, as the associated keywords KW associated with corresponding area images  20 . The contents of the keywords corresponding to the mark areas  16  are specified on the basis of predetermined correspondence between the positions of the mark areas  16  and the contents of the keywords. For example, that correspondence is determined for each combination of a storage destination and an account of the image process server  200 . In a case where the correspondence between the positions of the mark areas  16  and the keywords is not recognized by the image process server  200 , the keyword specifying unit  122  may perform a known character recognition process (an OCR process) on the keyword area KA (including the character images  15 ) of the target image data to acquire the contents of the keywords. 
     In Step S 370 , the document image processing unit  100  determines whether all document image data received from the multi-function apparatus  300  have been selected. In a case where any unselected document image data is remaining (NO in Step S 370 ), the document image processing unit  100  returns to Step S 310  to select a new document image data, and repeats the processes of Steps S 320  to S 360 . Meanwhile, in a case where all document image data have been selected (YES in Step S 370 ), the document image processing unit  100  proceeds to Step S 380 . 
     Also, various information acquired or specified until Step S 370  are recorded in the management table MT temporarily generated in the volatile storage device  230 .  FIG. 11  is a view illustrating an example of the management table MT. In the management table MT, for each of the twelve area images  20  processed, the document image number SN, the document image page number SPN, skip information SK, a PDF file number PN, a PDF page number PPN, and the associated keyword KW are recorded. As described above, the document image number SN is specified in Step S 320 , and the document image page number SPN is acquired in Step S 340 . The skip information SK is information representing the result of the determination on whether each area image  20  is a subject of skip performed in Step S 350 . In the management table MT of  FIG. 11 , with respect to an area image  20  which is a subject of skip, as the skip information SK, information representing that the corresponding area image is a subject of skip is recorded, and with respect to an area image  20  which is not a subject of skip, any information is not recorded. The associated keyword KW is acquired in Step S 360 . The PDF file number PN and the PDF page number PPN have not been recorded until the process of Step S 370  terminates. 
     In Step S 380  of  FIG. 7 , the file generating unit  170  determines a specification of a PDF file to be generated. Specifically, the file generating unit  170  determines a PDF file number PN and a PDF page number PPN for each area image  20  specified by the combination of a document image number SN and a document image page number SPN, on the basis of the information having been recorded in the management table MT ( FIG. 11 ). Hereinafter, a description (SN-SPN) may be used to represent an area image  20  specified by the combination of a document image number SN and a document image page number SPN. For example, an area image  20  specified by the combination of a document image number SN of 1 and a document image page number SPN of 2 may be represented by an area image  20  of (1-2). 
     Specifically, PDF file numbers PN and the PDF page numbers PPN are determined using the order of arrangement of the 12 area images  20  in the management table MT, and the associated keywords KW of the 12 area images  20 . As can be seen from  FIG. 11 , each of the twelve area images  20  is earlier in the order of arrangement as the corresponding area image  20  is earlier in the order of generation represented by the document image numbers SN (the document image number is smaller), and with respect to four area images  20  of the same document image SI, each area image  20  is earlier in the order of arrangement as the document image page number SPN of the corresponding area image  20  is smaller. First, an area image  20  determined as a subject of skip is excluded from the process, and with respect to the corresponding area image  20 , any PDF file number PN and any PDF page number PPN are not attached. For two or more area images  20  (an area image group) which are consecutive in the order of arrangement of them, and have the same associated keyword KW, the same PDF file number PN is attached. Also, for two or more area images  20  having different associated keywords KW, different PDF file numbers PN are attached. In a case where there are two area images  20  having the same associated keyword KW, and an area image  20  having a different associated keyword KW is included in area images  20  positioned between the two area images  20  in the order of arrangement, different PDF file numbers PN are attached to the two area images  20 . In the example shown in  FIG. 11 , five area images  20  of (1-1) to (2-1) are consecutive in the order of arrangement, and their associated keywords KW are the same as ‘MINUTES’. Therefore, the PDF file numbers PN of the five area images  20  are determined to 1. Two area images  20  of (2-2) and (2-3) are consecutive in the order of arrangement, and their associated keywords KW are the same as ‘MEMO’. Therefore, the PDF file numbers PN of the two area images  20  are determined to 2. Four area images  20  from (2-4) to (3-3) are consecutive in the order of arrangement, and their associated keywords KW are the same as ‘IDEA’. Therefore, the PDF file numbers PN of the four area images  20  are determined to 3. 
     Also, the file generating unit  170  attaches PDF page numbers PPN beginning with 1 to one or more area images  20  having the same PDF file number PN, in the order of arrangement. Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 11 , to five area images  20  having PDF file numbers PN of 1, PDF page numbers PPN of 1 to 5 are attached in the order of arrangement. To two area images  20  having PDF file numbers PN of 2, PDF page numbers PPN of 1 and 2 are attached in the order of arrangement. To four area images  20  having PDF file numbers PN of 3, PDF page numbers PPN of 1 to 4 are attached in the order of arrangement. 
     In Step S 390  of  FIG. 7 , the area image generating unit  160  performs an area image data generating process on the three document image data to generate area image data representing the twelve area images  20  included in the three document images SI. However, an area image data representing an area image  20  of (3-4) determined as a subject of skip may not be generated. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating the area image data generating process. In Step S 391 , the area image generating unit  160  selects one document image data to be processed. In Step S 392 , the area image generating unit  160  performs a tilt correcting process on the selected document image data to correct the tilt of a document image SI represented by the document image data. The tilt correcting process includes a process of computing a tilt angle based on the coordinates of the markers  11  and  17  included in the document image SI, and a rotating process of rotating the document image SI by the computed tilt angle. A specific computing method may be performed using a known technique. 
     In Step S 393 , the area image generating unit  160  uses the document image data subjected to the tilt correcting process to specify a division position in the document image SI. For example, the division position may be specified on the basis of the coordinates of the markers  11  and  17  included in the document image SI. In a case where the document image SI is a first type of document image SIA including two area images  20 A and  20 B as shown in  FIG. 9B , a division position is a straight line connecting two middle points dividing two long sides of the first type of document image SIA almost equally, respectively. Also, in a case where the document image SI is a second type of document image SIB including four area images  20 C to  20 F as shown in  FIG. 10B , division positions are a straight line connecting two middle points dividing two long sides of the second type of document image SIB almost equally, respectively, and a straight line connecting two middle points dividing two short sides of the second type of document image SIB almost equally, respectively. 
     In Step S 394 , the area image generating unit  160  divides the document image SI at the specified division position, and generates area image data representing individual area images  20  included in the document image SI. In the case where the document image SI is a first type of document image SIA including two area images  20  as shown in  FIG. 9B , two area image data representing the two area images  20 A and  20 B, respectively, are generated. Also, in the case where the document image SI is a second type of document image SIB including four area images  20 C to  20 F as shown in  FIG. 10B , four area image data representing the four area images  20 C to  20 F, respectively, are generated. 
     In Step S 395 , the area image generating unit  160  specifies an area image  20  to be rotated, according to the layout of the document image SI. Specifically, in a case where the document image SI is the first type of document image SIA shown in  FIGS. 9A-9C , all area images, that is, the two area images  20 A and  20 B are specified as area images to be rotated. In a case where the document image SI is the second type of document image SIB shown in  FIGS. 10A-10C , some area images, that is, two area images  20 D and  20 E having document image page numbers SPN of 2 and 3 are specified as area images to be rotated. 
     In Step S 396 , the area image generating unit  160  performs the rotating process of rotating each specified area image  20  by an amount of rotation according to the layout, on the area image data representing the corresponding specified area image  20 . Specifically, in the case where the document image SI is the first type of document image SIA shown in  FIGS. 9A-9C , the two area images  20 A and  20 B are rotated 90 degrees clockwise. Also, if the reading direction of the image reading unit  380  during generating of document image data is reversed, the state of a first type of document image SIA may be in an opposite direction to the state shown in  FIG. 9B . In this case, the area image generating unit  160  needs only to rotate the two area images  20 A and  20 B 90 degrees counterclockwise. As a result, the two area image data are converted to represent the two area images  20 A and  20 B in a state where the area images are oriented in appropriate directions. A state where an image is oriented in an appropriate direction may be a state where the image is oriented in a direction in which an observer feels that the upper sides of the image is oriented upward as seeing the image. For example, in a case of a character image, a state where the image is oriented in an appropriate direction is a state where the upper sides of characters in the character image are oriented upward. For example, in a case of a unit image  10  included in an area image  20 , a state where a direction shown by a broken line arrow in  FIG. 5A  is oriented upward is a state where the unit image is oriented in an appropriate direction. 
     Similarly, in a case where the document image SI is the second type of document image SIB shown in  FIGS. 10A-10C , each of the two area images  20 D and  20 E is rotated 180 degrees. As a result, the four area images  20 C to  20 F are oriented in the same direction, and the four area image data are converted such that the four area images  20 C to  20 F are oriented in appropriate directions. Also, if the reading direction of the image reading unit  380  during generating of document image data is reversed, a second type of document image SIB may be in an opposite direction to the state shown in  FIG. 10B . In other words, in the document image SIB, the area images  20 C and  20 F corresponding to page numbers of 1 and 4 may be positioned on the upper side in  FIGS. 10A-10C , and the area images  20 D and  20 E corresponding to page numbers of 2 and 3 may be positioned on the lower side in  FIGS. 10A-10C . In this case, the area image generating unit  160  needs only to rotate each of the two area images  20 C and  20 F 180 degrees. 
     In Step S 397 , the area image generating unit  160  determines whether all document image data have been selected. In a case where any unselected document image data is remaining (NO in Step S 397 ), the area image generating unit  160  returns to Step S 391  to select a new document image data, and repeats the processes of Steps S 392  to S 396 . Meanwhile, in a case where all document image data have been selected (YES in Step S 397 ), the area image generating unit  160  terminates the area image data generating process. 
     If the area image data generating process terminates, in Step S 400  of  FIG. 7 , the file generating unit  170  uses the plural generated area image data to generate a file in a portable document format (PDF) (a PDF file). The PDF file is a file having the concept of pages, and can store one or more image data in association with each of an arbitrary number of pages. In the PDF file, with respect to an image represented by each image data associated with a page, it is possible to designate the layout position on the page, a layout angle, and so on. The user can use a browsing program (viewer) to browse images represented by the image data stored in the PDF file, like plural pages of sheets, on a display. 
       FIGS. 13A and 13B  are views illustrating generation of a PDF file. Specifically, the file generating unit  170  generates three PDF files PFA, PFB, and PFC according to the PDF file number PN and the PDF page number PPN recorded for each area image  20  in the management table MT shown in  FIG. 11 . In the PDF file PFA, five area image data having PDF file numbers PN of 1 are stored. Five area images  20  represented by the five area image data stored in the PDF file PFA are disposed in pages of corresponding PDF page numbers PPN. Similarly, in the PDF file PFB, two area image data having PDF file numbers PN of 2 are stored, and the two area image data are disposed in pages of corresponding PDF page numbers PPN. In the PDF file PFC, four area image data having PDF file numbers PN of 3 are stored, and the four area image data are disposed in pages of corresponding PDF page numbers PPN. Here, an area image data corresponding to one area image  20  determined as a subject of skip is not stored in the generated PDF files. 
     As a result, among the twelve area images  20  included in an image group SIG ( FIG. 13A ) composed of the three document images SI, eleven area images  20  except for one area image  20  determined as a subject of skip are classified into and stored in the three PDF files PFA, PFB, and PFC ( FIG. 13B ). 
     Next, in Step S 402  of  FIG. 7 , the association setting unit  180  associates the keywords specified in Step S 360  with the generated PDF files. In the present illustrative embodiment, association of the keywords with the PDF files is performed for each PDF file. With one target PDF file, all keywords detected from all area images  20  included in the corresponding target PDF file are associated. For example, in the example of  FIG. 11 , with a PDF file having a file number of 1, a keyword ‘MINUTES’ is associated, and with a PDF file having a file number of 2, a keyword ‘MEMO’ is associated, and with a PDF file having a file number of 3, a keyword ‘IDEA’ is associated. Data representing the association is stored in the volatile storage device  230  and is referred to in a process to be described below. Also, the association setting unit  180  may embed data representing the keywords, as metadata, in the PDF files. 
     Next, in Step S 410 , the file providing unit  190  determines whether the storage destination is a storage server. 
     If the storage destination is the storage server (Yes in Step S 410 ), in Step S 420 , the file providing unit  190  uses the authentication information acquired in Step S 308  (Step S 620  in  FIG. 8 ), to log in to the storage server which is the storage destination. 
     Next, in Step S 430 , the file providing unit  190  transmits (provides) the PDF files, and information representing the keywords associated with the PDF files (which will hereinafter be referred to as “keyword information”, and an example of which is text data), to the storage server which is the storage destination. Specifically, the PDF files and the keyword information are provided to the personal storage destination which becomes accessible after the login. The storage server stores the received PDF files in a storage area assigned to the user ID, and associates the received keywords with the stored PDF files. For example, in a case where the storage destination is the first storage server  510 , the CPU  520  of the first storage server  510  registers the keywords as tags of the stored PDF files. In a case where the storage destination is the second storage server  520 , the CPU  522  of the second storage server  520  stores the PDF files in folders specified by the keywords. In a case where the storage destination is a storage server (the third storage server  530 ) which does not support the keywords, the keywords is not provided (even in this case, the keywords can be included as metadata in the PDF files). The user can use a client device such as the personal computer  400  or a portable terminal (not shown) to access to the PDF files (for example, the PDF files PFA, PFB, and PFC) stored in the storage server  500 . In response to completion of providing the PDF files and the keyword information, the process of  FIG. 7  terminates. 
     In a case where the storage destination is different from the storage server (No in Step S 410 ), in Step S 440 , the file providing unit  190  transmits (provides) the PDF files to the storage destination. For example, in a case where the storage destination is a media card, the file providing unit  190  transmits (provides) the PDF files to the multi-function apparatus  300  having the media card interface  390 . The multi-function apparatus  300  stores the received PDF files in a media card (for example, a flash memory) inserted into the media card interface  390 . In response to completion of providing the PDF files, the process of  FIG. 7  terminates. 
     As described above, the template generating unit  50  of the image process server  200  ( FIG. 1 ) generates template image data representing a template image ( FIG. 5B or 5C ) including a body area MA and a keyword area KA (Steps S 105  to S 140  in  FIG. 2 ), and the template providing unit  60  provides the generated template image data to the multi-function apparatus  300  (the printing unit  370 ) (Step S 150  in  FIG. 2 ). Therefore, the user can write on a sheet having the template image printed thereon, thereby easily selecting a keyword to be associated with target image data (a PDF file). Also, the keyword specifying unit  122  analyzes original image data generated by optically reading a document (for example,  FIG. 6C ) including a printed template image and information written on the template image (including information for specifying keywords) to specify a keyword to be associated with target image data (Step S 360  in  FIG. 7 ). Therefore, the association setting unit  180  can appropriately associate the keyword specified by writing of the user, with the target image data (Step S 402  in  FIG. 7 ). 
     Also, as shown in  FIG. 5A , the keyword area KA includes the character images  15  representing the plural keywords (candidates). Therefore, the user can observe the keyword area KA and easily confirm the plural keywords. 
     Also, in Step S 240  of  FIG. 3 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires plural keywords from the storage server through a network (the LAN  600  and the Internet  700 ). Therefore, it is easy to prepare the plural keywords (candidates). Also, the keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires a set of plural keywords associated with each user. Therefore, for each user, it is possible to use plural keywords suitable for the user. 
     Also, as described with reference to  FIGS. 5B and 5C , one template image (a template image associated with one sheet of document) includes AN-number of unit images  10  (corresponding to partial images of the template image) (wherein AN is 2 or more). Further, each of the AN-number of unit images  10  includes a keyword area KA and a body area MA. Therefore, the user can select an appropriate keyword with respect to each of the AN-number of unit images  10 . 
     Also, the template generating unit  50  of the image process server  200  generates template image data representing a template image ( FIG. 5B or 5C ) including a body area MA and a storage destination specifying area SSA (Steps S 105  to S 140  in  FIG. 2 ), and the template providing unit  60  provides the generated template image data to the multi-function apparatus  300  (the printing unit  370 ) (Step S 150  in  FIG. 2 ). Therefore, in a case where there is information written in the body areas MA of the printed template image, the storage destination of the target image data (PDF files) representing target images including the written information is specified by the storage destination specifying area SSA. As a result, it becomes easy to store the target image data in an intended storage destination. Also, the storage destination specifying unit  124  of the image process server  200  analyzes original image data generated by optically reading a document (for example,  FIG. 6C ) including a printed template image (including a storage destination specifying area SSA) to specify the storage destination (Step S 308  in  FIG. 7 ). Therefore, the file providing unit  190  can appropriately provide the target image data to an intended storage destination (Steps S 430  and S 440  in  FIG. 7 ). 
     Also, in a case where the specified storage destination is a server connected to the network (Yes in Step S 410  of  FIG. 7 ), the file providing unit  190  provides the target image data to the server which is the storage destination (Step S 430  in  FIG. 7 ). Therefore, it is possible to easily store the target image data in the server. Also, the storage destination specifying unit  124  specifies the personal storage destination on the server assigned to the user ID (Step S 630  in  FIG. 8 ). Then, the file providing unit  190  provides the target image data to the specified personal storage destination (Step S 430  in  FIG. 7 ). Therefore, it is possible to easily store target image data in a personal storage destination for each user. 
     Also, according to an instruction of the user, the template generating unit  50  selects one storage destination from plural storage destination candidates (Step S 122  in  FIG. 2 ), and generates data representing a template image ( FIG. 5B or 5C ) including a storage destination specifying area SSA including a storage destination image  18  representing the selected one storage destination (Steps S 123  and S 140  in  FIG. 2 ). Therefore, a storage destination suitable for the intention of the user can be easily specified. 
     Also, as described with reference to  FIGS. 5B and 5C , one template image (a template image associated with one sheet of document) includes AN-number of unit images  10  (wherein, AN is 2 or more). Then, each of the AN-number of unit images  10  includes a body area MA, and one unit image  10  of the AN-number of unit images  10  includes a storage destination specifying area SSA. Therefore, a storage destination specified by the storage destination specifying area SSA can be used as the storage destination of the entire template image. 
     B. Second Illustrative Embodiment 
       FIG. 14  is a schematic view illustrating an example of a management table generated in a second illustrative embodiment. Differently from the first illustrative embodiment shown in  FIG. 11 , in the second illustrative embodiment, the file generating unit  170  generates one PDF file from one sheet of document (one document image data). In other words, the PDF file number PN is the same as the document image number SN. In a case where one document image includes plural area images  20 , different keywords can be specified from the plural area images  20  included in one PDF file. For example, in the example of  FIG. 14 , ‘MINUTES’, ‘MEMO’, and ‘IDEA’ are specified from four area images  20  having PDF file numbers PN of 1. The association setting unit  180  associates the specified all keywords with a PDF file having a PDF file number of 1 (FKW in  FIG. 14 ). Also, in one area image  20 , plural keywords may be selected. For example, in the example of  FIG. 14 , two keywords (‘SEMINAR’ and ‘MINUTES’) are specified from an area image  20  having a PDF file number of 2 and a PDF page number PPN of 1. Also, one keyword ‘MEMO’ is specified from three area images  20  having PDF file numbers PN of 2 and PDF page numbers PPN of 2, 3, or 4. Even in this case, the association setting unit  180  associates the specified all keywords with a PDF file having a PDF file number of 2 (FKW in  FIG. 14 ). 
     Also, a condition for changing PDF file numbers PN is not limited to changing of document image numbers SN, but may be any other conditions. For example, the file generating unit  170  may store all area images  20  to be processed in one document generating process ( FIG. 7 ) in one PDF file. 
     In any cases, it is preferable that the association setting unit  180  should associate all keywords specified from all area images  20  included in one PDF file, with the corresponding PDF file, so that the degree of freedom of association between PDF files and keywords becomes high. For example, plural keywords can be associated with one PDF file. Therefore, in a case of using keywords to search for a data file (for example, a case where the storage destination is the first storage server  510 ), even if the user cannot remember associated keywords, the user can use some guessable keywords to search to easily search for a desired data file. Also, in a case where keywords are embedded as metadata in PDF files, the user can search the metadata to easily detect a desired PDF file. 
     Also, in a case where keywords are used as folder names, one keyword selected from one or more keywords associated with one PDF file can be used as a folder name. As one keyword to be selected, for example, a keyword firstly specified from the area image  20  of the first page (PPN=1) can be used. 
     C. Third Illustrative Embodiment 
       FIG. 15  is a schematic view illustrating another illustrative embodiment of the keyword area. In  FIG. 15 , a footer area FA of a unit image  10 A is shown. In a keyword area KKA provided in the footer area FA, plural mark areas  16 A representing plural keywords, respectively, are provided. In the individual mark areas  16 A, keyword IDs (numerals of 1 to 4 here) are written. That is, in the example of  FIG. 15 , a keyword area KA (that is, an unit image  10 ) can be simplified. Also, similarly to the above-mentioned illustrative embodiments, correspondence between IDs (the positions of the mark areas  16 A) and keywords are determined in advance. For example, that correspondence is determined for each combination of a storage destination and an account of the image process server  200 . Also, according to an instruction of the user, the template acquiring unit  314  of the multi-function apparatus  300  may display that correspondence on the display unit  360 . 
     D. Fourth Illustrative Embodiment 
       FIGS. 16A and 16B  are schematic views illustrating other illustrative embodiments of the storage destination specifying area. A template image TIC of  FIG. 16A  includes an icon image  18 C representing one storage destination, in a storage destination specifying area SSC. The user can observe the icon image  18 C and easily recognize the one storage destination. The storage destination specifying unit  124  can analyze the icon image  18 C to specify the one storage destination. A template image TID of  FIG. 16B  includes a character image  18 D representing one storage destination, in a storage destination specifying area SSD. Also, the template generating unit  50  shifts the position of the keyword area KA in a direction away from the edge of the template image TID (to the upper side of  FIG. 16B ) such that the keyword area KA does not overlap the storage destination specifying area SSD in an unit image  10 C. The user can observe the character image  18 D and easily recognize the one storage destination. The storage destination specifying unit  124  can analyze the character image  18 D to specify the one storage destination. In general, it is preferable that a storage destination specifying area should include a single storage destination image which is an image from which the user can recognize one storage destination. In this case, the user can recognize the one storage destination on the basis of the single storage destination image of the storage destination specifying area. Here, it is preferable that the single storage destination image should be an image (such as an icon or a text) from which the user can recognize one storage destination without referring to other information. In this case, the user can easily recognize the one storage destination. 
     Modifications 
     (1) In  FIG. 3 , Step S 250  may be omitted. In other words, the keyword acquiring unit  40  may use all of plural acquired keywords as candidates. Here, in a case where the total number of acquired keywords exceeds a predetermined maximum number (for example, 4) which can be provided for a unit image  10 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  may select the predetermined maximum number of keywords according to a predetermined priority order (for example, in order of frequency of use). Also, in a case where the total number of acquired keywords is smaller than the predetermined maximum number, the keyword acquiring unit  40  may add a predetermined keyword to acquire the predetermined maximum number of keywords as candidates. Also, in Step S 128  of  FIG. 2 , the keyword acquiring unit  40  may acquire keywords input by the user, as keyword candidates. As a method of acquiring keywords input by the user, an arbitrary method can be used. For example, the user operates the operating unit  350  of the multi-function apparatus  300  to input keywords to the multi-function apparatus  300 . The keyword acquiring unit  40  acquires the input keywords from the multi-function apparatus  300 . Also, the non-volatile storage device  240  of the image process server  200  may store keyword candidates for each account in advance. The keyword acquiring unit  40  may acquire plural keywords associated with an account, from the non-volatile storage device  240 . 
     (2) The number of unit images  10  (allocation number AN) in a template image TI may be “1”. 
     (3) As the format of target image data, various formats can be used. For example, not only the PDF but also arbitrary formats (for example, a XML Paper Specification (XPS) format) capable of outputting (printing or displaying) plural pages page-by-page can be used. Also, formats (for example, a JPEG format) which have not been intended to be output page-by-page may be used. In this case, the file generating unit  170  may use each of plural area image data representing plural area images  20 , to generate plural data files (for example, data files in the JPEG format) independent from each other. In any cases, the entire group of the area image generating unit  160  and the file generating unit  170  corresponds to a target image data providing unit. Also, document image data (original image data) may be provided as target image data, without any changes. In this case, the page number acquiring unit  130 , the generation order specifying unit  140 , the unnecessity condition determining unit  150 , and the area image generating unit  160  may be omitted. In general, as target image data, image data representing at least a portion of an image represented by original image data can be used. 
     (4) In a case where a template image TI includes plural unit images  10 , each of the unit images  10  may include a storage destination specifying area. In this case, storage destinations depend on the unit images  10 . 
     (5) In a case where a template image TI includes plural unit images  10 , only in the keyword areas KA of some unit images  10  (area images  20 ), information for specifying keywords may be written. In this case, if area images are arranged in an order determined according to the combinations of their document image numbers SN and their document image page numbers SPN, with an area image  20  whose keyword has not been specified, the keyword of the previous area image  20  may be associated. In a case where plural area images  20  having no keywords are consecutive, with the plural area images  20 , keywords of the previous area image  20  of the plural area images  20  are associated. In this case, the user does not need write the same keyword in the plural area images  20 . 
     (6) In the above-mentioned various processes, the analysis of document image data (original image data) can be replaced with analysis of area image data. In this case, the entire group of a processing unit for performing analysis, and the area image generating unit  160  for generating area image data corresponds to a processing unit for performing analysis. For example, in a case where the keyword specifying unit  122  analyzes area image data to specify keywords, the entire group of the keyword specifying unit  122  and the area image generating unit  160  corresponds to a keyword specifying unit for analyzing document image data (original image data), thereby specifying keywords. 
     (7) The image reading unit for generating document image data needs only to be a device for optically reading a document. Therefore, the image reading unit is not limited to the scanner of the illustrative embodiments, but may be a digital camera. 
     (8) Some or all of functions implemented by the image process server  200  in the above-mentioned illustrative embodiments may be implemented by the multi-function apparatus  300 . For example, the function of the document image processing unit  100  may be implemented by the multi-function apparatus  300 . In this case, the multi-function apparatus  300  uses the function of the document image processing unit  100  which the multi-function apparatus  300  has, to perform the above-mentioned process on the document image data which the image reading unit  380  has generated in response to the instruction of the user, thereby generating PDF files. Also, some or all of functions implemented by the image process server  200  may be implemented by the personal computer  400 . Further, the PDF file storage destination is not limited to the storage server  500 , but may be a storage device included in the case of the personal computer  400  or the multi-function apparatus  300 , a portable memory such as a USB memory connected to the personal computer  400  or the multi-function apparatus  300 , or the image process server  200 . 
     (9) Plural apparatuses (for example, computers) capable of communication with one another through the network may share the functions of the image process server  200  (for example, the functions of the document image processing unit  100 ), and provide the functions of the image process server  200  as a whole (a system including those apparatuses corresponds to an image processing apparatus). 
     (10) A part of a configuration implemented by hardware in the above-mentioned illustrative embodiments may be replaced with software, or a part or all of a configuration implemented by software in the above-mentioned illustrative embodiments may be replaced with hardware. For example, the functions of the document image processing unit  100  of  FIG. 1  may be implemented by a dedicated hardware circuit having logic circuits. 
     Also, in a case where some or all of the functions of the present invention are implemented by a computer program, this program can be stored in a recording medium (for example, a recording medium which is not temporary) to be provided. The program may be recorded on a recording medium (a computer-readable recording medium) to be provided for use, or may be recorded on a recording medium (a computer-readable recording medium) to be provided and be copied in another recording medium (a computer-readable recording medium) for use. Examples of the computer-readable recording media include not only portable recording media such as memory cards and CD-ROMs, but also internal storage devices such as various ROMs in computers, and external storage devices such as hard disk drives connected to computers. 
     While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to certain illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.