Abstract:
An apparatus, method, program, and product, each capable of providing geographical data in response to a request from a communication terminal. The geographical data providing apparatus may provide geographical data, according to spatial data and command data received from the communication terminal. The geographical data providing apparatus may provide geographical data, according to keyword data and command data received from the communication terminal.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This patent specification is based on and claims priority to Japanese patent application No. 2004-143701, filed on May 13, 2004, in the Japanese Patent Office, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
   DISCUSSION OF THE BACKGROUND 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The following disclosure generally relates to providing geographical data in response to a request received from a communication terminal. 
   2. Background of the Invention 
   Recently, some mobile phones are provided with a GPS (Global Position System) receiver, capable of obtaining GPS data indicating the location of a selected place. However, to display or print a map showing the location, the mobile phone needs to connect to a map providing server as an authorized user, and to input an instruction for displaying or printing. 
   On the other hand, mobile phones without the GPS receiver are not able to obtain GPS data, and thus are not capable of displaying or printing a map. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   Exemplary embodiments of the present invention include an apparatus, system, method, program, and product, each capable of providing geographical data in response to a request received from a communication terminal. 
   In one exemplary embodiment, the geographical data providing apparatus receives email data including spatial data and command data from a communication terminal. The geographical data providing apparatus analyzes the command data, and searches a geographical database for at least one geographical data item corresponding to the spatial data according to the command data. 
   Further, the geographical data providing apparatus may output the searched geographical data according to the command data. 
   In another exemplary embodiment, the geographical data providing apparatus receives email data including keyword data and command data from a communication terminal. The geographical data providing apparatus analyzes the command data, and extracts at least one keyword from the keyword data. The geographical data providing apparatus further searches a keyword data database for spatial data corresponding to the extracted keyword, and searches a geographical database for at least one geographical data item corresponding to the searched spatial data. 
   Further, the geographical data providing apparatus may output the searched geographical data according to the command data. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     A more complete appreciation of the disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
       FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram illustrating a functional structure of a geographical data providing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a schematic front view illustrating an exemplary outer appearance of a communication terminal shown in  FIG. 1 , according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 3  is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary structure of a control system incorporated in the communication terminal shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary outer appearance of a geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 , according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary structure of the geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
       FIG. 6  is a front view illustrating an operational panel of the geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
       FIG. 7  is a schematic block diagram illustrating a geographical data providing apparatus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8  is a schematic block diagram illustrating a hardware structure of a geographical data providing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 9  is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 10  is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of receiving email data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 11  is a table illustrating exemplary data items stored in a geographical database according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a table illustrating exemplary data items stored in a geographical database according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 13  is a front view illustrating exemplary geographical data displayed by the geographical data providing apparatus of  FIG. 4 ; 
       FIG. 14  is a schematic block diagram illustrating a functional structure of a geographical data providing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 15  is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by a geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 14 ; 
       FIG. 16  is a view illustrating exemplary keyword data; 
       FIG. 17  is a view illustrating a plurality of keywords extracted from the exemplary keyword data shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
       FIG. 18  is a table illustrating exemplary data items stored in a keyword database according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 19  is a table illustrating exemplary data items stored in a keyword database according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 20  is a table illustrating exemplary data items stored in a keyword database according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and 
       FIG. 21  is a front view illustrating exemplary geographical data displayed by the geographical data providing apparatus of  FIG. 14 ; 
       FIG. 22  is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 14 ; and 
       FIG. 23  is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus shown in  FIG. 14 . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   In describing preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology is employed for clarity. However, the disclosure of this patent specification is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology selected and it is to be understood that each specific element includes all equivalents that operate in a similar manner. Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views,  FIG. 1  illustrates a geographical data providing system  100  according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
   The geographical data providing system  100  includes a geographical data providing apparatus  101  and a communication terminal  107 , which are connected to each other via a network  120 , such as the Internet, for example. The geographical data providing apparatus  101  includes an email data receiver  102 , a command data analyzer  103 , and a geographical data obtainer  105 . The communication terminal  107  includes a spatial data receiver  108  and an email data generator  109 . 
   The spatial data receiver  108  obtains spatial data of a selected place. For example, the spatial data receiver  108  may be implemented by a GPS receiver, capable of obtaining GPS data from the GPS. 
   The email data generator  109  generates email data including the spatial data and command data. The command data includes any kind of information indicating a desired operation determined by a user. The email data is sent to the geographical data providing apparatus  101  via the network  120 . 
   The email data receiver  102  receives the email data, including the spatial data and the command data. 
   The command data analyzer  103  analyzes the command data, which indicates the desired operation. The desired operation includes any kind of operation, including searching, storing, faxing, printing, displaying, sending, or image processing, for example. 
   The geographical data obtainer  105  obtains geographical data corresponding to the spatial data. In this exemplary embodiment, the geographical data includes any kind of information that can be derived from the spatial data, such as a map showing the location of the selected place, for example. Preferably, the geographical data is obtained by searching a geographical database available to the geographical data providing apparatus  101 . 
   The communication terminal  107  may be preferably implemented by a mobile phone  70  illustrated in  FIG. 2 , for example. 
   As shown in  FIG. 2 , the mobile phone  70  includes an antenna  70   a , a display  70   b , a ten key  70   c , a voice transmitter  70   d , a voice receiver  70   e , an email key  70   f , a function key  79   g , and a cursor key  70   h . Although not shown, the mobile phone  70  further includes a GPS receiver, capable of obtaining GPS data from the GPS. 
   The antenna  70   a  transmits or receives data to or from a network. The display  70   b  includes any kind of device capable of displaying various information, such as an LCD (liquid crystal display), for example. The ten key  70   c  allows a user to input information, such as numerals, alphabets, or symbols. The voice transmitter  70   d  includes any kind of device capable of sending a user&#39;s voice to a network, such as a microphone. The voice receiver  70   e  includes any kind of device capable of receiving a voice from the network and transmitting it to the user, such as a speaker. The email key  70   f  calls a function of generating, sending, or receiving email data. The function key  70   g  calls various functions operable by the mobile phone  70 , such as a function of obtaining GPS data. The cursor key  70   h  controls contents to be displayed on the display  70   b , by moving a pointer on the display  70   b , for example. 
     FIG. 3  is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary structure of a control system incorporated in the mobile phone  70 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , the control system of the mobile phone  70  includes an operation controller  71 , a communication controller  72 , a voice controller  73 , a display controller  74 , and an input controller  75 . 
   The operation controller  71  includes any kind of device capable of controlling an operation of the mobile phone  70 . The communication controller  72  includes any kind of device capable of controlling transmission or reception of data, including email data and voice data, for example. The voice controller  73  includes any kind of device capable of controlling transmission or reception of voice data, through the voice transmitter  70   d  and the voice receiver  70   e . The display controller  74  includes any kind of device capable of controlling a display of the display  70   b . The input controller  75  includes any kind of device capable of controlling an input made to the mobile phone  70  through an input device  76 , which includes the ten key  70   c , email key  70   f , function key  70   g , and cursor key  70   h.    
   Alternatively, the communication terminal  107  of  FIG. 1  may be implemented by a mobile computer such as a PDA (personal digital assistance), a notebook computer, etc. as long as it has a function of receiving spatial data and a function of sending email data. 
   The geographical data providing apparatus  101  of  FIG. 1  may be preferably implemented by a multifunctional apparatus (MFP)  1  shown in  FIG. 4 , for example. 
   The MFP  1  may look like a copier having a reader  8  at the top surface, a printer  7  in its inside, and an operational panel P. The MFP  1  is further provided with a removable media controller  9 , which reads or writes data from or onto a recording medium. With this configuration, the MFP  1  is capable of scanning, copying, faxing, or printing an original image. The MFP  1  is also capable of storing data in a memory, or sending data through a network. 
   In addition to the above-described functions, the MFP  1  may be provided with any one of functions including web browsing, document browsing, page browsing, searching, editing, system monitoring, etc. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5 , the MFP  1  includes an image processing unit A and an information processing unit B, which are connected to each other via a hub  19 . Alternatively, the image processing unit A and the information processing unit B may be connected via any other communication device, such as a switch or a switching hub, for example. 
   The image processing unit A includes the reader  8 , the printer  7 , a reader controller  12 , a printer controller  11 , an image processing controller  10 , a HDD (hard disk drive)  17 , a fax controller  20 , a network controller  18 , an input controller  24 , a display controller  23 , and an operational panel I/F (interface)  25 . 
   The information processing unit B includes a network controller  33 , a memory  32 , a CPU  31 , an I/O (input/output) device controller  42 , the removable media controller  9 , an interface  43 , an operational panel communicator  39 , an input controller  37 , a display controller  36 , an operational panel I/F  38 , the operational panel P having a display  40  and an input  41 , a HDD controller  35 , and a HDD  34 . 
   The reader  8  includes any kind of device capable of reading an original image into image data, such as a scanner, for example. 
   The printer  7  includes any kind of device capable of forming an image on a recoding medium, such as an image forming device, for example. In this exemplary embodiment, the printer  7  can form a full color image, using any one of image forming methods including electrophotography, ink-jet, dye sublimation transfer, silver salt photography, thermal recording, thermal transfer, etc. 
   The reader controller  12  includes any kind of device capable of controlling an operation of the reader  8 , according to an instruction received from the image processing controller  10 . For example, upon receiving an instruction for reading from the image processing controller  10 , the reader controller  12  causes the reader  8  to irradiate a light to a surface of an original image, and converts the reflected light to image data, such as 8-bit RGB data if the original image is in color. 
   The printer controller  11  includes any kind of device capable of controlling an operation of the printer  7 , according to an instruction received from the image processing controller  10 . For example, upon receiving an instruction for printing from the image processing controller  10 , the printer controller  11  causes the printer  7  to form a toner image on a recording medium. 
   The image processing controller  10  includes any kind of device capable of controlling image processing performed by the image processing unit A, such as a microcomputer. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the image processing controller  10  includes a CPU (central processing unit)  13 , a SDRAM (synchronous dynamic random access memory)  14 , a ROM (read only memory)  15 , and an NVRAM (non-volatile random access memory)  16 , which are connected to one another via a bus. The CPU  13  operates as a main processor. The SDRAM  14  stores image data, including image data read by the reader  8 , image data to be printed by the printer  7 , etc. The ROM  15  stores various programs such as a control program to be operated by the CPU  13  for controlling an operation of the image processing unit A. The NVRAM  16  stores various data, such as job history data or preference data, for example. 
   The HDD  17 , which is connected to the image processing controller  10 , includes any kind of storage device capable of storing a large amount of data, including image data, job history data, and program data, for example. 
   The fax controller  20 , which is connected to the image processing controller  10 , includes any kind of communication device capable of allowing the image processing unit A to communicate with other devices via a communication network. For example, the fax controller  20  connects the image processing unit A to a PSTN (public switched telephone line) via a PBX (public box exchange). With this configuration, the image processing unit A can receive or send fax data. 
   The network controller  18 , which is connected to the image processing controller  10 , includes any kind of communication device capable of allowing the image processing unit A to communicate with other devices via a computer network, such as LAN, through the hub  19 . 
   The input controller  24  generates a display control signal according to an instruction from the image processing controller  10 , and sends it to the information processing unit B through the operational panel I/F  25  and a communication cable  26 . The display control signal, received by the operational panel communicator  39 , is further transmitted to the operational panel P through the display controller  36  and the operational panel I/F  38 . The operational panel P displays data according to the display control signal. 
   The display controller  23  receives an input control signal from the information processing unit B through the communication cable  26  and the operational panel I/F  25 . 
   The CPU  31  includes any kind of processor capable of controlling an operation of the information processing unit B. The memory  32  includes any kind of memory unit, such as a RAM functioning as a work memory for the CPU  31 , and a ROM storing various data. 
   The HDD  34  stores various data, including image data, job history data, preference data, etc. Further, the HDD  34  stores geographical data including a plurality of maps, and information indicating the relationship between the geographical data and spatial data, preferably in a form of database (“geographical database”). Further, it may store various programs, such as an OS (operating system) program, an email controlling program, and a geographical data obtaining program, for example. The HDD controller  35  controls data input or data output of the HDD  34 . 
   The network controller  33  includes any kind of communication device capable of allowing the information processing unit B to communicate with other devices via a computer network, such as LAN, through the hub  19 . The network controller  33  is preferably assigned with an IP address different from that of the network controller  18 . 
   The input controller  37  generates an input control signal according to an instruction input by a user through the operational panel P, and sends it to the image processing unit A through the operational panel communicator  39  and the communication cable  26 . 
   The display controller  36  receives a display control signal from the image processing unit A through the communication cable  26  and the operational panel communicator  39 . 
   As described above, the operational panel communicator  39  exchanges data between the image processing unit A and the information processing unit B. To make this exchange possible, the operational panel communicator  39  may perform data conversions, if the image processing unit A and the information processing unit B operate in different formats. 
   The I/O device controller  42  includes any kind of device capable of controlling an operation of an input or output device connected through the interface  43 , such as a digital camera, for example. 
   The interface  43  includes any kind of interface, such as USB, IEEE1394, or SCSI. 
   The removable media controller  9  includes any kind of device capable of controlling an operation of a recording medium M, such as an optical disc driver, for example. 
   The recording medium M includes any kind of recording medium capable of storing various data and programs. Examples include, but are not limited to, optical discs such as CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW, magneto optical discs, memory cards, and flexible disks. 
   As shown in  FIG. 6 , the operational panel P includes the display  40  and the input  41 . The display  40  includes any kind of device capable of displaying various information including an instruction received from the image processing unit A, such as an LCD (liquid crystal display), for example. 
   The input  41  includes any kind of device capable of inputting an instruction from a user, such as a keyboard, for example. In this exemplary embodiment, the input  41  includes a touch panel  41   a  placed on the surface of the display  40 , and a number of keys or buttons  41   b.    
   Alternatively, the geographical data providing apparatus  101  of  FIG. 1  may be implemented by an image processing system  50  illustrated in  FIG. 7 , for example. The image processing system  50  includes a PC  51 , a scanner  52 , a printer  53 , and a facsimile  54 , which are connected to one another via a bus  55 . 
   The PC  51  includes any kind of processor capable of receiving email data including command data and spatial data. The PC  51  further includes any kind of memory device capable of storing various data, including geographical data, geographical base, various computer programs, etc. 
     FIG. 8  illustrates an exemplary hardware structure of the geographical data providing system  100 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 8 , the MFP  1  is connected to clients  4  and a server  3  through a local network  2 , such as LAN, for example. The clients  4  include one or more personal computers, with each operating as a client. The server  3  includes at least one personal computer, which operates as a server. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the local network  2  may be a wireless network using radio frequency or infrared waves, or a wired network such as an optical fiber. 
   The MFP  1  is further connected to a communication network, such as a PTSN  21  via a PBX  22 , as described referring to  FIG. 5 . 
   Furthermore, the MFP  1  is connected to a computer network, such as the Internet  6  via a communication controller  5 . 
   The communication controller  5  includes any kind of device capable of connecting the local network  2  to the Internet  6 , such as a router, exchanging device, cable modem, DSL modem, etc. In this exemplary embodiment, the communication controller  5  allows the mobile phone  70  to access the MFP  1  on one or more specified ports, using port forwarding. In this exemplary embodiment, a number of ports are set by default, including a port for SMPT with the port number  25 , a port for HTTP with the port number  80 , a port for FTP with the port number  21 , a port for SSH with the port number  22 , a port for POP with the port number  110 , a port for HTTPS with the port number  443 , a port  389  for LDAP with the port number  389 , etc. Further, one or more ports may be set according to a user&#39;s preference. 
   Further, the communication controller  5  may be incorporated in the MFP  1 . 
   The Internet  6  is provided with a domain name server  6 A, which stores information regarding host names and their corresponding IP addresses in a distributed database on the Internet  6 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 9 , an exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the MFP  1  of  FIG. 8 , is explained. The steps shown in  FIG. 9  are performed when the MFP  1  receives email data including spatial data and command data, from the mobile phone  70 . In this exemplary embodiment, the email data is created by the mobile phone  70  as follows. 
   First, in step S 101 , a user calls the function of obtaining GPS data and inputs information regarding a destination place. For example, the user may input a name of the destination place using the ten key  70   c . Alternatively, the user may browse a list of place names provided on the display  70   b , and select one place name indicating the destination place using the curser key  70   h . Alternatively, the user may instruct the mobile phone  70  to obtain a current location of the user. 
   The mobile phone  70  obtains GPS data corresponding to the destination place, from the GPS through the antenna  70   a . In this exemplary embodiment, the GPS data includes longitude data indicating the longitude of the destination place, and latitude data indicating the latitude of the destination place. 
   Next, the user calls the email function by selecting the email key  70   f , and generates email data including the GPS data and command data. In this exemplary embodiment, the GPS data may be attached to an email message as an attachment file, or it may be included in the body of an email message as a link. The command data may be preferably input in the “TO” field as an email address (or an email account name) as described below. 
   In one example, if the user wants to print a map of the destination place, the user inputs an email address for printing (“printing email address”), such as “mapprint@imagio385.ricoh.co.jp”. The printing email address may be expressed as “printing account name@machine ID.host name.domain name”. In this exemplary embodiment, the printing account name is previously determined and stored in the HDD  34 , for example, along with information indicating a printing operation to be performed when the printing account name is specified. Alternatively, the printing email address may include a parameter, indicating preference information for printing, such as a number of copies. Alternatively, the printing email address may include a user ID, indicating information of a sender. 
   In another example, if the user wants to display a map of the destination place on the display  40 , the user inputs an email address for displaying (“displaying email address”), such as “mapdisplay@imagio385.ricoh.co.jp”. The displaying email address may be expressed as “displaying account name@machine ID.host name.domain name”. In this exemplary embodiment, the displaying account name is previously determined and stored in the HDD  34 , for example, along with information indicating a displaying operation to be performed when the displaying account name is specified. Alternatively, the displaying email address may include a user ID. 
   In another example, if the user wants to save a map of the destination place as a data file, the user inputs an email address for storing (“storing email address”), such as “mapsave@imagio385.ricoh.co.jp”. The storing email address may be expressed as “storing account name@machine ID.host name.domain name”. In this exemplary embodiment, the storing account name is previously determined and stored in the HDD  34 , for example, along with information indicating a storing operation to be performed when the storing account name is specified. Alternatively, the storing email address may include a parameter, indicating preference information for storing, such as a folder name. Alternatively, the storing email address may include a user ID, indicating information of a sender. 
   In another example, if the user wants to fax a map of the destination place, the user inputs an email address for faxing (“faxing email address”), such as “mapfax@imagio385.ricoh.co.jp”. The faxing email address may be expressed as “faxing account name@machine ID.host name.domain name”. In this exemplary embodiment, the faxing account name is previously determined and stored in the HDD  34 , for example, along with information indicating a faxing operation to be performed when the faxing account name is specified. Alternatively, the faxing email address may include a parameter, indicating preference information for faxing, such as a destination phone number. Alternatively, the faxing email address may include a user ID, indicating information of a sender, before the account name. 
   Now, referring to  FIG. 10 , an exemplary operation of receiving email data, performed by the MFP  1 , is explained. 
   Step S 1  periodically or constantly checks whether to open or close the SMTP port. When the mobile phone  70  sends email data to the MFP  1  (“Yes” in Step S 1 ), the MFP  1  opens the SMTP port to establish the TCP/IP connection. Otherwise, the process ends to keep the SMTP port closed. 
   Step S 2  checks whether information indicating the machine ID, host name, or domain name of the MFP  1 , which has been received from the mobile phone  70 , is correct. For example, the MFP  1  compares the received information with information stored in its own memory. If the received information matches with the stored information, the process proceeds to Step S 3 , otherwise the process ends. 
   Step S 3  checks whether the email account, i.e., the email address, specified by the mobile phone  70 , has been registered as a registered email account of the MFP  1 . For example, the MFP  1  may search for the specified email account, by referring to preference information stored in the MFP  1 . If the specified email account matches with any one of the registered email accounts (“Yes” in Step S 3 ), the process proceeds to Step S 4 . Otherwise, the process ends. 
   In this Step S 3 , the MPF  1  may additionally check authentication of the mobile phone  70 . 
   Step S 4  stores the received email data in the mail box corresponding to the specified email account. 
   Step S 5  analyzes a desired operation, indicated by the command data. If a desired operation indicates any one of operations requiring the MFP  1  to use a function of obtaining geographical data corresponding to the GPS data, the MFP  1  preferably performs the steps illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
   Referring back to  FIG. 9 , Step S 101  obtains GPS data, by extracting it from the received email data. 
   Step S 105  searches through the geographical database, and defines a map corresponding to the obtained GPS data. 
   As shown in  FIG. 11 , the exemplary geographical database GD stores ID data, GPS data, file name data, and scale data, in a corresponding manner, for each of maps stored in the HDD  34  of the MFP  1 . 
   The ID data represents an identification number, which may be used to identify a map. The GPS data includes longitude data indicating the longitude of a central coordinate shown in a map, and latitude data indicating the latitude of a central coordinate shown in a map. The file name data represents a file name assigned to a map. The scale data represents a spatial scale of a map. 
   To find a map showing the destination place, the MFP  1  extracts the longitude data and the latitude data from the received GPS data. With the longitude and latitude data, a coordinate indicating the destination place can be specified. 
   The MFP  1  searches the geographical database for a map including the specified coordinate, by checking the GPS data of each map. As a result, one or more maps are selected as candidate maps, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 , for example. 
   Step S 106  of  FIG. 9  selects a map, which may be most appropriate for showing the destination place, from the candidate maps. For example, the MFP  1  selects a map, including the specified coordinate near its central coordinate. 
   Step S 107  adjusts the central coordinate of the selected map to be closer to the specified coordinate. 
   Step S 112  outputs the selected map according to the command data. 
   In one example, if the email data is addressed to the printing email address, the MFP  1  prints the selected map using the printer  7 . 
   In another example, if the email data is addressed to the displaying email address, the MFP  1  displays the selected map on the display  40 , as illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
   In another example, if the email data is addressed to the storing email address, the MFP  1  stores the selected map in the HDD  34 , for example. 
   In another example, if the email data is addressed to the faxing email address, the MFP  1  faxes the selected map to a destination phone number, using the fax controller  20 . 
   Further, the MFP  1  may continue to perform one or more operations after completing Step S 112 . 
   For example, after displaying the selected map shown in  FIG. 13 , the user may change the scale of the map, by selecting the “Zoom in” button or the “Zoom out” button, provided on the touch panel  41   a . In another example, the user may print the selected map, by selecting the “Print” button. In another example, the user may save the selected map, by selecting the “Save” button. In another example, the user may further search another place in the map, by inputting a keyword into the “Keyword” field, and selecting the “Search” button. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the steps shown in  FIG. 9  may be performed in a different order. Further, an operation of selecting a map may be performed differently, preferably, depending on the geographical data obtaining program to be operated by the MFP  1 . 
   Now, referring to  FIG. 14 , a geographical data providing system  300  according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is explained. 
   The geographical data providing system  300  includes a geographical data providing apparatus  301  and a communication terminal  307 , which are connected to each other via a network  320 , such as the Internet. 
   The geographical data providing apparatus  301  is substantially similar in structure to the geographical data providing apparatus  101  of  FIG. 1 . The differences include the keyword data extractor  304 . 
   The communication terminal  307  is substantially similar in structure to the communication terminal  107  of  FIG. 1 , however it is not provided with the spatial data receiver  108 . 
   The email data generator  309  generates email data including keyword data and command data. The keyword data includes any kind of information, expressed in character, numeral, or symbol, which indicates a selected place. Examples of keyword data include an address, phone number, station name, sightseeing spot, etc. Preferably, the keyword data is included in the body of an email message. 
   The email data receiver  302  receives the email data from the communication terminal  307  via the network  320 . 
   The command data analyzer  303  analyzes the command data, which indicates a desired operation. 
   The keyword data extractor  304  extracts the keyword data from the email data, and obtains spatial data corresponding to the extracted keyword data. Preferably, the spatial data is obtained by searching a keyword database available to the geographical data providing apparatus  301 . 
   The geographical data obtainer  305  obtains geographical data corresponding to the spatial data. 
   The communication terminal  307  may be preferably implemented by any kind of mobile communication terminal, such as a mobile phone or a mobile computer, as long as it has a function of generating and sending email data. 
   The geographical data providing apparatus  301  may be preferably implemented by an MFP, having a structure substantially similar to the one shown in  FIG. 5 . To operate as the geographical data providing apparatus  301 , however, the MFP  1  of  FIG. 5  additionally has a function of extracting keyword data from email data, and a function of relating the extracted keyword data to spatial data. For example, the HDD  34  is additionally provided with a keyword data extracting program and a keyword database. 
   Now, referring to  FIG. 15 , an exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus  301 , is explained. 
   For descriptive purpose, the geographical data providing apparatus  301  is assumed to have the structure shown in  FIG. 4  (however, with the above-described additional functions), while the communication terminal  307  is assumed to have the structure shown in  FIG. 2  (however, without the GPS data receiver). Further, in this exemplary embodiment, the MFP  1  and the mobile phone  70  are incorporated in the system shown in  FIG. 8 . Furthermore, the MFP  1  is assumed to output a map of a destination place, according to an instruction received from a user through the mobile phone  70 . 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the email data is created by the mobile phone  70  as follows. 
   First, a user calls the email function by selecting the email key  70   f , and generates email data including keyword data and command data. 
   The keyword data may be included in the body of an email message, or it may be attached to an email message as an attachment file. Preferably, the keyword data is generated in a form of text data, as illustrated in  FIG. 16 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the email message ML includes a plurality of words expressing or implying a specific place. 
   Next, the user adds the command data. For example, the user may include a desired operation in the body of the email message. Alternatively, the user may select a specific email address for a desired operation in a substantially similar manner as described referring to  FIG. 9 . 
   In this exemplary embodiment, keyword data, such as the email message ML of  FIG. 16 , may be generated by a different person, and sent to the user of the mobile phone  70 . 
   The MFP  1  performs the steps illustrated in  FIG. 15  upon receiving email data, including keyword data and command data, from the mobile phone  70  in a substantially similar manner as described referring to  FIG. 10 . 
   Referring back to  FIG. 15 , Step S 201  obtains the keyword data, i.e., the email message, by extracting it from the received email data. 
   Step S 202  extracts one or more keywords from the keyword data, i.e., the email message, and selects one keyword from the extracted keywords. 
   For example, if the email message ML of  FIG. 16  is obtained, the MFP  1  extracts a plurality of keywords KW, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . The MFP  1  then selects one keyword, such as “Landmark Tower”, for example. 
   Step S 203  searches through the keyword database to see if any spatial data exists, which corresponds to the selected keyword. 
   As shown in  FIG. 18 , the exemplary keyword database KD stores keyword data and GPS data in a corresponding manner for each of maps stored in the HDD  34 . 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the keyword data includes information indicating names of the stations shown in a map, information indicating names of sightseeing spots shown in a map, information indicating names of locations shown in a map, and information indicating names of public facilities shown in a map. In addition, the keyword data may include information indicating names of shops or restaurants shown in a map, information indicating names of roads shown in a map, information indicating phone numbers or zip codes relating to the locations shown in a map, etc. 
   In one example, if the word “Tokyo station” is selected, the MFP  1  searches for any GPS data corresponding to the word “Tokyo station” through the keyword database KD illustrated in  FIG. 19 , for example. If the word “Tokyo station” is found, the MFP  1  extracts GPS data, including longitude data indicating the longitude of the Tokyo station and latitude data indicating the latitude of the Tokyo station. 
   In another example, if the word “Bay Bridge” is selected, the MFP  1  searches for any GPS data corresponding to the word “Bay Bridge” through the keyword database  104  illustrated in  FIG. 20 , for example. If the word “Bay Bridge” is found, the MFP  1  extracts GPS data, including longitude data indicating the longitude of the Bay Bridge and latitude data indicating the latitude of the Bay Bridge. 
   Step S 204  determines whether GPS data is available for the selected keyword. If the GPS data for the keyword is found in Step S 203 , the process proceeds to Step S 105 . If the GPS data for the keyword is not found in Step S 203 , the process proceeds to Step S 209 . 
   With this longitude data and the latitude data, a coordinate indicating the place defined by the selected keyword can be specified. 
   Step S 105  searches through the geographical database GD, and defines a map including the specified coordinate, for example, by checking the GPS data of each map. As a result, one or more candidate maps can be selected. 
   Step S 106  selects a map, which may be most appropriate for showing the place defined by the selected keyword, from the candidate maps. 
   Step S 107  adjusts the central coordinate of the selected map to be closer to the specified coordinate. 
   Step S 208  displays the selected map on the display  40 . Preferably, the MFP  1  displays the selected map in a thumbnail image along with the selected keyword, as illustrated in  FIG. 21 . 
   Step S 209  determines whether all keywords, which have been extracted in Step S 202 , are processed. If a keyword to be processed still exists, No in step S 209 , the process returns to Step S 202  to select a next keyword. Otherwise, the process proceeds to Step S 112 . 
   Step S 112  outputs the selected map according to the command data. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the MFP  1  receives keyword data and command data in a form of email data, however the MFP  1  may receive keyword data and command data in any other kinds of data formats. 
   For example, if the mobile phone  70  is provided with a web browser, the mobile phone  70  may connect to a web page specified by the MFP  1  to input keyword data, and causes the MFP  1  to perform the above-described operation. 
   Further, the steps illustrated in  FIG. 15  may be performed in a different order, or the operation of selecting a map may be performed differently, preferably, depending on the geographical data obtaining program to be operated by the MFP  1 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 22 , another exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus  301 , is explained. 
   The operation shown in  FIG. 22  is substantially similar to the operation shown in  FIG. 15 , except for Step S 309  replacing Step S 209 . Step S 309  determines whether the number of keywords being processed reaches a predetermined number. In this way, the number of maps to be displayed may be limited. 
   Referring to  FIG. 23 , another exemplary operation of outputting geographical data, performed by the geographical data providing apparatus  301 , is explained. 
   The operation shown in  FIG. 23  is substantially similar to the operation shown in  FIG. 15 , except for the addition of Step S 311 . 
   Step S 311  selects a map to be output from a plurality of maps displayed on the display  40 , for example. 
   If the keywords KW of  FIG. 17  are processed, the display  40  displays four maps illustrated in  FIG. 21 , including a map showing the “Pasifico Yokohama Convention Center”, a map showing the “Sakuragicho Station”, a map showing the “Landmark Tower”, and a map showing the “Queens Square Mall”. The user may select one or more of the maps being displayed, using the input  41 . 
   Numerous additional modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure of this patent specification may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. 
   For example, elements and/or features of different illustrative embodiments may be combined with each other and/or substituted for each other within the scope of this disclosure and appended claims. 
   Furthermore, any one of the operations mentioned above may be embodied in the form of a computer program. In such a case, the computer program is preferably stored in a storage device of the geographical data providing apparatus, which is readable to the processor (CPU  31  of the MFP  1  or CPU of the PC  52 , for example) of the geographical data providing apparatus). 
   When the processor is activated, the processor loads the computer program onto its work memory and performs any one of the above-described operations. 
   The storage device includes any kind of memory, such as a built-in memory installed in the geographical data providing apparatus or a removable memory separable from the geographical data providing apparatus. Alternatively, the computer program may be downloaded via a network to be stored in the storage device.