JP2005309833A - Layout system, program, and method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a layout system suitable for protecting a layout element. <P>SOLUTION: In an automatic layout, a user inputs layout instruction information for the application, policy and other purposes of the layout and a layout element that is a layout object. In a layout device 100, when the layout instruction information and the layout element are input, a layout template is selected from a template registration DB 10 on the basis of the input layout instruction information, and an additive layout element is selected from a layout element registration DB 12 on the basis of the selected layout template and the input layout element. The selected layout element is processed in the range of its processable degree, and the input and processed layout elements are laid out according to the selected layout template. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a system and program for performing layout, and a method, and more particularly to a layout system and layout program suitable for protecting layout elements, and a layout method.

Conventionally, as an automatic layout technique, for example, there are document processing apparatuses disclosed in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2.
The invention described in Patent Document 1 includes a document design storage unit that stores document design information in association with document attributes, and a document attribute input that inputs document attributes that indicate the characteristics of the document design based on usage, distribution target, and shape A document design selection unit that selects document design information from the document design holding unit based on the input document attributes, and a document form display unit that displays a document form from the selected document design information. ing.

The invention described in Patent Document 2 stores document design knowledge that defines the layout of a document to be created in a document design knowledge storage unit, and also stores document design knowledge and documents stored in the document design knowledge storage unit. Correspond with the corresponding part. When the evaluation information indicating the user's impression of the document layout is input from the evaluation information input unit, the document design knowledge stored in the document design knowledge storage unit is converted to the document design knowledge based on the input evaluation information. It is updated by the update unit.
JP-A-8-83271 JP-A-9-212493

  In automatic layout, if the layout is performed mechanically, the visibility and appearance may be impaired. For example, designers design several layout templates in advance, and based on the layout template. Layout. Specifically, a layout template that defines a layout in which a plurality of information storage frames are arranged in a predetermined layout area is created, and at the time of layout, a layout element (for example, character information, image, etc.) to be laid out according to the layout template. Information, title information) is stored in each information storage frame, and layout elements are arranged in the layout area.

  When the information is stored in the information storage frame, it may be possible to change the resolution, size, shape, or color of the layout elements in order to realize a good-looking layout. However, if the right holder of the layout element does not want to process it, wants to limit the scope of processing, or it may be better not to modify the layout element itself such as the company logo, the processing of the layout element is unlimited. It is not preferred to do so.

  On the other hand, the inventions described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 both lay out layout elements given by a user according to a layout template. However, if the number or amount of layout elements given by the user is less than the number or storable amount of information storage frames stipulated in the layout template, the layout result may be blanked and the appearance may be impaired. There was a problem that there was.

  In order to solve this problem, for example, a layout element is automatically selected from a layout element registration database (hereinafter, the database is simply abbreviated as DB), and the automatically selected layout element is arranged in a blank portion. Can be considered. However, if there is no appropriate layout element in the layout element registration DB, the layout element characteristics (for example, expression, ending, impression, tone, shape) given by the user and the automatically selected layout element The feature may not match, or the automatically selected layout element may not match the size of the blank part. Therefore, there is a problem in that the appearance may be impaired only by automatically selecting and adding.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made paying attention to such an unsolved problem of the conventional technology, and provides a layout system, a layout program, and a layout method suitable for protecting layout elements. This is the first purpose. A second object of the present invention is to provide a layout system, a layout program, and a layout method suitable for realizing a good-looking layout.

[Invention 1] In order to achieve the above object, a layout system of Invention 1 comprises:
A system for performing layout by arranging layout elements in a predetermined layout area according to a layout template,
Set the processability possible to process the layout element,
Layout element processing means for processing the layout element based on the processability degree;
According to the layout template, the layout element processed by the layout element processing means is arranged in the layout area.

With such a configuration, the layout element processing means processes the layout elements based on the processability degree, and the processed layout elements are arranged in the layout area according to the layout template.
As a result, the layout elements are processed within the set range of possible processing, so that the possibility that the layout elements are processed indefinitely can be reduced. Therefore, the effect that the layout elements can be protected as compared with the conventional case is obtained.

Here, the layout elements include character information, image information, and other elements that can constitute a layout. The same applies to the layout system of the invention 2, the layout program of the inventions 18 and 19, and the layout method of the inventions 35 and 36.
The layout means, for example, a display layout when the layout is performed for the purpose of displaying on the screen, and a print layout when the layout is performed for the purpose of printing on the paper. The same applies to the layout system of the invention 2, the layout program of the inventions 18 and 19, and the layout method of the inventions 35 and 36.

  Further, the present system may be realized as a single device, terminal, or other device, or may be realized as a network system in which a plurality of devices, terminals, or other devices are communicably connected. In the latter case, each component may belong to any one of a plurality of devices and the like as long as they are connected so as to communicate with each other. Hereinafter, the same applies to the layout system of the second aspect.

[Invention 2] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 2 includes:
Layout element input means for inputting a layout element; and layout means for laying out a layout element input by the layout element input means, wherein the layout means is arranged according to a layout template defining a layout of a predetermined layout area. Is arranged in the layout area to perform layout,
Template storage means for storing the layout template;
Layout element storage means for storing the layout elements;
Processing restriction information storage means for storing processing restriction information indicating the degree of workability capable of processing the layout element in association with the layout element of the layout element storage means;
Template selection means for selecting the layout template from the template storage means;
Layout element selection means for selecting the layout element from the layout element storage means;
Read processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means from the processing restriction information storage means, layout element processing means for processing the layout element based on the read processing restriction information,
The layout means arranges the layout element input by the layout element input means and the layout element processed by the layout element processing means in the layout area according to the layout template selected by the template selection means. It is characterized by.

  With such a configuration, the user inputs a layout element to be laid out by the layout element input means. Further, the layout template is selected from the template storage means by the template selection means. When a layout element is input and a layout template is selected, a layout element is selected from the layout element storage means by the layout element selecting means, and the processing restriction information corresponding to the selected layout element is selected by the layout element processing means. Is read from the processing restriction information storage means, and the layout element is processed based on the read processing restriction information. Then, according to the selected layout template, the input layout element and the processed layout element are arranged in the layout area by the layout means.

  As a result, the layout elements of the layout element storage means are processed within the set range of processability, so that the possibility that the layout elements are processed indefinitely can be reduced. Therefore, the effect that the layout elements can be protected as compared with the conventional case is obtained. Furthermore, since an additional layout element is selected even if the number or amount of layout elements input by the user is small, it is difficult for a blank to be generated in the layout result. In addition, since the selected layout element is processed, even if there is no appropriate layout element in the layout element storage means, it can be added as a relatively appropriate layout element. Therefore, an effect that a layout having a relatively good appearance can be realized as compared with the related art can be obtained.

  Here, the template storage means stores the layout template at any time and at any time, and may store the layout template in advance, or may store the layout template in advance without storing the layout template in advance. The layout template may be stored by external input or the like during system operation. The same applies to the case where layout elements are stored in the layout element storage means and the case where processing restriction information is stored in the processing restriction information storage means. Hereinafter, the same applies to the layout program of the nineteenth aspect.

[Invention 3] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 3 is the layout system of Invention 2,
Furthermore, a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element is provided,
The processing restriction information storage means stores the processing restriction information in association with the processing method information of the processing method information storage means,
The layout element processing means reads from the processing restriction information storage means the processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means and the processing method information of the processing method information storage means, and the read processing restriction information and The layout element is processed by the processing method based on the processing method information in the processing method information storage means.

With such a configuration, the layout element processing means reads out the processing restriction information corresponding to the selected layout element and the processing method information in the processing method information storage means from the processing restriction information storage means and has been read out. Based on the processing restriction information and the processing method information in the processing method information storage means, the layout element is processed by a prescribed processing method.
Thereby, since the layout element can be processed by a uniform processing method, the effect that the layout element can be processed relatively easily is obtained. In addition, since the processable degree can be set for each layout element and each processing method, an effect that the protection level of the layout element can be set in detail can be obtained.

  Here, the processing method information storage means stores the processing method information by any means and at any time. The processing method information may be stored in advance, or the processing method information may be stored in advance. Instead, the processing method information may be stored by an external input or the like during the operation of the system. The same applies to the layout systems of the inventions 5, 6, 9 and 10 and the layout programs of the inventions 20, 22, 23, 26 and 27.

[Invention 4] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 4 is the layout system of any one of Inventions 2 and 3,
The processing restriction information includes information indicating processing prohibition of the layout element as the processability degree.
With such a configuration, if the prohibition of processing of a layout element is set as the processable degree, processing of the corresponding layout element is prohibited.
As a result, the effect of further protecting the layout elements can be obtained.

[Invention 5] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 5 is the layout system of Invention 2,
Furthermore, a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element is provided,
The layout element processing means sets the processing degree of the processing method based on the layout element input by the layout element input means or the layout template selected by the template selection means, and the processing method of the processing method information storage means The layout element is processed with the set processing degree by the processing method based on information.

With this configuration, the processing factor of the processing method is set by the layout element processing unit based on the input layout element or the selected layout template, and based on the processing method information in the processing method information storage unit. The layout elements are processed with a set processing degree by a prescribed processing method.
Thereby, since the layout element can be processed by a uniform processing method, the effect that the layout element can be processed relatively easily is obtained. Further, since the selected layout element is processed so as to conform to the layout element input by the user or the selected layout template, an effect of realizing a more attractive layout can be obtained.

[Invention 6] The layout system of Invention 6 is the layout system of Invention 2,
Further, processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element, and layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information related to the use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes Prepared,
The layout element processing unit sets a processing level of the processing method based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit, and the processing method based on the processing method information of the processing method information storage unit Thus, the layout element is processed with a set processing degree.

  With such a configuration, the user inputs at least one of the layout instruction information by the layout instruction information input means. When the layout instruction information is input, the processing factor of the processing method is set by the layout element processing unit based on the input layout instruction information, and the specified processing is performed based on the processing method information in the processing method information storage unit. According to the method, the layout element is processed with the set processing degree.

  Thereby, since the layout element can be processed by a uniform processing method, the effect that the layout element can be processed relatively easily is obtained. In addition, since the selected layout element is processed so as to suit the layout usage, policy and other purposes, it is possible to achieve a layout that is relatively suitable for the layout usage, policy and other purposes. can get.

[Invention 7] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 7 is the layout system of any one of Inventions 2 to 4,
The layout element selection unit selects the layout element based on the layout template selected by the template selection unit or the layout element input by the layout element input unit, and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage unit. It is characterized by becoming.

With such a configuration, the layout element selection unit selects a layout element based on the selected layout template or the input layout element and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage unit.
As a result, an additional layout element is selected based on the selected layout template or the input layout element, so that it is possible to realize a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes. can get. Further, since the additional layout elements are selected within the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable layout elements can be limited, and the effect of further protecting the layout elements can be obtained.

[Invention 8] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 8 is the layout system of any one of Inventions 2 to 4,
Furthermore, it comprises a layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information relating to the purpose of use of the layout, policy and other purposes,
The layout element selection means selects the layout element based on layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input means and processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage means.

With such a configuration, the user inputs at least one of the layout instruction information by the layout instruction information input means. When the layout instruction information is input, the layout element selection unit selects a layout element based on the input layout instruction information and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage unit.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes is selected, so that it is possible to achieve a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes. Further, since the additional layout elements are selected within the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable layout elements can be limited, and the effect of further protecting the layout elements can be obtained.

[Invention 9] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 9 is the layout system of Invention 2,
Furthermore, a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element is provided,
The layout element processing means is based on the layout template selected by the template selection means, the layout element input by the layout element input means, and the processing restriction information of the processing restriction information storage means. The processing method information is selected from among them, and the layout element is processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information.

With such a configuration, a processing method is selected from the processing method information storage unit based on the layout template selected by the layout element processing unit, the input layout element, and the processing restriction information stored in the processing restriction information storage unit. Information is selected, and a layout element is processed by a prescribed processing method based on the selected processing method information.
Thereby, since the layout element can be processed by a uniform processing method, the effect that the layout element can be processed relatively easily is obtained. In addition, since the selected layout element is processed by a processing method that is relatively compatible with the layout template and the layout element input by the user, an effect that a more attractive layout can be realized is also obtained. Furthermore, since the processing method is selected in the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable processing methods can be limited, and the effect of further protecting the layout elements can be obtained.

[Invention 10] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 10 is the layout system of Invention 2,
Further, processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element, and layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information related to the use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes Prepared,
The layout element processing means selects the processing method information from the processing method information storage means based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input means and the processing restriction information of the processing restriction information storage means. The layout element is processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information.

  With such a configuration, the user inputs at least one of the layout instruction information by the layout instruction information input means. When the layout instruction information is input, the layout element processing means selects the processing method information from the processing method information storage means based on the input layout instruction information and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage means. Based on the selected processing method information, the layout element is processed by a prescribed processing method.

  Thereby, since the layout element can be processed by a uniform processing method, the effect that the layout element can be processed relatively easily is obtained. In addition, since the selected layout element is processed by a processing method that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, policy, and other purposes, a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, policy, and other purposes can be realized. The effect is also obtained. Furthermore, since the processing method is selected within the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable processing methods can be limited, and the effect of further protecting the layout elements can be obtained.

[Invention 11] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 11 is the layout system of any one of Inventions 2 to 10,
And a template designating unit for designating any one of the layout templates selected by the template selecting unit.
The layout means arranges the layout elements in accordance with a layout template designated by the template designation means.

With such a configuration, when a plurality of layout templates are selected by the template selecting unit, the user can specify any one of the layout templates by the template specifying unit. When the layout template is designated, the layout element is arranged by the layout means according to the designated layout template.
Thereby, the effect that the layout comparatively adapted to a user's intention is realizable is acquired.

[Invention 12] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 12 is the layout system of any one of Inventions 2 to 11,
The layout element selection means performs text analysis processing on the character information input as the layout element by the layout element input means, and selects the layout element based on the analysis result. And

With such a configuration, text analysis processing is performed on the character information input as the layout element by the layout element selection means, and a layout element is selected based on the analysis result.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the input character information is selected, so that it is possible to achieve a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes.

  Here, the layout element selection unit may have any configuration as long as the layout element is selected based on the analysis result of the text analysis process, and is not limited to selecting character information as a layout element. Image information and other layout elements can also be selected. The same applies to the layout program of the invention 29 below.

[Invention 13] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 13 is the layout system of Invention 12,
The layout element selecting means extracts an expression or ending from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending.

With such a configuration, the layout element selection means extracts the expression or ending from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects the layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the expression or ending used in the input character information is selected, so that a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes can be realized. Is obtained.

[Invention 14] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 14 is the layout system of Invention 12,
The layout element selection means extracts the impression of the document from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the extracted impression of the document.

With such a configuration, the layout element selection unit extracts the impression of the document from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects the layout element that matches the extracted impression of the document.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the impression of the input character information is selected, so that it is possible to realize a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of the layout, the policy, and other purposes.

[Invention 15] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 15 is the layout system of any one of Inventions 2 to 14,
The layout element selection unit performs image analysis processing on the image information input as the layout element by the layout element input unit, and selects the layout element based on the analysis result. And

If it is such a structure, an image analysis process will be performed with respect to the image information input as a layout element by a layout element selection means, and a layout element will be selected based on the analysis result.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the input image information is selected, so that an even better-looking layout can be realized.
Here, the layout element selection means may have any configuration as long as the layout element is selected based on the analysis result of the image analysis processing, and is not limited to selecting image information as a layout element. Character information and other layout elements can also be selected. The same applies to the layout program of the invention 32 below.

[Invention 16] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 16 is the layout system of Invention 15,
The layout element selection means extracts a color tone from the image information by the image analysis process, and selects a layout element suitable for the extracted color tone.

With such a configuration, the layout element selection means extracts the color tone from the image information by image analysis processing, and selects the layout element that matches the extracted color tone.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the color tone of the input image information is selected, so that the color tone of the layout elements to be laid out can have a unified feeling, and a more attractive layout can be realized. The effect is obtained.

[Invention 17] Furthermore, the layout system of Invention 17 is the layout system of Invention 15,
The layout element selection means extracts a frame from the image information by the image analysis process, and selects a layout element suitable for the extracted shape of the frame.

If it is such a structure, a frame will be extracted from image information by image analysis processing by a layout element selection means, and the layout element suitable for the shape of the extracted frame will be selected.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the shape of the frame used in the input image information is selected, so that the shape of the frame of the layout element to be laid out can have a sense of unity, and the appearance is further improved. The effect that a good layout can be realized is obtained.

[Invention 18] On the other hand, in order to achieve the above object, the layout program of Invention 18 includes:
A program that performs layout by arranging layout elements in a predetermined layout area according to a layout template,
Set the processability possible to process the layout element,
A process that is realized as a layout element processing unit that processes the layout element based on the degree of processing, and a process that arranges the layout element processed by the layout element processing unit in the layout area according to the layout template. A program for executing the program is included.

  With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as the layout system of the first aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 19] Furthermore, the layout program of the invention 19 includes:
Layout element input means for inputting a layout element, and a program for causing a computer to execute a process realized as a layout means for laying out a layout element input by the layout element input means, the layout means according to a layout template A program for performing layout by arranging the layout elements in a predetermined layout area,
The computer includes template storage means for storing the layout template;
Layout element storage means for storing the layout elements;
Processing restriction information storage means for storing processing restriction information indicating the degree of workability capable of processing the layout element in association with the layout element of the layout element storage means can be used,
Template selection means for selecting the layout template from the template storage means;
Layout element selection means for selecting the layout element from the layout element storage means, and processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means is read from the processing restriction information storage means, and the read processing restriction Including a program for causing the computer to execute processing realized as layout element processing means for processing the layout element based on information,
The layout means arranges the layout element input by the layout element input means and the layout element processed by the layout element processing means in the layout area according to the layout template selected by the template selection means. It is characterized by.

  With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the second aspect are obtained.

[Invention 20] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 20 is the layout program of Invention 19,
The computer can further use a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element,
The processing restriction information storage means stores the processing restriction information in association with the processing method information of the processing method information storage means,
The layout element processing means reads from the processing restriction information storage means the processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means and the processing method information of the processing method information storage means, and the read processing restriction information and The layout element is processed by the processing method based on the processing method information in the processing method information storage means.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing in accordance with the read program, operations and effects equivalent to those of the layout system of aspect 3 are obtained.

[Invention 21] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 21 is the layout program of any one of Inventions 19 and 20,
The processing restriction information includes information indicating processing prohibition of the layout element as the processability degree.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as those of the layout system of the fourth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 22] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 22 is the layout program of Invention 19,
The computer can further use a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element,
The layout element processing means sets the processing degree of the processing method based on the layout element input by the layout element input means or the layout template selected by the template selection means, and the processing method of the processing method information storage means The layout element is processed with the set processing degree by the processing method based on information.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the fifth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 23] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 23 is the layout program of Invention 19,
The computer can further use a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element,
Furthermore, a program for causing the computer to execute processing realized as layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information related to layout usage, policy, and other purposes,
The layout element processing unit sets a processing level of the processing method based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit, and the processing method based on the processing method information of the processing method information storage unit Thus, the layout element is processed with a set processing degree.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the sixth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 24] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 24 is the layout program of any one of Inventions 19 to 21,
The layout element selection unit selects the layout element based on the layout template selected by the template selection unit or the layout element input by the layout element input unit, and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage unit. It is characterized by becoming.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as the layout system of the invention 7 can be obtained.

[Invention 25] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 25 is the layout program of any one of Inventions 19 to 21,
Furthermore, including a process for causing the computer to execute a process realized as a layout instruction information input unit that inputs at least one of layout instruction information regarding a layout use, a policy, and other purposes,
The layout element selection means selects the layout element based on layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input means and processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage means.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the eighth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 26] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 26 is the layout program of Invention 19,
The computer can further use a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element,
The layout element processing means is based on the layout template selected by the template selection means, the layout element input by the layout element input means, and the processing restriction information of the processing restriction information storage means. The processing method information is selected from among them, and the layout element is processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as those of the layout system of the ninth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 27] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 27 is the layout program of Invention 19,
The computer can further use a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element,
Furthermore, including a process for causing the computer to execute a process realized as a layout instruction information input unit that inputs at least one of layout instruction information regarding a layout use, a policy, and other purposes,
The layout element processing means selects the processing method information from the processing method information storage means based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input means and the processing restriction information of the processing restriction information storage means. The layout element is processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the tenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 28] Furthermore, the layout program according to Invention 28 is the layout program according to any one of Inventions 19 to 27,
And a program for causing the computer to execute a process realized as a template designating unit for designating any one of the layout templates selected by the template selecting unit.
The layout means arranges the layout elements in accordance with a layout template designated by the template designation means.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the eleventh aspect are obtained.

[Invention 29] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 29 is the layout program of any one of Inventions 19 to 28,
The layout element selection means performs text analysis processing on the character information input as the layout element by the layout element input means, and selects the layout element based on the analysis result. And
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the twelfth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 30] Furthermore, the layout program of the invention 30 is the layout program of the invention 29,
The layout element selecting means extracts an expression or ending from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the thirteenth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 31] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 31 is the layout program of Invention 29,
The layout element selection means extracts the impression of the document from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the extracted impression of the document.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operations and effects as those of the layout system of the fourteenth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 32] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 32 is the layout program of any one of Inventions 19 to 31,
The layout element selection unit performs image analysis processing on the image information input as the layout element by the layout element input unit, and selects the layout element based on the analysis result. And
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as those of the layout system of the fifteenth aspect are obtained.

[Invention 33] Furthermore, the layout program of Invention 33 is the layout program of Invention 32,
The layout element selection means extracts a color tone from the image information by the image analysis process, and selects a layout element suitable for the extracted color tone.
With such a configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as those of the layout system of the sixteenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 34] Furthermore, the layout program of the invention 34 is the layout program of the invention 32,
The layout element selection means extracts a frame from the image information by the image analysis process, and selects a layout element suitable for the extracted shape of the frame.
With this configuration, when the program is read by the computer and the computer executes processing according to the read program, the same operation and effect as the layout system of the seventeenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 35] On the other hand, in order to achieve the above object, the layout method of Invention 35 includes:
A method of performing layout by arranging layout elements in a predetermined layout area according to a layout template,
Set the processability possible to process the layout element,
A layout element processing step of processing the layout element based on the processability degree;
The layout element processed in the layout element processing step is arranged in the layout area according to the layout template.
Thereby, the same effect as the layout system of the invention 1 can be obtained.

[Invention 36] Furthermore, the layout method of the invention 36 includes:
A layout element input step for inputting a layout element; and a layout step for laying out the layout element input in the layout element input step, wherein the layout step is performed according to a layout template that defines a layout of a predetermined layout area. Laying out in the layout area,
A template selection step of selecting the layout template from the template storage means storing the layout template;
A layout element selection step of selecting the layout element from layout element storage means storing the layout element;
Corresponding to the layout element selected in the layout element selection step from the processing restriction information storage means storing the processing restriction information indicating the degree of processability capable of processing the layout element in association with the layout element of the layout element storage means A layout element processing step that reads the processing restriction information to be processed and processes the layout element based on the read processing restriction information,
In the layout step, the layout element input in the layout element input step and the layout element processed in the layout element processing step are arranged in the layout area according to the layout template selected in the template selection step.
Thereby, an effect equivalent to that of the layout system of aspect 2 can be obtained.

[Invention 37] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 37 is the layout method of Invention 36,
The processing restriction information storage means stores the processing restriction information in association with the processing method information of the processing method information storage means that stores the processing method information that defines the processing method of the layout element,
The layout element processing step reads out the processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected in the layout element selection step and the processing method information of the processing method information storage means from the processing restriction information storage means, and the processing method information storage means The processing method information is read from the processing method, and the layout element is processed by the processing method based on the read processing restriction information and processing method information.
Thereby, the same effect as the layout system of the invention 3 is acquired.

[Invention 38] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 38 is the layout method of any one of Inventions 36 and 37,
The processing restriction information includes information indicating processing prohibition of the layout element as the processability degree.
Thereby, an effect equivalent to that of the layout system of aspect 4 is obtained.

[Invention 39] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 39 is the layout method of Invention 36,
The layout element processing step sets a processing degree of the processing method based on the layout element input in the layout element input step or the layout template selected in the template selection step, and defines the layout element processing method The processing method information is read from processing method information storage means storing processing method information, and the layout elements are processed with the set processing degree by the processing method based on the read processing method information.
Thereby, an effect equivalent to that of the layout system of aspect 5 is obtained.

[Invention 40] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 40 is the layout method of Invention 36,
And a layout instruction information input step for inputting at least one of layout instruction information relating to the purpose of use of the layout, policy and other purposes,
The layout element processing step sets a processing degree of the processing method based on the layout instruction information input in the layout instruction information input step, and stores a processing method information defining the processing method of the layout element The processing method information is read from the information storage means, and the layout element is processed with the set processing degree by the processing method based on the read processing method information.
Thereby, an effect equivalent to that of the layout system of aspect 6 is obtained.

[Invention 41] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 41 is the layout method of any one of Inventions 36 to 38,
The layout element selection step selects the layout element based on the layout template selected in the template selection step or the layout element input in the layout element input step and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage means. Features.
Thereby, the same effect as the layout system of the invention 7 is acquired.

[Invention 42] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 42 is the layout method of any one of Inventions 36 to 38,
And a layout instruction information input step for inputting at least one of layout instruction information relating to the purpose of use of the layout, policy and other purposes,
In the layout element selection step, the layout element is selected based on the layout instruction information input in the layout instruction information input step and the process restriction information in the process restriction information storage means.
Thereby, an effect equivalent to that of the layout system of aspect 8 is obtained.

[Invention 43] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 43 is the layout method of Invention 36,
The layout element processing step includes a layout element processing method based on the layout template selected in the template selection step, the layout element input in the layout element input step, and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage unit. The processing method information is selected from processing method information storage means storing prescribed processing method information, and the layout element is processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information.
Thereby, an effect equivalent to that of the layout system of the ninth aspect is obtained.

[Invention 44] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 44 is the layout method of Invention 36,
And a layout instruction information input step for inputting at least one of layout instruction information relating to the purpose of use of the layout, policy and other purposes,
In the layout element processing step, processing that stores processing method information that defines a processing method of the layout element based on the layout instruction information input in the layout instruction information input step and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage means The processing method information is selected from method information storage means, and the layout element is processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the tenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 45] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 45 is the layout method of any one of Inventions 36 to 44,
And a template designating step of designating any one of the layout templates selected in the template selecting step.
In the layout step, the layout elements are arranged according to the layout template designated in the template designation step.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the eleventh aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 46] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 46 is the layout method of any one of Inventions 36 to 45,
In the layout element selection step, text analysis processing is performed on the character information input as the layout element in the layout element input step, and the layout element is selected based on the analysis result.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the twelfth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 47] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 47 is the layout method of Invention 46,
In the layout element selection step, an expression or ending is extracted from the character information by the text analysis process, and a layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending is selected.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the thirteenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 48] Furthermore, the layout method of the invention 48 is the layout method of the invention 46,
In the layout element selection step, an impression of a document is extracted from the character information by the text analysis process, and a layout element that matches the extracted impression of the document is selected.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the fourteenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 49] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 49 is the layout method of any one of Inventions 36 to 48,
In the layout element selection step, image analysis processing is performed on the image information input as the layout element in the layout element input step, and the layout element is selected based on the analysis result.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the fifteenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 50] Furthermore, the layout method of the invention 50 is the layout method of the invention 49,
In the layout element selection step, a color tone is extracted from the image information by the image analysis process, and a layout element suitable for the extracted color tone is selected.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the sixteenth aspect can be obtained.

[Invention 51] Furthermore, the layout method of Invention 51 is the layout method of Invention 49,
In the layout element selection step, a frame is extracted from the image information by the image analysis process, and a layout element that matches the extracted shape of the frame is selected.
Thereby, the same effect as that of the layout system of the seventeenth aspect can be obtained.

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 1 to 11 are diagrams showing a first embodiment of a layout system, a layout program, and a layout method according to the present invention.
First, the functional outline of the layout apparatus 100 to which the present invention is applied will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an outline of functions of the layout apparatus 100.
As shown in FIG. 1, the layout apparatus 100 registers a template registration DB 10 for storing a plurality of layout templates, and a plurality of elements (hereinafter referred to as layout elements) that can constitute character information, image information, title information, and other layouts. Layout element registration DB 12, processing method information registration DB 13 for storing processing method information defining the processing method of the layout element, layout element input unit 14 for inputting layout elements, layout use, policy, and other purposes related layouts It has a layout instruction information input unit 16 for inputting instruction information.

  The layout apparatus 100 further includes a template selection unit 18 that selects a layout template from the template registration DB 10 based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit 16, and the layout template selected by the template selection unit 18. A template designating unit 20 for designating one of the layout elements, a layout element selecting unit 22 for selecting an additional layout element from the layout element registration DB 12, and a layout element for processing the layout element selected by the layout element selecting unit 22 A processing unit 23 and a layout unit 24 that lays out layout elements in accordance with a layout template are included.

The layout element selection unit 22 selects a layout element based on the layout template specified by the template specification unit 20, the layout element input by the layout element input unit 14, and the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit 16.
The layout element processing unit 23 processes a layout element by a prescribed processing method based on the processing method information in the processing method information registration DB 13. Further, the layout element input by the layout element input unit 14 is analyzed, and the processing degree of the specified processing method is set based on the analysis result.

The layout unit 24 lays out the layout element input by the layout element input unit 14 and the layout element processed by the layout element processing unit 23 according to the layout template specified by the template specifying unit 20.
Next, the configuration of the layout apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the layout apparatus 100.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the layout apparatus 100 includes a CPU 30 that controls operations and the entire system based on a control program, a ROM 32 that stores a control program for the CPU 30 in a predetermined area, and data read from the ROM 32 and the like. And a RAM 34 for storing calculation results required in the calculation process of the CPU 30 and an I / F 38 for mediating input / output of data to / from an external device, which are signals for transferring data The buses 39 are connected to each other so as to be able to exchange data.

In the I / F 38, a template registration DB 10, a layout element registration DB 12, an input device 40 including a keyboard and a mouse capable of inputting data as a human interface, and a screen based on an image signal are displayed as external devices. A display device 42 is connected.
Next, the data structure of the template registration DB 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  The template registration DB 10 registers a plurality of layout templates defining the layout in association with the file names. The layout template includes, for example, the size of the information storage frame for storing the layout elements and the arrangement position in the layout area, the font size, type and color of the character information, the character spacing and line pitch, The number, quality, size, and ratio are defined, and are described in XML (eXtensible Markup Language) or the like. Each layout template has a different data structure. Here, one typical layout template will be described.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the layout template.
The layout template has a layout area 360 for each page, and one layout area 360 includes a title information storage frame 362 for storing title information and image information, as shown in FIG. Image information storage frame 364, character information storage frame 366 for storing character information, image information storage frame 368, character information storage frame 370, and flow object storage frame 372 for storing flow objects. It is arranged and configured. Here, the flow object refers to character information or other overflow information that overflows without being stored in the information storage frame on the page before the current page.

The title information storage frame 362 is a rectangular frame having a substantially full width in the horizontal direction and a height of about 1/5 in the vertical direction. The title information storage frame 362 is arranged such that its upper left corner is positioned near the upper left end of the layout area 360. It overlaps with the storage frame 364, the character information storage frame 366, and the character information storage frame 370.
The image information storage frame 364 is a rectangular frame having a width of about ½ in the horizontal direction and a height of about ¼ in the vertical direction, and its upper left corner is in the horizontal direction compared to the upper left corner of the title information storage frame 362. Are arranged so that the vertical direction is slightly lower than the title information storage frame 362 and the character information storage frame 366.

The character information storage frame 366 is a rectangular frame having a width of about ½ in the horizontal direction and a height that is almost full in the vertical direction. The character information storage frame 366 is arranged such that its upper left corner coincides with the upper left corner of the title information storage frame 362. The information storage frame 362, the character information storage frame 364, and the image information storage frame 368 overlap.
The image information storage frame 368 is a rectangular frame having a width of about ½ in the horizontal direction and a height of about ¼ in the vertical direction, and is arranged so that the lower left corner thereof coincides with the lower left corner of the character information storage frame 366. The character information storage frame 366 overlaps the character information storage frame 366.

The character information storage frame 370 is a rectangular frame having a width of about ½ in the horizontal direction and a height that is almost full in the vertical direction. The character information storage frame 370 is arranged so that its upper right corner coincides with the upper right corner of the title information storage frame 362. It overlaps with the information storage frame 362 and the flow object storage frame 372.
The flow object storage frame 372 is a rectangular frame having a width of about 1/2 in the horizontal direction and a height of about 1/4 in the vertical direction, and is arranged such that the lower right corner thereof matches the lower right corner of the character information storage frame 370. The character information storage frame 370 overlaps the character information storage frame 370.

In the example of FIG. 3, the title information storage frame, the character information storage frame, and the image information storage frame are illustrated as the types of information storage frames. However, for example, illustration information for storing illustration information is used. There is a storage frame. The illustration information storage frame has a different use in that the image information storage frame stores pictures while the image information storage frame stores pictures.
Further, in the example of FIG. 3, only the information storage frame is shown for the sake of simplification. However, in each information storage frame, in the case of the character information storage frame, the font type, the maximum font size, and the minimum font size are displayed. It is assumed that information necessary for laying out characters such as centering and right alignment is specified. Similarly, in the case of an image information storage frame, information necessary for laying out an image such as a maximum image size and a minimum image size is defined.

The template registration DB 10 registers a template attribute registration table 400 in which attributes of layout templates are registered.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the template attribute registration table 400.
In the template attribute registration table 400, as shown in FIG. 4, one record is registered for each layout template. Each record includes a field 402 in which the file name of the layout template is registered, a field 404 in which the attribute of the layout template is registered, and a field 406 in which the file name of the sample image is registered. For example, the image information of the sample image is registered in the layout element registration DB 12.

  In the example of FIG. 4, the first record includes “template 1” as the layout template file name, “general: pamphlet” as the layout template attribute, and “Temp1.jpg” as the sample image file name. "Is registered. This indicates that the layout template with the file name “template 1” is used as a pamphlet for general users, and the image information with the file name “Temp1.jpg” is used as the sample image.

Next, the data structure of the layout element registration DB 12 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
The layout element registration DB 12 registers a plurality of layout elements to be used as additional layout elements when the number of layout elements input by the user is less than the number of information storage frames defined by the layout template. ing.

The layout element registration DB 12 registers a layout element attribute registration table 420 in which attributes of layout elements are registered.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a data structure of the layout element attribute registration table 420.
In the layout element attribute registration table 420, as shown in FIG. 5, one record is registered for each layout element. Each record includes a field 422 in which an index for use in searching for layout elements is registered, a field 424 in which file names of layout elements are registered, a field 426 in which types of layout elements are registered, and attributes of layout elements. Field 428 in which the description of the layout element is registered, and a field 432 in which processing restriction information indicating the degree of possible processing that can process the layout element is registered.

  In the example of FIG. 5, the first record includes “printer: copy” as an index, “Image1.jpg” as a file name, “illustration image” as a type, and “use scene: multifunction device” as an attribute. ”Is registered for explanation as“ represents printer image and use scene ”. This indicates that the layout element of the file name “Image1.jpg” has the type of illustration image and the attribute is for the multifunction device. In the sixth row record, “variable” is the color processability degree, “1-2 times” is the resolution processability degree, and “1-2 times” is the size processability degree. However, “impossible” is registered as the degree of possible trimming. This is permitted to perform color conversion processing on the layout element with the file name “Image4.jpg” and to perform resolution conversion processing and enlargement / reduction processing in a range of 1 to 2 times. However, it is indicated that the trimming process is prohibited.

Next, the data structure of the processing method information registration DB 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
The processing method information registration DB 13 registers a processing method information registration table 440 in which processing method information is registered.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the processing method information registration table 440.
In the processing method information registration table 440, as shown in FIG. 6, one record is registered for each processing method information. Each record includes a field 442 in which the order of applying the processing method to the layout element is registered, and a field 444 in which the content of the processing method is registered.

  In the example of FIG. 6, three processing methods are registered. As processing method 1 (refers to a processing method of application order “1”, hereinafter abbreviated in the same manner), a color space of a layout element is calculated by a known color conversion method, and then a layout element of a designated color space is obtained. A color conversion process for conversion is defined. “Change_color (IMAGE)” is used as a function, which calls a layout element pointer as an argument.

As the processing method 2, a resolution conversion process for converting the resolution of a layout element into a specified resolution by a known resolution conversion method is defined. “Change_resolution (IMAGE, RESOLUTION” is used as a function, which calls the layout element pointer and the specified resolution as arguments.
As the processing method 3, an enlargement / reduction process for converting the image size of a layout element into a designated image size by a known enlargement / reduction method is defined. “Change_size (IMAGE, X, Y)” is used as a function, which is called with a layout element pointer, a specified image size in the X direction, and a specified image size in the Y direction as arguments.

Next, the configuration of the CPU 30 and the processing executed by the CPU 30 will be described with reference to FIG.
The CPU 30 is composed of a microprocessing unit (MPU) or the like, starts a predetermined program stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 32, and executes the layout process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 according to the program.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the layout processing.
The layout process is a process realized as a layout element input unit 14, a layout instruction information input unit 16, a template selection unit 18, a template specification unit 20, a layout element selection unit 22, a layout element processing unit 23, and a layout unit 24. When executed in the CPU 30, as shown in FIG. 7, first, the process proceeds to step S100.

In step S100, layout instruction information is input from the input device 40. The layout instruction information may be input directly from the input device 40 or may be selected from a list in which a plurality of layout instruction information is registered. In the latter case, the designation of the layout instruction information is input, and the designated layout instruction information is acquired from the list.
Next, the process proceeds to step S102, and a layout element to be laid out is input from the input device 40. The layout element may be input directly from the input device 40, or the layout element in the layout element registration DB 12 may be used. In the latter case, the layout element designation is input from the input device 40, and the designated layout element is read from the layout element registration DB 12. As layout elements, for example, large headings (title information), explanatory texts (character information), categories, and main images (image information) are input.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S104, the template attribute registration table 400 is referred to, and a layout template that matches the input layout instruction information is selected from the template registration DB 10, and the process proceeds to step S106, where a plurality of layout templates are selected. If it is determined whether or not a plurality of layout templates have been selected (Yes), the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, the selected plurality of layout templates are displayed on the display device 42 to prompt the user to designate one of them, and the process proceeds to step S110 to input the layout template designation from the input device 40. Then, the process proceeds to step S112 to execute a layout element selection process for selecting an additional layout element from the layout element registration DB 12, and the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, based on the processing method information in the processing method information registration DB 13, the layout element selected in step S112 is processed within the range of the processing possibility by a specified processing method. Further, the input layout element is analyzed, and the processing degree of the specified processing method is set based on the analysis result. For example, if the processing method is color conversion processing, the conversion parameters are set so that the main colors used in the input layout elements are emphasized, and the processing method is resolution conversion processing or enlargement / reduction. In the case of processing, a designated resolution or designated image size is set.

Next, the process proceeds to step S114, in which automatic layout processing for automatically arranging the input and processed layout elements in the layout area 360 is executed according to the designated layout template, and a series of processing is finished to return to the original processing. Return.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S106 that only one layout template has been selected (No), the process proceeds to step S112.

Next, the layout element selection process in step S112 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the layout element selection processing in step S112.
When the layout element selection process is executed in step S112, as shown in FIG. 8, first, the process proceeds to step S200.

  In step S200, the designated layout template is analyzed, and the process proceeds to step S202. Based on the analysis result of step S200, the number of input layout elements becomes the number of information storage frames defined by the layout template. If it is not satisfied, it is determined whether or not the layout elements are insufficient. If it is determined that the layout elements are insufficient (Yes), the process proceeds to step S204.

In step S204, the attribute of the target information storage frame is acquired for the information storage frame defined by the layout template that lacks layout elements, and the process proceeds to step S206.
In step S206, the layout element attribute registration table 420 and the acquired attribute of the information storage frame are referred to, and a layout element matching the input layout instruction information is selected from the layout element registration DB 12.

Next, the process proceeds to step S208, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S210.
In step S210, referring to the layout element attribute registration table 420 and the acquired attribute of the information storage frame, a layout element that matches the category input as the layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. Here, when a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S206, a layout element that matches the category is selected from the layout elements. If no layout element can be selected in step S206, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from the layout elements that match the category.

Next, the process proceeds to step S212, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S214.
In step S214, referring to the layout element attribute registration table 420 and the acquired attribute of the information storage frame, a layout element matching the character information input as the layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. Here, when a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S210, the layout element that matches the character information is selected from the layout elements. If no layout element can be selected in step S210, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from those layout elements that match the character information.

Next, the process proceeds to step S216, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S218.
In step S218, the layout element attribute registration table 420 and the acquired attribute of the information storage frame are referred to, and a layout element suitable for the image information input as the layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. Here, when a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S214, a layout element that matches the image information is selected from the layout elements. If no layout element can be selected in step S214, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from those layout elements that match the image information.

Next, the process proceeds to step S220, where it is determined whether or not there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is performed. Return.
On the other hand, when it is determined in steps S208, S212, S216, and S220 that the selected layout element is one (Yes), the process proceeds to step S202.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S202 that there are no shortage of layout elements (No), the series of processing is terminated and the original processing is restored.
Next, the automatic layout process in step S114 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the automatic layout process of step S114.
When the automatic layout process is executed in step S114, the process first proceeds to step S300 as shown in FIG.

In step S300, the first page of the layout area 360 of the designated layout template is set as a processing target, and the process proceeds to step S302.
In step S302, the position of the fixed line fixedly arranged in the page is determined, and the process proceeds to step S304 to determine the shape and position of the fixed character information fixedly arranged in the page, and in step S306. Then, the shape and position of the fixed image information fixedly arranged in the page are determined, and the process proceeds to step S308.

In step S308, it is determined whether or not there is an unprocessed flow object. If it is determined that there is an unprocessed flow object, the shape and position of the flow object storage frame are determined based on the unprocessed flow object. Is executed, and the process proceeds to step S310.
In step S310, one to be arranged in the layout area 360 is selected from the layout elements input and processed in steps S102 and S113, and the process proceeds to step S312.

In step S312, it is determined whether or not the layout element selected in step S310 (hereinafter referred to as a selected layout element) is title information. If it is determined that the layout element is title information, the title information is based on the selected layout element. A process of determining the shape and position of the storage frame is executed, and the process proceeds to step S314.
In step S314, it is determined whether the selected layout element is image information. If it is determined that the selected layout element is image information, the shape and position of the image information storage frame or the illustration information storage frame are determined based on the selected layout element. Is executed, and the process proceeds to step S316.

In step S316, it is determined whether or not the selected layout element is character information. If it is determined that the selected layout element is character information, processing for determining the shape and position of the character information storage frame based on the selected layout element is executed. The process proceeds to step S318.
In step S318, the process of determining the position of the demarcation line is executed, and the process proceeds to step S320, where it is determined whether or not an unprocessed information storage frame exists in the layout area 360, and an unprocessed information storage frame is determined. When it is determined that there is no (No), the process proceeds to step S322.

In step S322, it is determined whether or not the processing in steps S302 to S320 has been completed for all pages of the designated layout template. If it is determined that the processing has been completed for all pages (Yes), the process proceeds to step S324. Transition.
In step S324, it is determined whether or not there is an unprocessed flow object. If it is determined that there is an unprocessed flow object, a layout area 360 necessary for arranging the unprocessed flow object is added to the page. Is created, an unprocessed flow object is placed in the additional layout area 360, and a series of processes are terminated to return to the original process.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S322 that the processing in steps S302 to S320 has not been completed for all pages of the designated layout template (No), the process proceeds to step S326, and the layout of the designated layout template is determined. In the area 360, the next page is set as a processing target, and the process proceeds to step S302.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S320 that there is an unprocessed information storage frame in the layout area 360 (Yes), the process proceeds to step S310.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
When performing automatic layout, the user first inputs layout instruction information through step S100. Here, it is assumed that “general: pamphlet” is input as the layout instruction information. The layout instruction information is input by selecting from a pull-down menu, for example.

FIG. 10 shows a layout element input screen.
Next, through step S102, the user inputs a layout element to be laid out as shown in FIG. In the example of FIG. 10, a main headline, an explanatory note, a category, and a main image are input as layout elements. For the main heading, “New value for you” is selected from the pull-down menu 600, and for the explanatory text, “We have sold a new printer ...” in the text box 602. Has been. In addition, “Printer” is selected from the pull-down menu 604 as the category, and the file name “c: \ Image \ Printer.jpg” of the image information is input to the text box 606 as the main image.

  In the layout apparatus 100, when the layout instruction information and the layout element are input, through the step S104, the input layout instruction information “general: for the general public: referring to the attribute of the template attribute registration table 400 and the target information storage frame”. A layout template suitable for the “brochure” is selected from the template registration DB 10. Here, since there are two layout templates in which “general: pamphlet” is registered as an attribute in the template attribute registration table 400 of FIG. 4, template 1 (refers to the layout template of the file name “template 1”). The following is abbreviated in the same manner.) And template 2 are selected.

FIG. 11 shows a layout template designation screen.
Next, through steps S106 and S108, as shown in FIG. 11, the templates 1 and 2 are displayed on the display device 42, and the user is prompted to designate one of them. Here, it is assumed that the user designates template 1.
In the layout apparatus 100, when a layout template is designated, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 through step S112. In Template 1, “large headline”, “main image”, “additional image”, and “illustration character” are set as the image information storage frame, and “description” is set as the character information storage frame. . At this time, it can be seen from the input layout element and the designated layout template that there are not enough layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character”. Therefore, layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character” are selected based on the input layout instruction information “general: brochure” and category “printer”.

  First, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 5, there are two layout elements whose attributes include “additional image”, and one of them is “general”. As the layout element stored in the image information storage frame, the image information of the file name “Image4.jpg” that matches the input layout instruction information is selected through step S206.

  Further, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 5, if there are two layout elements whose attributes include “printer” and horizontal writing is designated by the user, an image of “illustration character” is displayed. As the layout element stored in the information storage frame, the image information of the file name “Text2.jpg” that matches the input category is selected through step S210.

  In the layout apparatus 100, when an additional layout element is selected, the selected layout element is processed through step S113. First, image analysis processing is performed on the input main image “Printer.jpg”, and main colors and resolutions used in the main image “Printer.jpg” are extracted. Here, for example, it is assumed that “blue color” is extracted as the main color and “300 dpi” is extracted as the resolution.

Based on the analysis result, first, the selected image information “Image4.jpg” is processed.
First, the processing method 1 is read from the processing method information registration table 440. Further, the processing restriction information corresponding to the processing method 1 of the image information “Image4.jpg” is read from the layout element attribute registration table 420. At this time, since it is permitted to perform color conversion processing on the image information “Image4.jpg”, the image information “Image4.jpg” is processed by the processing method 1. The processing method 1 is color conversion processing, and the main color used in the main image “Printer.jpg” is the blue system, so the conversion parameters of the processing method 1 are set so as to be the blue system. Accordingly, the image information “Image4.jpg” is color-converted by the processing method 1 so that the entire color tone is blue.

  Second, the processing method 2 is read from the processing method information registration table 440. Further, the processing restriction information corresponding to the processing method 2 of the image information “Image4.jpg” is read from the layout element attribute registration table 420. At this time, since the resolution conversion process is permitted for the image information “Image4.jpg”, the image information “Image4.jpg” is processed by the processing method 2. Processing method 2 is resolution conversion processing, and the resolution of the main image “Printer.jpg” is “300 dpi”, so the designated resolution is set to “300 dpi”. Specifically, since the image information “Image4.jpg” is permitted to perform resolution conversion processing in the range of 1 to 2 times, if the resolution is “150 dpi” to “300 dpi”, the processing method 2 converts the resolution to “300 dpi”. Further, when the resolution is smaller than “150 dpi”, the resolution is doubled, and when the resolution is larger than “300 dpi”, the resolution is not converted.

  Third, the processing method 3 is read from the processing method information registration table 440. Further, the processing restriction information corresponding to the processing method 3 of the image information “Image4.jpg” is read from the layout element attribute registration table 420. At this time, since the image information “Image4.jpg” is permitted to be enlarged / reduced, the image information “Image4.jpg” is processed by the processing method 3. Since the processing method 3 is enlargement / reduction processing, for example, when the size of the image information storage frame of the “additional image” in which the image information “Image4.jpg” is stored is set to “(X, Y)”. Then, the designated image size is set to “(X, Y)”. Specifically, since the image information “Image4.jpg” is allowed to perform enlargement / reduction processing in the range of 1 to 2 times, the image size is “(X / 2, Y / 2)” to If “(X, Y)”, the processing method 3 converts the image size to “(X, Y)”. When the image size is smaller than “(X / 2, Y / 2)”, the image size is converted to double, and when the image size is larger than “(X, Y)”, the image size is Not converted.

Next, the selected image information “Text2.jpg” is similarly processed based on the analysis result of the main image “Printer.jpg”.
In the layout apparatus 100, when a layout element is processed, an automatic layout process is executed through step S114. The automatic layout process will be described by taking as an example a case where layout is performed using the layout template of FIG.

First, through steps S300 to S310, the position of the fixed line, the shape and position of fixed character information, and the shape and position of fixed image information are determined in that order, and the layout elements input and processed in steps S102 and S113 are determined. A layout element is selected from among them.
Next, when the selected layout element is title information, since the title information storage frame 362 exists in the layout area 360, the shape and position of the title information storage frame 362 are changed based on the selected layout element through step S312. The determining process is executed. In this determination process, the information amount of title information is calculated, the shape and position of the title information storage frame 362 are determined based on the calculated information amount, and the title information is stored in the title information storage frame 362. For example, when the title is relatively short, the default title information storage frame 362 is deformed upward so that the title information just fits.

  If the selected layout element is image information, the image information storage frame 364 exists in the layout area 360. Therefore, after step S314, the shape and position of the image information storage frame 364 are changed based on the selected layout element. The determining process is executed. In this determination process, the information amount of the image information is calculated, and based on the calculated information amount, the shape and position of the image information storage frame 364 are determined so as not to overlap with other information storage frames, and the image information is It is stored in the image information storage frame 364. For example, if the height of the image is larger than the width and right-justification is specified, the default image information storage frame 364 is moved downward (or possible) to the minimum position that does not overlap the title information storage frame 362. Then, the image information storage frame 364 is deformed to the right while maintaining the aspect ratio of the image, with the position after the deformation as the upper movement limit. As a result, it is possible to store the image in the maximum allowable size while maintaining the aspect ratio of the image.

  If the selected layout element is character information, a character information storage frame 366 exists in the layout area 360. Therefore, after step S316, the shape and position of the character information storage frame 366 are changed based on the selected layout element. The determining process is executed. In this determination process, the information amount of the character information is calculated so as not to overlap with other information storage frames, the shape and position of the character information storage frame 366 are determined based on the calculated information amount, and the character information is It is stored in the character information storage frame 366. For example, when the upper right portion of the character information storage frame 366 overlaps with the image information storage frame 364, the character information storage frame 366 is divided into two upper and lower frames, the portion overlapping with the image information storage frame 364 and the other portion. Is done. The upper part of the divided character information storage frame 366 is deformed in the left direction to the minimum position that does not overlap the image information storage frame 364 with the position as the upper limit of movement in the downward direction and the left direction. It deforms downward (or upward if possible) to a minimum position that does not overlap the storage frame 362. Also, the lower part of the divided character information storage frame 366 is deformed upward to the minimum position that does not overlap the image information storage frame 368, with the position being the upper limit of movement in the upward direction. The character information is first stored in the upper part of the divided character information storage frame 366, and the portion that cannot be stored is stored in the lower part of the divided character information storage frame 366. As a result, the character information storage frame 366 can be divided even if it overlaps with other information storage frames, whereby the character information can be stored efficiently, and the continuity of the contents between the frames can be maintained even if divided. it can.

By such an automatic layout process, for example, when the explanatory text is long, the layout can be performed normally without adding illustration characters. On the other hand, when the explanatory text is short, a beautiful layout with less white space can be realized by adding illustration characters.
In this way, in the present embodiment, a layout element to be laid out is input, a layout template is selected from the template registration DB 10, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12, and selected. The layout elements are processed within the range of the processability, and the input and processed layout elements are laid out according to the selected layout template.

  As a result, the layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are processed within the set processable degree range, so that the possibility that the layout elements are processed indefinitely can be reduced. Therefore, the layout elements can be protected as compared with the conventional case. Furthermore, since an additional layout element is selected even if the number or amount of layout elements input by the user is small, it is difficult for a blank to be generated in the layout result. In addition, since the selected layout element is processed, even if there is no appropriate layout element in the layout element registration DB 12, it can be added as a relatively appropriate layout element. Therefore, it is possible to realize a layout that has a relatively good appearance as compared with the conventional case.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, layout elements are processed by a prescribed processing method based on the processing method information in the processing method information registration DB 13.
Thereby, since the layout element can be processed by a uniform processing method, the layout element can be processed relatively easily.
Further, in the present embodiment, the processing method is read from the processing method information registration table 440, the processing restriction information corresponding to the processing method of the selected layout element is read from the layout element attribute registration table 420, and the read processing restriction information is included in the read processing restriction information. Based on this, layout elements are processed by a prescribed processing method.

Thereby, since the processable degree can be set for each layout element and each processing method, the protection level of the layout element can be set in detail.
Further, in the present embodiment, the processing restriction information includes information indicating that the layout element is prohibited to be processed as the degree of processing.
Thereby, it is possible to further protect the layout elements.

Further, in the present embodiment, the processing degree of the specified processing method is set based on the input layout element.
As a result, the selected layout element is processed so as to be adapted to the layout element input by the user, so that a more attractive layout can be realized.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, any one of a plurality of selected layout templates is designated, and layout elements are laid out according to the designated layout template.
Thereby, it is possible to realize a layout that is relatively adapted to the user's intention.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, layout instruction information is input, and a layout template is selected based on the input layout instruction information.

As a result, a layout template that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, policy, and other purposes is selected, so that a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, policy, and other purposes can be realized.
Further, in the present embodiment, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the selected layout template and the input layout element.

Thereby, it is possible to realize a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, a layout element is selected based on the input layout instruction information.
Thereby, it is possible to realize a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes.

  In the first embodiment, the template registration DB 10 corresponds to the template storage means of the invention 2, 19 or 36, and the layout element registration DB 12 is the layout element storage means of the invention 2, 19 or 36, or the invention 2, 3, 19, 20, 36, or 37 processing restriction information storage means is supported. The processing method information registration DB 13 corresponds to the processing method information storage means of the invention 3, 5, 20, 22, 37 or 39, and the layout element input unit 14 and step S102 are those of the invention 2, 5, 19, or 22. Corresponding to the layout element input means, step S102 corresponds to the layout element input step of the invention 36 or 39.

  In the first embodiment, the template selecting unit 18 and step S104 correspond to the template selecting means of the invention 2, 5, 11, 19, 22 or 28, and step S104 is the invention 36, 39 or 45. The template designating unit 20 and step S110 correspond to the template designating means of the invention 11 or 28. Step S110 corresponds to the template designating step of the invention 45, the layout element selecting unit 22 and step S112 correspond to the layout element selecting means of the invention 2, 3, 19 or 20, and the step S112 is the invention 36 or This corresponds to 37 layout element selection steps.

  In the first embodiment, the layout element processing unit 23 and step S113 correspond to the layout element processing means of inventions 1 to 3, 5, 18 to 20 or 22, and step S113 is inventions 35 to 37. Or the layout part 24 and step S114 correspond to the layout means of the invention 2, 11, 19 or 28, corresponding to the layout element processing step of 39. Step S114 corresponds to the layout step of the invention 36 or 45.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the layout system, layout program, and layout method according to the present invention.
In the present embodiment, the layout system, the layout program, and the layout method according to the present invention are applied to the case of automatically laying out a layout element input by a user, and is different from the first embodiment. Is that a layout element is selected based on the input layout element and processing restriction information. Hereinafter, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

The layout element selection unit 22 selects an additional layout element from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the layout element input by the layout element input unit 14 and the processing restriction information in the layout element attribute registration table 420.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the data structure of the layout element attribute registration table 420.
The layout element registration DB 12 registers a layout element attribute registration table 420 having contents as shown in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 12, the third-stage record has “impossible” as the color processability degree, “1-2 times” as the resolution processability degree, and “1 to 2” as the size processability degree. “Up to 2 times” is registered as “impossible” as the trimming processability degree. It is permitted to perform resolution conversion processing and enlargement / reduction processing in the range of 1 to 2 times for the layout element with the file name “Image1.jpg”, but to perform color conversion processing and trimming processing. Indicates that it is prohibited.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described. It is assumed that the layout template is designated under the same conditions as in the first embodiment.
In the layout apparatus 100, when a layout template is designated, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 through step S112. In Template 1, “large headline”, “main image”, “additional image”, and “illustration character” are set as the image information storage frame, and “description” is set as the character information storage frame. . At this time, it can be seen from the input layout element and the designated layout template that there are not enough layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character”. Therefore, layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character” are selected based on the input layout instruction information “general: brochure” and category “printer”.

  First, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 12, there are four layout elements whose attributes include “additional image”, and three of them are “general”. As the layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frame, the image information of the file names “Image31.jpg”, “Image32.jpg”, and “Image33.jpg” that conforms to the input layout instruction information after step S206. Selected as a candidate.

  Next, an image analysis process is performed on the input main image “Printer.jpg”, and main colors and resolutions used in the main image “Printer.jpg” are extracted. Here, for example, it is assumed that “blue color” is extracted as the main color and “300 dpi” is extracted as the resolution. Then, the processing restriction information of the image information “Image31.jpg”, “Image32.jpg”, and “Image33.jpg” is read from the layout element attribute registration table 420, and each processing restriction information is read based on the read processing restriction information. For each piece of image information, it is determined whether or not it is permitted to convert the resolution of the image information to “300 dpi”. For example, if the resolution of the image information “Image32.jpg” is “600 dpi”, it is permitted to perform resolution conversion processing in the range of 0.5 to 2 times for the image information “Image32.jpg”. The image information “Image32.jpg” is determined to be permitted to be converted to “300 dpi”. The determination is similarly performed on the image information “Image31.jpg” and “Image33.jpg”. As a result, if it is determined that conversion to “300 dpi” is not permitted, the image information “Image32.” From the image information “Image31.jpg”, “Image32.jpg”, and “Image33.jpg”. “jpg” is selected as the definitive layout element.

  In addition, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 12, if there are two layout elements that include “printer” in the attribute, and horizontal writing is specified by the user, an image of “illustration character” is displayed. As layout elements to be stored in the information storage frame, through step S210, image information with file names “Text31.jpg” and “Text32.jpg” that match the input category is selected as a candidate. Then, in the same way as selecting the image information “Image32.jpg”, it is possible to convert the resolution of the image information “Text31.jpg” and “Text32.jpg” to “300 dpi”. Selected as a layout element.

In the layout apparatus 100, when an additional layout element is selected, the selected layout element is processed through steps S113 and S114 in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and the input and processed layout elements are displayed. Laid out.
In this manner, in the present embodiment, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the input layout element and processing restriction information.

Thereby, it is possible to realize a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes. Further, since the additional layout elements are selected within the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable layout elements can be limited, and the layout elements can be further protected.
In the second embodiment, the layout element registration DB 12 corresponds to the processing restriction information storage means of the invention 7, 24 or 41, and the layout element input unit 14 and step S102 are the layout element input means of the invention 7 or 24. Step S102 corresponds to the layout element input step of the invention 41. The layout element selection unit 22 and step S112 correspond to the layout element selection means of the invention 7 or 24, and step S112 corresponds to the layout element selection step of the invention 41.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In the present embodiment, the layout system, the layout program, and the layout method according to the present invention are applied to a case where layout elements input by a user are automatically laid out, and are different from the first embodiment. Is that a layout element is selected based on the input layout instruction information and processing restriction information. Hereinafter, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

The layout element selection unit 22 selects an additional layout element from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit 16 and the processing restriction information in the layout element attribute registration table 420.
As in the second embodiment, the layout element registration DB 12 registers a layout element attribute registration table 420 having the contents as shown in FIG.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described. It is assumed that the layout template is designated under the same conditions as in the first embodiment. However, it is assumed that “in general: pamphlet: unify resolution to 300 dpi” is input as layout instruction information.
In the layout apparatus 100, when a layout template is designated, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 through step S112. In Template 1, “large headline”, “main image”, “additional image”, and “illustration character” are set as the image information storage frame, and “description” is set as the character information storage frame. . At this time, it can be seen from the input layout element and the designated layout template that there are not enough layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character”. Therefore, layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character” are selected based on the input layout instruction information “general: brochure” and category “printer”.

  First, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 12, there are four layout elements whose attributes include “additional image”, and three of them are “general”. As the layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frame, the image information of the file names “Image31.jpg”, “Image32.jpg”, and “Image33.jpg” that conforms to the input layout instruction information after step S206. Selected as a candidate.

  Next, since the layout instruction information includes a setting of “unify resolution to 300 dpi”, the processing restriction information of the image information “Image31.jpg”, “Image32.jpg”, and “Image33.jpg” is laid out. Whether or not it is permitted to convert the resolution of the image information to “300 dpi” for each piece of image information is read from the element attribute registration table 420 and based on the read processing restriction information. Is done. For example, if the resolution of the image information “Image32.jpg” is “600 dpi”, it is permitted to perform resolution conversion processing in the range of 0.5 to 2 times for the image information “Image32.jpg”. The image information “Image32.jpg” is determined to be permitted to be converted to “300 dpi”. The determination is similarly performed on the image information “Image31.jpg” and “Image33.jpg”. As a result, if it is determined that conversion to “300 dpi” is not permitted, the image information “Image32.” From the image information “Image31.jpg”, “Image32.jpg”, and “Image33.jpg”. “jpg” is selected as the definitive layout element.

  In addition, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 12, if there are two layout elements that include “printer” in the attribute, and horizontal writing is specified by the user, an image of “illustration character” is displayed. As layout elements to be stored in the information storage frame, through step S210, image information with file names “Text31.jpg” and “Text32.jpg” that match the input category is selected as a candidate. Then, in the same way as selecting the image information “Image32.jpg”, it is possible to convert the resolution of the image information “Text31.jpg” and “Text32.jpg” to “300 dpi”. Selected as a layout element.

In the layout apparatus 100, when an additional layout element is selected, the selected layout element is processed through steps S113 and S114 in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and the input and processed layout elements are displayed. Laid out.
In this way, in the present embodiment, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the input layout instruction information and processing restriction information.

Thereby, it is possible to realize a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes. Further, since the additional layout elements are selected within the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable layout elements can be limited, and the layout elements can be further protected.
In the third embodiment, the layout element registration DB 12 corresponds to the processing restriction information storage means of the invention 8, 25 or 42, and the layout instruction information input unit 16 and step S100 are the layout instruction information of the invention 8 or 25. Corresponding to the input means, step S100 corresponds to the layout instruction information input step of the invention 42. The layout element selection unit 22 and step S112 correspond to the layout element selection means of the invention 8 or 25, and step S112 corresponds to the layout element selection step of the invention 42.

Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of a layout system, a layout program, and a layout method according to the present invention.
In the present embodiment, the layout system, the layout program, and the layout method according to the present invention are applied to the case of automatically laying out a layout element input by a user, and is different from the first embodiment. Is that processing method information is selected from the processing method information registration DB 13 and a layout element is processed by a prescribed processing method based on the selected processing method information. Hereinafter, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

  The layout element processing unit 23 is based on the layout template selected by the template selection unit 18, the layout element input by the layout element input unit 14, or the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit 16. The processing method information is selected from the above, and based on the selected processing method information, the layout element selected by the layout element selection unit 22 is processed by a prescribed processing method.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the processing method information registration table 440.
The processing method information registration DB 13 registers a processing method information registration table 440 having contents as shown in FIG. Each record includes fields 422 to 430 and a field 446 in which application conditions for the processing method are registered.
In the example of FIG. 13, six processing methods are registered. As the processing method 1, color conversion processing for performing color conversion by the first color conversion method is defined, and this can be applied only to the templates 1 and 2. On the other hand, as the processing method 2, a color conversion process for performing color conversion by a second color conversion method different from the first color conversion method is defined, and this can be applied only to the template 3. it can. Therefore, one of the processing methods 1 and 2 is selected according to the designated template.

  As the processing method 3, a resolution conversion process for converting the resolution by the first resolution conversion method is defined, and this can be applied only when the category is “printer”. On the other hand, as the processing method 4, a resolution conversion process for converting the resolution by a second resolution conversion method different from the first resolution conversion method is defined. This is when the category is “projector”. It can only be applied to. Therefore, one of the processing methods 3 and 4 is selected according to the input category.

  As the processing method 5, enlargement / reduction processing for converting the image size by the first enlargement / reduction method is defined, and this can be applied only when the usage is “for office”. On the other hand, as the processing method 6, an enlargement / reduction process for converting an image size by a second enlargement / reduction method different from the first enlargement / reduction method is defined. Applicable only in certain cases. Therefore, one of the processing methods 5 and 6 is selected according to the input layout instruction information.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described. It is assumed that the layout elements are selected under the same conditions as in the first embodiment.
In the layout apparatus 100, when an additional layout element is selected, a processing method is selected from the processing method information registration table 440 through step S113. First, since the template 1 is designated by the user, the processing method 1 is selected as the color conversion process. Next, since “printer” is input as the category and “general: pamphlet” is input as the layout instruction information, the processing methods 3 and 6 are selected as the resolution conversion process and the enlargement / reduction process. The image information “Image4.jpg” and “Text3.jpg” are processed by the processing methods 1, 3, and 6 based on the analysis result of the main image “Printer.jpg”.

In this way, in the present embodiment, the processing method information is selected from the processing method information registration DB 13 based on the selected layout template or the input layout element, and based on the selected processing method information, the prescribed method is selected. Layout elements are processed by a processing method.
As a result, the selected layout element is processed by a processing method that is relatively suitable for the layout template or the layout element input by the user, so that a more attractive layout can be realized.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, processing method information is selected from the processing method information registration DB 13 based on the input layout instruction information or category, and layout elements are defined by a specified processing method based on the selected processing method information. Is to be processed.
As a result, the selected layout element is processed by a processing method that is relatively suitable for the layout application, policy, and other purposes, so that a layout that is more suitable for the layout use, policy, and other purposes can be realized. .

  In the fourth embodiment, the processing method information registration DB 13 corresponds to the processing method information storage means of the invention 9, 10, 26, 27, 43 or 44, and the layout element input unit 14 and step S102 are the invention 9 Alternatively, step S102 corresponds to the layout element input step of the invention 43. The layout instruction information input unit 16 and step S100 correspond to the layout instruction information input unit of the invention 10 or 27, and the step S100 corresponds to the layout instruction information input step of the invention 44, and the template selection unit 18 and the step S104. Corresponds to the template selection means of the invention 9 or 26.

In the fourth embodiment, step S104 corresponds to the template selection step of the invention 43, and the layout element processing unit 23 and step S113 correspond to the layout element processing means of the invention 9, 10, 26 or 27. Step S113 corresponds to the layout element processing step of the invention 43 or 44.
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 14 and 15 are diagrams showing a fifth embodiment of the layout system, layout program, and layout method according to the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, the layout system, the layout program, and the layout method according to the present invention are applied to the case of automatically laying out layout elements input by a user, and is different from the first embodiment. Is that an additional layout element is selected based on the result of the text analysis process. Hereinafter, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing text analysis selection processing.
The CPU 30 executes a text analysis selection process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 14 instead of the processes of steps S214 and S216 shown in the flowchart of FIG.
When the text analysis selection process is executed by the CPU 30, first, as shown in FIG. 14, the process proceeds to step S214.

  In step S214, referring to the layout element attribute registration table 420 and the acquired information storage frame attribute, a layout element that matches the character information input as the layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12, and the process proceeds to step S216. Then, it is determined whether or not there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S400.

  In step S400, an expression or ending is extracted from the input character information by text analysis processing, and the process proceeds to step S402. The text analysis processing is not specified in particular, but the ending can be obtained using general morphological analysis, and a text search method such as TFIDF (Term Frequency & Inverse Document Frequency) method is used. It is also possible to automatically search for related layout elements.

  In step S402, a layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. If a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S214, the layout element that matches the expression or ending is selected. If no layout element can be selected in step S214, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from the layout elements that match the expression or ending.

Next, the process proceeds to step S404, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. If it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S406.
In step S406, the impression of the document is extracted from the input character information by text analysis processing, and the process proceeds to step S408.

  In step S408, a layout element that matches the extracted document impression is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. Here, when a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S402, one that matches the impression of the document is selected from these layout elements. If no layout element can be selected in step S402, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from the layout elements that match the impression of the document.

Next, the process proceeds to step S410, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. If it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S218.
On the other hand, when it is determined in steps S216, S404, and S410 that there is one selected layout element (Yes), the process proceeds to step S202.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
When performing automatic layout, the user first inputs layout instruction information through step S100. Here, it is assumed that “general: pamphlet” is input as the layout instruction information.
FIG. 15 shows a layout element input screen.

  Next, through step S102, the user inputs a layout element to be laid out as shown in FIG. In the example of FIG. 15, a main headline, an explanatory note, a category, and a main image are input as layout elements. As the main headline, “New value for you” is selected from the pull-down menu 600, and as an explanatory note, “We have sold a new projector ...” in the text box 602. Has been. In addition, “projector” is selected from the pull-down menu 604 as the category, and the file name “c: \ Image \ Pro.jpg” of the image information is input to the text box 606 as the main image.

  In the layout apparatus 100, when the layout instruction information and the layout element are input, through the step S104, the input layout instruction information “general: for the general public: referring to the attribute of the template attribute registration table 400 and the target information storage frame”. A layout template suitable for the “brochure” is selected from the template registration DB 10. Here, since there are two layout templates in which “general: pamphlet” is registered as an attribute in the template attribute registration table 400 of FIG. 4, templates 1 and 2 are selected.

Next, through steps S106 and S108, the templates 1 and 2 are displayed on the display device 42 to prompt the user to designate one of them. Here, it is assumed that the user designates template 1.
In the layout apparatus 100, when a layout template is designated, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 through step S112. In Template 1, “large headline”, “main image”, “additional image”, and “illustration character” are set as the image information storage frame, and “description” is set as the character information storage frame. . At this time, it can be seen from the input layout element and the designated layout template that there are not enough layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character”. Therefore, layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frames of “additional image” and “illustration character” are selected based on the input layout instruction information “general: pamphlet” and category “projector”.

  First, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 5, there are two layout elements whose attributes include “additional image”, and one of them is “general”. As the layout element stored in the image information storage frame, the image information of the file name “Image4.jpg” that matches the input layout instruction information is selected through step S206.

  Further, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIG. 5, since there is no layout element that includes “projector” in the attribute, a layout element in which “*” is registered as an attribute is selected. Therefore, as the layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frame of “illustration characters”, the image information of the file names “Text4.jpg” and “Text5.jpg” is selected through step S210.

  However, since there are still two selection candidates, text analysis processing is performed on the input explanatory text. For example, a ending is extracted, and a layout element that matches the extracted ending is selected. Here, the explanatory text is connected with a polite word “~”. The layout element attribute registration table 420 in FIG. 5 “~” is selected from the layout elements selected in step S206. Since there is one thing that ends with a polite word, the layout element stored in the image information storage frame of “illustration characters” is the image information of the file name “Text4.jpg” after step S402. Is selected.

By such text analysis processing, even when the keywords do not match, it is possible to select a layout element close to the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes.
The same process is performed when a layout element that matches the expression included in the character information is selected.
In addition, when selecting a layout element that matches the impression of the document included in the text information, for example, as an explanatory sentence, a sentence “beautiful like a sunset over the sea ...” is included. An impression word “beautiful” is extracted, and a layout element can be searched from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the impression word “beautiful”. The search method based on impression words is not particularly defined, but can be directly searched by morphological analysis, or can be automatically inferred from a knowledge database.

In this way, in the present embodiment, text analysis processing is performed on character information input as layout elements, and additional layout elements are selected based on the analysis results.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the input character information is selected, so that a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes can be realized.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, an expression or ending is extracted from character information by text analysis processing, and a layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending is selected.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the expression or ending used in the input character information is selected, so that a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes can be realized.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the impression of a document is extracted from character information by text analysis processing, and a layout element that matches the extracted impression of the document is selected.
Thereby, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the impression of the input character information is selected, so that a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes can be realized.

  In the fifth embodiment, the layout element input unit 14 and step S102 correspond to the layout element input means of the invention 12 or 29, and step S102 corresponds to the layout element input step of the invention 46, and the layout element selection. The unit 22 and steps S400 to S410 correspond to the layout element selection means of the inventions 12 to 14, 29 to 31. Step S112 corresponds to the layout element selection step of the inventions 46 to 48.

Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 16 to 18 are diagrams showing a sixth embodiment of a layout system, layout program, and layout method according to the present invention.
In the present embodiment, the layout system, the layout program, and the layout method according to the present invention are applied to the case of automatically laying out layout elements input by a user, and is different from the first embodiment. Is that an additional layout element is selected based on the result of the image analysis processing. Hereinafter, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the image analysis selection process.
The CPU 30 executes an image analysis selection process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16 instead of the processes of steps S218 and S220 shown in the flowchart of FIG.
When the image analysis selection process is executed by the CPU 30, first, as shown in FIG. 16, the process proceeds to step S218.

  In step S218, referring to the layout element attribute registration table 420 and the acquired information storage frame attribute, a layout element that matches the image information input as the layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12, and the process proceeds to step S220. Then, it is determined whether or not there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S500.

In step S500, a color tone is extracted from the input image information by image analysis processing, and the process proceeds to step S502.
In step S502, a layout element that matches the extracted color tone is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. Here, when a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S218, the layout element that matches the color tone is selected. If no layout element can be selected in step S218, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from the layout elements that match the color tone.

Next, the process proceeds to step S504, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S506.
In step S506, a frame is extracted from the input image information by image analysis processing, and the process proceeds to step S508.

  In step S508, a layout element that matches the extracted frame shape is selected from the layout element registration DB 12. If a plurality of layout elements are selected in step S502, the layout element that matches the frame shape is selected from the layout elements. If no layout element can be selected in step S502, all layout elements in the layout element registration DB 12 are selected from those layout elements that match the shape of the frame.

Next, the process proceeds to step S510, where it is determined whether there is one selected layout element. When it is determined that there are a plurality of selected layout elements (No), the process proceeds to step S218.
On the other hand, when it is determined in steps S216, S504, and S510 that there is one selected layout element (Yes), the process proceeds to step S202.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a part of the data structure of the layout element attribute registration table 420.
In the layout element attribute registration table 420, in addition to the registration contents of FIG. 5, as shown in FIG. 17, an index “*”, a file name “Image5.jpg”, a type “illustration image”, and an attribute “ It is assumed that a record including “additional image: general use: character” and “mascot image” as an explanation is registered.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing image information registered in the layout element registration DB 12.
In the layout element registration DB 12, as image information of the file name “Image4.jpg”, an illustration image covered with a rectangular frame as shown on the left side of FIG. 18 is displayed as image information of the file name “Image5.jpg”. As shown on the right side of FIG. 18, it is assumed that illustration images that are rectangular and covered with a chamfered corner are registered.

When performing automatic layout, the user first inputs layout instruction information and layout elements through steps S100 and S102. Here, it is assumed that the same contents as those in the fifth embodiment are input as the layout instruction information and the layout elements.
In the layout apparatus 100, when the layout instruction information and the layout element are input, the input layout instruction information “general: for the general public: referring to the attribute of the template attribute registration table 400 and the target information storage frame through step S104. A layout template suitable for the “brochure” is selected from the template registration DB 10. Here, since there are two layout templates in which “general: pamphlet” is registered as an attribute in the template attribute registration table 400 of FIG. 4, templates 1 and 2 are selected.

Next, through steps S106 and S108, the templates 1 and 2 are displayed on the display device 42 to prompt the user to designate one of them. Here, it is assumed that the user has designated the template 2.
In the layout apparatus 100, when a layout template is designated, an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 through step S112. In the template 2, it is assumed that “large headline”, “main image”, and “additional image” are set as image information storage frames. At this time, it can be seen from the input layout element and the designated layout template that there are not enough layout elements to be stored in the image information storage frame of “additional image”. Therefore, a layout element to be stored in the image information storage frame of “additional image” is selected based on the input layout instruction information “general: brochure” and category “projector”.

  First, in the layout element attribute registration table 420 of FIGS. 5 and 17, there are three layout elements whose attributes include “additional image”, and two of them are “general”. As the layout elements stored in the image information storage frame of “additional image”, the image information of the file names “Image4.jpg” and “Image5.jpg” that match the input layout instruction information is selected through step S206. .

  However, since there are still two selection candidates, image analysis processing is performed on the input main image, for example, a frame is extracted, and a layout element that matches the shape of the extracted frame is selected. Here, if the main image also has a frame, the shape is rectangular, and the corner is chamfered, the layout element to be stored in the image information storage frame of “additional image” is filed through step S508. The image information with the name “Image5.jpg” is selected.

By such image analysis processing, the shape of the frame of the image arranged in the layout area 360 is unified, so that a good-looking layout can be realized.
Note that when selecting a layout element that matches the color tone of the image information, for example, it is possible to compare the color tone of the images and preferentially select an image that is close in the color space. As a result, the color tone of the images arranged in the layout area 360 is unified, so that a good-looking layout can be realized.

In this way, in the present embodiment, image analysis processing is performed on image information input as layout elements, and additional layout elements are selected based on the analysis results.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the input image information is selected, so that a more attractive layout can be realized.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a color tone is extracted from image information by image analysis processing, and a layout element that matches the extracted color tone is selected.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the color tone of the input image information is selected, so that the color tone of the images to be laid out can have a sense of unity, and a more attractive layout can be realized.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a frame is extracted from image information by image analysis processing, and a layout element that matches the extracted shape of the frame is selected.
As a result, a layout element that is relatively suitable for the shape of the frame used in the input image information is selected, so that the shape of the frame of the image to be laid out can have a sense of unity, and it looks better. A layout can be realized.

  In the sixth embodiment, the layout element input unit 14 and step S102 correspond to the layout element input means of the invention 15 or 32, and step S102 corresponds to the layout element input step of the invention 49, and the layout element selection. The unit 22 and steps S500 to S510 correspond to the layout element selection means of the inventions 15 to 17, 32 to 34. Step S112 corresponds to the layout element selection step of inventions 49 to 51.

  In the first embodiment, the processing degree of the specified processing method is set based on the input layout element. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the specified level is determined based on the selected layout template. It is also possible to configure so as to set the processing degree of the processing method. For example, the resolution “300 dpi” is set in advance for a certain layout template, and when the layout template is selected, the processing degree of the resolution conversion processing is set to “300 dpi”.

Thereby, the selected layout element is processed so as to conform to the selected layout template, so that a more attractive layout can be realized.
In this case, the processing method information registration DB 13 corresponds to the processing method information storage means of the invention 5, 22 or 39, the template selection unit 18 and step S104 correspond to the template selection means of the invention 5 or 22, and step S104. Corresponds to the template selection step of the invention 39. The layout element processing unit 23 and step S113 correspond to the layout element processing means of the invention 5 or 22, and step S113 corresponds to the layout element processing step of the invention 39.

  In the first embodiment, the processing degree of the specified processing method is set based on the input layout element. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and based on the input layout instruction information, It is also possible to configure so as to set the processing degree of the specified processing method. For example, if the resolution “600dpi” is set in advance for “general: pamphlet” and “general: pamphlet” is input as the layout instruction information, the processing level of resolution conversion processing is set to “600dpi”. Set.

Thereby, the selected layout element is processed so as to be suitable for the use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes, so that a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of the layout, the policy, and other purposes can be realized.
In this case, the processing method information registration DB 13 corresponds to the processing method information storage means of the invention 6, 23 or 40, and the layout instruction information input unit 16 and step S100 correspond to the layout instruction information input means of the invention 6 or 23. Step S100 corresponds to the layout instruction information input step of the invention 40. The layout element processing unit 23 and step S113 correspond to the layout element processing means of the invention 6 or 23, and step S113 corresponds to the layout element processing step of the invention 40.

  In the second embodiment, the configuration is such that an additional layout element is selected from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the input layout element and the processing restriction information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. An additional layout element can also be selected from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the layout template and the processing restriction information.

Thereby, it is possible to realize a layout that is relatively suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes. Further, since the additional layout elements are selected within the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable layout elements can be limited, and the layout elements can be further protected.
In this case, the layout element registration DB 12 corresponds to the processing restriction information storage means of the invention 7, 24 or 41, the template selection unit 18 and step S104 correspond to the template selection means of the invention 7 or 24, and step S104 This corresponds to the template selection step of the invention 41. The layout element selection unit 22 and step S112 correspond to the layout element selection means of the invention 7 or 24, and step S112 corresponds to the layout element selection step of the invention 41.

In the fourth embodiment, the processing method information is selected based on the selected layout template, the input layout element, or the input layout instruction information. The processing method information may be selected based on the information.
Thereby, since the processing method is selected in the range of the processable degree, the range of selectable processing methods can be limited, and the layout elements can be further protected.

  In this case, the layout element registration DB 12 corresponds to the processing restriction information storage means of the invention 9, 10, 26, 27, 43 or 44, and the processing method information registration DB 13 corresponds to the invention 9, 10, 26, 27, 43 or The layout element processing unit 23 and step S113 correspond to the layout element processing means of the ninth, tenth, twenty-sixth, or twenty-seventh aspect. Step S113 corresponds to the layout element processing step of the invention 43 or 44.

  In the first to sixth embodiments, the layout template is selected based on the input layout instruction information. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the layout template is selected based on the input layout element. It can also be configured to. For example, a layout template that matches a category input as a layout element is selected.

Furthermore, a layout template can be selected based on the input layout instruction information and layout elements. For example, a layout template that matches the layout instruction information is selected from layout templates that match the category input as the layout element.
As a result, a layout template that is relatively suitable for the input layout element is selected, so that a layout that is more suitable for the purpose of use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes can be realized.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, when a layout element is selected, a layout element that matches a registered character is selected. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a thesaurus or the like is used. It is also possible to specify a related character using and to select a layout element that matches the specified related character. In addition, it is also possible to employ a configuration in which character information registered by free keywords is used for searching using a general text search technique.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the color conversion process, the resolution conversion process, and the enlargement / reduction process are exemplified as the processing methods. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image trimming process, the layout element Processing for changing the shape of the frame and other image processing can also be used as a processing method. In the case of the frame shape changing process, it is assumed that an illustration image “Image5.jpg” covered with a rectangular frame is selected in step S112 as shown on the left side of FIG. At this time, if the main image “Printer.jpg” input by the user is covered with a rectangular frame with chamfered corners, the frame of the selected illustration image “Image5.jpg” is displayed on the right side of FIG. As shown in Fig. 4, the frame is changed to a rectangle and the corners of which are chamfered.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the layout elements are processed so as to match the characteristics (color tone and resolution) of the input layout elements. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The layout element can be processed so as to be adapted to a predetermined characteristic (for example, color tone, resolution, image size). Thereby, it is possible to give a sense of unity to the layout result generated by the layout apparatus 100.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the layout elements are processed so that colors similar to the main colors used in the input layout elements are emphasized. However, the layout elements can be processed so that colors complementary to the main colors used in the input layout elements are emphasized. As a result, the layout element input by the user is conspicuous in the layout result, so that a layout in which the layout element input by the user is emphasized can be realized.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the selected layout element is configured to be processed by image processing. However, the present invention is not limited to this. If the selected layout element is character information, the user can perform layout. It is also possible to perform a text analysis on character information input as an element and process a layout element based on the analysis result.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a data structure of a term registration table for unifying terminology of character information.
As shown in FIG. 19, the term registration table registers a plurality of different notations for terms having the same meaning. In the first record, “printer” and “printer” are registered, and these notations indicate that both may be adopted.

  When the selected layout element is character information, first, text analysis is performed on the character information input as the layout element by the layout element input unit 14. For example, in the case of the term “printer”, “printer” and “printer” Which notation is used is determined. As a result, when it is determined that the “printer” notation is more widely adopted, text analysis is performed on the character information selected as the layout element by the layout element selection unit 22 and the character information is included in the character information. Convert the notation of “printer” to “printer”.

Thereby, it is possible to give a sense of unity to the text characteristics of the character information to be laid out, and it is possible to realize a layout that has a better appearance.
In addition, as described above, the layout element is not limited to be processed so as to match the text feature of the input layout element, and the layout element is processed so as to match a predetermined text feature set in advance. You can also. Thereby, a sense of unity can be given to the text feature of the layout result generated by the layout apparatus 100.

In addition, as described above, the configuration is not limited to changing the notation of terms, and it is also possible to change the full-width notation and half-width notation such as “PC” and “PC”. As a result, the text characteristics of the character information to be laid out can have a more unified feeling, and a more attractive layout can be realized.
In the first to fourth embodiments, in step S206, S210, S214, and S218, a layout element that matches the character information or image information input as layout instruction information, category, or layout element is selected. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is possible to select a layout element that matches a part of the character information or image information input as layout instruction information, category, or layout element. In this case, for example, a layout element having a matching number of a predetermined number or more is selected.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, illustration images and illustration characters are handled as layout elements. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and text (character information) is handled as layout elements. You can also. In this case, as processing of the layout element, for example, the text can be translated into another language, or the font type, color, or size can be changed.

  In the second and third embodiments, the range of processing corresponding to each processing method is defined as the degree of processing, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, what percentage may be processed It can also be configured to set in proportion. Moreover, it can also comprise so that a process prohibition may be set as a processable degree. As a result, it is possible to prevent any layout elements that are prohibited from being processed, for example, to prevent the processing of a trademark-registered image or the like, which is not desired by the copyright holder of the layout elements. Processing can be prevented.

In the fourth embodiment, one of the layout template, category, and layout instruction information is set as the application condition. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the layout template, category, and layout instruction are not limited thereto. A plurality of pieces of information can be combined to set application conditions in a composite manner.
In the fourth embodiment, the function is exemplified as the processing method. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the threshold of various conversion processes is changed according to the application conditions, or the variables of various conversion processes are changed. It is also possible to adopt the setting to do.

In addition, when the first to fourth embodiments are combined, when a certain layout template is applied, it is possible to set the processing method so that the processing conforms to the designated condition. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the template 1 may be set in the layout element itself such that color conversion processing is not possible.
FIG. 20 shows the data structure of the layout element attribute registration table 420. As shown in FIG.

In FIG. 20, the layout element “Text31.jpg” includes a processability degree when the layout template is the template 1, a processability degree when the layout template is other than the template 1 and the use is for the office, and other cases. Machinability is set.
Thereby, it is possible to perform processing reflecting the intention of the creator of the layout element and the intention of the creator of the layout template.

  In the sixth embodiment, the layout element that matches the color tone of the image information or the frame shape is selected. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the impression word of the image is specified and specified. A layout element that matches the impression word can also be selected. For example, in the case of a beautiful sunset image, “beautiful” is specified as an impression word, and a layout element can be searched from the layout element registration DB 12 based on the impression word “beautiful”.

  In the sixth embodiment, the image information that matches the color tone of the image information or the shape of the frame is selected. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the text in the text is set to be blue. In such a case, in the selection of the layout element, an image having a strong blue color tone can be preferentially selected. As a result, it is possible to match not only the images but also the character style, and it is possible to realize a layout adapted to the use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes while improving the overall appearance.

In the first embodiment, the selection processes in steps S206, S210, S214, and S218 are executed in series in that order. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the selection processes may be performed in any order or It can be configured to execute with a set priority order, or can be configured to execute the selection processes in parallel.
In the fifth embodiment, the selection processes in steps S214, S402, and S408 are performed in series in that order. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the selection processes are set in an arbitrary order or set. It is also possible to configure so as to execute in the order of priority, or to perform these selection processes in parallel.

In the sixth embodiment, the selection processes in steps S218, S502, and S508 are executed in series in that order. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the selection processes are set in an arbitrary order or set. It is also possible to configure so as to execute in the order of priority, or to perform these selection processes in parallel.
In the first to sixth embodiments, the category is input separately from the layout instruction information. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the category may be input as the layout instruction information. it can.

  In the first to sixth embodiments, the template registration DB 10 and the layout element registration DB 12 are provided as external devices of the layout apparatus 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the template registration DB 10 or the layout element registration DB 12 is connected to the network. It is also possible to provide in any of the above terminals, connect the layout apparatus 100 and these terminals via a network, and configure the layout apparatus 100 to use the DBs 10 and 12 of these terminals.

  In the first to sixth embodiments, any of the control programs stored in advance in the ROM 32 when executing the processes shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 7, 8, 9, 14 and 16 However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the program may be read from the storage medium storing the program showing these procedures into the RAM 34 and executed.

  Here, the storage medium is a semiconductor storage medium such as RAM or ROM, a magnetic storage type storage medium such as FD or HD, an optical reading type storage medium such as CD, CDV, LD, or DVD, or a magnetic storage type such as MO. / Optical reading type storage media, including any storage media that can be read by a computer regardless of electronic, magnetic, optical, or other reading methods.

  In the first to sixth embodiments, the layout system, the layout program, and the layout method according to the present invention are applied to the case where the layout elements input by the user are automatically laid out. However, the present invention is not limited to this. However, the present invention can be applied to other cases without departing from the gist of the present invention.

3 is a functional block diagram showing an outline of functions of the layout apparatus 100. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a layout apparatus 100. FIG. It is a figure which shows the data structure of a layout template. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the template attribute registration table. 6 is a diagram showing a data structure of a layout element attribute registration table 420. FIG. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the processing method information registration table 440. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a layout process. It is a flowchart which shows the layout element selection process of step S112. It is a flowchart which shows the automatic layout process of step S114. It is a figure which shows the input screen of a layout element. This is a layout template designation screen. 6 is a diagram showing a data structure of a layout element attribute registration table 420. FIG. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the processing method information registration table 440. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a text analysis selection process. It is a figure which shows the input screen of a layout element. It is a flowchart which shows an image analysis selection process. 6 is a diagram showing a part of the data structure of a layout element attribute registration table 420. FIG. It is a figure which shows the image information registered into layout element registration DB12. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the term registration table for unifying the term of character information. 6 is a diagram showing a data structure of a layout element attribute registration table 420. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Layout apparatus, 10 ... Template registration DB, 12 ... Layout element registration DB, 13 ... Processing method information registration DB, 14 ... Layout element input part, 16 ... Layout instruction information input part, 18 ... Template selection part, 20 ... Template Designation part 22 ... Layout element selection part 23 ... Layout element processing part 24 ... Layout part 30 ... CPU, 32 ... ROM, 34 ... RAM, 38 ... I / F, 39 ... Bus, 40 ... Input device, 42 Display device 360 Layout area 362 Title information storage frame 364 368 Image information storage frame 366 370 Character information storage frame 372 Flow object storage frame 400 Template attribute registration table 420 Layout element attribute registration table, 440 Processing method information registration table, 600,604 ... pull-down menu, 602, 606 ... text box

Claims (21)

A system for performing layout by arranging layout elements in a predetermined layout area according to a layout template,
Set the processability possible to process the layout element,
Layout element processing means for processing the layout element based on the processability degree;
A layout system wherein a layout element processed by the layout element processing means is arranged in the layout area according to the layout template. Layout element input means for inputting a layout element; and layout means for laying out a layout element input by the layout element input means, wherein the layout means is arranged according to a layout template defining a layout of a predetermined layout area. Is arranged in the layout area to perform layout,
Template storage means for storing the layout template;
Layout element storage means for storing the layout elements;
Processing restriction information storage means for storing processing restriction information indicating the degree of workability capable of processing the layout element in association with the layout element of the layout element storage means;
Template selection means for selecting the layout template from the template storage means;
Layout element selection means for selecting the layout element from the layout element storage means;
Read processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means from the processing restriction information storage means, layout element processing means for processing the layout element based on the read processing restriction information,
The layout means arranges the layout element input by the layout element input means and the layout element processed by the layout element processing means in the layout area according to the layout template selected by the template selection means. A layout system characterized by In claim 2,
Furthermore, a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element is provided,
The processing restriction information storage means stores the processing restriction information in association with the processing method information of the processing method information storage means,
The layout element processing means reads out the processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means and the processing method information of the processing method information storage means from the processing restriction information storage means, and the read processing restriction information and A layout system that processes the layout element by the processing method based on the processing method information in the processing method information storage means. In any one of Claim 2 and 3,
The layout restriction information includes information indicating that the layout element is prohibited to be processed as the processability degree. In claim 2,
Furthermore, a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element is provided,
The layout element processing means sets the processing degree of the processing method based on the layout element input by the layout element input means or the layout template selected by the template selection means, and the processing method of the processing method information storage means A layout system characterized in that the layout element is processed with a set processing degree by the processing method based on information. In claim 2,
Further, processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element, and layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information related to the use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes Prepared,
The layout element processing unit sets a processing level of the processing method based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input unit, and the processing method based on the processing method information of the processing method information storage unit Thus, the layout system is configured to process the layout elements with a set processing degree. In any one of Claims 2 thru | or 4,
The layout element selection unit selects the layout element based on the layout template selected by the template selection unit or the layout element input by the layout element input unit and the processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage unit. A layout system characterized by In any one of Claims 2 thru | or 4,
Furthermore, it comprises a layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information relating to the purpose of use of the layout, policy and other purposes,
The layout element selecting means selects the layout element based on layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input means and processing restriction information in the processing restriction information storage means. system. In claim 2,
Furthermore, a processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element is provided,
The layout element processing means, based on the layout template selected by the template selection means, the layout element input by the layout element input means, and the processing restriction information of the processing restriction information storage means, A layout system characterized in that the processing method information is selected from among the processing elements, and the layout elements are processed by the processing method based on the selected processing method information. In claim 2,
Further, processing method information storage means for storing processing method information defining a processing method of the layout element, and layout instruction information input means for inputting at least one of layout instruction information related to the use of the layout, the policy, and other purposes Prepared,
The layout element processing means selects the processing method information from the processing method information storage means based on the layout instruction information input by the layout instruction information input means and the processing restriction information of the processing restriction information storage means. The layout system is configured to process the layout element by the processing method based on the selected processing method information. In any one of Claims 2 thru | or 10,
And a template designating unit for designating any one of the layout templates selected by the template selecting unit.
The layout system is characterized in that the layout means arranges the layout elements in accordance with a layout template designated by the template designation means. In any one of Claims 2 thru | or 11,
The layout element selection means performs text analysis processing on the character information input as the layout element by the layout element input means, and selects the layout element based on the analysis result. And layout system. In claim 12,
The layout system is characterized in that the layout element selection means extracts an expression or ending from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the extracted expression or ending. In claim 12,
The layout system is characterized in that the layout element selection means extracts a document impression from the character information by the text analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the extracted document impression. In any one of Claims 2 thru | or 14,
The layout element selection unit performs image analysis processing on the image information input as the layout element by the layout element input unit, and selects the layout element based on the analysis result. And layout system. In claim 15,
The layout system is characterized in that the layout element selection means extracts a color tone from the image information by the image analysis process, and selects a layout element suitable for the extracted color tone. In claim 15,
The layout system is characterized in that the layout element selection means extracts a frame from the image information by the image analysis process, and selects a layout element that matches the shape of the extracted frame. A program that performs layout by arranging layout elements in a predetermined layout area according to a layout template,
Set the processability possible to process the layout element,
A process that is realized as a layout element processing unit that processes the layout element based on the degree of processing, and a process that arranges the layout element processed by the layout element processing unit in the layout area according to the layout template. A layout program comprising a program for execution. Layout element input means for inputting a layout element, and a program for causing a computer to execute a process realized as a layout means for laying out a layout element input by the layout element input means, the layout means according to a layout template A program for performing layout by arranging the layout elements in a predetermined layout area,
The computer includes template storage means for storing the layout template;
Layout element storage means for storing the layout elements;
Processing restriction information storage means for storing processing restriction information indicating the degree of workability capable of processing the layout element in association with the layout element of the layout element storage means can be used,
Template selection means for selecting the layout template from the template storage means;
Layout element selection means for selecting the layout element from the layout element storage means, and processing restriction information corresponding to the layout element selected by the layout element selection means is read from the processing restriction information storage means, and the read processing restriction Including a program for causing the computer to execute processing realized as layout element processing means for processing the layout element based on information,
The layout means arranges the layout element input by the layout element input means and the layout element processed by the layout element processing means in the layout area according to the layout template selected by the template selection means. A layout program characterized by A method of performing layout by arranging layout elements in a predetermined layout area according to a layout template,
Set the processability possible to process the layout element,
A layout element processing step of processing the layout element based on the processability degree;
According to the layout template, the layout element processed in the layout element processing step is arranged in the layout area. A layout element input step for inputting a layout element; and a layout step for laying out the layout element input in the layout element input step, wherein the layout step is performed according to a layout template that defines a layout of a predetermined layout area. Laying out in the layout area,
A template selection step of selecting the layout template from the template storage means storing the layout template;
A layout element selection step of selecting the layout element from layout element storage means storing the layout element;
Corresponding to the layout element selected in the layout element selection step from the processing restriction information storage means storing the processing restriction information indicating the degree of processability capable of processing the layout element in association with the layout element of the layout element storage means A layout element processing step that reads the processing restriction information to be processed and processes the layout element based on the read processing restriction information,
In the layout step, the layout element input in the layout element input step and the layout element processed in the layout element processing step are arranged in the layout area according to the layout template selected in the template selection step. Method.

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