Abstract: In an administrative program controlling a plurality of printers and copiers, an administrator is provided with a matrix whereby different billing requirements can be associated with different discrete functions, such as printing, scanning, faxing, and finishing, within a single machine. The administrator is provided with options to control the behavior of the machine when required billing codes are not entered,such as holding image data relating to a requested job in a machine until the required billing codes have been entered.

Abstract: An image forming system which can ensure high operability according to an operator is provided. A control unit 950 of a digital copying machine 1A changes an image which is displayed on a touch panel 248 according to an ID specified by an IC card, a fingerprint of an operator, or input from the touch panel 248 corresponding to each operator in accordance with operator information stored in a hard disk 961. The control unit 950 raises contrast of the image by changing the tone when an operator is the aged, makes an image to be displayed recognizable by changing the color when an operator the colorblind, indicates an image by enlarged characters when an operator is the poor sighted or a person with trembling fingers, changes languages according to an operator, and adjusts height of the touch panel 248 according to height of an operator.

Abstract: Methods, image-forming systems, and image-forming assistance apparatuses are described. According to one aspect, a method of informing a user with respect to operations of an image-forming device includes detecting a user attempting to effect an operation of an image-forming device configured to form hard images upon media and generating audible signals representing a human voice to communicate audible information to the user regarding the image-forming device and responsive to the detecting.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus including applications and system side software for providing system side services to the applications is provided, in which the image forming apparatus includes: an authentication module for displaying an authentication screen on an operation panel of the image forming apparatus, wherein the authentication module allows the image forming apparatus to display a screen for using the image forming apparatus instead of the authentication screen if authentication data input from the authentication screen satisfies an authentication condition, and wherein the authentication module is provided in the image forming apparatus separately from the system side software.

Abstract: When a holder of an ID card approaches an image formation instructing device for sending an image forming instruction to an image forming apparatus, an ID code stored in a RF-ID element built in the ID card is read by a RF communication device, an image forming operation is executed, and the number of sheets for image formation is counted by counting means. Further, the counted number of sheets for image formation is associated with an ID code having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code read by the RF communication device and thereafter stored and held in a number-of-sheets file. Thus, the number of sheets for image formation is managed without preparing a key counter, a key card, etc. and without special operation.

Abstract: Each copy elements of data being an object to be monitored such as printing data or reading data including at least one kind of copy elements is monitored according to at least one kind of copy inhibition information stored in inhibition information storage means and capable of being updated. By the monitoring, when one of the copy elements is judged to agree with the kind of coy inhibition information, input or output of the data being monitored is inhibited. Secrecy management information is given to the copy inhibition information, and a secrecy management level of a user is assigned to each user. In such a way, when the secrecy management level is higher than that of secrecy management information, the inhibition of the input or output is canceled. An ID for tracing a device which has copied a printed matter is given to the copied printed matter so as to prevent unauthorized copies form diffusing.

Abstract: An image forming device that forms images of original documents having both image data and control data thereon is disclosed, and is comprised of an original document reading means which includes a CCD, a control data extraction means, and a processing means. The original document reading means reads the image data and the control data on an original document. The control data extraction means extracts the control data from the data read by the original document reading means. The processing means processes the image data read by the original document reading means and forms an image thereof based upon the control data extracted by the control data extraction means. This image forming device can be used to prohibit the unauthorized copying of certain documents.

Abstract: An image forming device that forms images of original documents having both image data and control data thereon is disclosed, and is comprised of an original document reading means which includes a CCD, a control data extraction means, and a processing means. The original document reading means reads the image data and the control data on an original document. The control data extraction means extracts the control data from the data read by the original document reading means. The processing means processes the image data read by the original document reading means and forms an image thereof based upon the control data extracted by the control data extraction means. This image forming device can be used to prohibit the unauthorized copying of certain documents.

Abstract: Systems and methods for limiting access to imaging device consumable components are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system and a method pertain to receiving authorization information from a user, determining whether the authorization information is valid, and preventing specific access to a consumable component if the authorization is not valid.

Abstract: Systems and methods for limiting access to imaging device consumable components are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system and a method pertain to receiving authorization information from a user, determining whether the authorization information is valid, and preventing specific access to a consumable component if the authorization is not valid.

Abstract: An image forming system which can ensure high operability according to an operator is provided. A control unit 950 of a digital copying machine 1A changes an image which is displayed on a touch panel 248 according to an ID specified by an IC card, a fingerprint of an operator, or input from the touch panel 248 corresponding to each operator in accordance with operator information stored in a hard disk 961. The control unit 950 raises contrast of the image by changing the tone when an operator is the aged, makes an image to be displayed recognizable by changing the color when an operator the colorblind, indicates an image by enlarged characters when an operator is the poor sighted or a person with trembling fingers, changes languages according to an operator, and adjusts height of the touch panel 248 according to height of an operator.

Abstract: Methods for altering configurations of printing devices are provided. A representative method includes: receiving information corresponding to an authorization of a user, the information including a designation of a first configuration of a printing device the user desires to enable; retrieving information adapted to enable the first configuration of the printing device; and enabling the printing device to exhibit the first configuration using the information retrieved. Systems, computer-readable media and other methods also are provided.

Abstract: On the basis of information obtained from an IC card 241 and concerning the physical features of a user 242, it is judged whether or not the user 242 is a handicapped person. When it is judged that the user 242 is a handicapped person, a fixed sheet supply source is not displayed in an LCD 212 of an operation panel When the handicapped person uses, therefore, it is possible to inhibit the sheet feed from the fixed sheet supply source which is difficult for a jamming sheet to be removed.

Abstract: In a networked printing environment having at least a number of workstations of users, a management unit maintains logic storage spaces in a memory, each allocated to a respective user. Digital data files sent from a user's workstation for printing contain an identification of the relevant user and are either of a first type or of a second type. The first type is formed by files which must be printed automatically, and the second type is formed by files which must be stored in the logic storage space of the user in the memory and may be printed only on a command from the operator control unit, which command identifies the relevant file. When handling a print job, the management unit checks, whether the job can be performed completely. If this appears not to be the case, the management unit converts the file into a file of the second type and, if necessary, creates a logic storage space for the relevant user and stores the file in the logic storage space of the relevant user.

Abstract: Methods for altering configurations of printing devices are provided. A representative method includes: receiving information corresponding to an authorization of a user, the information including a designation of a first configuration of a printing device the user desires to enable; retrieving information adapted to enable the first configuration of the printing device; and enabling the printing device to exhibit the first configuration using the information retrieved. Systems, computer-readable media and other methods also are provided.

Abstract: A method and system of selectively and securely enabling an added or premium functionality in a printer can be created by transmitting or inputting to the printer an electronic key correlated to the unique serial number stored in that printer. In this way, the key used to activate an added or premium functionality in a particular printer cannot be used to activate the same functionality in any other printer. This prevents the unauthorized activation of added or premium functions in other printers.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes: an input portion for receiving different kinds of jobs; a storage portion for storing a job; an image forming portion for forming images of an input job; a control input portion for providing content display of input jobs and control display; a radiocommunication portion for reading the user identification ID recorded in an information recording medium; a controller for controlling these portions. With this configuration, the image forming apparatus determines the user identification ID of a user so as to provide a display of the operational state best for the user.

Abstract: A digital image processing apparatus is provided which offers, for selection by an operator, at least one digital image data file for the purpose of further handling, e.g. printing. A file of this kind can be protected with a code which must first be input by the operator before the apparatus releases the file. If a number of files thus protected are selected and processed either together or in series by an operator, after the first file the apparatus first tries out for each subsequent file whether the code applicable for the preceding file is also valid for the new file. If so, the apparatus releases the file immediately, whereas otherwise it asks for a code again.

Abstract: When a fare is inserted, a receipt on which a password assigned to the user is printed is issued, and a sheets each bearing a printed image is housed in a storage bin or a storage box. When the password printed on the receipt is inputted, the corresponding storage bin (storage box) is shifted to a sheet outlet, thereby allowing the user to take this out. Thus, it is possible to provide a print system that is superior in the operability and allows the user to positively obtain his or her own job, and a sheet-processing device suitable for such a system.

Abstract: An image forming system includes a scanner to read image data, an image forming apparatus to form an image on an image receiving medium based on the image data, an input panel to input a user's manual signature and a memory to store an image of a user's manual signature. Further, the system includes a processing unit to collate an image of a user's manual signature input through the input panel with an image of a user's manual signature stored in the memory and to approve the use of at least one of the scanner and the image forming apparatus by user according to a result of the collation.

Abstract: There is disclosed a printer or copying machine which operates according to several different functional and operational modes, a host computer which sends a print or copy order to the printer or copying machine, which order may include the number of copies to be made, the time of printing or copying, and an operational mode, such as size of copy, two-sided copying, collating, stapling, etc., and an accounting means which calculates charges based on the order before it is carried out by the printer or copying machine and which transmits those charge to the host computer.

Abstract: There is disclosed a printer or copying machine which operates according to several different functional and operational modes, a host computer which sends a print or copy order to the printer or copying machine, which order may include the number of copies to be made, the time of printing or copying, and an operational mode, such as size of copy, two-sided copying, collating, stapling, etc., and an accounting means which calculates charges based on the order before it is carried out by the printer or copying machine and which transmits those charge to the host computer.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes: an input portion for receiving different kinds of jobs; a storage portion for storing a job; an image forming portion for forming images of an input job; a control input portion for providing content display of input jobs and control display; a radiocommunication portion for reading the user identification ID recorded in an information recording medium; a controller for controlling these portions. With this configuration, the image forming apparatus determines the user identification ID of a user so as to provide a display of the operational state best for the user.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes an image forming mechanism for performing an image forming operation, a detachable process cartridge, a card inlet having a data input and output port, and a controlling mechanism. The process cartridge contains material used to make the image visible. The card inlet receives for electrical connection an electronic money integrated circuit card including an integrated circuit chip dedicated to an electronic money application. The controlling mechanism having an integrated circuit chip dedicated to the electronic money application controls the image forming operation and is capable of communicating for monetary information with the electronic money integrated circuit card.

Abstract: A quotient (rounding up at one decimal place) obtained by dividing a user-designated number UNum of copies by a limit number PNum of copies unique to a printer is set as a number J of print jobs. PNum copies of print data obtained by one despool operation are printed. After printing of the PNum copies is performed (J-1) times, the number of copies for the final job (Jth job) is calculated. Since PNum x (J-1) copies have already been output at that time, N copies as the remainder of division of UNum by PNum suffice to be printed by the final job. Hence, the N copies are printed as the number of copies for the Jth print job, and printing is complete. This makes it possible to print the user-designated number of copies regardless of the printer limitation.

Abstract: An electronic network transaction recording system for accumulating billing data for printing machines interconnected to multiple work stations on the network. A network administrator includes a memory for storing data representing usage of selected printers and a decoder for validating a print job request and a billing account number. Requests for print jobs are verified and billed to an individual or group billing account number.

Abstract: A digital image reproduction apparatus including a scanner unit, a printer unit, a memory, an operator control unit integrated in the apparatus and provided with an input device and a display for the user to give operator control commands to the apparatus, a network connection unit for coupling to a network for the purpose of communication with a digital external environment including at least a number of workstations of users, a management unit connected to the scanner unit, printer unit, memory and network connection unit, and, via the network connection unit, to the workstations, which management unit maintains logic storage spaces in the memory, each allocated to a specific user.

Abstract: A copying machine that allows copying by inputting an access code at the time of use without registering said access code in advance and that can also register said access code. In the control routine by CPU 601 that controls the copying machine, when a control-by-section mode selection signal is input using key 45 on the operation panel, selection of automatic code input mode (the second mode), which is different from regular mode (the first mode), is permitted. When automatic code input mode is selected and an access code is input using 10-key keypad 42 on the operation panel, the input access code is registered and control is performed so that the copying operation is permitted. By limiting the period of validity for the access codes registered, the memory capacity in the access code registration memory may be effectively utilized and only sections that actually use the copying machine can be registered.

Abstract: In a multicolor image forming apparatus constructed of a printer controller and a printer engine, such as a laser beam printer, and the like, after confirming the reception of a proper ID command from the printer controller, the printer engine enters a printable state. Before the ID of the printer controller is checked, by checking an attachment situation of the printer controller at the time of turning on of a power supply, and the like, the attachment situation of the printer controller is discriminated. When the printer engine is not attached, the ID check is skipped and only an engine test print by an engine test print switch is enabled.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus is provided with print request controls for accepting a print request relevant to a job from an operator on condition that use of an image forming section is permitted by permission controls. The image forming apparatus is also provided with print controls for making the image forming section execute image formation relevant to the above job according to instructions by the print request controls. The image forming apparatus is further provided with inhibition controls for inhibiting acceptance of a print request relevant to a job different from the above job by the print request controls, regardless of the presence or absence of permission by the permission controls after accepting the print request relevant to the above job by the print request controls. Thereby, it is possible to prevent another person from opportunistically using the apparatus even when the operator forgets to cancel the permission of use of the image forming section by the permission controls.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus supervisory system is provided. The image forming apparatus supervisory system includes an image forming apparatus and a control device. The image forming apparatus has an input unit for inputting an identification code and a transmission unit for transmitting the identification code. The control device is connected to the image forming apparatus, and has a reception unit for receiving the identification code and a transmission unit for transmitting to the image forming apparatus a signal for informing the image forming apparatus of a permitted number of time an image can be formed in response to receipt of the identification code. Upon receipt of the signal from the control device, the image forming apparatus permits forming an image the permitted number of times.

Abstract: A plurality of apparatuses can execute an encrypting process on an image signal are connected. The encrypting processes which are executed in those apparatuses are independently performed, so that the connection of an improper apparatus is made impossible and, in this state, a more advanced signal process can be performed, thereby giving no disadvantage to the user. For this purpose, there is disclosed an image processing apparatus comprising a first encrypting circuit for encrypting the image data and supplying to a first apparatus and a second encrypting circuit for encrypting image data and supplying to a second apparatus different from the first apparatus, wherein the first and second encrypting means execute independently the encryption.

Abstract: A photocopy count system and method which records usage information for accounting and billing purposes. The photocopy tracking system comprises a plurality of remote mini-terminals, a multiport serial board, and a central control computer. Billing identifier information entered at a remote mini-terminal is received at the central control computer where it is processed for verification of validity. If the billing information is valid, the central control computer generates a copier enable signal which is received at the remote mini-terminal to enable the associated photocopier. As each photocopy event occurs, the copy signal is detected by the central control computer. When copying is completed, the copy count and associated billing information is stored at the control computer for later accounting and billing use. The control and processing functions are centralized so as to reduce the cost to install and maintain the system.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus for storing and reading out image data. An authorization code inputting element reads in an authorization code from an authorization medium on which a particular authorization code is recorded and a user identification inputting element inputs user identification information including the individual user authorization number issued at the time of the user being registered. A user control element controls the users by the authorization code and the user identification information, and a function-limiting element limits the scope of functions that can be used by the user in case the user can not be identified by the inputted authorization code or the inputted user identification information. Thus, the storing of image data by an unidentified user can be blocked, and the confidentiality of stored imaged data can be secured.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus capable of controlling the conditions of use for each user by employing a user ID code and supplying identical images to multiple users by means of a simple operation, the image forming apparatus provided with a code input unit for inputting user ID codes, a number input unit for inputting the number of images to be formed for each user ID code, a processing unit for summing up the input number of images for each user ID code and setting the summed number as the number of images to be formed, and an image forming unit for forming images based on the set number of images.

Abstract: A method of preventing theft or unauthorized use of a computer including a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag allowing use of the machine only within range of the tag and when the tag is recognized. Moving or accessing the computer without the tag in range activates a security system. The computer provides a continuous authorization signal and monitors for a received signal indication of a valid response from the RFID tag. Access is denied unless a valid response is received to the authorization signal. Upon receipt of a valid response, the computer is enabled, in particular enabled to create images on paper, on screens, or to be stored in memory.

Abstract: The invention provides an image forming apparatus such as a coin-operated copy machine, which has an upper limit value to the number of copies which are authorized to be made and which also copies both sides of originals fed to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus is configured so that its intermediate tray, which temporarily stores sheets copied on their first side, is empty at the end of a copy cycle and despite the image forming apparatus being fed more double-sided originals to copy than are authorized to be copied. The image forming apparatus compares the upper limit value of the number of copies authorized to be made to the number of single-sided copies already made in the current copying cycle and begins copying the second side of the originals onto sheets from the intermediate tray when the upper limit value equals a constant K plus twice the number of images formed.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus, which judges whether image forming is permitted when a pre-registered identification number is received, includes an input mode setting unit for setting either a first mode or a second mode, where the first mode deals with a numerical string received by an input receiving unit as a first identification number, and the second mode deals with the numerical string received by the input receiving unit as a second identification number. The image forming apparatus also performs display control to have a display unit not display the received numerical string in the case where the first mode is set and to have a display unit display the received numerical string in the case where the second mode is set.

Abstract: A host computer is connected to a copying machine through communication lines. The copying machine includes an management apparatus which is provided with a card reader. Using the card reader, a section code stored in a user ID card is read and is compared with section codes previously registered in the management apparatus. When the section code of the user ID card matches one of the section codes registered in advance, copying operation is allowed and the section code and the number of copying operations are stored as management data in a registration table stored in an SRAM. When the amount of available storage space becomes less than the predetermined amount, the management apparatus transmits the registered management data to the host computer through the communication lines, clears the storage area and waits for next registrations. The host computer has an accumulating table which is capable of storing the numbers of copying operations for all the sections subjected to management.

Abstract: A group code which is a code indicating a user group, an identification code which is a unique code assigned to each group, and image formation frequency data which is data indicating a frequency of image forming operations by each group are stored in a storage unit, related to each other. After receiving an identification code from an input unit, an identification code judging unit judges whether the received identification code matches any identification code stored in the storage unit. If an identification code judging unit judges that the received identification code matches a stored identification code, a calculating unit calculates the frequency of image forming operations performed after the identification code is received, and the image formation frequency data of the group in the storage unit corresponding to the received identification code is rewritten according to the frequency of image forming operations calculated by the calculating unit.

Abstract: A copying machine control system includes a plurality of copying machines, a plurality of data terminals connected to the individual copying machines and which collect identification data particular to the copying machines, and a centralized control unit performing communication of data with the data terminals through a communication network. Each copying machine stores identification data particular to that copy machine and transmits it to the data terminal in response to a request. Each data terminal includes a receiving device for receiving the identification data and a transmitting device for transmitting the identification data to the centralized controller. The centralized controller confirms the data terminal and associated copy machine and therefore accurate control can be achieved.

Abstract: An electrophotographic copying machine having a control unit is provided.

Abstract: A copier supervisory control system in which a plurality of copiers are connected to each other over a network is provided. Each of the plurality of copiers has a structure that compares a user identifier inputted by a user with a registered identifier. If the user identifier and the registered identifier are identical, the user is permitted to make copies by the copier. If the two compared identifiers are not identical, the user is prohibited from making copies. More specifically, a first copier receives a user identifier and compares it with its registered identifier. If the user identifier and the registered identifier of the first copier are not identical, the copier inquires of a second copier whether it has a registered identifier identical to the user identifier over the network. Upon receipt of the inquiry, the second copier compares the user identifier with its own identifier, and if the two identifiers are identical, it informs the first copier of the result over the network.

Abstract: In a copier, to execute renewal of a maintenance contract with ease and without fail, a current date is compared with a contract expiry date, and a current total count of copies is compared with a count prescribed by the contract. As long as the contract is valid, the copier is operated in a normal copying mode. Meanwhile, the difference between the current count and the contract count is monitored every time a copying operation takes place. When the contract count is exceeded, the copier displays a message indicating expiry of the contract and requesting renewal of the contract in order to notify its user that the contract count has been exceeded. The copier then switches to a restricted copying operation mode. If the user chooses to renew the contract, the user contacts a service provider, so that the service provider checks the state of the contract for the copier and performs a procedure for renewing the contract.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus for totalizing data obtained at the time of operation, such as the number of copying operations performed for each user, by using a single portable medium is disclosed. The image forming apparatus includes a first memory for storing identification information which identifies operators who are permitted to use the apparatus. Data which is entered by the user is compared with the stored data in order to verify if the user is in fact authorized to use the apparatus. Additional data, such as the number of copies made, is stored corresponding to each user. Additional categories for which data may be collected and stored are disclosed including the time frame, the particular machine, and the size of the paper being used.