JP7617459B2 - Server, control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a server, a control method, and a program, and in particular to a technology that reduces the work of reading format paper.

Currently, universities employ a method in which documents submitted by students, such as reports, to which teachers have added evaluations and comments, are scanned into a learning management server, and are systematically returned (feedback) to the students. In this case, information about the submission is registered in advance in the learning management server, and when scanning a paper submission that has already been evaluated, the previously registered information about the submission is specified, allowing the learning management server to recognize and manage the submission. Also, in order to manage submissions from multiple students for each student who submitted them, the student ID numbers and other information written by the students are read from the data of the submissions scanned in bulk, and the data is divided and stored for each student. At the same time, it is also possible to read the evaluation results (scores, etc.) written by teachers on the submissions and register them as information about the submission.

The image processing device in Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which the distortion between two pieces of image data is corrected using a distortion correction section and a difference extraction section, image data 1 is compared with image data 2 after the distortion has been corrected, the difference data is extracted, and the contents entered in the answerer information column are extracted.

JP 2008-20506 A

In the image processing device of Patent Document 1, when performing OCR on the information to be written from scanned data, data from a blank format before any writing is done is used to remove data that is not to be processed by OCR. It is conceivable that a mechanism can be conceived for efficiently and accurately recognizing characters from data written on paper using such a difference method.

Conventionally, such formats (e.g., answer sheets) had to be printed out from an information processing device such as a personal computer to an MFP, and then the printed format had to be scanned by the MFP and registered on a server, which was a cumbersome process.

A mechanism is therefore considered in which a format (e.g., blank answer sheet data) can be registered to a server from an information processing device such as a personal computer. In a mechanism that allows a format (e.g., blank answer sheet data) to be registered to a server from either an MFP or an information processing device, if, for example, a teacher forgets to register the format from the information processing device and scans the answer sheets collected from students with an MFP, there is a risk that character recognition processing using the differential method cannot be performed properly.

An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for managing format papers in association with submission information .

The present invention is a server that manages first data relating to paper of a format not filled in by a user and second data relating to paper of a format filled in by a user, in association with submission information, and is equipped with a first display control means that displays a first screen that accepts an instruction to obtain the second data in association with the submission information, and a second display control means that displays a second screen that accepts a selection of first data to be associated with the submission information from among pre-registered first data, and is characterized in that the first screen displays an object that accepts operations related to the display of the second screen, and the object displays information related to the association between the submission information and the first data.

According to the present invention, it is possible to manage paper formats in association with submission information .

1 is a block diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration applicable to an MFP management server, a learning management server, an OCR server, and a client terminal that constitute a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration applicable to an MFP that constitutes a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a login process of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a course selection process of the learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a format confirmation process of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a scan data registration process in the learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a format selection process of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of an assignment data registration process of the learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of an OCR execution process of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a new format registration process of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a screen image showing an example of a login screen of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a screen image showing an example of a menu screen of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of a course list screen of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of an assignment list screen of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of a scan execution screen of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of a format selection screen of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of a format confirmation screen of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of a scan execution completion screen of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a screen image showing an example of a new format registration screen of the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a data configuration diagram showing an example of tables used in the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a data configuration diagram showing an example of tables used in the learning management system according to the embodiment of the present invention. This is an example of a flowchart showing the process of registering new assignments to be assigned to students and the format of the answer sheet for the assignment in the learning management server 103 by a teacher operating the client terminal 106 from the client terminal 106. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a new assignment registration screen 2500 displayed on the display unit of the client terminal 106. FIG. 26 shows an example of a new format registration screen 2600.

Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The learning management system 100 is composed of an MFP 101, an MFP management server 102, a learning management server 103, an OCR server 105, and a client terminal 106.

The MFP 101 is a device (document scanner) equipped with printing and scanning functions, and is used by students and teachers to print submissions and create scanned data.

The MFP management server 102 is an information processing device that controls the functions of the MFP 101, registers and manages scan data scanned by the MFP 101, and transmits and receives management data of submitted items, etc., and scan data of submitted items, etc., to and from the learning management server 103.

The learning management server 103 is an information processing device that manages general learning information and data, transmits necessary data in response to requests from the MFP management server 102, and manages scanned data of submitted materials, etc. received from the MFP management server.

The learning management server 103 is an application example of a server of the present invention, which performs OCR processing on the difference between image data of a format not handwritten by a user, which is used as an answer sheet for an assignment, and image data of the answer sheet handwritten by a user on the answer sheet, and manages the image data of the format used to obtain the handwritten content handwritten by the user in association with assignment information indicating the assignment for which the answer sheet of that format is used.

The OCR server 105 is an information processing device that recognizes character data in a specified area from the scan data scanned by the MFP 101 and transmits the recognition results to the learning management server 103.

The network 104 links the MFP 101 with the MFP management server 102 (functioning as a web server) and the learning management server 103 (functioning as a web server), and each is connected so that they can communicate with each other. The network 104 may be the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network).

Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the devices and equipment that make up the learning management system (functioning as a scanning system) of an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration that can be applied to the MFP management server 102, learning management server 103, OCR server 105, and client terminal 106 in Figure 1.

In FIG. 2, 201 is a CPU that performs overall control of each device and controller connected to a system bus 204. In addition, ROM 202 or external memory 211 stores a BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), which is the control program of the CPU 201, an operating system program (hereinafter, OS), and various programs (described below) required to realize the functions executed by each server or each PC.

203 is a RAM, which functions as the main memory, work area, etc. of the CPU 201. The CPU 201 loads programs and the like required for executing processing from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203, and executes the loaded programs to realize various operations.

In addition, 205 is an input controller that controls input from a keyboard (KB) 209 and a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown). 206 is a video controller that controls display on a display device such as a display 210. There are various types of display devices, such as a CRT and a liquid crystal display.

207 is a memory controller that controls access to an external memory 211 such as an external storage device (hard disk (HD)) that stores boot programs, various applications, font data, user files, edited files, various data, etc., a flexible disk (FD), or a CF card memory connected to a PCMCIA card slot via an adapter.

208 is a communication I/F controller that connects and communicates with external devices via a network (e.g., network 104 shown in FIG. 1) and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP/IP is possible.

The CPU 201 enables display on the display 210 by, for example, executing a process of expanding (rasterizing) an outline font into a display information area in the RAM 203. The CPU 201 also enables user instructions using a mouse cursor (not shown) on the display 210.

The various programs for implementing the present invention, which will be described later, are recorded in the external memory 211, and are executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary. Furthermore, definition files and various information tables, etc., used when executing the above programs are also stored in the external memory 211, and detailed explanations of these will be given later.

Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP 101 shown in Figure 1.

In FIG. 3, 316 is a controller unit that is connected to a scanner unit 314 that functions as an image input device and a printer unit 312 that functions as an image output device, and also connected to a LAN (e.g., network 104 shown in FIG. 1) or a public line (WAN) (e.g., PSTN or ISDN, etc.) to input and output image data and device information.

In the controller unit 316, 301 is a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system. 302 is a RAM, which is a system work memory for the operation of the CPU 301, and also serves as a program memory for recording programs and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

303 is a ROM that stores the system boot program and various control programs. 304 is an external storage device (hard disk drive (HDD)) that stores various programs for controlling the system, image data, etc.

307 is an operation unit interface (operation unit I/F), which is an interface with an operation unit (UI) 308, and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 308 to the operation unit 308. The operation unit I/F 307 also plays a role in transmitting information (e.g., user information, etc.) input by a user of this system from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301. The operation unit 308 is equipped with a display unit with a touch panel, and various instructions can be issued by the user pressing (touching with a finger, etc.) buttons displayed on the display unit.

305 is a network interface (Network I/F) that connects to a network (LAN) and inputs and outputs data. 306 is a modem (MODEM) that connects to a public line and inputs and outputs data such as sending and receiving faxes.

318 denotes an external interface (external I/F), which is an I/F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, a printer port, and RS-232C. In this embodiment, a card reader 319 for reading IC cards required for authentication is connected to the external I/F 318. The CPU 301 controls the reading of information from the IC card by the card reader 319 via this external I/F 318, and can acquire the information read from the IC card. Note that this is not limited to an IC card, and any storage medium capable of identifying a user will suffice. In this case, identification information for identifying the user is stored in the storage medium. This identification information may be the manufacturing number of the storage medium, or a user code given to the user within the company.

The above devices are placed on the system bus 309.

320 is an image bus interface (IMAGE BUS I/F), which is a bus bridge that connects the system bus 309 and the image bus 315, which transfers image data at high speed, and converts the data structure.

The image bus 315 is configured as a PCI bus or IEEE 1394. The following devices are placed on the image bus 315.

310 is a raster image processor (RIP), which converts vector data such as PDL code into a bitmap image. 311 is a printer interface (printer I/F), which connects the printer unit 312 to the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous/asynchronous conversion of image data. 313 is a scanner interface (scanner I/F), which connects the scanner unit 314 to the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous/asynchronous conversion of image data.

317 is an image processing unit that performs correction, processing, and editing of input image data, and performs printer correction, resolution conversion, etc. on print output image data. In addition, the image processing unit 317 also rotates image data, and performs compression and decompression processing such as JPEG for multi-value image data and JBIG, MMR, MH for binary image data.

The scanner unit 314 illuminates the image on the original paper and scans it with a CCD line sensor to convert it into an electrical signal as raster image data. The original paper is set on the tray of the original feeder, and when the device user issues an instruction to start reading from the operation unit 308, the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner unit 314, and the feeder feeds the original paper one sheet at a time and performs the operation of reading the original image.

The printer unit 312 is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper. Any method can be used to convert the data, such as an electrophotographic method using a photoreceptor drum or belt, or an inkjet method in which ink is ejected from a tiny nozzle array to print an image directly on paper. The printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301. The printer unit 312 has multiple paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or orientations can be selected, and there are corresponding paper cassettes.

The operation unit 308 has an LCD display unit with a touch panel sheet attached to the LCD, and displays the system operation screen. When a displayed key is pressed, the position information is transmitted to the CPU 301 via the operation unit I/F 307. The operation unit 308 also has various operation keys, such as a start key, a stop key, an ID key, and a reset key.

The start key on the operation unit 308 is used when starting the operation of reading an original image, etc. In the center of the start key is a two-color LED, green and red, which indicates whether the start key is ready to use depending on the color. The stop key on the operation unit 308 stops an operation that is in progress. The ID key on the operation unit 308 is used when entering the user ID of the user. The reset key is used when initializing the settings from the operation unit.

The card reader 319, under the control of the CPU 301, reads information stored in an IC card (e.g., Sony's FeliCa (registered trademark)) and notifies the CPU 301 of the read information via the external I/F 318.

Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a learning management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The learning management system 100 has an MFP 101, an MFP management server 102, a learning management server 103, an OCR server 105, and a client terminal 106.

The MFP 101 has a screen display unit 411, an operation reception unit 412, a scan execution unit 413, and a data transmission/reception unit 414.

The screen display unit 411 is a functional unit that presents information to the user and displays a screen for accepting operations from the user. The operation acceptance unit 412 is a functional unit that accepts operations such as login operations and requests to execute various processes from the user, transmits the processing requests to the controller unit 316, and further transmits the processing requests to the MFP management server 102. The scan execution unit 413 is a functional unit that scans assignment forms and imports them as scan data. The data transmission/reception unit 414 is a functional unit that receives screen display data, etc., and transmits the imported scan data, etc., together with related information to the MFP management server 102.

The MFP management server 102 has a user authentication unit 421, an MFP screen display control unit 422, a scan data management unit 423, and a data transmission/reception unit 424.

The user authentication unit 421 is a functional unit that receives user login information from the MFP 101 and performs user authentication. Based on the authenticated user's login information, it determines the courses the user is responsible for and the assignments to be submitted. The MFP screen display control unit 422 is a functional unit that generates and transmits display data for displaying the necessary screens on the MFP 101. The scan data management unit 423 is a functional unit that stores the scan data received from the MFP 101 in a database or the like and manages the scan data by linking it to the user who created it. The data transmission/reception unit 424 is a functional unit that receives the scan data from the MFP 101 and transmits necessary information, requests, etc. to the learning management server 103. In this embodiment, information processing related to the MFP 101 is performed by the MFP management server 102, and the MFP 101 is configured to mainly perform screen display and operation reception after receiving processing from the MFP management server 102, but the MFP 101 may also be configured to have the functions of the MFP management server 102 and to process information independently.

The learning management server 103 has a data management unit 431, a client terminal screen display control unit 432, and a data transmission/reception unit 433.

The data management unit 431 is a functional unit that manages data related to learning, such as assignment data. Data managed by the data management unit 431 includes a student table 1100 illustrated in FIG. 22(a), a teacher table 1110 illustrated in FIG. 22(b), a course table 1120 illustrated in FIG. 22(c), a teacher table 1130 illustrated in FIG. 22(d), a student table 1140 illustrated in FIG. 22(e), an assignment table 1200 illustrated in FIG. 23(a), a format data table 1210 illustrated in FIG. 23(b), and a scan data table 1220 illustrated in FIG. 23(c).

The client terminal screen display control unit 432 is a functional unit that causes the client terminal 106 to display the screens necessary for checking assignment data and updating assignments, and each screen may be displayed on the learning management server 103's own display, etc. The data transmission/reception unit 433 is a functional unit that transmits and receives necessary information, requests, etc. between the MFP management server 102 and the OCR server 105.

The OCR server 105 has an OCR execution unit 451 and a data transmission/reception unit 452.

The OCR execution unit 451 is a functional unit that executes OCR (character recognition) from the scan data based on the format data stored in the learning management server 103 and the scan data stored in the MFP management server 102. The data transmission/reception unit 452 is a functional unit that transmits and receives necessary information, requests, etc. between the learning management server 103.

The client terminal 106 has a screen display unit 461, an operation reception unit 462, and a data transmission/reception unit 463.

The screen display unit 461 is a functional unit that presents information to the user and displays a screen for accepting operations from the user. The operation acceptance unit 462 is a functional unit that accepts operations such as login operations and requests to execute various processes from the user, transmits the processing requests to the controller unit 316, and further transmits the processing requests to the learning management server 103. The data transmission/reception unit 463 is a functional unit that receives screen display data, etc. from the learning management server 103 and transmits screen display requests, etc. to the learning management server 103.

The processing in the learning management system 100 will be explained below with reference to the figure.

The processes assigned to the MFP 101, the MFP management server 102, the learning management server 103, and the OCR server 105 are executed by the controller unit 316 of the MFP 101, the CPU 201 of the MFP management server 102, the CPU 201 of the learning management server 103, and the CPU 201 of the OCR server 105, respectively.

Figures 5 to 12 and 24 are flowcharts showing an example of the overall processing of the learning management system 100.

First, using FIG. 24, we will explain the process in which, for example, a teacher operates the client terminal 106 to register a new assignment to be given to a student and the format of the answer sheet for that assignment (an answer sheet that has not been filled out by the student) in the learning management server 103.

Figure 24 is an example of a flowchart showing the process of registering new assignments to be assigned to students and the format of the answer sheets for those assignments in the learning management server 103 from the client terminal 106 by the teacher operating the client terminal 106.

The processing of S2401, S2404, and S2405 shown in FIG. 24 is realized by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 106 executing a program.

The processes of S2402, S2403, and S2406 shown in FIG. 24 are realized by the CPU 201 of the learning management server 103 executing a program.

First, the client terminal 106 accesses the learning management server 103 and performs user authentication processing for the teacher operating the client terminal 106 (S2401).

Specifically, the client terminal 106 accesses the learning management server 103 and transmits a request to display a login screen (not shown) (S2401). Then, when the learning management server 103 receives the display request, it transmits display information (HTML, etc.) for displaying the login screen to the client terminal 106 (S2402). Then, when the client terminal 106 acquires the display information, it displays the login screen (not shown) based on the display information. When the client terminal 106 accepts input of a user ID (teacher ID) and a password (authentication information) by the user via the login screen, it transmits the authentication information to the learning management server 103 (S2401). Then, when the learning management server 103 receives the authentication information, it performs authentication processing of the teacher based on the authentication information. Then, the learning management server 103 transmits the authentication result of the authentication processing, if the authentication is successful, to the client terminal 106 display information for displaying a list screen of lessons (courses) taught by the teacher who has been successfully authenticated. On the other hand, if the authentication fails, the learning management server 103 notifies the client terminal 106 that the authentication failed and causes the display unit of the client terminal 106 to display the fact (S2402).

The learning management server 103 identifies the classes taught by the teacher who was successfully authenticated from the teacher table 1130 shown in FIG. 22(d) and generates display information for displaying the list screen (S2402). The teacher table 1130 stores a teacher ID (user ID) and a course ID that identifies the class taught by the teacher in association with each other.

When the client terminal 106 receives display information from the learning management server 103 for displaying a list screen of classes (courses) taught by the teacher, the client terminal 106 displays the list screen of classes (courses) taught by the teacher on the display unit based on the display information.

The client terminal 106 then transmits information (such as a course ID) indicating one of the classes selected by the user from among the multiple classes included in the list screen to the learning management server 103 (S2401). Upon receiving the information indicating the selected class, the learning management server 103 transmits information for displaying a management screen for the class indicated in the information to the client terminal 106 (S2402). Upon receiving the information, the client terminal 106 displays the management screen for the selected class on the display unit based on the information (S2401).

Then, when the client terminal 106 receives an instruction from the user via the management screen to display a new assignment registration screen that accepts registration of new assignments for students taking the class, the client terminal 106 sends a request to the learning management server 103 to obtain display information for the new assignment registration screen (S2404). The request includes information (course ID, etc.) that indicates the currently selected class.

Then, when the learning management server 103 receives the acquisition request, it transmits display information for the new assignment registration screen for the class indicated by the information (course ID, etc.) to the client terminal 106.

Here, the learning management server 103 acquires the format name of the format managed in the format data table 1210 (Figure 23 (b)) as an answer format (answer sheet format) that has already been registered in the learning management server 103, and transmits display information of the new assignment registration screen including the format name to the client terminal 106 (S2403).

When the client terminal 106 acquires the display information, it displays on the display unit a new assignment registration screen (e.g., FIG. 25) for the class indicated by the information (course ID, etc.) based on the display information.

Figure 25 shows an example of a new assignment registration screen 2500 displayed on the display unit of the client terminal 106.

As shown in Figure 25, the name of the currently selected class (Course A) is displayed.

In accordance with user operations, the client terminal 106 accepts input of the assignment title, the content of the assignment, and an attachment file (e.g., a question statement) to be attached as an assignment via the new assignment registration screen 2500.

The new assignment registration screen 2500 is the format of the answer sheet on which the answer to the assignment is to be written, and displays radio buttons 2501 (selection receiving section) that accept the user's selection of an answer format (answer sheet format) that has already been registered in the learning management server 103, a new format registration button 2502 for registering a new format that has not been registered in the learning management server 103, and a registration button 2503 for registering an assignment.

Answer formats (answer sheet formats) that have already been registered in the learning management server 103 are formats managed in the format data table 1210 (Figure 23 (b)), and these formats are displayed in 2501.

When the client terminal 106 determines that the user has pressed the new format registration button 2502 on the new assignment registration screen 2500, it sends a display request for the new format registration screen 2600 shown in FIG. 25 to the learning management server 103 (S2404). Upon receiving the display request, the learning management server 103 sends display information for displaying the new format registration screen 2600 to the client terminal 106 (S2403).

When the client terminal 106 receives the display information, it displays the new format registration screen 2600 on the display unit based on the display information (S2403).

Figure 26 shows an example of a new format registration screen 2600.

The new format registration screen 2600 displays an input field 2601 for the format name, an input field 2602 for the format storage destination, a format preview screen (display area) 2603, and a registration button 2604 for registering the format in the storage destination indicated in the input field 2602 for the format storage destination in the learning management server 103.

When the client terminal 106 receives the user's input of a format name in input field 2601 and an input of a format storage destination in input field 2602, it acquires the format specified by the format storage destination (path) entered in input field 2602 and displays the acquired format in the display area 2603. Here, the format is the format of a document file in a document application such as WORD, and is displayed in that format. Then, when the client terminal 106 receives the user's press of the register button 2604, it transmits the format specified by the format name entered in input field 2601 and the format storage destination (path) entered in input field 2602 to the learning management server 103 and requests registration of the format (S2404).

When the learning management server 103 receives the registration request, it determines whether the format is a file format of a specified application, such as a TIFF file, that is the same as the scan data acquired in S303. If the learning management server 103 determines that the format is not the file format of the specified application, it performs a conversion process to convert the file format of the format into the file format of the specified application that is the same as the scan data acquired in S303 (for example, from a WORD document file to a TIFF image file), and the converted format is processed. If the learning management server 103 determines that the format is the file format of a specified application, it does not perform the conversion process and instead processes the format. This conversion process makes it possible to properly execute the process of S402.

S2403 and S2406 are examples of application of the acquisition means, conversion means, and registration means of the present invention, which acquire a format file that is a file in the format of the answer sheet for an assignment from a client terminal (acquisition means), and if the file format of the acquired format file differs from the file format of the image data of the answer sheet, convert the acquired format file into image data in the same file format as the file format of the image data of the answer sheet (conversion means), and register the image data in the converted format (registration means). The acquisition means acquires assignment information indicating an assignment from the client terminal, and the registration means registers the image data in the format converted by the conversion means in association with the assignment information acquired by the acquisition means.

Then, the learning management server 103 stores the format currently being processed and the format name in the format data table 1210 of FIG. 23(b). Specifically, the learning management server 103 stores (keeps) the format in an arbitrary storage location, stores a storage path indicating the storage location (format data storage path 1213) in the format data table 1210, and stores the format name in the format name 1212 of the format data table 1210. Then, the learning management server 103 stores a format ID for identifying the format in the format ID 1211 of the format data table 1210.

Then, the learning management server 103 acquires the format name (including the format name of the format newly stored (registered) in this way) of the format managed in the format data table 1210 (Figure 23 (b)), and transmits display information of the new assignment registration screen including the format name to the client terminal 106 (S2403).

Then, when the client terminal 106 acquires the display information, it displays on the display unit a new assignment registration screen (e.g., FIG. 25) including the format name of the newly stored (registered) format in 2501 based on the display information. The client terminal 106 then accepts the user's selection of one arbitrary format name from one or more format names displayed in 2501 of the new assignment registration screen (FIG. 25) and accepts pressing of the register button 2503 (S2404). The client terminal 106 then transmits the assignment title, contents, and attached files entered in the new assignment registration screen (FIG. 25), the course ID identifying the currently selected class, and the format ID of the selected format name to the learning management server 103 to request assignment registration. Here, it is assumed that each format ID and course ID are included in the display information of the new assignment registration screen transmitted.

In the above example, it was explained that the user can select one arbitrary format name from one or more format names displayed in 2501 on the new assignment registration screen (Figure 25), but it is also possible to press the registration button 2503 without accepting the selection of this format name. In that case, the client terminal 106 sends the assignment title, content, and attachments entered on the new assignment registration screen (Figure 25), as well as the course ID that identifies the currently selected class, to the learning management server 103 to request assignment registration. In this way, only the assignment can be registered from the client terminal 106, and the format can be registered from the MFP 101.

When the learning management server 103 receives a request to register an assignment, it stores the assignment title included in the registration request in the assignment name in the assignment table 1200 (FIG. 23(a)), and registers the contents and attached files included in the registration request in association with the assignment name. The learning management server 103 also registers the course ID included in the registration request in the course ID 1202 in the assignment table 1200 (FIG. 23(a)), and registers the format ID included in the registration request in the format ID 1205 in the assignment table 1200 (FIG. 23(a)). Then, it assigns and registers a new assignment ID in the assignment ID 1201 of the same record in the assignment table 1200 in which these data are registered. Here, if the registration request does not include a format ID, no format has been selected in 2501, and Null (not selected) is registered in the format ID 1205 in the assignment table 1200 (FIG. 23(a)) (S2406).

In this way, information about assignments and format information can be registered to the learning management server 103 from the client terminal 106.

Next, the authentication process and menu screen display process executed by the MFP 101 and the MFP management server 102 will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

Figure 5 shows an example of authentication processing and menu screen display processing executed by the MFP 101 and the MFP management server 102.

In step S101, the MFP 101 starts the service.

In step S102, the MFP 101 sends a login screen display request to the MFP management server 102.

In step S103, the MFP management server 102 receives a login screen acquisition request (login screen display request) from the MFP 101.

In step S104, the MFP management server 102 generates display data for displaying the login screen data and transmits it to the MFP 101.

In step S105, the MFP 101 receives the display data for the login screen sent from the MFP management server 102, and displays the login screen on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explain Figure 13 (login screen).

Figure 13 shows an example of a login screen. Login screen 1300 is a standby screen until the user touches the card reader 319 with the user's ID card to execute the authentication process.

In step S107, the MFP 101 determines whether or not the user has touched the card reader 319 with the user's ID card. If it is determined that the user's ID card has been touched, the process proceeds to step S108. If not, the process waits in step S107.

In step S108, the MFP 101 sends an authentication processing request to the MFP management server 102. At that time, the MFP 101 sends the authentication information (user ID, etc.) acquired from the ID card touched in step S107 to the MFP management server 102.

In step S109, the MFP management server 102 receives an authentication processing request and authentication information (user ID, etc.) from the MFP 101.

In step S110, the MFP management server 102 performs authentication processing based on the received authentication information.

In step S111, the MFP management server 102 determines whether the authentication process was successful or unsuccessful. If it is determined to be successful, the process proceeds to step S112. If it is determined to be unsuccessful, the process returns to step S104, and the user is requested to touch the ID card again.

In step S112, the MFP management server 102 generates display data for displaying the menu screen and transmits it to the MFP 101.

In step S113, the MFP 101 receives display data for the menu screen (FIG. 14) sent from the MFP management server 102, and displays the menu screen on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explain Figure 14 (menu screen).

Figure 14 shows an example of a menu screen. Menu screen 1400 has buttons for executing the basic functions of MFP 101, such as copy, print, and scan and send, and further has a task scan button 1401 for scanning task data. Pressing each button executes the corresponding function, and a screen corresponding to the executed function is displayed on operation unit 308.

Explain Figure 6.

In step S115, the MFP 101 determines whether or not it has detected a user pressing the execution mode button on the displayed menu screen 1400. If it determines that it has detected a user pressing the task scan button 1401, it proceeds to step S116. If not, it waits in step S115 (or, if another button has been pressed, it executes a process to realize the corresponding function).

In step S116, MFP 101 sends a request to display a list of courses for which the logged-in user (teacher) is responsible.

In step S117, the MFP management server 102 receives a course list display request from the MFP 101.

In step S118, the MFP management server 102 sends a course list acquisition request to the learning management server 103. At this time, the MFP management server 102 sends the user ID acquired at the time of login.

In step S119, the learning management server 103 receives a request to obtain a course list.

In step S120, the learning management server 103 executes a course search process. At this time, the learning management server 103 searches the instructor table 1130 shown in FIG. 22(d) using the user ID sent from the MFP management server 102 as a search condition to obtain the corresponding course ID (the course ID corresponding to the user ID).

In step S121, the learning management server 103 sends the results of the course list acquisition process to the MFP management server 102.

In step S122, the MFP management server 102 receives the results of the course list acquisition process from the learning management server 103.

In step S123, the MFP management server 102 generates display data for displaying the course list screen based on the results of the course list acquisition process and transmits the display data to the MFP 101.

In step S124, the MFP 101 receives display data for the course list screen from the MFP management server 102, and displays the course list screen (Figure 15) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explain Figure 15 (Course list screen).

Figure 15 shows an example of a course list screen. The course list screen 1500 displays a list of courses that the user (teacher) is in charge of in a timetable format. The course list screen 1500 has a course selection link 1501, and by pressing the link of the target course, the assignment list screen (Figure 16) for the target course is displayed.

6 will be described. In step S126, the MFP 101 determines whether or not a course has been selected by the user on the course list screen 1500. If it is determined that a course has been selected, the process proceeds to step S127. If not, the process waits in step S126 (or, if another button is pressed, the corresponding process is executed).

In step S127, the MFP 101 sends to the MFP management server 102 a request to display the assignment list screen corresponding to the course selected by the user. At this time, the course ID of the selected course is sent.

In step S128, the MFP management server 102 receives a request to display the assignment list screen from the MFP 101.

In step S129, the MFP management server 102 sends a request to obtain a list of assignments to the learning management server 103. At this time, the MFP management server 102 sends the course ID sent from the MFP 101.

In step S130, the learning management server 103 receives a request to obtain a list of assignments from the MFP management server 102.

In step S131, the learning management server 103 executes an assignment search process. At this time, the course ID sent from the MFP management server 102 is used as a search criterion to search the assignment table 1200 shown in FIG. 23(a) and obtain the record of the corresponding assignment ID (the result of the assignment list acquisition process).

In step S132, the learning management server 103 sends the results of the assignment list acquisition process to the MFP management server 102.

In step S133, the MFP management server 102 receives the results of the assignment list acquisition process from the learning management server 103.

In step S134, the MFP management server 102 generates display data for displaying the assignment list screen based on the results of the assignment list acquisition process and transmits the display data to the MFP 101.

In step S135, the MFP 101 receives display data for the assignment list screen from the MFP management server 102, and displays the assignment list screen (Figure 16) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explain Figure 16 (Task list screen).

Figure 16 shows an example of the assignment list screen. The assignment list screen 1600 displays in list form the assignments corresponding to the course selected by the user. The assignment list screen 1600 has a return/feedback link 1601 for each assignment. Pressing the return/feedback link 1601 for the target assignment displays the scan execution screen.

Explain Figure 7.

In step S140, the MFP 101 determines whether or not the user has selected an assignment on the assignment list screen 1600, i.e., whether or not the return/feedback link 1601 for a specific assignment has been pressed. If it is determined that an assignment has been selected (YES), the process proceeds to step S141. If not (NO), the process proceeds to step S140.

In step S141, the MFP 101 sends a display request for the scan execution screen for the selected assignment to the MFP management server 102.

In step S142, the MFP management server 102 receives a request to display the scan execution screen from the MFP 101.

In step S143, the MFP management server 102 generates data for displaying a scan execution screen and sends it to the MFP 101.

In step S144, the MFP 101 receives display data for the scan execution screen from the MFP management server 102, and displays the scan execution screen (Figure 17) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explain Figure 17 (scan execution screen).

Figure 17 shows an example of a scan execution screen. The scan execution screen 1700 displays the assignment name or course name to be scanned, settings for scanning, etc., and by pressing the start scan button 1701 (scan instruction receiving means), scanning is performed according to the displayed contents.

Explain Figure 7.

In step S145, the MFP 101 sends an inquiry request to the learning management server 103 to confirm whether the format corresponding to the assignment ID of the assignment selected by the user in step S140 has already been registered in the learning management server 103. At this time, the MFP 101 sends the assignment ID selected in S140.

In step S146, the learning management server 103 receives a query request from the MFP 101.

In step S147, the learning management server 103 searches the assignment table 1200 in FIG. 23(a) using the received assignment ID as a key to determine whether the format ID (format) corresponding to the assignment ID has already been registered in the learning management server 103.

If the format ID corresponding to the assignment ID is registered in the assignment table 1200, the learning management server 103 obtains the format name registered in the format data table 1210 (Figure 23 (b)) corresponding to the format ID as the confirmation result. On the other hand, if the format ID corresponding to the assignment ID is not registered in the assignment table 1200 (if Null (unselected) is registered in the format ID 1205 item corresponding to the assignment ID), the learning management server 103 obtains information indicating that the format is unregistered (unselected) for the assignment identified by the assignment ID as the confirmation result.

In step S148, the learning management server 103 transmits the confirmation result of step S147 to the MFP 101.

In step S149, the MFP 101 receives the confirmation result of step S147 from the learning management server 103. After receiving the result, the MFP 101 proceeds to step S150.

In another embodiment, if the confirmation result received in step S147 is "information indicating that a format has not been registered (not selected) for the assignment identified by the assignment ID" (Null (not selected)), the process can be controlled to automatically proceed to step S171 to request the display of a format selection screen.

In step S150, if the MFP 101 receives a format name as the confirmation result in step S149, it displays the format name in 1702 on the scan execution screen 1700(A) shown in FIG. 17. On the other hand, if the MFP 101 receives "information indicating that a format has not been registered (not selected) for the assignment identified by the assignment ID" as the confirmation result in step S149, it displays a message in 1702 on the scan execution screen 1700(B) shown in FIG. 17 indicating that a format has not been selected and that a format should be registered (selected).

S146 is an example of the application of the receiving means of the present invention, which receives assignment information (such as an assignment ID) indicating the assignment for the answer sheet to be read from a terminal (MFP101) equipped with a reading means (scanner) for reading the answer sheet.

S147 is an example of the application of the determination means of the present invention, which determines whether image data of a format has been associated and registered by the registration means with the assignment information accepted by the acceptance means in S146.

S148 is an application example of the notification means of the present invention, and when the determination means of S147 determines that image data of a format is not associated and registered by the registration means with the assignment information accepted by the acceptance means, the notification means notifies the terminal of that effect. In other words, when the determination means determines that image data of a format is associated and registered by the registration means with the assignment information accepted by the acceptance means, the notification means issues a notification to display on the terminal a screen displaying format information identifying the registered format.

By performing this type of control, the user can visually check on the scan execution screen shown in Figure 17 whether the format corresponding to the assignment ID selected in step S140 has already been registered in the learning management server 103.

In step S151, the MFP 101 determines whether or not the user has pressed the Start Scan button 1701 on the scan execution screen 1700. If it is determined that the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S152. If not, the process proceeds to step S170 (or, if another button has been pressed, the corresponding process is executed).

In step S152, the MFP 101 executes scanning. Here, the assignment forms on which students have filled out their student ID numbers, answers, and other information and submitted, and which have been evaluated by teachers, are collected and read by the scanner unit 314 of the MFP 101, and temporarily stored as scanned data in the HDD 304, etc.

Explain Figure 8.

In step S160, the MFP 101 sends the temporarily stored scan data to the MFP management server 102.

In step S161, the MFP management server 102 receives the scan data sent from the MFP 101.

In step S162, the MFP management server 102 registers the received scan data in an arbitrary storage device in association with the assignment ID. The storage device may be the external memory 211 of the MFP management server 102 or the learning management server 103, or may be a storage device such as another file server that can be connected via the network 104.

In step S163, the MFP management server 102 generates data for displaying a scan execution completion screen and transmits the data to the MFP 101.

In step S164, the MFP 101 receives display data for the scan execution completion screen, and displays the scan execution completion screen (Figure 20) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Figure 20 (Scan execution completion screen) is explained.

Figure 20 shows an example of a scan execution completion screen. The scan execution completion screen 2000 displays the name of the scanned assignment or course, and indicates that the import of the scan data has been completed successfully.

Pressing each button will take you to the corresponding screen.

Explain Figure 8.

In step S165, the MFP management server 102 sends a registration notification of the scanned data to the learning management server 103. At this time, the assignment ID corresponding to the scanned data, the file name of the scanned data, etc. are sent.

In step S166, the learning management server 103 receives a registration notification of the scan data.

In step S167, the learning management server 103 executes the assignment data registration process (FIG. 10). Note that in this embodiment, this process is executed immediately after receiving the notification of the registration of the scanned data, but it may be executed asynchronously, such as as a regular batch process.

Explain Figure 9.

In step S170, the MFP 101 determines whether or not the user has pressed the format selection button 1702 on the scan execution screen 1700. If it is determined that the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S171. If not, the process returns to step S170. Alternatively, if another button has been pressed, the corresponding process is executed.

In step S171, the MFP 101 sends a format list screen display request (format selection screen display request) to the MFP management server 102.

In step S172, the MFP management server 102 receives a request to display the format list screen from the MFP 101.

In step S173, the MFP management server 102 sends a format list acquisition request to the learning management server 103.

In step S174, the learning management server 103 receives a format list acquisition request from the MFP management server 102.

In step S175, the learning management server 103 executes a format search process. It obtains all registered format IDs, format names, and format data storage paths from the format data table 1210 shown in FIG. 23(b).

In step S176, the learning management server 103 sends all of the format acquisition process results obtained in step S175 to the MFP management server 102.

In step S177, the MFP management server 102 receives the format acquisition process results from the learning management server 103.

In step S178, the MFP management server 102 generates display data for displaying a format confirmation screen based on the results of the format acquisition process and transmits the display data to the MFP 101.

In step S179, the MFP 101 receives display data for the format confirmation screen from the MFP management server 102, and displays the format confirmation screen (Figure 18) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explain Figure 18 (format selection screen).

An example of a format selection screen is shown in FIG. 18. The format selection screen 1800 includes the following:
Corresponding to each format (blank format), a button 1801 (format selection means) for selecting each format and a button 1802 (accepting section for accepting an instruction to display a reference image) for confirming the format (blank) of each format are displayed in a list. Pressing each button transitions to the corresponding screen.

Explain Figure 9.

In step S180, the MFP 101 determines whether or not a format has been selected by the user on the format selection screen 1800, i.e., whether or not the button 1801 for selecting a specific format has been pressed. If it is determined that a specific format has been selected (YES), the process proceeds to step S181. Furthermore, after the specific format has been selected, the display of the selected button 1801 changes from "Select" to "Selected." If not (NO), the process proceeds to step S186.

In step S181, the MFP 101 sends to the MFP management server 102 a format registration request corresponding to the format selected by the user in step S180. At this time, the format ID (and a set of assignment IDs) of the selected format are sent.

In step S182, the MFP management server 102 receives a format registration request from the MFP 101.

In step S183, the MFP management server 102 sends a format registration request to the learning management server 103. At this time, the MFP management server 102 sends the format ID (and the set of assignment IDs) sent from the MFP 101.

In step S184, the learning management server 103 receives a format registration request from the MFP management server 102.

In step S185, the learning management server 103 executes a format ID registration process. At this time, the assignment table 1200 shown in FIG. 23(a) is searched for the assignment ID sent as a set from the MFP management server 102 as a search criterion, and the format ID sent in association with the corresponding assignment ID is registered.

S185 is an example of application of the registration means of the present invention, in which image data in a format acquired by the image data acquisition means is registered in association with assignment information.

In step S186, the MFP 101 determines whether or not the user has selected one of the buttons 1802 for confirming the format on the format selection screen 1800. If it is determined that one of the buttons 1802 has been selected (YES), the process proceeds to step S187. If not (NO), the process proceeds to step S501. Alternatively, if another button has been pressed, the corresponding process is executed.

In step S187, the MFP 101 sends a request to the MFP management server 102 to display a format confirmation screen corresponding to the format selected by the user. At this time, the MFP 101 sends the format ID of the format selected in step S186.

In step S188, the MFP management server 102 receives a request to display a format confirmation screen from the MFP 101.

In step S189, the MFP management server 102 sends a request to obtain a format confirmation screen to the learning management server 103. At this time, the MFP management server 102 sends the format ID sent from the MFP 101.

In step S190, the learning management server 103 receives a request to obtain a format confirmation screen from the MFP management server 102.

In step S191, the learning management server 103 executes a format display image search process. At this time, the format data table 1210 shown in FIG. 23(b) is searched using the format ID sent from the MFP management server 102 as a search condition, and a display image of the format corresponding to the selected format ID is obtained.

In step S192, the learning management server 103 sends the display image search results for the format to the MFP management server 102.

In step S193, the MFP management server 102 receives the display image search results for the format from the learning management server 103.

In step S194, the MFP management server 102 generates display data for displaying a screen for confirming the format (blank) based on the format display image search results, and transmits the data to the MFP 101.

In step S195, the MFP 101 receives display data for a screen for confirming the format (blank) from the MFP management server 102, and displays a screen for confirming the format (blank) (Figure 19) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Explains Figure 19 (Checking the format (blank)).

Figure 19 shows an example of a screen for checking the format (blank). The screen 1900 for checking the format (blank) displays a reference image that allows visual confirmation of the contents (blank) of each format corresponding to each format name selected from the list in Figure 18.

While it is not possible to determine the contents (blank page) of each format from the format name alone, this will allow users to visually compare the reference images showing the contents (blank page) of each format that corresponds to each format name to see if they are the same as the task at hand for which they are about to import the scanned data.

Figure 19 shows an example in which an image is displayed that allows the user to visually check the contents (blank) of the format for University A. In this way, a reference image that allows the user to visually check the contents of the format for University A (blank) is first displayed, and the user can then properly visually check the contents of University A, and then correctly select University A. This allows the user to visually check that the format data (blank) and the scanned data (with scores, etc., filled in) are correctly linked before the process of OCRing scores, etc.

Furthermore, it may be possible to control whether each format name button 1801 can be pressed or not, so that a button 1802 for confirming each format is pressed, a reference image is displayed in which the content (blank) of the format that uniquely corresponds to each format name button can be visually confirmed, and the content can be properly visually confirmed before each format name button 1801 can be pressed.

In other words, in FIG. 11, it is possible to prevent mistakes in linking the scanned data (in which scores, etc. have been written) with the format data (blank paper) obtained when processing the OCR of scores, etc.

Pressing any of the other buttons will take you to the corresponding screen.

Explain Figure 10.

Now, with reference to Figure 10, we will explain the assignment data registration process.

In step S301, the learning management server 103 sends an OCR execution request to the OCR server 105. At this time, the file name of the scan data registered in step S150, etc. are sent.

In step S302, the OCR server 105 receives an OCR execution request from the learning management server 103.

In step S303, the OCR server 105 acquires the scan data registered in step S150. That is, the OCR server 105 queries the scan data table 1220 (FIG. 23C), searches the scan data table 1220 for the storage location of the scan data (tiff file) corresponding to the assignment ID, and acquires the scan data (tiff file) corresponding to the assignment ID.

In step S304, the OCR server 105 performs OCR processing on the scan data. Here, the scan data is divided for each submitter (student), and the OCR results for each divided scan data are obtained by character recognition, including the user ID (student ID number) entered by the student and the score (evaluation result) entered by the teacher.

In step S305, the OCR server 105 transmits the acquired OCR results to the learning management server 103. At this time, the OCR server 105 transmits the scanned data divided for each submitter or the storage path.

In step S306, the learning management server 103 receives the OCR results from the OCR server 105.

In step S307, the learning management server 103 registers the assignment data based on the received OCR results. Here, in the scan data table 1220 shown in FIG. 23(c), a new record is registered by assigning an assignment data number 1222 for each piece of scan data divided for each submitter to the assignment ID 1221, and the storage destination of the scan data divided for each submitter, the OCRed student ID number 1224, and the OCRed score 1225 are registered in the scan data storage path 1223. If the student ID number 1224 and score 1225 cannot be obtained by OCR processing, they are left blank.

In this embodiment, the learning management server 103 sends an OCR execution request to the OCR server 105 to execute OCR processing, but the OCR server 105 may detect the registration of scanned data and execute OCR processing, or may execute OCR periodically.

This concludes the explanation of the assignment data registration process.

Upon completion of the task data registration process in step S167, the entire process ends.

Explain Figure 11.

In step S401, the OCR server 105 also obtains the format data (tiff file) associated with the scan data registered in step S150.

That is, a query is made to assignment table 1200, and the format ID corresponding to the assignment ID is first checked from assignment table 1200.

Next, the OCR server 105 queries the format data table 1210 and searches the format data table 1210 for the storage location of the format data (tiff file) corresponding to the format ID, thereby obtaining the format data (tiff file) corresponding to the assignment ID.

In step S402, the format data portion (format portion) in the scan data (tiff file) acquired in step S303 is erased using the scan data (tiff file) and the format data (tiff file). In other words, the erasure process erases all blank format data information from the scan data (tiff file) acquired in step S303, leaving only written information such as the student ID number and scores. In other words, by using the differential method, it becomes possible to process only the characters handwritten by the student or examinee, without processing the lines and frames printed on the blank answer sheet shown in Figure 19, or the characters such as the student ID number and scores, and to perform OCR processing.

In step S403, the remaining information (character strings) such as student ID number and scores are processed using OCR.

Explain Figure 12.

In step S501, the MFP 101 determines whether or not the user has pressed the button 1803 for registering a new format on the format selection screen 1800 ( FIG. 18 ). If it is determined that the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S502. If not, the process returns to S179. Alternatively, if another button has been pressed, the corresponding process is executed.

In step S502, the MFP 101 sends a display request to the MFP management server 102 for a screen for registering a new format.

In step S503, the MFP management server 102 receives a display request from the MFP 101 for a screen for registering a new format.

In step S504, the MFP management server 102 generates data for displaying a screen for registering a new format and transmits the data to the MFP 101.

In step S505, the MFP 101 receives display data for a screen for registering a new format from the MFP management server 102, and displays a screen for registering a new format (Figure 21) on the operation unit 308 based on the received display data.

Figure 21 (screen for registering a new format) is explained.

Figure 21 shows an example of a screen for registering a new format. The screen 2100 for registering a new format displays a start scan button 2101 for starting scanning after placing an unregistered format (blank paper) in the reading unit.

After that, when the user presses the scan start button 2101, the MFP 101 scans an unregistered format (blank paper) (an answer sheet that has not been handwritten by the user) and transmits image data of the format of the answer sheet obtained by reading the answer sheet that has not been handwritten by the user with a reading means (scanner) to the learning management server 103. The learning management server 103 then acquires image data of the format of the answer sheet (image data acquisition means).

Then, the learning management server 103 registers the image data of the format acquired by the image data acquisition means, and also registers a new record in FIG. 23(b). When a new record is added to FIG. 23(b), the teacher ID acquired in S109 is associated with the new record and registered to identify the teacher who added the record.

Pressing any of the other buttons will take you to the corresponding screen.

As described above, according to the present invention, as explained using FIG. 24, the format used in S402 can be registered in the learning management server 103 from the client terminal 106 operated by the teacher, thereby reducing the work required for the user to read the format paper with the MFP 101.

Although each embodiment has been described in detail above, the present invention can be embodied, for example, as a system, device, method, program, or storage medium, and specifically, may be applied to a system made up of multiple devices, or may be applied to a device made up of a single device.

For example, the MFP management server 102, learning management server 103, and OCR server 105 can be integrated into a single housing, and the housing can be operated as a single learning management server 103.

The program of the present invention is a program that is executable (readable) by a computer to execute each processing method, and the storage medium of the present invention stores a program that is executable by a computer to execute each processing method.

The program in the present invention may be a program for each processing method of each device.

As described above, it goes without saying that the object of the present invention can be achieved by supplying a recording medium on which a program that realizes the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is recorded to a system or device, and having the computer (or CPU or MPU) of that system or device read and execute the program stored on the recording medium.

In this case, the program read from the recording medium itself realizes the novel functions of the present invention, and the recording medium on which the program is stored constitutes the present invention.

Recording media for supplying the program may include, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a DVD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM, an EEPROM, a silicon disk, etc.

Furthermore, it goes without saying that not only are the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments realized by the computer executing a program it has read, but also that the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments can be realized by an operating system (OS) or the like running on the computer carrying out some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program.

Furthermore, it goes without saying that this also includes cases where a program read from a recording medium is written into a memory provided on a function expansion board inserted into a computer or a function expansion unit connected to a computer, and then a CPU or the like provided on the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program code, thereby realizing the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments.

The present invention may be applied to a system made up of multiple devices, or to an apparatus consisting of a single device. Needless to say, the present invention can also be applied to cases where the effects of the present invention are achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus. In this case, the effects of the present invention can be enjoyed by the system or apparatus by reading a recording medium containing a program for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus.

Furthermore, by downloading and reading a program for achieving the present invention from a server, database, etc. on a network using a communication program, the system or device can enjoy the effects of the present invention. Note that the present invention also includes configurations that combine the above-mentioned embodiments and their modified examples.

100 Learning management system 101 MFP
102 MFP management server 103 Learning management server 104 Network 105 OCR server 106 Client terminal

Claims (7)

A server that manages first data relating to a form of a format not filled in by a user and second data relating to a form of a format filled in by a user in association with submission information,
a first display control means for displaying a first screen for receiving an instruction to acquire second data in association with the submission information;
a second display control means for displaying a second screen for receiving a selection of first data to be associated with the submission information from among the first data registered in advance;
Equipped with
A server characterized in that the first screen displays an object that accepts operations related to the display of the second screen, and the object displays information related to the correspondence between the submission information and the first data. 2. The server of claim 1, wherein the object is a button . The server according to claim 2 , wherein a label of the button includes information relating to association of the first data in the submission information. A server according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, when first data is associated with the submission information, the object displays information identifying the associated first data. A server as described in any one of claims 1 to 4 , characterized in that when first data is not associated with the submission information, the object displays that the first data is not associated with the submission information. A control method in a server that manages first data relating to a form of a format not filled in by a user and second data relating to a form of a format filled in by a user in association with submission information, the method comprising:
a first display control step of displaying a first screen for receiving an instruction to acquire second data in association with the submission information;
a second display control step of displaying a second screen for receiving a selection of first data to be associated with the submission information from among the first data registered in advance;
Equipped with
A control method characterized by displaying an object on the first screen that accepts operations related to the display of the second screen, and displaying information related to the correspondence between the submission information and first data in the object. A program for causing at least one computer to function as each of the means of the server according to any one of claims 1 to 5 .

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