JP2004104679A - Method and device for image processing and printer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily acquire moving images to be turned over desired by a user by performing an operation with improved memory efficiency. <P>SOLUTION: In an image processor for printing a plurality of continuous still images which can be observed as moving images to be turned over on the basis of moving picture data, a desired still picture cutting range is designated from the moving picture data by operating a start point button 341, an end point button 342, a seek bar 329, etc., in a window 340. When a preview button 343 is clicked, a moving picture file composed of the prescribed of number of continuous still pictures is generated from the designated desired range in the moving picture data. Memory efficiency is improved without storing cut still pictures in the memory by one at a time by displaying the moving picture file on a preview. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image processing method and apparatus for printing out a plurality of images obtained from moving image data, and a printing apparatus.
[0002]
[Prior art]
An apparatus that prints a continuous movement of a subject as a plurality of images has been proposed. An example of this type of apparatus is described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-327376.
[0003]
According to Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 10-327376, a predetermined number of captured images are obtained and stored from a video camera output during a period from a shooting start instruction to a lapse of a predetermined shooting time. Printout is described as follows. In this print output, a margin is provided on the side of each captured image, and the margin can be bound as shown in FIG. 26A by using the margin as a binding margin. The user can observe the captured image as a moving image by successively turning over the bundled prints as shown in FIG. Hereinafter, such a moving image is referred to as a “turning moving image” in the present specification. In addition, a continuous still image that provides a flipped moving image is referred to as a continuous still image.
[0004]
Further, the position of the margin portion of the print output in FIG. 25 can be specified on either the left side or the right side of the captured image, so that the user can cope with right-handed cases and left-handed cases. That is, a printout for right-handed use (for left binding) can be obtained by designating that the blank portion is provided on the left side of the captured image, and a printout for left-handed use by designating that the blank portion is provided on the right side of the captured image. A printout (for right binding) can be obtained.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In general, in this type of apparatus, captured images are taken out at predetermined time intervals for the entire range from the start to the end of shooting, and stored for outputting a continuous still image. According to the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 10-327376, when a desired photographing time among 8 seconds, 10 seconds, and 12 seconds is designated, photographing is performed at the designated photographing time, and a predetermined interval is set between the photographing times. The captured image is stored. For example, if 8 seconds are specified, the captured images are stored every 1/6 second to store 48 captured images, and if 10 seconds are specified, 1/48 are stored to store 48 captured images. The captured image is stored every 5 seconds.
[0006]
However, if, for example, a shooting time of 10 seconds is specified, but the part of interest to the user is the part from 2 seconds to 9 seconds, the captured images included in the first and last one second are useless. Print output. Also, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-223876 only describes that “moving images may be taken and individual frames may be cut out from the moving images at regular time intervals”. That is, in the related art, only the clipping of an image is performed for the entire series of captured moving images, and a print output that closely corresponds to the user's interest cannot be obtained.
[0007]
As described above, in the related art, there is a problem that it is only possible to cut out an image for a whole series of captured moving images, and thus it is not possible to obtain a print output that closely corresponds to a user's interest.
[0008]
Further, in Macintosh OS 9 and the like, there is a memory limitation, and the amount of memory that can be used by an application is limited. In such a background, effective means for saving memory when an application operates is desired.
[0009]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and obtains a continuous still image by extracting a predetermined number of images from a desired range in a moving image at regular intervals, and creates a moving image file composed of the extracted still images. By using this, the memory efficiency is improved, and the still images extracted from the movie file are continuously displayed prior to the printout, so that the preview of the turning movie can be performed, and it is possible to respond to a user's request in detail. It is intended to be.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An image processing apparatus according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration.
[0011]
That is, it operates on a host computer such as a Macintosh or a home PC, which has a memory constraint, and prints a plurality of continuous still images that can be observed as a turning-over moving image based on moving image data. An image processing device,
Specifying means for specifying a desired range of the moving image data;
Generating means for generating a predetermined number of continuous still images using frames within the desired range of the moving image data,
Means for holding the still image generated by the generating means as a moving image file,
Print control means for printing the still image generated by the generation means.
[0012]
Further, the image processing method according to the present invention for achieving the above object,
It operates on a host computer such as a Macintosh or a home PC, which has a memory constraint, and prints a plurality of continuous still images that can be observed as a turning-over moving image based on moving image data. An image processing method,
A specifying step of specifying a desired range of the moving image data;
A generation step of generating a predetermined number of continuous still images using frames within the desired range of the video data,
Holding the still image generated by the generating means as a moving image file,
A print control step of printing the still image generated by the generation unit.
[0013]
Further, the printing apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object,
It operates on a host computer such as a Macintosh or a home PC, which has a memory constraint, and prints a plurality of continuous still images that can be observed as a turning-over moving image based on moving image data. A print processing device,
Specifying means for specifying a desired range of the moving image data;
Generating means for generating a predetermined number of continuous still images using frames within the desired range of the moving image data,
Means for holding the still image generated by the generating means as a moving image file,
Print control means for printing the still image generated by the generation means.
[0014]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0015]
[System configuration]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. The image forming system according to the present embodiment includes an information processing apparatus 100 that generates print data (including a control command), and a printer 170 that forms an image based on the print data.
[0016]
The information processing apparatus 100 includes a memory 110, a CPU 130, a hard disk controller (HDC) 120 and a hard disk (HD) 121 connected thereto, a floppy (registered trademark) disk controller (FDC) 125, and a floppy ( (Registered Trademark) Disk Drive (FD) 126, Printer Controller (PRTC) 140, Keyboard / Pointing Device Controller (KB / PDC) 150, Keyboard (KB) and Pointing Device (PD) 151 Connected thereto, CRT Controller (CRTC) 160 and a CRT 161 connected thereto.
[0017]
In this embodiment, a mouse is used as the pointing device PD, but various devices such as a trackball and a touch panel can be used. Further, in the above configuration, the CRT 161 is used as the display, but it goes without saying that other types of display such as a liquid crystal display or a plasma display may be used.
[0018]
The memory 110 includes, for example, an application 111 that performs image editing processing according to the present invention, a printer driver 112 that is software for generating print data corresponding to the printer 170, and a spooler area that spools print data to be supplied to the printer 170. 113, and an OS (Operating System) and a work area (not shown).
[0019]
The CPU 130 operates based on the application 111, the printer driver 112, the OS, and the like in the memory 110. When the power is turned on, booting is performed by a boot program stored in a ROM (not shown), the OS program is loaded from the HD 121 into the memory 110, and the OS is started. Thereafter, the application program is similarly loaded and executed under the management of the OS, thereby functioning as an image forming system. Also, it goes without saying that the CPU 130 can access the HD 121 via the HDC 120.
[0020]
The PRTC 140 performs a process of sequentially transmitting the print data stored in the spooler area 113 to the printer 170. The KB / PDC 150 controls the KB / PD 151 and fetches instruction data from a user input using a keyboard or a mouse into the apparatus. The CRTC 160 is a controller that controls the CRT 161 that is a display device. These blocks 150, 151, 160, 161 constitute a user interface.
[0021]
On the other hand, an interface 171 for receiving print data from the information processing apparatus 100 and notifying the information processing apparatus 100 of various statuses to the printer 170, mainly interprets the received printer data and generates bitmap image data. The printer control unit 172 includes a printer engine 173 that receives the bitmap image data output from the printer control unit 172 and actually forms an image. Although not shown, an operation panel and the like are also provided. Further, the printer engine 173 may use any system such as an inkjet system, an electrophotographic system, and a thermal system.
[0022]
In the above configuration, when the printer 170 is connected to the information processing apparatus 100, it is necessary to install a printer driver for generating printer data corresponding to the printer 170 at an initial stage. Needless to say, this installation usually only needs to be done once, unless there is a special reason.
[0023]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the information processing apparatus 100 of the image forming system illustrated in FIG. 1 from the viewpoint of a software configuration.
[0024]
A keyboard and a mouse (KB / PD) 151 are connected to the information processing device 100 as input devices. Further, a printer 170 and a CRT 161 as a monitor are connected as output devices.
[0025]
Inputs made using a keyboard or mouse are processed by a keyboard / mouse driver 182 and passed to the OS 180. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 includes application software 101 such as a word processor, a spreadsheet, and an Internet browser. A group of various rendering processing instructions (an image rendering instruction, a text rendering instruction, and a graphics rendering instruction) indicating an output image issued by the application software 101 are input to the monitor driver 181 via the OS 180. When printing is performed, the rendering command group is input to the printer driver 112 via the OS 180. The printer driver 112 is software for processing a drawing command group to create print data and causing the printer 170 to print the data. The monitor driver 181 is software for displaying an image on the CRT 161.
[0026]
Incidentally, as the information processing apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, using Apple's personal computer generally widespread, it is conceivable to use a MacOS9 ^(R) by Apple as OS 180. Further, by connecting the monitor 106, the printer 105, and the keyboard / mouse 112 to such a personal computer and executing a print processing application described below, the print system of the present embodiment is realized.
[0027]
In the information processing apparatus 100, output image data is output using application software 111 using text data classified into text such as characters, graphics data classified into graphics such as graphics, image image data classified into photographic images, and the like. Is created. Then, when printing an image based on the output image data, the application software 111 issues a print output request to the OS 180, the text data part is a text drawing instruction, the graphics data part is a graphics drawing instruction, and the image image data part is an image. A drawing command group composed of drawing commands is issued to the OS 180.
[0028]
When receiving the print output request from the application software 111, the OS 180 passes a group of drawing commands to the printer driver 112 corresponding to the printer 170. The printer driver 112 processes a print output request and a drawing command group passed from the OS 180, creates print data that can be printed by the printer 170, and sends the print data to the printer 170.
[0029]
When the printer 170 is a raster printer, the printer driver 112 sequentially rasterizes the drawing command group into, for example, a band memory having a depth of 8 bits for each of RGB. Then, after rasterizing all the drawing commands, the contents of the page memory are converted into a data format printable by the printer 170, for example, CMYK data, and sent to the printer 170. This band memory is allocated to, for example, a RAM (memory 110).
[0030]
[About the print processing application]
Next, a print processing application according to the present embodiment that can operate as the application 111 will be described. The print processing application according to the present embodiment extracts a predetermined number of continuous still images from the desired range of the moving image data, and prints them on a sheet provided with perforations that can be separated into strip-shaped sheets as shown in FIG. Print continuous still images. Printing is performed so that a continuous still image and a blank portion are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the strip-shaped sheet, so that a binding margin is formed in each strip-shaped sheet. By bundling the strip-shaped sheets thus obtained as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, it is possible to observe a turning-over moving image. Hereinafter, the operation and function of the print processing application according to the present embodiment will be described in detail.
[0031]
When the print processing application according to the present embodiment is activated, a dedicated application window is displayed. As application windows, a paper selection screen (see FIG. 7), a moving image selection screen (see FIG. 8), a range setting screen (see FIG. 9A), and a print / save screen (see FIG. 10A) are prepared. When the printing application is started, a paper selection window is displayed as an initial screen, but the present invention is not limited to this. Also, each screen is provided with tabs (301a to 301d) for screen selection, and by clicking a desired tab, it is possible to shift to a desired screen among the screens of FIGS. 7 to 10A. it can.
[0032]
The general printing procedure by the print processing application is as follows.
・ Set the printer and paper to be used on the paper selection screen,
・ Select a desired movie file on the movie selection screen,
On the range setting screen, set a desired range in the moving image file selected on the moving image selection screen, and check whether the range set by the preview of the turning moving image was appropriate,
On the print / save screen, a predetermined number of continuous still images are generated from the desired range set on the range setting screen, and output by the printer set above.
[0033]
Hereinafter, the operation will be described in detail for each screen.
[0034]
First, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 7, a description will be given of a paper selection process executed by displaying a paper selection screen. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when the sheet selection screen illustrated in FIG. 7 is selected.
[0035]
In step S101, the user inputs the name of the printer to be selected in the box 310, and prompts the user to select a printer. Here, when the user clicks the ▽ portion on the left side of the box 310, a list of available printers is displayed, and the user can select a desired printer from the list. If there is only one printer available, that printer is displayed in box 310. The available printer is a printer supported by the print application, and a printer driver is installed in the information processing apparatus. When the application is activated, the printer selected at the end of the previous application is set as the selected printer.
[0036]
In step S102, selection of a cartridge using the box 311 is performed, and in step S103, selection of paper using the box 312 is performed. In this embodiment, the paper size is fixed at A4, but a desired paper size may be selected.
[0037]
Steps S101 and S102 may not be provided depending on the OS. In the example of the MacOS 9, as a means for changing to steps S101 and S102, a printer is previously selected by a "selector" provided in the OS.
[0038]
In step S104, it is determined whether a tab (any of 301b to 301d) for shifting to another screen is selected, and if not, the process returns to step S101. If the tab for shifting to another screen is selected, the process proceeds to step S105, and the contents set at that time in boxes 310 to 312 are determined as the set contents. It is needless to say that the settings can be changed later by selecting the tab 301a from another screen to display the paper selection screen.
[0039]
Next, a moving image selection process executed when the tab 301b is selected and the screen shifts to the moving image selection screen will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when the moving image selection screen illustrated in FIG. 8 is selected.
[0040]
First, in step S121, a process of opening the selected file by a file open operation of the user is performed. Here, a pop-up window (not shown) for selecting a file is displayed in response to the click of the “open” button 321, and the user selects a desired moving image file using the pop-up window.
[0041]
Next, in step S122, it is determined whether the file specified in step S121 has been created and saved by the print processing application. In this application, information for printing a continuous still image can be saved in step S169 in the “printing and saving” process described later with reference to FIG. If it is determined in step S122 that such an information file has been selected, the process proceeds to step S126 without performing the moving image reproduction process described below. The determination in step S122 can be made with reference to, for example, the file extension.
[0042]
If the file selected in step S121 is a moving image file that can be processed by the print application, the process proceeds to step S123, and the image of the first frame of the moving image file is displayed in the moving image reproduction area 323 in the moving image reproduction window 322. Is displayed.
[0043]
The video playback window 322 includes a playback button 324 for instructing start of playback processing of the selected video file, a pause button 325 for instructing pause and release of the playback processing, a stop button 326 for stopping playback processing, and a video file. Has a user interface including a move button 327 for moving to the beginning of the file, a move button 328 for moving to the end of the moving image file, and a seek bar 329. Note that by dragging the seek bar 329, the display location can be moved to an arbitrary position in the moving image file. Also, during moving image reproduction, the seek bar moves according to the reproduction position. The time display 330 indicates the position currently being reproduced by the time from the start of reproduction.
[0044]
When the reproduction of the moving image is instructed by operating the reproduction button 324, the process proceeds from step S124 to step S125, and the moving image file selected in step S121 is reproduced. It should be noted that the processing by operating the other operation buttons is not shown in the flowchart and detailed description thereof, but the contents will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
[0045]
When any of the tabs 301a, 301c, and 301d for switching to another screen is selected in a state where the moving image file is selected, the moving image file or the moving image file specified by the information file is selected as the selected moving image file. The processing is completed after the determination, and the screen moves to the designated screen (steps S126 and S127). Steps S121 to S125 are repeated while these tabs are not selected. It is needless to say that the determined content can be changed later by selecting the tab 301b from another screen to display the moving image selection screen.
[0046]
Next, a range setting process executed when the tab 301c is selected and the screen shifts to the range setting screen will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 9A. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when the range setting screen shown in FIG. 9A is selected. On the range setting screen, a desired range (referred to as a still image cutout range) from which a continuous still image is cut out is set from the moving image file. Then, a moving image file composed of the extracted still images is created.
[0047]
As shown in FIG. 9A, a moving image reproduction window 340 including a moving image reproduction area 323 for reproducing the selected moving image file, various operation buttons 324 to 328, and a seek bar 329 is also displayed on the range setting screen. However, in the moving image playback window 340 of the range setting screen, a start point button 341 and an end point button 342 for setting a desired still image clipping range from a moving image, and a continuous still image obtained from the set still image clipping range. A preview button 343 for previewing an image as a flipped moving image is included.
[0048]
First, the moving image reproduction processing in steps S141 to S143 is the same as the above-described steps S123 to S125. That is, the image of the first frame of the moving image file selected and confirmed on the moving image selection screen is displayed in the moving image reproduction area 323 (step S141), and the reproduction button 324 is clicked (step S142). The reproduction is started (step S143).
[0049]
If the start point button 341 is clicked during the reproduction of the moving image file, the reproduction time at that time is registered as the start point of the still image cutout range (steps S144 and S145). If the end point button 342 is clicked, the reproduction time at that time is registered as the end point of the still image cutout range (steps S146 and S147). When the start point and the end point are registered, the display color of a portion corresponding to the selection range of the seek bar 329 is changed as shown in FIG. Is displayed so that can be identified. In the above description, a desired range in a moving image is determined by designating a start point and an end point at desired points during reproduction of a moving image file. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the seek bar 329 is moved to a desired playback position and the start point button 341 is clicked to specify the start point of the still image cutout range, and similarly, the end point button 342 is clicked to specify the end point of the still image cutout range. You may make it. In this case, the moving image file does not need to be reproduced by the play button 324, but an image of a frame corresponding to the position specified by the seek bar 329 is displayed in the moving image reproduction area 323.
[0050]
Further, the above-described method of specifying a still image clipping range while playing a moving image may be combined with the method of specifying a still image clipping range using a seek bar. For example, the seek bar 329 is operated to move to a desired position in the moving image data, and a start point button 341 is clicked to specify the start point of the still image cutout range. After that, it is also possible to configure that the clipping range is set by clicking the play button 324 to play the moving image from that position and clicking the end point button 342 at the desired position.
[0051]
Further, in the present embodiment, the start point and the end point of the still image cutout range are registered based on the reproduction time, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a frame number or the like may be used.
[0052]
The print processing application according to the present embodiment cuts out a predetermined number (45 in the present embodiment) of continuous still images at regular intervals from the still image cutout range set as described above, and prints out these. Is what you do. The print output of the continuous still image thus obtained is separated into strips as described above, and is intended to be continuously turned and observed as a moving image. Therefore, for this purpose, it is desirable to be able to preview a continuous still image so that a pseudo-moving image can be observed. In the following steps S148 to S150, such a preview function is provided.
[0053]
When the preview button 343 is clicked after the still image clipping range is set by the start point and the end point as described above, the process proceeds from step S148 to step S149 (the still image clipping is performed in step S149). So that it will not branch unless a range is set). In step S149, a predetermined number of continuous still images are generated and acquired from the set still image cutout range. At this time, the continuous still images are generated such that the intervals between adjacent continuous still images are all equally spaced (the same number of frames) on the time axis. That is, frames are extracted at regular intervals from the set still image clipping range, and a moving image file composed of the extracted frames is generated. When the moving image file is generated in this manner, it is not necessary to hold the cut out still image in the memory.
[0054]
Then, in step S150, the moving image file composed of the continuous still images generated in step S149 is sequentially reproduced and displayed in the imaging order so that, for example, 45 frames are displayed in 2 seconds. At this time, the switching interval from a certain still image to the next still image is set to be constant (for example, 2/45 seconds if 45 continuous still images are to be displayed in 2 seconds).
[0055]
If the preview button 343 is clicked again without changing the selection range in the moving image, the process of step S149 is omitted because the generation of the moving image file including the continuous still images has already been completed. You.
[0056]
In this state, when the tab 301a, 301b, 301d corresponding to another operation screen is clicked, the process proceeds from step S151 to step S152, and the still image clipping range set as described above is determined. It is needless to say that the determined contents can be changed later by selecting the tab 301c from another screen to display the range setting screen. On the other hand, unless the tab corresponding to another operation screen is clicked, the process returns to step S141 to repeat the above process. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the preview display and the range setting operation can be performed on the same screen (range setting screen). Operability is good.
[0057]
In the preview display of a continuous still image in step S150, a preview setting panel 344 as shown in FIG. 9B may be provided so that the time required for display can be arbitrarily set. For example, as shown at 345 in FIG. 9B, the entire display time can be set arbitrarily, and if the display is set to be displayed in one second, the continuous still images are switched and displayed at 1/45 second intervals. become. Further, as shown at 346 in FIG. 9B, the switching interval of the continuous still images may be designated (for example, designated as 0.04 seconds).
[0058]
Further, manual operation may be enabled as shown at 347 in FIG. 9B. In this example, when the slide bar 348 is displayed and the knob 349 is slid with a mouse, the continuous still images are displayed while being switched following the mouse. In this way, in the above-described 345 and 346, the switching interval, which is constant and fixed during the continuous display, can be made variable, and a preview more accurately corresponding to the user's turning operation can be displayed.
[0059]
Next, a process performed when the tab 301d is selected and the screen shifts to the print / save screen will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when the print / save screen illustrated in FIG. 10A is selected. On the print / save screen, printing of a continuous still image obtained from the still image cutout range set on the range setting screen and storage of cutout information can be performed.
[0060]
First, in step S161, it is determined whether or not the still image conversion processing in step S149 and the creation of a moving image file composed of those still images have been performed for the currently set extraction target range. If the processing in step S149 has been completed, continuous still images have been obtained in the still image clipping range, and a moving image file composed of those still images has also been created, so step S162 is skipped. If a moving image file based on a continuous still image has not been generated from the set extraction target range, the process proceeds to step S162, and a predetermined number of continuous still images from the still image extraction range set on the previous range setting screen. Cut out images and create a moving image file composed of these still images. This process is the same as step S149 in FIG.
[0061]
The display of the print layout 351 refers to a moving image file composed of a still image created already. Each frame constituting the moving image file is extracted and displayed on the print layout 351.
[0062]
Subsequently, in step S163, the display of the print layout 351 using the generated continuous still images is performed. In the present embodiment, since 15 continuous still images are printed on A4 size paper, a total of three pages are printed. Therefore, the next page button 356 or the previous page button 355 is provided, and by operating these buttons, the print layout of all pages can be confirmed. In the drawings, the numbers described in the continuous still image portion are added for convenience to indicate that they are continuous still images (not continuous of the same image).
[0063]
When the print setting button 353 is clicked, it is determined that the print setting is to be changed, and the process proceeds to step S165. In step S165, a print setting input screen (not shown) is displayed, and for example, the following print setting items are set.
[0064]
<Layout>
-Right binding: Printing is performed in a left-handed layout.
-Left binding: Printing is performed in a right-handed layout.
(Default is "Left binding")
<Background>
-None: Nothing is printed around continuous still images.
-Black gradation: A black gradation that changes from the continuous still image toward the margin is printed around the continuous still image.
-Gradation of specified color: A gradation of a specified color that changes from the continuous still image toward the margin is printed around the continuous still image.
(The default is "black gradation")
<Title>
-None: The title name is not printed.
-Print title: Prints the entered character string as the title (can be set to print on the first page only or on all pages).
(Default is "None")
<Shooting date>
-None: Do not print the shooting date and time.
-Print date: Prints the date of shooting (can be set to print only on the first page or all pages)
(Default is "None").
[0065]
After the print settings, the process returns to step S163, and the print layout is displayed with the updated print settings. Thus, the change of the print setting is immediately reflected on the print layout display.
[0066]
If the print button 352 is clicked, the process proceeds from step S166 to step S167, where a continuous still image is printed from the designated printer as shown in FIG. 10B. At this time, the print image is printed as a continuous still image in a reduced size so as to fit in an area of 42 mm × 34 mm with the aspect ratio of the continuous still image cut out from the moving image fixed. The printing quality at that time is to perform printing with the default quality of the designated medium. If the background is designated, the designated background is printed, and if the shooting date and title are designated, they are printed in accordance with the respective designations. Further, in order to clearly indicate the order of the continuous still images, a margin on the side of the continuous still images (a position at the upper right corner in the case of right binding and a position at the upper left corner in the case of left binding in the present embodiment). ) Is printed (FIG. 10B is an example of right binding, and a page number is given in the upper left corner).
[0067]
If save button 354 is clicked, the process proceeds from step S168 to step S169. In step S169, each item set on the paper selection screen, moving image selection screen, range setting screen, and print / save screen (print setting) is saved as one file. For example, the storage items include information on a printer used, information on a cartridge, paper, a moving image file name, a start position for cutting out a still image, an end position for cutting out a still image, and print setting contents (layout, background, etc.). However, the extracted continuous still image data is not stored.
[0068]
The 45 continuous still images obtained as described above are printed on perforated paper as shown in FIG. 23 as shown in FIG. 10A, so that these can be cut into strip-shaped sheets along the perforations. For example, they can be bundled as shown in FIG. Then, by turning this continuously as shown in FIG. 19, the turning moving image can be observed.
[0069]
As described above, according to the print processing application of the present embodiment, it is possible to print out a continuous still image that can be observed as a turning moving image in a desired range of moving image data. It is possible to easily provide a turning video desired by the user.
[0070]
In particular, in the preview function using the preview button 343 of the range setting screen (FIG. 9A) described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the continuous still images cut out from the specified range are continuously switched and displayed. As shown in FIG. 19, by bundling continuous still images and turning them continuously, it is possible to check the state when the turning moving image is observed, which is convenient. If the user does not like the preview, he / she can immediately specify the still image clipping range again without switching windows, thereby improving operability. This preview display saves memory by using a moving image file composed of cut-out still images, as compared with holding each still image separately.
[0071]
Also, if the switching interval of the still images can be set in the preview, a preview according to a desired turning speed can be performed. Furthermore, in the preview, if a configuration for controlling the switching of the continuous still images in synchronization with the movement of the knob 348 of the scroll bar 348 is provided, the display switching interval can be changed during the continuous display. For this reason, it is possible to realize a preview corresponding to the user's habit (for example, the speed at which the turning start and the turning end are slower than other parts) when observing the turning image, and a more accurate preview of the turning video can be realized. I can do it.
[0072]
[Replenishment processing of continuous still images when the number of frames is insufficient]
As described above, in the present embodiment, a desired range in a moving image can be specified by specifying a moving image cutting start point and a moving image cutting end point on the range setting screen. Therefore, there is a possibility that a cutout range of less than 45 frames may be specified depending on how to specify the range. In such a case, it becomes impossible to generate 45 continuous still images in steps S149 and S162. Even in such a case, the print processing application of the present embodiment can appropriately obtain 45 continuous still images.
[0073]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the still image conversion processing in steps S149 and S162 in more detail.
[0074]
First, in step S201, the still image cutout range (start point and end point) set in steps S144 to S147 described above is read as conversion range information. Then, in step S202, the number of frames included in the still image clipping range is obtained. In step S203, the still image conversion number is read. As described above, in this embodiment, the number of still image conversions is 45 since the number of still images is fixed to 45.
[0075]
In step S204, the number of frames included in the still image clipping range obtained in step S202 is compared with the number of still image conversions (45) read in step S203. If the number of frames in the cutout range is equal to or greater than the number of still image conversions, 45 continuous still images can be cut out, so the process proceeds to step S207, and still images are converted by a predetermined number of frames at equal intervals.
[0076]
On the other hand, when the number of frames in the cutout range is smaller than the number of still image conversions, it is necessary to generate 45 continuous still images by compensating for the shortage. Therefore, the process proceeds from step S204 to step S205. In step S205, all frames included in the specified still image cutout range are converted into still images. Then, in step S206, the shortage is compensated for by repeatedly using the frames within the still image clipping range. In the present embodiment, the first and / or last frames positioned in time series are repeatedly used (that is, the continuous still images corresponding to the first and / or last frames positioned in time series are repeatedly used). Create a specified number of continuous still images. This is because, when observing the turning-over moving image, if the same image is repeated in the middle, the user feels strange, but even if several identical still images are repeated at the beginning or at the end, the user does not feel much strangeness.
[0077]
Further, the manner of replenishment of continuous still images may be changed according to the number of repetitions (insufficient number). That is, the frame position used repeatedly may be changed according to the number of shortage sheets. For example, when the number of deficient images is less than a predetermined threshold, the continuous still images of the first and / or last frames are repeatedly used. When the number of deficient images is larger than the predetermined threshold, the repeated use of continuous still images is scattered in all the frames. Let it.
[0078]
If one example is shown, the ratio of the shortage number to the predetermined number is
・ Repeat the last frame up to 10% (up to 5 if the predetermined number is 45)
-In the case of 10% to 20% (6 to 9), repeat the last frame up to the first 10% (5), and make up for the remaining shortage by repeating the first frame,
When the value exceeds 20% (in the case of 10 or more frames), it is conceivable that the repeated frame is spread all over. Alternatively, when a shortage exceeding 20% occurs, a range designation error may be set.
[0079]
Alternatively, the user may specify which frame (frame at which position) is to be repeated. For example, the user may be able to set which of “last frame” and “top frame” is to be repeated.
[0080]
In the above-mentioned method, in particular, the repetition of the last frame is preferentially used because it is difficult to turn one by one on the last page when observing a turning-over moving image. This is because there is a case where it is turned up at once. Therefore, the process of replenishing a continuous still image by repeating the last frame can be a very effective means because the effect can be reduced in the print output for observing the turning-over moving image and the process itself can be simplified. .
[0081]
Further, when a continuous still image of the same frame is repeated, predetermined processing may be performed on the image. For example, when the same image is repeated several times at the end thereof, the supplemental still image may be generated by gradually lowering the brightness of the image to add a fade-out effect. Similarly, when several frames are repeated on the head side, the supplementary still image may be generated by adjusting the brightness of the print data so as to have an effect such as fade-in.
[0082]
In step S208, a moving image file composed of still images is created.
[Details of print processing]
The continuous still image according to the present embodiment is printed on a sheet provided with perforations for cutting into strips, cut into strips along the perforations, and a blank portion provided on the side of the still image. Is used as a binding margin to enable turning video observation. Therefore, unless a still image is printed with high reproducibility at a predetermined position in a strip formed by perforations, the entire image moves when the turning moving image is observed, which becomes unnatural. Generally, the printing position is kept relatively accurately on one sheet of paper. However, when a continuous still image is printed over a plurality of sheets as in the present embodiment, there is a problem of a shift in the entire printing position between different sheets.
[0083]
Generally, the printing position accuracy is low in the transport direction due to the effect of a transport error in the transport direction of the sheet. On the other hand, with respect to the printing position in the direction orthogonal to the transport direction, relatively good accuracy can be obtained by a paper guide or the like. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, when the printing is performed in a layout in which the arrangement of the continuous still images and the margins are orthogonal to the transport direction, a strip sheet obtained from one sheet and a strip sheet obtained from the next sheet are printed. The printing position of the continuous still image is more likely to shift vertically in the vertical direction than in the horizontal direction. For this reason, in the turning-over moving image of the present embodiment in which fifteen strip-shaped sheets are obtained from one sheet, between the fifteenth and sixteenth strip-shaped sheets and between the thirty-first and thirty-one strip-shaped sheets. The continuous still image moves vertically between the sheets.
[0084]
According to experiments performed by the present inventors, when observing a flipped moving image, a sense of discomfort is greater when the continuous still images are shifted in the vertical direction than in the horizontal direction. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the printing process in step S167, a still image is laid out and printed out so as to minimize vertical displacement. Hereinafter, this point will be described.
[0085]
FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a layout in print output of a continuous still image according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, in the print output of the present embodiment, each strip is provided with a continuous still image and a margin portion that can be used for binding, but the arrangement of the continuous still image and the margin portion always corresponds to the transport direction. Be in the same direction. As described above, when recording is performed on a plurality of sheets, the printing position accuracy in the direction perpendicular to the transport direction is higher than the printing position accuracy in the transport direction. Therefore, when the print output obtained by the layout as shown in FIG. 13 is separated along the perforations, and the obtained strip-shaped sheets are bundled to observe a turning movie, the horizontal movement of the still image is slightly changed. Although the size of the still image may increase, the position of the still image in the vertical direction coincides with relatively high accuracy. As described above, when continuously turning a still image and observing it, it is easier to feel a sense of incongruity in the vertical direction than in the horizontal direction. It is possible to provide a strip-shaped sheet on which a moving image can be observed.
[0086]
When the paper is conveyed horizontally, it is easy to understand that the layout as shown in FIG. 12 is used. Therefore, in a situation where the paper transport direction can be specified, it is preferable that an appropriate print layout is automatically selected in accordance with the transport direction. In other words, the designated transport direction and paper size are detected, the print layout is determined so that the continuous still images and the margins are arranged in the transport direction, and the printing process is performed.
[0087]
As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to lay out and print a continuous still image so that the printing position accuracy in the vertical direction is higher than that in the horizontal direction when observing a flipped moving image.
[0088]
Further, in the print output of the present embodiment, further improvements are made to improve the print image quality of a continuous still image. When printing is performed by repeating recording scanning in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction while transporting the paper, as in an ink jet recording apparatus, transport errors tend to occur in the transport direction, especially at the trailing edge of the paper, and image quality deteriorates. Tend to. This is because, at the rear end of the sheet, the pressing of the sheet becomes loose, the transport error becomes remarkable, the sheet easily floats, and the distance between the recording head and the sheet changes.
[0089]
As described above, when the continuous still images and the margins are arranged so as to be aligned in the paper transport direction, one of the continuous still images and the margins is located at the rear end of the paper. FIG. 14 shows the layout for right binding and the paper transport direction during printing. In the case of the layout as shown in FIG. 14, a margin is formed at the rear end side of the sheet in the sheet conveyance direction, so that there is no adverse effect on the continuous still image due to the above-described reason. However, when the layout for the left binding is specified, as shown in FIG. 15, if the recording position of the continuous still image is moved and the layout is shifted so that the margin is located to the left of the continuous still image, A continuous still image is arranged on the unit side. Therefore, there is a possibility that the print image quality of the 11th to 15th continuous still images is degraded.
[0090]
In order to solve this, in the present embodiment, the margin is always arranged on the rear end side of the sheet in the layout for right binding and the layout for left binding. In the present embodiment, this is realized by rotating the entire left binding print layout as shown in FIG. 15 further by 180 degrees to obtain a print layout as shown in FIG.
[0091]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining this print processing. When the printing process in step S168 is started, this process is started.
[0092]
First, in step S301, print setting layout information, that is, information indicating whether the set layout is for left binding or right binding is acquired. When the acquired layout information indicates a layout for right binding, the process proceeds from step S302 to step S304, and a continuous still image is laid out such that a printout as shown in FIG. 14 is made. Then, the process proceeds to step S305, and printout of a continuous still image is executed.
[0093]
On the other hand, if the layout information acquired in step S301 indicates a layout for left binding, the process proceeds from step S302 to step S303. In step S303, the printing position of the continuous still image is moved to the right side of the strip to obtain a state as shown in FIG. 15, and this is rotated 180 degrees to obtain the print layout shown in FIG. Then, the process proceeds to step S305, and printout of a continuous still image is executed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 16, a margin is always located at the rear end of the sheet, and it is possible to prevent the image quality of continuous still images from deteriorating.
[0094]
In the above embodiment, the layout rotated by 180 degrees is used in the case of the layout for the left binding, but is not limited to such processing. What is necessary is to make a print layout so that the continuous still image and the margin are arranged along the transport direction and the margin is located at the rear end side of the sheet in the transport direction.
[0095]
In the print layout display in step S163, the continuous still image is always displayed so as to be at the correct position. Therefore, even in the case where the left binding is set in the present embodiment, the layout display is performed so that the continuous still image is at the correct position, that is, as shown in FIG. 10A.
[0096]
As described above, according to the present embodiment, by devising the print layout according to the characteristics of the printing apparatus, specifically, the continuous still image and the margin are arranged along the transport direction, and By adopting a print layout in which a margin is provided on the rear end side of the sheet in the transport direction, it has become possible to provide a high-quality turning movie.
[0097]
The print application according to the present embodiment has been described above. In the above embodiment, the print processing application has been described as operating on an information processing device such as a personal computer. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and all or a part of the functions of the application may be a printer. It may be implemented in a driver, a digital video camera or a printer.
[0098]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, an ink jet printer is assumed as the printer. However, an electrophotographic printer such as a laser printer or a thermal printer may be used.
[0099]
In the above embodiment, the number of continuous still images is fixed at 45, but may be arbitrarily set by the user. Further, for example, when the layout changes depending on the direction of the paper and the number of strip-shaped sheets that can be obtained from one paper changes (for example, when the paper is transported in the horizontal direction and the layout shown in FIG. Only 14 to 14 strip-shaped sheets can be taken), and the total number of continuous still images acquired may be changed accordingly. For example, when a print form as shown in FIG. 12 is designated, 14 × 3 = 42 sheets may be set.
[0100]
[About the strip storage case]
Next, a case will be described in which a plurality of strip-shaped sheets including a continuous still image printed and output as described above are bundled and accommodated, and a turning moving image can be observed.
[0101]
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a state in which strip-shaped sheets on which continuous still images are printed are bundled and accommodated in the case of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, a U-shaped case member 400, a strip-shaped sheet group 410 accommodated therein, a case member 400 and a strip-shaped sheet group 410 for bundling and maintaining the state. A rubber band 420 is provided as a holding member. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a state in which the stored moving image is observed by continuously turning the accommodated strips as shown in FIG. FIG. 19 shows a state of left binding (for right-handed use).
[0102]
FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the manner of assembling the case according to the present embodiment. The case member 400 is made of a flexible, transparent or translucent material, and has a substantially rectangular first panel 401, a substantially rectangular second panel 402 that faces the first panel 401 when formed in a U-shape, and It includes a third panel 403 connecting the first panel 401 and the second panel 402. As shown in FIG. 21, preferably, the first to third panels are formed from an integral sheet, and the first to third panels are formed by fold lines 410 indicated by dotted lines. The sheet shown in FIG. 21 is configured to be bendable at a fold line 410 as shown in FIG. 20A, whereby the first to third panels 401 to 403 are formed in a U-shape.
[0103]
Next, as shown in FIG. 20B, the stacked strip-shaped sheet group 410 (45 strip-shaped sheets in this example) is inserted between the first panel 401 and the second panel 402. You. Therefore, the length of the third panel (the length in the height direction when formed in a U-shape) is equal to the thickness of 45 strip-shaped sheets stacked.
[0104]
A notch 404 is provided on each long side portion of the first panel 401 and the second panel 402 on the side of the connection portion with the third panel 403. These notches 404 are provided at an equal distance from a connection portion with the third panel 403. The case 400 is formed in a U-shape with the angles formed by the first and third panels and the second and third panels being substantially right angles, and a group of strips 410 is placed therein, and a rubber band 420 is applied to the notch 404. Thus, the state where the strips are bundled is maintained (FIGS. 20C and 20D).
[0105]
The first panel 401 is an upper panel that contacts a continuous still image, and the second panel 402 is a panel that serves as a spine. The first panel 401 and the second panel 402 have a size one size larger than the strip-shaped sheet to be accommodated. Thereby, a protection function for the strip-shaped sheet group 410 is provided.
[0106]
By the way, if it is made larger than the strip-shaped sheet accommodating the first panel 401 as the upper panel, there is a problem that, when continuous winding is to be performed, several sheets of the first strip-shaped sheet are rolled simultaneously. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 22 and the like, the notch 405 is provided so that the accommodated strips are exposed, so that the leading strip-shaped sheet comes into contact with a finger when continuously turned. It is. Thus, the leading strip-shaped sheet can be reliably turned one by one. The width of the notch 405 is set so that a human finger (thumb) can touch the strip and turn naturally. Note that the cutout shape is not limited to an arc shape.
[0107]
In the case where the strip-shaped sheet has an edge around the continuous still image, the cut depth may be set so that only the edge is exposed (FIG. 22B). In this way, since the continuous still image itself is not exposed, the image can be reliably protected.
[0108]
Further, the second panel 402 is a panel serving as a spine. Like the first panel 401, it is preferable that the second panel 402 has a size slightly larger than the rectangular sheet. By providing such a second panel 402, it is possible to reliably protect the strip-shaped sheet and to easily turn one sheet at a time to the last page when a continuous turning operation is performed. is there. That is, when the second panel 402 does not exist or is smaller than the strip-shaped sheet, a problem occurs that a plurality of pages are turned simultaneously at the end, and a turning-moving image cannot be observed correctly. According to this, by providing the second panel, it is possible to easily and surely turn one sheet at a time to the last page.
[0109]
Further, it is desirable that the notch 404 described above has a depth such that the accommodated strip is slightly exposed, as shown in FIG. By forming the notch in this way, the position of the rubber band 420 is prevented from shifting due to the notch 404, and the strip-shaped sheet and the rubber band 420 are brought into contact with each other, so that the strip-shaped sheet group 410 is better and effectively. The housed state can be maintained. Further, according to the holding mechanism using rubber bands of the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a holding means for holding the strip group 410 effectively with an extremely simple configuration. Further, when the strip-shaped sheet group is directly sandwiched by a clip or the like, the strip-shaped sheet may be damaged by the clip. However, according to the present embodiment, since the rubber band 420 is applied while being protected by the case, there is no risk of damaging the strip-shaped sheet.
[0110]
A notch may be provided at a position corresponding to the notch 404 when each strip-shaped sheet is stored in the case member 400. This can be realized by providing a sheet as shown in FIG. 23, for example. This sheet is provided with a hole 601 that forms a notch on a perforation 602. In the case of such a configuration, the rubber band 420 fits the notch 404 of the case member and the notch of each strip-shaped sheet, and can more reliably hold the accommodated strip-shaped sheet.
[0111]
It should be noted that a plurality of sets of notches may be provided so that a plurality of notches can be bundled using a plurality of rubber bands.
[0112]
[Other embodiments]
Note that the present invention is applied to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), but is not limited to a single device (for example, a copier, a facsimile device, etc.). May be applied.
[0113]
Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and a computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus to store the storage medium. It is needless to say that the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the program.
[0114]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the function of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0115]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, and the like can be used.
[0116]
When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a part or all of the actual processing is performed and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0117]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.
[0118]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, by obtaining a predetermined number of continuous still images from a desired range in a moving image, creating a moving image file composed of the still images, and using the moving image file, It is possible to improve memory efficiency and respond finely to user requests.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the information processing apparatus 100 of the image forming system illustrated in FIG. 1 from the viewpoint of a software configuration.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when a sheet selection screen is selected.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when a moving image selection screen is selected.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when a range setting screen is selected.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed when a print / save screen is selected.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a paper selection screen.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a moving image selection screen.
FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a display example of a range setting screen. B is a diagram showing a preview operation interface on the range setting screen.
FIG. 10A is a diagram illustrating a display example of a print / save screen. B is a diagram illustrating a print output example.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating still image conversion processing in steps S149 and S162 in more detail.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the effect of a paper transport error on printing a continuous still image.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the effect of a paper transport error on the printing of a continuous still image.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a print layout for right binding according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a problem when a print layout is set for left binding.
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a print layout for left binding according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a print layout process according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a strip-shaped sheet on which a continuous still image is printed is housed in the case of the present embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a turning movie is observed using a strip-shaped sheet accommodated in the case according to the embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a procedure for assembling the case according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a member configuration of a case according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration of a notch in the case of the present embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a sheet for printing a continuous still image in the present embodiment.
FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating another form of a sheet for printing a continuous still image in the present embodiment.
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a print output of a continuous still image in the related art.
26 is a diagram illustrating a state in which strip-shaped sheets obtained from the print output illustrated in FIG. 25 are bundled and a turning moving image is observed.

Claims (6)

It operates on a host computer such as a Macintosh or a home PC, which has a memory constraint, and prints a plurality of continuous still images that can be observed as a turning-over moving image based on moving image data. An image processing device,
Specifying means for specifying a desired range of the moving image data;
Generating means for generating a predetermined number of continuous still images using frames within the desired range of the moving image data,
Means for holding the still image generated by the generating means as a moving image file,
Print control means for printing the still image generated by the generation means,
An image processing apparatus comprising: The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the screen display in the print control unit reuses the moving image file created by the holding unit. It operates on a host computer such as a Macintosh or a home PC, which has a memory constraint, and prints a plurality of continuous still images that can be observed as a turning-over moving image based on moving image data. An image processing method,
A specifying step of specifying a desired range of the moving image data;
A generation step of generating a predetermined number of continuous still images using frames within the desired range of the video data,
Holding the still image generated by the generating means as a moving image file,
A print control step of printing the still image generated by the generation unit,
An image processing method comprising: The image processing method according to claim 2, wherein the screen display in the printing control step reuses the moving image file created in the holding step. A storage medium storing a control program for realizing the image processing method according to claim 3 by a computer. A control program for implementing the image processing method according to claim 3 by a computer.

Images