JP2006065486A - Print data editing device, print system, print data editing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a layout editing device that can easily perform correction based on a correction instruction by a proofreading sheet or the like, and easily confirming details of the correction. <P>SOLUTION: A corrected proof is scanned using an image scanner to obtain correction order data (step S1). A process for determining a difference between the correction instruction data and RIP (Raster Input Processor) development data is performed to extract difference data (step S2). Unproofed print data and the difference data are layered (step S3). Layers to be corrected are virtually divided into a grid to create a plurality of blocks (step S4). After layering data and area division data are obtained, print data are corrected following the correction instruction described in a difference layer (step S5). In that case, the blocks related to the correction are associated with one another to record correction history data. This makes it possible to confirm a history of correction and perform correction again per block and to select whether or not correction should be made for each correction process unit. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a print data editing apparatus suitable for executing correction based on a correction instruction entered on a proof.

  When a printing company creates a printed material in response to an order from a client, it is general that a printed material for proofreading, that is, a so-called proof, is created and subjected to calibration by the client prior to the actual printing. As a result of such proofreading, if it is determined that there is no need for correction, this print will be made with “end of school”. “Responsibility (responsible school completion)”. The term “responsibility” means that the client completes the school on the premise that the printer will modify the school responsibly and complete the school when it needs to be modified but is minor. In the case of the responsibility, the printing company corrects the print data while confirming the content of the responsibility paper on which the correction instruction from the client is written, and calibrates the correction result.

  Techniques for assisting work such as calibration in such a case or calibration at the time of creating a proof are already known (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

  A digital plate inspection apparatus that compares print data before and after correction and displays the difference is also known (see, for example, Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-6975 JP-A-9-231390 Japanese Patent No. 2816091 JP-A-8-201414

  In proofreading printed materials at the time of responsibility, it is important to be able to confirm that all corrections instructed by the client have been performed and that parts that do not need correction have not been corrected by mistake. . Furthermore, it can be said that when the correction does not satisfy this, it is preferable that the correction can be easily performed again.

  In the apparatus according to Patent Document 1, it is possible to generate difference data between the layout data at the time of the first school and the layout data after the correction (at the time of retraining). It is not possible to make a comparison with the contents of the completed paper or make corrections based on the completed paper.

  According to the apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2, it is possible to display the layout image at the time of initial school and the portion to be corrected on the display so as to perform correction based on the display contents. It is not possible to confirm directly in the device whether the correction has been made correctly.

  In the apparatus according to Patent Document 3, it is possible to display a difference image between a layout image at the time of initial school and a layout image after correction (at the time of re-schooling) and a correction instruction based on the difference image on the display. However, the correction itself cannot be made.

  In the device according to Patent Document 4, the layout image at the time of the first school, the modified layout image (at the time of re-schooling), or the difference image thereof are displayed on the display alone or in a superimposed manner. However, it is not possible to make corrections based on the display contents.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a print data editing apparatus that can reliably perform correction based on a correction instruction using a blame sheet or the like and can easily check the content of the correction. And

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention of claim 1 is a print data editing apparatus that performs an editing process of print data while displaying a processing status on a display means, and is generated using the print data as a generation source and has a predetermined output. Difference processing means for generating difference data between output data described in a format that can be output by the apparatus and read image data obtained by a predetermined image reading apparatus; and the print data and the difference data have a layer structure. Layering processing means for generating layered data, area division processing means for virtually dividing the printed matter represented by the print data to obtain a plurality of divided areas, and editing processing for changing the contents of the print data Is a state in which a superimposed image of the first layer formed by the difference data and the second layer formed by the print data is displayed on the display means. Editing processing means for executing the second layer as a target, and history reference processing means for displaying the history of the editing processing on the display means in accordance with a predetermined history reference instruction, the editing processing means, The processing content for each unit editing process, which is a processing unit in the editing process, is recorded as history data in association with the related divided area to which the processing content is related among the plurality of divided areas, and the history reference processing means includes: In response to designation of an arbitrary history reference target position, based on the history data, only the processing content in which the divided area including the history reference target position in the editing process becomes the related divided area is displayed as the history. It is characterized by that.

  Further, the invention of claim 2 is the print data editing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the execution of a specific unit editing process included in the history related to one divided area is canceled, the one divided area Among the editing processes using the related divided area, the editing process performed after the specific unit editing process is canceled together.

  The invention according to claim 3 is the print data editing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the number of divisions for obtaining the divided regions can be arbitrarily set.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the print data editing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the read image data is a proofreading print created based on the output data. It is characterized by being data obtained by reading.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the print data editing apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the output data is generated by rasterizing the print data. Are further provided.

  The invention of claim 6 is a printing system, which is described in a) an image reading device that photoelectrically reads an image on a paper medium to generate read image data, and b) a predetermined data format. An output device that performs output based on output data; and c) a print data editing device that performs print data editing processing while displaying the processing status on the display means, and c-1) generates the print data as a generation source. Difference processing means for generating difference data between the output data and the read image data, and c-2) layering processing means for generating layered data in which the print data and the difference data form a layer structure And c-3) area division processing means for virtually dividing the printed matter represented by the print data to obtain a plurality of divided areas, and c-4) an editing process for changing the contents of the print data, The difference data makes Editing processing means for executing the second layer as a target in a state in which a superimposed image of the first layer and the second layer formed by the print data is displayed on the display means; and c-5) a predetermined history A print data editing device comprising: a history reference processing unit that causes the display unit to display a history of the editing process according to a reference instruction, wherein the editing processing unit is a unit editing process that is a processing unit in the editing process Each processing content is recorded as history data in association with a related divided region to which the processing content is related among the plurality of divided regions, and the history reference processing means responds to designation of an arbitrary history reference target position. Based on the history data, only the processing content in which the divided area including the history reference target position in the editing process becomes the related divided area is displayed as the history. It is characterized by.

  The invention according to claim 7 is the printing system according to claim 6, wherein when canceling execution of a specific unit editing process included in the history related to one divided area, the one divided area Among the editing processes to be related division areas, the editing process performed after the specific unit editing process is canceled together.

  The invention according to claim 8 is the printing system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the number of divisions for obtaining the divided regions can be arbitrarily set.

  The invention according to claim 9 is the printing system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the read image data reads a calibration printed matter created based on the output data. It is the data obtained by.

  The invention according to claim 10 is the printing system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the print data editing device performs the rasterizing process on the print data. Output data generating means for generating data for use.

  The invention of claim 11 is a method for editing print data while displaying the processing status on a display means, and is described in a format that is generated using the print data as a generation source and that can be output by a predetermined output device. A difference processing step for generating difference data between the output data and the read image data obtained by a predetermined image reading device, and a layer for generating layered data in which the print data and the difference data form a layer structure The difference data includes an image forming process step, an area dividing process step for virtually dividing the printed matter represented by the print data to obtain a plurality of divided regions, and an editing process for changing the contents of the print data. Targeting the second layer in a state where a superimposed image of the first layer and the second layer formed by the print data is displayed on a predetermined display means And a history reference processing step for displaying the history of the editing process on the display unit in accordance with a predetermined history reference instruction. In the editing process step, the processing unit in the editing process Processing contents for each unit editing process are recorded as history data in association with related divided areas to which the processing contents relate among the plurality of divided areas, and in the history reference processing step, any history reference target position is recorded. In response to the designation of the above, based on the history data, only processing content in which the divided area including the history reference target position in the editing process becomes the related divided area is displayed as the history.

  The invention according to claim 12 is the print data editing method according to claim 11, wherein the execution of the specific unit editing process included in the history related to one divided area is canceled when the one divided area is canceled. Among the editing processes using the related divided area, the editing process performed after the specific unit editing process is canceled together.

  The invention according to claim 13 is the print data editing method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein in the area dividing process step, the number of divisions for obtaining the divided areas can be arbitrarily set. Features.

  The invention according to claim 14 is the print data editing method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the read image data is a proofreading printed matter created based on the output data. It is characterized by being data obtained by reading.

  The invention of claim 15 is the print data editing method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the output data generating step generates the output data by rasterizing the print data. Are further provided.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, when executed by a computer, the computer is caused to function as the print data editing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects.

  According to the first to sixteenth aspects of the present invention, when an arbitrary location is designated as a history reference target position in a state where the first layer and the second layer are superimposed and displayed, the location (including divided regions) is designated. Since the history of only the editing process performed on is displayed, it is possible to directly compare the description content of the first layer at that location with the history, and depending on the result, the second layer Necessary editing processing can be further added to the print data to be configured.

  In particular, according to the inventions of claims 2, 7, and 12, the editing process is managed in units of unit editing processes, and the history of editing processes at an arbitrary location can be referred to. By selecting a specific unit editing process performed at a specific location, it is possible to easily cancel only the editing processing performed thereafter at that location. In that case, it is possible to maintain the processing contents of the portion that is not related to the editing processing regardless of the processing after the processing.

  In particular, according to the third, eighth, and thirteenth aspects of the present invention, the size of the divided area serving as a reference unit when referring to the history of editing processing is suitable for the contents of the printed matter obtained from the print data. The history reference can be made more effective during the editing process.

  In particular, according to the inventions of claim 4, claim 9, and claim 14, the correction content entered in the proofreading printed matter is obtained as difference data at the time of calibration, and the correction content and the print data are overlaid. Can correct the print data. In addition, since it is possible to selectively check the contents of corrections at specific locations, all corrections specified at the time of calibration have been executed, and locations that do not require correction have not been corrected by mistake. Can be confirmed reliably. Therefore, it is possible to reliably and faithfully reflect the correction instruction at the time of proofreading, and to create print data after proofreading (recalibration).

<System configuration>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram exemplarily showing a configuration of a printing system 100 including a print data editing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The printing system 100 is a system responsible for a series of workflows from creation of print data to calibration and output. The printing system 100 mainly includes a print data editing device 1, a print data creation device 2, an image scanner 3, and an output device 4. In FIG. 1, a print data editing device 1 and a print data creation device 2 are electrically connected to each other via a network N such as a LAN (Local Area Network), for example, and output from the image scanner 3. Although a mode in which the device 4 is electrically connected to the print data editing device 1 via the communication line CL is shown, this is not an essential mode. Alternatively, the image scanner 3 and the output device 4 may be connected to the network N. In addition, each device may exist independently, and data may be exchanged between the devices by using a predetermined recording medium.

  The print data editing apparatus 1 is an apparatus that causes the output apparatus 4 to output a proof (printed material for calibration) used for proofreading a printed material obtained based on the print data created by the print data creating device 2, and This is an apparatus that allows an operator to correct print data based on the result of calibration. Details of the print data editing apparatus 1 will be described later.

  The print data creation device 2 is a device responsible for creating print data by performing layout processing such as character composition and image layout on printed matter. The print data creation device 2 is realized by, for example, a computer that can execute the layout process by reading predetermined layout software.

  The print data created by the print data creation device 2 is transferred to the print data editing device 1 and, if necessary, subjected to RIP processing (rasterization processing) as will be described later, followed by proof output, etc. To be used in the workflow. FIG. 1 shows a mode in which three print data creation devices 2 are connected to the print data editing device 1 via the network N. However, this is merely an example, and one, two, or A mode in which four or more print data creation apparatuses 2 are connected may be possible. Alternatively, the print data creation device 2 may have a RIP processing function, and the RIP processed RIP expanded data may be transferred from the print data creation device 2 to the print data editing device 1.

  The image scanner 3 is an image scanning reading device that photoelectrically reads an image on a paper medium and converts it into electronic data (image data). In the present embodiment, the image of the proof (or blame sheet) that has been output once and then entered by the proofreader (client, etc.) and has entered correction instructions such as calibration symbols is read, and the read image data (correction). Used to obtain instruction data). As the image scanner 3, a known scanner can be used on condition that a necessary resolution is satisfied.

  The output device 4 is a device that outputs a printed material based on print data in a predetermined data format. The type of output device 4 in the present embodiment is not limited as long as it can output at least a printed material suitable for use as a proof, and is appropriately selected and used depending on the content of the printed material and the purpose of proofreading. May be. For example, an embodiment using an inkjet printer, a thermal transfer printer, or a laser printer may be used, or an embodiment using a high-end DDCP (Direct Digital Color Proofer) capable of outputting a halftone image that is actually close to a printed matter. Good. Data in a data format that can be processed by the output device 4 used for proof output is provided from the print data editing device 1 to the output device 4 as proof output data. Normally, RIP decompressed data obtained by RIP processing is provided as output data to the output device 4, but if the output device 4 has a RIP processing function, print data before RIP processing is displayed. It is also possible to use the output process as it is. The output device 4 is preferably a device that can directly output a proof using digital data. However, the output device 4 is a mode in which a film is once created by an image setter and used to output a chemical proof or a proof. Also good. However, in such a case, the output device 4 including the imagesetter is referred to. In addition, an output device that outputs a high-resolution halftone image for main printing may be used.

<Configuration of print data editing device>
The print data editing apparatus 1 is realized by a computer. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the print data editing apparatus 1 includes an operation unit 11 including a mouse and a keyboard for an operator to input various instructions, a display unit 12 such as a display, and a hard disk. Between the storage unit 13 for storing the program 13p for causing the computer to function as the print data editing apparatus 1 and various portable recording media such as DVD-RAM / RW and CD-RW. Between the image reader 3 and the output device 4 via the communication line CL, and between the R / W unit 14 composed of a media reader / writer that reads / writes and other devices on the network N, and the communication line CL. Consists of a communication unit 15 as an interface for delivery, a CPU 16a, a ROM 16b, and a RAM 16c, And a control unit 16 for realizing each function of the predicate is provided mainly.

  In the print data editing apparatus 1, what is called a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that can perform processing while displaying the operation content through the operation unit 11 and the processing status of various processes on the display unit 12 is displayed. Is realized by the functions of the control unit 16, the operation unit 11, and the display unit 12. Processing in each unit described later realized in the control unit 16 is also performed using this GUI.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining functions realized in the control unit 16 of the print data editing apparatus 1. In the control unit 16, the predetermined program 13p stored in the storage unit 13 is executed by the CPU 16a, the ROM 16b, and the RAM 16c, thereby the input processing unit 21, the RIP processing unit 22, the output processing unit 23, and the like. The correction processing unit 24 is mainly realized.

  The input processing unit 21 is responsible for processing related to input of data to the print data editing apparatus 1 from the outside and acquisition of image data from the image scanner 3. The input processing unit 21 mainly includes a data input unit 21 and a scanner control unit 212.

  The data input unit 211 receives data input from the outside of the print data editing apparatus 1 via the network N, reads data recorded on a predetermined recording medium in the R / W unit 14, and further the image scanner 3. It takes charge of a predetermined process according to the generation of a process dialog or a process menu when acquiring image data from the user, and an operation instruction from the operator via the operation unit 11.

  The scanner control unit 212 responds to the execution instruction when the operator gives an execution instruction to acquire image data (correction instruction data) in the image scanner 3 by the operation of the data input unit 211 via the operation unit 11. Then, the operation of the image scanner 3 is controlled so as to perform scanning according to a predetermined resolution, scanning range, scanning speed, and the like.

  As described above, the RIP processing unit 22 is responsible for RIP processing for converting the print data delivered from the print data creation device 2 into bitmap format data that can be output by the output device 4. In the RIP process, RIP expanded data corresponding to the output resolution of the output device 4 is generated. Normally, RIP decompression data having an output resolution of about 300 to 400 dpi is generated. For example, when the output device 4 is a device capable of forming halftone dots equivalent to an actual printed matter such as a high-end DDCP, the RIP As development data, high-resolution halftone image data of about 2400 dpi is output. A known technique can be applied to the RIP process.

  As described above, a mode in which the RIP process is performed in the print data creation device 2 and a mode in which the RIP process is performed in the output device 4 are also conceivable. However, in the following description, mainly in the print data editing device 1. An example will be described in which print data is subjected to RIP processing to obtain RIP decompressed data, and the RIP decompressed data is subjected to output processing in the output device 4.

  The output processing unit 23 is responsible for processing necessary for outputting a proof in the output device 4 or processing for transferring print data for main printing obtained by completing calibration to the outside. The output processing unit 23 mainly includes a data output unit 231 and an output device control unit 232.

  The data output unit 231 is used for outputting data to the outside of the print data editing apparatus 1 via the network N, writing data to a predetermined recording medium in the R / W unit 14, and further outputting to the output apparatus 4. It is responsible for generating a processing dialog or a processing menu when transmitting data, and performing predetermined processing according to an operation instruction from an operator via the operation unit 11.

  When an execution instruction to output a proof in the output device 4 is made by the operator via the operation unit 11 by the operation of the data output unit 231, the output device control unit 232 responds to the execution instruction and outputs the output device. The operation of the output device 4 is controlled so as to output a proof based on output data (for example, RIP expanded data) created according to the four types.

  The correction processing unit 24 performs processing for realizing correction of print data in accordance with the correction instruction written on the proof. In the present embodiment, as will be described later, after the correction instruction written in the proof is read by the image scanner 3 and converted into image data, correction processing can be performed in accordance with the correction instruction converted into the image data. is there. The correction processing unit 24 mainly includes a difference processing unit 241, a layering processing unit 242, an area division processing unit 243, an editing processing unit 244, and a history reference processing unit 245.

  The difference processing unit 241 reads the contents of the printed matter originally expressed in the proof (proof output) from the correction instruction data which is image data obtained by scanning the proof after the correction proof on which the correction instruction is written by the image scanner 3. Subtracting the print image expressed by the data for use), and performing a differential process for extracting only the written correction instruction as image data (referred to as differential data). In the difference processing, a difference calculation of color density values for each pixel is performed between the correction instruction data and the proof output data (here, RIP development data) to generate difference data.

  The layering processing unit 242 generates layered data in which the difference data obtained by the difference processing unit 241 and the data targeted for proof output, that is, the print data targeted for correction processing, form layers. Responsible for the layering process to be generated. In layered data, a layer formed by difference data is referred to as a difference layer, and a layer formed from print data is referred to as a correction target layer.

  The area division processing unit 243 performs area division processing that virtually realizes a state in which a printed material is divided in a lattice shape with respect to a correction target layer (an entity is print data) that represents the printed material. Each divided area obtained by the division is referred to as a block.

  The editing processing unit 244 is responsible for editing processing in which the operator changes the contents of the print data. Such editing processing is the substantial content of the correction processing applied to the print data in the present embodiment. The present embodiment is particularly characteristic in that the correction process for the correction target layer of the layered data is performed according to the correction instruction described in the difference layer superimposed on the layered data. Note that it may be possible to newly create print data. In this case, the editing processing unit 244 has the same function as the print data creation apparatus 2.

  When any correction process is performed on the correction target layer, temporary data reflecting the contents of the correction process is generated. The temporary data is updated each time a new correction process is performed. When the operator inputs an instruction for confirming the content of the editing process via the operation unit 11, corrected print data reflecting the latest temporary data at that time is generated.

  Further, when correction processing is performed, correction history data is also generated by the action of the editing processing unit 244. Each time correction processing is performed, the processing content is added to the correction history data. At that time, related block information indicating which block the correction process is related to is described together with the content of the correction process.

  The history reference processing unit 245 is responsible for history reference processing that makes it possible to refer to which part of the printed matter what correction has been made in units of blocks when correction processing is being performed.

<Proof output>
Next, proof output performed in the printing system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the data used in the proof output process and the flow of delivery.

  As described above, when print data is created in the print data creation device 2, it is transferred to the print data editing device 1 as pre-calibration print data D1 via the network N, for example. As shown in FIG. 3, the pre-calibration print data D1 is acquired by the action of the data input unit 211 of the print data editing apparatus 1, and is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c.

  Thereafter, when the operator gives an instruction to execute the RIP process through the operation unit 11, the RIP processing unit 22 rasterizes the pre-calibration print data D 1 and develops RIP that is raster data having a resolution suitable for output in the output device 4. Data D2 is generated. The RIP expanded data D2 is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c. When an operator instructs execution of proof output through the operation unit 11, the RIP expanded data D <b> 2 is transmitted to the output device 4 through the communication line CL by the action of the data output unit 231.

  The output device 4 executes proof output based on the received RIP development data D2. The operation of the output device 4 is controlled by the output device control unit 232. The output proof will be used for proofreading by a proofreader.

  When the output device 4 has the RIP processing function, the pre-calibration print data D1 is directly transmitted to the output device 4 without performing the RIP processing in the RIP processing unit 22. In such a case, when the proof is output, the print data D1 before calibration may be directly transferred from the print data creation device 2 to the output device 4 without going through the print data editing device 1. However, in order to perform a correction process to be described later, the pre-calibration print data D1 needs to be given to the print data editing apparatus 1.

  In proofreading work using a proof, the proofreader checks whether there is an error in the layout and appearance of the layout of characters and images, color reproducibility, etc., and whether they match the intended one when creating the print data. The Then, if necessary, correction instructions are entered directly on the proof by the proofreader. The correction instruction is usually written in red using a predetermined calibration symbol or the like.

<Correction process>
Next, print data correction processing based on a correction instruction written in a proof performed in the print data editing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the flow of the correction process. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing data used in the correction process and the flow of the delivery. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a part of the data.

  First, the operator scans the proof in which the correction instruction is entered by the image scanner 3, and acquires the proof image data as the correction instruction data D3 (step S1). The correction instruction data D3 is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c. The operation of the image scanner 3 is controlled by the scanner control unit 212. If FIG. 6A is an example of a layout image expressed by pre-calibration print data D1, correction instruction data D3 is obtained as image data including a correction instruction as shown in FIG. 6B. FIG. 6B shows a case where two correction instructions C1 and C2 are given. The correction instruction C1 is an instruction whose content is to set the background (back) color to “blue”. However, for the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that the correction instruction is simply “blue”, but in practice, it is preferable that more strict color designation, for example, color designation based on the CMYK color system is performed. Assume that the color designation in the correction instruction C1 is C: 100%, M: 50%, Y0%, K: 30%. The correction instruction C2 is an instruction whose content is to change the character size to “18 pt (points)”. The correction instruction data D3 is acquired as bitmap format data. However, the correction instruction data D3 is acquired at a resolution similar to or higher than the resolution of the RIP expanded data D2 used for outputting the proof. It is preferable.

  When the correction instruction data D3 is obtained, a difference process is executed between the correction instruction data D3 and the RIP expanded data D2 by the operation of the difference processing unit 241, and the difference data D4 is extracted (step S2). FIG. 6C illustrates the difference data D4. The difference data D4 is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c. In the difference processing, the difference calculation is performed on a pixel basis, and therefore it is preferable that the resolution of the correction instruction data D3 and the RIP expanded data D2 is approximately the same. However, even if the resolutions of the two are different, there may be no problem if the difference processing is performed after the resolution conversion is performed on one data.

  When the difference data D4 is obtained, a layering process for layering the pre-proofreading print data D1 and the difference data D4 into one data is performed by the action of the layering processing unit 242 (step S3). By the layering process, as shown in FIG. 6D, layered data D5 in which the difference layer L1 derived from the difference data D4 and the correction target layer L2 derived from the pre-proofreading print data D1 form a layer structure is generated. The The layered data D5 is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c. In the layering process, the arrangement position of each object in the pre-proofreading print data D1 is described in association with the coordinate system describing the difference data D4 which is bitmap format data. When the layering process is performed, based on the layered data D5, an image in which both layers are superimposed as shown in FIG. That is, by the layering process, the same state as the state in which the correction instruction is written to the predetermined correction target portion in the proof is displayed on the display unit 12. Note that the modification target layer L2 may be configured by the RIP expanded data D2, but in this case, further, the RIP expanded data in which the arrangement position of each object in the pre-proofreading print data D1 is bitmap format data. It is necessary to associate with the coordinate system describing D2.

  It should be noted that the layered data D5 and the correction instruction data D3 appear to represent substantially the same image as long as they are viewed on the display unit 12 (see FIGS. 6B and 6E). It depends on whether or not The display mode of the layered data D5 on the display unit 12 includes a state in which both layers are overlapped as shown in FIG. 6E, a state in which only the difference layer L1 is displayed, and only the correction target layer L2. It is preferable that the mode in which “” is displayed can be easily switched.

  Once the layering process has been performed, the area dividing process is performed on the correction target layer L2 (pre-proofreading print data D1) by the action of the area dividing processing unit 243. As a result, the correction target layer L2 is virtually divided into a lattice shape, and a plurality of blocks are generated (step S4). The area division processing unit 243 displays a predetermined dialog on the display unit 12 to request the operator to input the numbers M and N of the vertical and horizontal blocks for dividing the area (M , N is a natural number).

  When the operator inputs an arbitrary natural numerical value as the values of the numbers M and N through the operation unit 11, the region division processing unit 243 responds to this and generates region division data D6 according to the input value. The area division data D6 is data defining a block in the correction target layer L2. The area division data D6 is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example in which region division processing is performed on the correction target layer L2. In FIG. 7, the number of blocks of the m-th block in the vertical direction and the n-th block in the horizontal direction from the upper left end is described as (m, n), and M = 12 and N = 10. The case is illustrated. The area dividing process can be said to be a process of virtually setting a plurality of dividing lines dl as shown in FIG.

  The values of the numbers M and N are numbers that define the size of the block, but in this embodiment, since the block is a reference unit when referring to the correction history, the values of the numbers M and N Is preferably set according to the contents of the printed matter so that a practical block is generated when the history is referred to. For example, if there are many fine characters and figures and correction instructions are often made in units of small areas, set a relatively large value for M and N to reduce the block size. However, on the contrary, when there are many large characters or figures, a relatively small value may be set for M and N to obtain a large block.

  In FIG. 7, vertical and horizontal division lines dl are shown for convenience of explanation, but the division lines dl related to the actual correction target layer L2 are not written, and instead, the correction target layer L2 The position where such a division line dl passes on the defined coordinate plane is described in the area division data D6 in association with the value of the number of blocks (m, n). That is, by referring to the correction target layer L2 and the area division data D6, it is determined which position in the correction target layer L2 corresponds to the block number (m, n).

  Incidentally, the area division processing may be performed on the pre-calibration print data D1 prior to the generation of the difference data, and similarly, the area division data D6 may be obtained.

  When the layered data D5 and the area division data D6 are obtained, a correction process by the operator that corrects the contents of the correction target layer L2 in accordance with the correction instruction described in the proof is possible (step S5). The correction process is realized by the operator performing a correction work (editing work) based on the correction instruction on the correction target layer L2 that is made editable by the action of the editing processing unit 244. This work is basically the same as the work performed at the time of layout by the print data creation device 2, and in the layout image represented by the layered data D5 displayed on the display unit 12, the arrangement, deletion, change, etc. of the object are performed. This is realized by editing the description contents related to the correction target layer L2 as appropriate through the GUI. When some correction processing is performed, temporary data D7 representing the state of the correction target layer L2 reflecting this is generated. The temporary data D7 is stored in the RAM 16c and is updated every time correction is made. That is, during the correction process, the temporary data D7 represents the correction target layer L2.

  However, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6 (e), the difference layer L1 in which the correction instruction is converted into image data is superimposed on the correction target layer L2, so that a predetermined proof is obtained in the proof. The state in which the correction instruction regarding the correction target portion is written is similarly expressed on the display unit 12. Therefore, the operator can issue a correction instruction according to the correction instruction for the target portion of the correction target layer L2 while checking the correction instruction on the display unit 12. Thereby, the correction based on the calibration result can be reliably performed. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a layout image represented by temporary data D7 after a correction instruction based on the correction instructions C1 and C2 is given to the layered data D5 shown in FIG. 6 (e). Note that the division line dl as shown in FIG. 8 is not written in the actual layout image, as in the case described above.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when any correction process is performed, the correction history data D8 is generated by the action of the editing processing unit 244. FIG. 9 is a diagram for exemplifying unit correction data D8S that is a data configuration unit of the correction history data D8. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, the unit correction data D8S includes a correction ID area R1 in which a correction ID for identifying each correction process is described, and drawing information of an object to be corrected. The object drawing information area R2 to be processed, the related block information area R3 in which related block information indicating the block to which the correction is related are described, and the acceptance flag indicating whether or not the correction is adopted as a result are described. And acceptance / rejection flag region R4.

  Here, as the object drawing information, for example, processing information indicating whether the correction process is a process of newly adding an object or a process of deleting an object that has already been arranged, or the target object is a character Type information that identifies whether the object is an image or line drawing, information that specifies the target object, for example, information that specifies the shape, size, color, etc. if the object is a figure, For example, description information, which is information that defines the type and size of the font, and the text to be described. Further, in the related block information area R3, the number of blocks of the block on which the object related to the correction is (or has been arranged) is described based on the description information of each correction process, in particular, the information related to the size. The In the acceptance / rejection flag area R4, “1” is described when reflecting each correction process, and “0” is described when canceling.

  Each time correction processing is performed on the correction target layer L2 by the operator, the correction history data D8 sequentially describes the contents of the correction processing as unit correction data D8S. That is, the correction history data D8 is described as data in a form in which unit correction data D8S is aggregated. FIG. 9B shows a correction when the layout image state shown in FIG. 8 is realized as a result of the correction according to the correction instructions C1 and C2 (see FIG. 6) for the correction target layer L2. It is a figure which illustrates history data D8. According to FIG. 9B, such correction is realized by performing three correction processes. Since the correction processing is performed in order from the smallest correction ID, in the correction history data D8 illustrated in FIG. 9B, the addition processing of the fill object OBJ1 (FIG. 8) is performed with the correction ID “1”. That is, the correction process is related to the unit correction data D81. This corresponds to the correction process performed in accordance with the correction instruction C1 that the background color is blue. The object drawing information area R2 actually describes specific contents according to the data format in which the object is described and the definition of the object. However, in order to avoid complexity, the description is omitted here. .

  Subsequently, correction processing relating to the unit correction data D82 and D83 having the correction IDs “2” and “3” is performed. These are performed according to the correction instruction C2 to change the character size to 18 pt (points). This is a modification process that has been performed. After the character object OBJ0 (FIG. 7) originally arranged is deleted once (modification process related to the unit modification data D82), the 18pt character object OBJ2 (FIG. 8) is arranged (unit). The correction process according to the correction data D83) shows a case where the correction along the correction instruction C2 is realized. In the related block information area R3, the number of blocks (m, n) of the blocks related to the respective correction processes is described. When the object is deleted as in the correction process related to the unit correction data D82. Describes the number of blocks (m, n) in which the object was placed before deletion.

  Alternatively, a modification process in which the font size is directly changed to the original character object OBJ0 may be performed. In such a case, modification history data in which the contents of the modification process are described as unit modification data is generated. Will be.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram exemplifying a layout image on the display unit 12 of the layered data D5 ′ based on the temporary data D7 after the above correction processing shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, in the layered data D5 ′, the difference layer L1 and the correction target layer L2 (in this case, represented by the temporary data D7) are overlapped, so that the correction processing is performed according to the correction instructions C1 and C2. It is recognized by the operator that there is no correction instruction that has not been processed and that no processing has been performed.

  When the operator determines that all correction processes have been performed correctly in accordance with the correction instruction, the operator gives a predetermined operation instruction through the operation unit 11 to determine the content of the correction process. Specifically, the contents of the latest temporary data D7 are corrected print data D9. The corrected print data D9 is stored in the storage unit 13 or the RAM 16c, and is used for the RIP processing for the main printing in accordance with a predetermined instruction (step S6).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the correction instruction written in the proof and the print image represented by the print data for proof output are superimposed in the layered data D5, and the operator adds them. Since correction processing based on the calibration result can be performed on the print data while being visually recognized on the display unit 12, it is possible to prevent omission of correction. That is, according to the print data editing apparatus according to the present embodiment, the correction data at the time of calibration can be surely reflected and the print data after calibration (re-calibration) can be created.

<Reference revision revision and revision>
In the print data editing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, in addition to the above-described aspect, what has been corrected for a certain place by the action of the history reference processing unit 245, that is, an arbitrary place in the print image It is characteristic in that the correction history for can be easily confirmed. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 11, a case where the correction history is referred to for points P1 and P2 in the layout image (same as the image shown in FIG. 10) represented by the layered data D5 ′ will be described.

  While the layout image of the correction target layer L2 (temporary data D7) is displayed during the correction process in step S5 of FIG. 4, the operator operates the operation unit 11 (for example, clicks with a mouse (not shown)). When the above-described point P1 or P2 is designated (by a mode such as point-out etc.), the history reference processing unit 245 determines which block these points correspond to. The point P1 corresponds to the block number (4, 4), and the point P2 corresponds to the block number (9, 6).

  When the corresponding block is specified, the correction processing in which the number of blocks is included in the related block information area R3 in the correction history data D8 is specified (see FIG. 9), and the correction history is displayed based on the result. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating correction history display windows W1 and W2 displayed on the display unit 12 as an example of the correction history display.

  For the block of the number of blocks (4, 4) corresponding to the point P1, only the correction processing related to the unit correction data D81, that is, the correction processing of the content whose background (back) color is blue is performed (FIG. 9). Therefore, when a point P1 is designated by the operator, a correction history display window W1 as shown in FIG. 12 (a) is displayed on the display unit 12 in response to this. Specifically, as shown as the history item I11 in the correction history display window W1, the addition of the fill object OBJ1 is specifically displayed according to a predetermined format together with the contents of the object. Further, in this case, the correction process relating to the unit correction data D82 and D83 that is performed subsequently is not related to the block number (4, 4) and is not displayed as a history.

  On the other hand, for the blocks of the number of blocks (9, 6) corresponding to the point P2, the correction processing related to the unit correction data D82 and the correction processing related to the unit correction data D83 are performed (FIG. 9 double wavy line portion). When the point P2 is designated by the operator, a correction history display window W2 as shown in FIG. 12B is displayed on the display unit 12 in response to this. Specifically, in the correction history display window W2, the character object OBJ0 is deleted as shown in the history item I21, and after the deletion, the character object OBJ2 is added as shown in the history item I22. Together with the contents of the object is displayed according to a predetermined format. Further, in this case, the correction processing related to the unit correction data D81 that has been performed earlier is not displayed as a history because it does not relate to the block number (9, 6).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the layout image based on the correction target layer L2 is displayed by the action of the history reference processing unit 245, by pointing to an arbitrary position of the layout image, The history of only the correction process performed on (including the block) can be displayed on the display unit 12 in the order in which the correction process was performed. Note that the mode of the history always is not limited to the above-described case. For example, when a certain position is designated as a point referring to the correction history, the correction history related to the block is near the block including the point, It may be displayed in a display format such as a so-called “balloon”.

  Here, for the sake of comparison, a case will be described in which correction processing in accordance with the correction instruction is not performed and erroneous correction processing is performed. FIG. 13 shows an example in which the correction process based on the correction instruction C2 is correct, but the correction process based on the correction instruction C1 is not the correct paint object OBJ1 shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the layout image based on layered data D51 when is added. In FIG. 13, the filled object OBJ1 'is assumed to be a "blue-green" color object. However, for the sake of simplicity, description will be made with “blue-green” color. However, in reality, it is preferable that more strict color designation, for example, color designation based on the CMYK color system is performed. Now, in the filled object OBJ1 ', it is assumed that C: 100%, M: 50%, Y 50%, K: 30% are designated as “blue-green” colors. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing correction history data D8 ′ generated in this case in the same manner as described above, and FIG. 15 shows a correction history display window W1 ′ for the same point P1 as FIG. FIG.

  When the operator designates the point P1 to confirm the contents of the correction process, the correction history display window W1 ′ is displayed, and the correction process performed at the point P1 has a blue-green background related to the unit correction data D81 ′. It is indicated to the operator that the process is an addition process of a filled object (C: 100%, M: 50%, Y 50%, K: 30%). Since the content of the correction instruction C1 is described in the difference layer L1, the operator compares and compares the description contents of the difference layer L1 and the correction history display window W1 ′, so that the correction processing performed near the point P1 However, it can be easily confirmed whether or not it is in accordance with the correction instruction C1. Actually, this is not a correction process in which the background requested by the correction instruction C1 is blue (C: 100%, M: 50%, Y0%, K: 30%), but the color density of the Y component is different. Therefore, when this is recognized by the operator, re-correction is performed to correct this correctly.

  There are several methods for such re-correction. For example, when the re-correction is attempted by deleting the once-added fill object OBJ1 ′ and arranging the correct fill object OBJ1, that is, for the fill object OBJ1 ′. Consider a case where re-correction is performed by canceling the addition and placing the filled object OBJ1. In such a case, the history item I11 'in the correction history display window W1' is selected via the operation unit 11, and after the correction is canceled by a predetermined operation, a new correction process is executed.

  The correction history data D8 '' in this case is as shown in FIG. That is, since the addition of the object by the correction process related to the unit correction data D81 ′ (FIG. 14) is cancelled, the unit correction is performed by the action of the editing processing unit 244 when the deletion instruction is given by the operator through the operation unit 11. In the acceptance / rejection flag area R4 of the data D81 ′, “0” is entered instead of “1” (see FIG. 14). Then, when a process for adding a new filled object OBJ1 in response to an addition instruction via the operation unit 11 by the operator is performed based on the action of the editing processing unit 244, a new ID with “4” added as a correction ID is added. Unit correction data D84 ′ is added. When the correction process according to the correction instruction C1 is performed, the description content of the unit correction data D84 'is the same as the content of the unit correction data D81. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a layout image by the layered data D52 when “0” is described in the acceptance flag area R4 of the unit correction data D81 ′. As shown in FIG. 17, only necessary portions can be re-corrected regardless of the content of the correction process based on the correction instruction C2 performed after the correction process based on the correction instruction C1.

  Also, among the correction processes related to the correction history display window W2 for the point P2 (see FIG. 11) shown in FIG. 12B, that is, the correction processes based on the correction instruction C2, the correction process based on the history item I21, When an instruction is given via the operation unit 11 so as to cancel the correction process based on the unit correction data D82, if the correction process performed thereafter is valid as it is, the state after the correction process is consistent. Since it cannot be taken, it is a correction process related to the block of the number of blocks (9, 6) to which the point P2 belongs, and is a correction process after the correction process based on the unit correction data D82, in other words, a large correction ID is given. The corrected processing that has been performed will also be canceled. This is because unit correction data in which the number of blocks (9, 6) is described is extracted in the related block information area R3 of the correction history data D8, and the acceptance flag of the corresponding unit correction data is set to “0”. Realized. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a layout image based on the layered data D53 in such a case.

  It is also possible to make the correction once canceled valid again by giving a predetermined operation instruction via the operation unit 11. In this case, “1” is described again in the acceptance flag area R4 in the corresponding unit correction data.

  That is, in the present embodiment, each correction process is managed by the correction history data D8, and the correction history at an arbitrary location can be referred to. It is easy to cancel only the correction process or to correct again. At that time, the contents of the correction not related to the re-correction are maintained regardless of the correction process.

  As described above, in this embodiment, in addition to checking and re-correcting the correction history in units of blocks, it is possible to select whether or not to apply correction in units of individual correction processes. As a result, it can be surely confirmed that all the corrections instructed by the client have been executed, and that the portions that do not need to be corrected are not erroneously corrected. Therefore, it is possible to reliably and faithfully reflect the correction instruction at the time of proofreading, and to create print data after proofreading (recalibration).

1 is a schematic diagram exemplarily showing a configuration of a printing system 100 including a print data editing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining functions realized in a control unit 16 of the print data editing apparatus 1. It is a figure which shows the data used in the process of the output of a proof, and the flow of the delivery. It is a figure which shows the flow of a correction process. It is a figure which shows the data used in the process of correction processing, and the flow of the delivery. It is a figure which illustrates about a part of data used in the process of correction processing. It is a figure which shows the example in the case of performing area division processing for the correction target layer L2. It is a figure which shows the layout image which the temporary data D7 expresses after giving the correction instruction | indication based on the correction instructions C1 and C2 with respect to layered data D5. It is a figure for demonstrating illustratively the unit correction data D8S used as the data structure unit of the correction history data D8. It is a figure which illustrates the layout image of layered data D5 'after the correction process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the points P1 and P2 which refer to a correction log | history. It is a figure which illustrates the correction history display windows W1 and W2 displayed on the display part 12 as an example of a correction history display. It is a figure which shows the layout image based on the layered data D51 when the incorrect painting object OBJ1 'is added as correction processing based on the correction instruction C1. It is a figure which shows the correction log | history data D8 'at the time of adding the incorrect filling object OBJ1'. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a correction history display window W1 ′ for the same point P1 as in FIG. 11 when an erroneous fill object OBJ1 ′ is added. It is a figure which shows the correction history data D8 '' in the case of re-correction. It is a figure which shows the layout image by the layered data D52 when "0" is described in the acceptance flag area | region R4 of unit correction data D81 '. It is a figure which shows the layout image based on the layered data D53 when the correction process based on the log | history item I21 is canceled.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Print data editing apparatus 2 Print data creation apparatus 3 Image scanner 4 Output apparatus 100 Printing system C1, C2 (Data-ized) correction instruction OBJ0, OBJ2 Character object OBJ1, OBJ1 'Fill object P1, P2 (Refer revision history) Point W1, W2 revision history display window dl (block) division line

Claims (16)

A print data editing apparatus for performing edit processing of print data while displaying a processing status on a display means,
Differential processing means for generating differential data between output data generated using the print data as a generation source and described in a format that can be output by a predetermined output device, and read image data obtained by the predetermined image reading device;
Layering processing means for generating layered data in which the print data and the difference data form a layer structure;
Area division processing means for virtually dividing the printed matter represented by the print data to obtain a plurality of divided areas;
In the editing process for changing the contents of the print data, the second image is displayed in a state where a superimposed image of the first layer formed by the difference data and the second layer formed by the print data is displayed on the display means. Editing processing means for executing on a layer;
In accordance with a predetermined history reference instruction, history reference processing means for displaying the history of the editing process on the display means,
With
The editing processing means includes
The processing content for each unit editing process, which is a processing unit in the editing process, is recorded as history data in association with the related divided area to which the processing content is related among the plurality of divided areas,
The history reference processing means includes
In response to designation of an arbitrary history reference target position, based on the history data, only the processing content in which the divided area including the history reference target position in the editing process becomes the related divided area is displayed as the history.
A print data editing apparatus characterized by that. The print data editing apparatus according to claim 1,
When canceling the execution of a specific unit editing process included in the history relating to one divided area, the editing is performed after the specific unit editing process among the editing processes in which the one divided area is the related divided area. The editing process is canceled together.
A print data editing apparatus characterized by that. The print data editing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
A print data editing apparatus, wherein the number of divisions for obtaining the divided areas can be arbitrarily set. The print data editing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The print data editing apparatus, wherein the read image data is data obtained by reading a proof print made based on the output data. The print data editing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Output data generating means for generating the output data by rasterizing the print data;
A print data editing apparatus, further comprising: A printing system,
a) an image reading device that photoelectrically reads an image on a paper medium and generates read image data;
b) an output device that performs output based on output data described in a predetermined data format;
c) A print data editing apparatus for performing editing processing of print data while displaying the processing status on the display means,
c-1) difference processing means for generating difference data between the output data generated using the print data as a generation source and the read image data;
c-2) layering processing means for generating layered data in which the print data and the difference data form a layer structure;
c-3) area division processing means for virtually dividing the printed matter represented by the print data to obtain a plurality of divided areas;
c-4) An editing process for changing the contents of the print data is performed in a state in which the display unit displays a superimposed image of the first layer formed by the difference data and the second layer formed by the print data. Editing processing means for executing the second layer as a target;
c-5) History reference processing means for displaying the history of the editing process on the display means according to a predetermined history reference instruction;
A print data editing device comprising:
With
The editing processing means includes
The processing content for each unit editing process, which is a processing unit in the editing process, is recorded as history data in association with the related divided area to which the processing content is related among the plurality of divided areas,
The history reference processing means includes
In response to designation of an arbitrary history reference target position, based on the history data, only the processing content in which the divided area including the history reference target position in the editing process becomes the related divided area is displayed as the history.
A printing system characterized by that. The printing system according to claim 6, wherein
When canceling the execution of a specific unit editing process included in the history relating to one divided area, the editing is performed after the specific unit editing process among the editing processes in which the one divided area is the related divided area. The editing process is canceled together.
A printing system characterized by that. The printing system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein
A printing system, wherein the number of divisions for obtaining the divided areas can be arbitrarily set. A printing system according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
The printing system, wherein the read image data is data obtained by reading a calibration printed matter created based on the output data. A printing system according to any one of claims 6 to 9,
The print data editing device
c-6) output data generating means for generating the output data by rasterizing the print data;
A printing system, further comprising: A method for editing print data while displaying a processing status on a display means,
A difference processing step for generating difference data between output data generated using the print data as a generation source and described in a format that can be output by a predetermined output device; and read image data obtained by the predetermined image reading device;
A layering process for generating layered data in which the print data and the difference data form a layer structure;
A region dividing process step of virtually dividing the printed matter represented by the print data to obtain a plurality of divided regions;
In the editing process for changing the contents of the print data, the second display layer is displayed in a state where a superimposed image of the first layer formed by the difference data and the second layer formed by the print data is displayed on a predetermined display unit. Editing process for target layer,
According to a predetermined history reference instruction, a history reference processing step for displaying the history of the editing process on the display means;
With
In the editing process step,
The processing content for each unit editing process, which is a processing unit in the editing process, is recorded as history data in association with the related divided area to which the processing content is related among the plurality of divided areas,
In the history reference processing step,
In response to designation of an arbitrary history reference target position, based on the history data, only the processing content in which the divided area including the history reference target position in the editing process becomes the related divided area is displayed as the history.
A print data editing method characterized by the above. The print data editing method according to claim 11, comprising:
When canceling the execution of a specific unit editing process included in the history relating to one divided area, the editing is performed after the specific unit editing process among the editing processes in which the one divided area is the related divided area. The editing process is canceled together.
A print data editing method characterized by the above. The print data editing method according to claim 11 or 12,
In the area division processing step, the number of divisions for obtaining the divided areas can be arbitrarily set. A print data editing method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, comprising:
The print data editing method, wherein the read image data is data obtained by reading a proofreading printed matter created based on the output data. The print data editing method according to any one of claims 11 to 14,
An output data generation step of generating the output data by rasterizing the print data;
A print data editing method, further comprising:   A program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to function as the print data editing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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