JP2006173864A - Image processing system, image processing method and image processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently and accurately determine properness of an image input value. <P>SOLUTION: An input value by image pickup of a reference chart and a colorimetric value by colorimetry are used to generate conversion data indicating conversion from an input value into a colorimetric value. Further, an arbitrary target image input value obtained by picking up an arbitrary conversion target image is converted by using the converted data. In this case, the reference chart includes a plurality of sheets, and each of the sheets includes a reference chart creating date image representing a creating date. Still further, it is determined whether or not the creating date matches for each sheet to be specified on the basis of the reference chart creating date image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to image processing, and more particularly to a technique for determining the appropriateness of an input value of an image by an image input device such as a scanner.

  The printing characteristics of the printing apparatus are adjusted by, for example, printing a sample chart with the printing apparatus to be adjusted, and comparing the colorimetric value obtained by measuring the printed image with a desired colorimetric value set in advance. (For example, Patent Document 1). Color measurement of a printed image is generally performed using a colorimeter.

JP 2000-209450 A JP 2002-204370 A JP 2002-262106 A

  When adjusting the printing characteristics of a printing device, use image input values obtained by inputting a print image using a relatively inexpensive image input device such as a scanner, instead of image colorimetric values by a colorimeter. If it is possible, the printing characteristics can be adjusted economically.

  However, since the image input device is not originally a device for colorimetry, when the image input device is used for adjusting the printing characteristics of the printing device, the image input value by the image input device is the same as the image colorimetric value by the colorimeter. It is desired to be associated. Further, since the image input characteristics of the image input device are relatively easy to change according to aging and environmental changes, it is preferable that the correspondence between the image input value and the image colorimetric value is sequentially updated. For this reason, the association between the image input value and the image colorimetric value is repeatedly executed, and it is desired to be performed efficiently and accurately.

  Further, it is desired that not only the association between the image input value and the image colorimetric value but also the association between the image input value and the printing apparatus is performed efficiently and accurately. As described above, it has been desired that the appropriate determination of the image input value is performed efficiently and accurately.

  Such a problem is not limited to the adjustment of the printing characteristics of the printing apparatus, but is a common problem when an image input value is used instead of an image colorimetric value.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of determining the appropriateness of an image input value efficiently and accurately. To do.

  In order to solve at least a part of the above problems, a first image processing system according to the present invention performs colorimetry on a predetermined reference chart and represents a colorimetric value at a predetermined position of the reference chart. A colorimetric unit that generates value data; an imaging unit that captures the reference chart and generates reference chart input value data representing an input value at the predetermined position of the reference chart; and the reference chart colorimetric value data A conversion generation unit that generates conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the imaging unit to a colorimetric value in the colorimetry unit based on the reference chart input value data, and an arbitrary conversion target image in the imaging unit An input value conversion unit that converts the target image input value data representing the target image input value acquired by imaging using the conversion data, and the reference chart includes a plurality of the reference charts. Each of the plurality of sheets includes a reference chart production date image representing a reference chart production date on which the reference chart was produced, and the imaging unit further includes the sheet for each of the plurality of sheets, The reference chart preparation date is specified based on the reference chart preparation date image included in the sheet, and the image processing system further matches the reference chart preparation date specified for each of the plurality of sheets. A production date determination unit for determining whether or not there is.

  In this image processing system, it is possible to associate an image input value with an image colorimetric value by generating conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the imaging unit to a colorimetric value in the colorimetry unit. Further, in this image processing system, since the production date determination unit determines whether the production dates are the same for each of the plurality of sheets of the reference chart, it is possible to suppress misuse of the sheets, The appropriateness of the image input value can be determined efficiently and accurately.

  In order to solve at least a part of the above problems, a second image processing system of the present invention is an image processing system for setting an adjustment amount for adjusting a printing characteristic of a printing apparatus, A storage unit that stores a desired correspondence relationship between a gradation value and a colorimetric value of a printing result printed by the printing apparatus using the image data, and a predetermined reference chart including a plurality of patches are colorimetrically measured. A colorimetric unit that generates colorimetric value data representing a colorimetric value at each position of the plurality of patches of the reference chart, and imaging the reference chart, and the plurality of patches of the reference chart An imaging unit that generates reference chart input value data representing an input value at each position, and the imaging based on the reference chart colorimetric value data and the reference chart input value data A conversion generation unit that generates conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the colorimetric unit to a colorimetric value in the colorimetric unit; and a sample chart that is printed by the printing device and has a shape corresponding to the reference chart. An input value conversion unit that converts input value data that represents input values at a plurality of patch positions of the sample chart acquired by imaging using the conversion data, and a conversion result by the input value conversion unit An adjustment amount setting unit that sets the adjustment amount based on the correspondence and the gradation value of the image data used for printing the sample chart, and the reference chart includes a plurality of sheets. Each of the plurality of sheets includes one or more patches and a reference chart representing a reference chart production date on which the reference chart is produced. And the imaging unit further specifies, for each of the plurality of sheets, the reference chart preparation date based on the reference chart preparation date image included in the sheet, and the image processing system includes: And a preparation date determination unit that determines whether or not the reference chart preparation dates specified for each of the plurality of sheets match.

  In this image processing system, by generating conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the imaging unit to a colorimetric value in the colorimetric unit, the image input value and the image colorimetric value are adjusted in the adjustment of the printing characteristics of the printing apparatus. Can be associated. Further, in this image processing system, since the production date determination unit determines whether the production dates are the same for each of the plurality of sheets of the reference chart, it is possible to suppress misuse of the sheets, In adjusting the printing characteristics of the printing apparatus, it is possible to efficiently and accurately determine whether the image input value is appropriate.

  In each of the image processing systems, the reference chart is updated according to a predetermined condition, and the color measurement by the color measurement unit, the image pickup by the image pickup unit, and the generation of conversion data by the conversion generation unit are It may be executed every time the reference chart is updated.

  In this way, it is possible to efficiently and accurately determine the appropriateness of the image input value that reflects the change in the input characteristics of the imaging unit.

  In each of the image processing systems described above, the imaging unit may include a scanner.

  In this way, it is possible to efficiently and accurately determine the appropriateness of the image input value by the scanner.

  The present invention can be implemented in various modes. For example, an image processing method and system, an image input value conversion method and system, a print adjustment amount setting method and system, and the functions of these methods or systems The present invention can be realized in the form of a computer program for realizing, a recording medium recording the computer program, a data signal including the computer program and embodied in a carrier wave, and the like.

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order based on examples.
A. Example:
A-1. Image processing system configuration:
A-2. Print adjustment amount setting process:
B. Variations:

A. First embodiment:
A-1. Image processing system configuration:
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the configuration of an image processing system as a first embodiment of the present invention. The image processing system 10 of the present embodiment can be used for a print adjustment amount setting process, which will be described later, for setting an adjustment amount A for adjusting the print characteristics of a printer. The image processing system 10 includes a computer 100, a colorimeter 300, and a scanner 400. Further, the image processing system 10 may include a printer 500.

  The computer 100 includes a CPU 110, an internal storage device 200 such as a ROM and a RAM, a display unit 120 such as a display, an operation unit 130 such as a keyboard and a mouse, an external storage device 140 such as a hard disk drive, a current date, A timer 150 for outputting time and an interface unit (I / F unit) 160 are provided. Each component in the computer 100 is connected to each other via a bus 170.

  The internal storage device 200 includes an LUT generation unit 210, a print adjustment amount setting unit 220, an elapsed day determination unit 230, a colorimetry processing unit 240, an imaging processing unit 250, a print processing unit 260, and a date determination unit. 270 and an identification information determination unit 280. Each of these units is a computer program that functions as each unit. The LUT generation unit 210 includes an LUT generation date addition unit 212, and the print adjustment amount setting unit 220 includes an input value conversion unit 222 and an ideal relationship IR.

  The color measurement processing unit 240 is a color measurement driver that controls the color measurement device 300, and includes a color measurement date addition unit 242. The imaging processing unit 250 is a scanner driver that controls the scanner 400 and includes a date input / addition unit 252. The print processing unit 260 is a printer driver that controls the printer 500. The interface unit 160 includes a plurality of input / output terminals, and performs data communication with external devices such as the colorimeter 300, the scanner 400, and the printer 500.

  The colorimeter 300 is a device that performs colorimetry on an image to acquire a colorimetric value, and outputs a colorimetric value in an L * a * b * color space in this embodiment. The scanner 400 is an apparatus that captures an image and obtains an input value of the image. In this embodiment, the scanner 400 outputs three input values of an R value, a G value, and a B value. The printer 500 is an ink jet printer, and in this embodiment, an image is printed using four colors of inks of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black).

A-2. Print adjustment amount setting process:
FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of print adjustment amount setting processing by the image processing system of this embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the preparation of the reference chart BC and the preparation of the LUT file in the print adjustment amount setting process. FIG. 4 shows the adjustment amount A in the print adjustment amount setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the process of a setting. Here, the print adjustment amount setting process is a process of setting an adjustment amount A for adjusting the print characteristics of the printer to be desirable characteristics. In this embodiment, when an image is printed based on certain image data, an adjustment amount A is set as a coefficient to be multiplied by the gradation value of the image data in order to make the print result desirable.

  In step S100 (FIG. 2), the user prepares the reference chart BC. The reference chart BC is obtained by printing a plurality of patches by a printer 500 of the same type as the printer that is the target of the print adjustment amount setting process. The contents of the reference chart BC will be described later.

  In this embodiment, the reference chart BC is updated every predetermined number of days in consideration of the change in the color characteristics of the reference chart BC and the change in the input characteristics of the scanner 400. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing for preparing the reference chart BC. In step S110, the user determines whether or not there is an existing reference chart BC. If there is no existing reference chart BC, the process proceeds to step S140, and the user creates (prints) the reference chart BC using the printer 500. On the other hand, when there is an existing reference chart BC, the process proceeds to step S120.

  In step S120, the user determines whether or not the existing reference chart BC is within the expiration date, that is, whether or not a predetermined number of days have passed since the date of preparation of the reference chart BC. The predetermined number of days is set to 90 days, for example. When it is determined that the existing reference chart BC has exceeded the expiration date, the process proceeds to step S140, and the user newly creates the reference chart BC using the printer 500. On the other hand, when it is determined that the existing reference chart BC is within the expiration date, the process proceeds to step S130, and the user prepares the existing reference chart BC.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the contents of the reference chart BC. The reference chart BC used in this embodiment is composed of N sheets (N is an integer of 2 or more). In addition, a total of 24 patches of 6 rows × 4 columns are printed on each sheet of the reference chart BC. In the following description, each sheet of the reference chart BC is represented by using a sheet number i (i is an integer of 1 to N), and patches in each sheet are patch numbers j (j is 1 to 24). (Integer). A sheet number i is displayed on the upper right of each sheet of the reference chart BC. Also, the patch number j of the upper left patch of each sheet is set to 1, the patch number j of the patch adjacent to the right of the patch of patch number 1 is set to 2, and the patch number j is assigned in the same manner. The patch number j is 24.

  In each sheet of the reference chart BC, the number of rows of patches corresponds to the number of inks used by the printer 500 used for printing the reference chart BC. Since the printer 500 of this embodiment uses four colors of inks of C, M, Y, and K, the number of rows of patches is four. The patch in the first row from the left is printed using a cyan nozzle, the patch in the second row is printed using a magenta nozzle, the patch in the third row is printed using a yellow nozzle, The fourth row of patches is printed using a black nozzle. However, in this embodiment, all patches are printed using black ink. That is, for example, the patch in the first row is printed with black ink using a nozzle that is originally for cyan.

  In each sheet of the reference chart BC, the number of patch lines corresponds to the type of dot diameter and the number of print modes of the printer 500 used for printing the reference chart BC. The printer 500 according to the present embodiment performs printing using three types of dot diameters of large dots, medium dots, and small dots, and print mode 1 (high resolution mode) and print mode 2 (low resolution mode). ) And two print modes. Therefore, the number of patch lines is six. The patches on the first to third lines from the top are printed using the printing mode 1, and the patches on the fourth to sixth lines are printed using the printing mode 2. The patches on the first and fourth lines are printed using large dots. Similarly, the second and fifth lines use medium dots, and the third and sixth lines use small dots. Used and printed.

  Each sheet of the reference chart BC is printed based on image data having different gradation values G for patches having the same patch number j (patches printed at the same position in each sheet). That is, if the gradation value G of the image data used for printing the patch with the patch number j on the i-th sheet is expressed as “Gij”, the N gradation values from G1j to GNj are all different values. It has become. Therefore, the reference chart BC includes patches printed based on image data having N types of gradation values for each print mode and dot diameter for each ink color nozzle.

  In this embodiment, for each patch number j, the image data used for printing the patch on the first sheet has the largest gradation value G (that is, the patch is dark black), and N sheets The gradation value G of the image data is decreased toward the eye sheet (that is, the patch is light black (gray)). Note that the printing gradation expression in the printer 500 is performed by adjusting the number of dots applied per unit area. In this embodiment, the larger the gradation value D of the image data used for printing the patch, the larger the unit area. The number of dots per dot is increased. Further, the gradation value G of the image data used for printing does not need to be the same between the 24 patches in one sheet, and may be different from each other.

  Furthermore, the date of manufacture (print date) of the reference chart BC is displayed on each sheet of the reference chart BC. In the present embodiment, the N sheets of the reference chart BC are printed on the same day, and the same date is displayed on each sheet.

  The reference chart BC is composed of a plurality of sheets. If all of the plurality of patches are printed on one sheet, the size of the sheet becomes excessively large, and the user who handles the reference chart BC. This is because the burden increases. If a plurality of sheets are used, a plurality of patches (a plurality of patches having the same patch number) printed at the same position on each sheet can be used to set one adjustment amount A (details will be described later). ). As a result, it is possible to suppress the variation of the input characteristics of the scanner 400 due to the imaging position from affecting the setting of the adjustment amount A.

  FIG. 3 shows a prepared reference chart BC. Although FIG. 3 shows that the reference chart BC is printed by the printer 500 connected to the computer 100 of the image processing system 10, the printer 500 used for printing the reference chart BC is the image processing system 10. It is not necessary to be connected to.

  After completing the preparation of the reference chart BC in step S100 (FIG. 2), in step S300, the LUT file is prepared. The LUT file is for associating an image input value from the scanner 400 with an image colorimetric value from the colorimeter 300. The contents of the LUT file will be described later.

  In this embodiment, the LUT file is updated every predetermined number of days in consideration of changes in input characteristics of the scanner 400 and the like. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of LUT file preparation processing. In step S310, the user determines whether there is an existing LUT file. If there is no existing LUT file, the process proceeds to step S400, and the user generates an LUT file using the image processing system 10. On the other hand, if there is an existing LUT file, the process proceeds to step S320.

  In step S320, the user determines whether or not the existing LUT file is within the expiration date, that is, whether or not a predetermined number of days have passed since the LUT file generation date. For example, the predetermined number of days is set to 30 days. When it is determined that the existing LUT file has exceeded the expiration date, the process proceeds to step S400, and the user generates a new LUT file using the image processing system 10. On the other hand, when it is determined that the existing LUT file is within the expiration date, the process proceeds to step S330, and the user prepares the existing LUT file using the image processing system 10.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing for generating an LUT file in step S400 of FIG. In step S410, the colorimetric processing unit 240 (FIG. 1) controls the colorimeter 300 to measure the reference chart BC and generates a colorimetric value file MF. FIG. 3 shows how the color of the reference chart BC is measured to generate a colorimetric value file MF. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the colorimetric value file MF. The colorimetric processing unit 240 measures 24 patches for each of N sheets of the reference chart BC, and represents the lightness in the L * a * b * color space as an image colorimetric value for each patch. Get the value of *. For example, the first and second lines of the colorimetric value file MF shown in FIG. 9 indicate L * values of 24 patches in the sheet having the sheet number i of 1 in the reference chart BC.

  In step S420 (FIG. 8), the color measurement date adding unit 242 (FIG. 1) in the color measurement processing unit 240 adds the color measurement date to the color measurement value file MF. The color measurement date adding unit 242 refers to the current date output from the timer 150 (FIG. 1) during or after the color measurement processing by the color measurement processing unit 240, for example, the color measurement date as text data. To the colorimetric value file MF. The color measurement value file MF shown in FIG. 9 shows a state in which a color measurement date is added.

  In step S430 (FIG. 8), the imaging processing unit 250 (FIG. 1) images the reference chart BC and generates a reference input value file BIF. FIG. 3 shows a state in which the reference chart BC is imaged and the reference input value file BIF is generated. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the reference input value file BIF. The imaging processing unit 250 captures N sheets of the reference chart BC, and acquires an R value that represents the gradation value of the R component as an image input value at the position of the 24 patches in each sheet. For example, the first and second lines of the reference input value file BIF shown in FIG. 10 indicate the R values of 24 patches in the sheet having the sheet number i of 1 in the reference chart BC. In this embodiment, the R value is used as the image input value of the reference chart BC. However, for example, other image input values such as a G value and a B value can be used.

  In step S435 (FIG. 8), the date determination unit 270 (FIG. 1) determines whether the production dates printed on the N sheets of the reference chart BC match. This determination is performed to confirm that an inappropriate sheet is not included in the N sheets of the reference chart BC. As described above, the N sheets of the reference chart BC are updated every elapse of a predetermined number of days (for example, 90 days). At this time, there is a possibility that the user mistakenly mixes the new sheet and the old sheet. That is, there is a possibility that the LUT file is generated by mistake using both the new sheet and the old sheet. In this embodiment, in order to prevent such an inappropriate sheet from being used by mistake, the coincidence determination of the production date is performed.

  For example, specifically, the date determination unit 270 determines whether the production dates match by comparing the date of production of each sheet read by the date input / addition unit 252 (FIG. 1). The date input / addition unit 252 has an OCR function (optical character recognition) for optically reading printed characters. The date determination unit 270 refers to the creation date of each sheet read by the date input / addition unit 252 and performs determination. That is, if the production date of each sheet is the same common day, each sheet is determined to be appropriate. On the other hand, when the production date of each sheet includes a production date different from the others, it is determined that an inappropriate sheet is included.

  If it is determined in step S435 (FIG. 8) that the production dates do not match, the computer 100 ends the process, and the user checks each sheet of the reference chart BC. On the other hand, when it is determined that the production dates match, the process proceeds to step S440.

  In step S440 (FIG. 8), the date input / addition unit 252 (FIG. 1) in the imaging processing unit 250 adds the production date of the reference chart BC to the reference input value file BIF. The date input / addition unit 252 has an OCR function for optically reading printed characters. The date input / addition unit 252 reads the reference chart BC production date printed on each sheet of the reference chart BC and stores it in the reference input value file BIF. Append. The reference input value file BIF shown in FIG. 10 shows a state in which the reference chart BC production date is added.

  In step S445 (FIG. 8), the date determination unit 270 (FIG. 1) determines whether or not the production date of the reference chart BC matches the color measurement date of the reference chart BC. This determination is performed to determine whether or not the reference chart BC used to generate the colorimetric value file MF and the reference chart BC used to generate the reference input value file BIF are the same. Is. As described above, the reference chart BC is updated every predetermined number of days (for example, 90 days). As a result, there is a possibility that the old reference chart BC is erroneously used for generating the reference input value file BIF. Further, there is a possibility that the colorimetric value file MF of the old reference chart BC may be used by mistake for generating the LUT file. In this embodiment, in order to prevent such misuse of the old reference chart BC and misuse of the old colorimetric value file MF, the compatibility determination between the colorimetric date and the production date is performed.

  Specifically, the date determination unit 270 determines whether the colorimetry date and the creation date are compatible by the date determination unit 270 and the creation date included in the reference input value file BIF. (FIG. 10). For example, when the printing of the reference chart BC and the color measurement are performed on the same day, the reference chart BC (hereinafter referred to as the reference input value file BIF) used for generating the reference input value file BIF if the date of color measurement and the date of preparation match. It is determined that the color measurement value file MF and the “imaging reference chart” are appropriate. On the other hand, if the color measurement date and the production date do not match, it is determined that the combination of the imaging reference chart and the color measurement value file MF is inappropriate.

  It should be noted that the condition for matching between the color measurement date and the production date may be a condition for confirming that the combination of the imaging reference chart and the color measurement value file MF is appropriate, and “year” “month” “ Various conditions other than the condition that all “days” are in agreement can be adopted. For example, when the reference chart BC is updated every month, it is possible to adopt that “year” and “month” coincide with each other as a matching condition. When the printing of the reference chart BC and the color measurement are performed on different days, it may be adopted as a condition that the difference between the production date and the color measurement date is within a predetermined range. Here, the predetermined range may be set to a range in which the difference between the printing date (production date) of the reference chart BC and the color measurement date can be taken.

  In step S445, instead of the date determination unit 270 acquiring the production date from the reference input value file BIF, the production date specified by the date input / addition unit 252 (FIG. 1) is supplied to the date determination unit 270. It is good.

  When it is determined in step S445 (FIG. 8) that the colorimetry date and the production date are not matched, the computer 100 ends the process, and the user performs the reference The chart BC and the colorimetric value file MF are confirmed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the color measurement date and the production date are compatible, the process proceeds to step S450.

  In step S450 (FIG. 8), the elapsed days determination unit 230 (FIG. 1) determines the elapsed days from the colorimetric date. The determination of the number of days elapsed from the color measurement date is performed to determine whether or not the color measurement value file MF used for generating the LUT file is correct. As described above, since the LUT file is updated every 30 days, for example, the LUT file generation process shown in FIG. 8 is repeatedly executed every 30 days. Therefore, there is a possibility that the old colorimetric value file MF generated in the previous LUT file generation process is erroneously used in the new LUT file generation process. In this embodiment, in order to prevent misuse of the old colorimetric value file MF, the number of days elapsed from the colorimetric date is determined.

  For example, specifically, the elapsed days determination from the color measurement date is performed by the elapsed day determination unit 230 including the current date output from the timer 150 (FIG. 1) and the color measurement date included in the color measurement value file MF ( Compared with FIG. 9), it is determined by determining whether or not the number of days elapsed from the color measurement date to the present is within 5 days. That is, if the number of days elapsed from the color measurement date to the present is within 5 days, it is determined that the color measurement value file MF is correct. If the number of elapsed days is 6 days or more, the color measurement value file MF is old. It is determined to be a thing. Note that the determination threshold may be less than the LUT file update cycle, and the threshold may be set shorter or longer. For example, if all the steps of the LUT file generation process shown in FIG. 8 are necessarily performed on the same day, the threshold value may be set to one day.

  In the determination of the number of days elapsed from the colorimetric date in step S450 (FIG. 8), when it is determined that the number of days elapsed is 6 days or more, the computer 100 ends the process and the user confirms the colorimetric value file MF. Do. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of elapsed days is within 5 days, the process proceeds to step S460.

  In step S460 (FIG. 8), the elapsed days determination unit 230 (FIG. 1) determines the elapsed days from the reference chart BC production date. To determine the number of days elapsed from the date of creation of the reference chart BC, whether or not the reference input value file BIF used to generate the LUT file is correct, and consequently the reference chart BC used to generate the reference input value file BIF is correct. This is to determine whether or not there has been. As described above, since the reference chart BC is updated, for example, every 90 days, the old reference chart BC may be erroneously used when the reference input value file BIF is generated. In this embodiment, in order to prevent misuse of the old reference chart BC, the number of days elapsed from the reference chart BC production date is determined.

  For example, specifically, the elapsed days determination from the reference chart BC creation date is performed by the elapsed day determination unit 230 including the current date output from the timer 150 (FIG. 1) and the reference chart included in the reference input value file BIF. This is performed by comparing the BC production date and determining whether the number of days elapsed from the reference chart BC production date to the present date is within 95 days. That is, if the number of days elapsed from the creation date of the reference chart BC to the present is within 95 days, it is determined that the reference chart BC used to generate the reference input value file BIF is correct, and the elapsed days are 96 days or more. If so, it is determined that the reference chart BC used to generate the reference input value file BIF is old. Note that the determination threshold may be equal to or longer than the update period of the reference chart BC and less than twice the update period of the reference chart BC, and may be set shorter or longer. I do not care. For example, the threshold value may be set to 90 days.

  In the determination of the number of days elapsed from the reference chart BC creation date in step S460 (FIG. 8), when it is determined that the number of elapsed days is 96 days or more, the computer 100 ends the process, and the user stores the reference input value file BIF. Confirm. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of elapsed days is within 95 days, the process proceeds to step S470.

  In step S470 (FIG. 8), the LUT generation unit 210 (FIG. 1) generates an LUT file using the colorimetric value file MF and the reference input value file BIF. FIG. 3 shows how a LUT file is generated using the colorimetric value file MF and the reference input value file BIF. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an LUT file. FIG. 11A shows details of the contents of the LUT file. As shown in FIG. 11A, the LUT file includes 24 LUTs (LUT-1 to LUT-24) corresponding to the 24 patches in each sheet in the reference chart BC. In the following description, the LUT corresponding to the patch with the patch number j is represented as LUT-j.

  The LUT-j is an image colorimetric value (L * value) (see FIG. 9) in the colorimetric value file MF and an image input value (R value) in the reference input value file BIF (see FIG. 9) for the patch with patch number j. 10), the number of sheets corresponding to the number of sheets of the reference chart BC is included. For example, in the LUT-1 corresponding to the patch whose patch number j is 1 shown at the top of FIG. 11A, the L * value of the patch whose patch number j is 1 in the colorimetric value file MF, The R value of the patch whose patch number j is 1 in the reference input value file BIF is associated with each sheet number i.

  Here, each sheet in the reference chart BC is printed based on image data having different N types of gradation values G for patches having the same patch number j. Therefore, for example, the LUT-1 corresponding to the patch whose patch number j is 1 corresponds to the correspondence between the L * value and the R value for N types of patches printed based on image data having N types of gradation values. It represents. FIG. 11B shows this correspondence using a graph. As described above, the LUT-j associates the image input value at the predetermined position of the scanner 400 (the patch position of the patch number j) with the image colorimetric value of the colorimeter 300. As shown in FIG. 11B, when the LUT is actually used, the correspondence specified by the N patches is interpolated using, for example, linear interpolation.

  In step S480 (FIG. 8), the LUT generation date adding unit 212 (FIG. 1) adds the generation date of the LUT file to the LUT file. The LUT generation date adding unit 212 refers to the current date output from the timer 150 (FIG. 1) during or after generation of the LUT file by the LUT generation unit 210, for example, the LUT file generation date as text data Append to file. The LUT file shown in FIG. 11A shows a state in which the LUT file generation date is added.

  After the LUT file preparation in step S300 (FIG. 2) is completed, the print adjustment amount setting unit 220 (FIG. 1) sets the adjustment amount A in step S500. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the adjustment amount A setting process.

In step S510, the user prints the sample chart SC using the printer 500t that is the target of the print adjustment amount setting process. FIG. 4 shows how the sample chart SC is printed using the printer 500t. Here, the sample chart SC is a chart having the same pattern as the reference chart BC shown in FIG. 6, and 24 patches having different ink nozzles, dot diameters, and printing modes used for printing were printed using black ink. Is. However, the sample chart SC is composed of only one sheet. Here, if the gradation value of the image data used for printing the patch with the patch number j in the sample chart SC is expressed as “sample gradation value GSj”, the sample gradation value GSj is expressed by the following equation (1). Is set to satisfy. As described above, G1j is the gradation value of the image data used for printing the patch with the patch number j in the first sheet of the reference chart BC, and GNj is in the Nth sheet of the reference chart BC. Is the gradation value of the image data used for printing the patch with patch number j.
G1j <GSj <GNj (1)

  Further, identification information of the target printer 500t is also printed on the sample chart SC. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the sample chart SC. The difference from the reference chart BC shown in FIG. 6 is that the identification information of the target printer 500t is printed. The target printer 500t has a storage area (memory) (not shown). In this storage area, information (identification information) unique to each machine of the printer 500t is stored in advance. The print processing unit 260 (FIG. 1) acquires identification information from the target printer 500t via the interface unit 160, and causes the target printer 500t to print the sample chart SC including the acquired identification information.

  In step S520 (FIG. 12), the imaging processing unit 250 (FIG. 1) images the sample chart SC and generates a sample input value file SIF. FIG. 4 shows a state in which the sample chart SC is imaged and a sample input value file SIF is generated. The imaging processing unit 250 acquires an R value that represents the gradation value of the R component as an image input value at the position of 24 patches in the sample chart SC. In the generated sample input value file SIF, the R value at the patch position of each patch number in the sample chart SC is represented in the same manner as the reference input value file BIF shown in FIG.

  In step S522 (FIG. 12), the date input / addition unit 252 (FIG. 1) reads the identification information printed on the sample chart SC using the OCR function. The read identification information is used by the identification information determination unit 280 (described later).

  In step S524 (FIG. 12), the identification information determination unit 280 (FIG. 1) acquires identification information from the target printer 500t via the interface unit 160.

  In step S526 (FIG. 12), the identification information determination unit 280 (FIG. 1) determines whether the identification information matches. This determination is performed to determine whether the printer used for printing the sample chart SC and the printer for which the adjustment amount A is set are the same printer. The adjustment amount A setting process shown in FIG. 12 may be executed for a plurality of printers. In particular, in the printer production line, the adjustment amount A setting process is executed for a plurality of printers. At this time, there is a possibility that the adjustment amount A setting process is executed by mistake using the sample chart SC printed by another printer. In this embodiment, in order to prevent such an inappropriate sample chart SC from being erroneously used, the identification information matching determination is performed.

  For example, specifically, the identification information match determination is performed by the identification information determination unit 280 using the identification information printed on the sample chart SC (hereinafter also referred to as “print identification information”) and the identification information acquired from the target printer 500t ( Step S524, hereinafter referred to as “target identification information”). The print identification information read by the date input / addition unit 252 in step S522 is supplied to the identification information determination unit 280, and is used to determine whether the identification information matches. Here, if the print identification information matches the target identification information, it is determined that the sample chart SC is appropriate. On the other hand, if the print identification information and the target identification information do not match, it is determined that the sample chart SC is inappropriate.

  If it is determined that the identification information does not match in the identification information matching determination in step S526 (FIG. 12), the computer 100 ends the process, and the user checks the sample chart SC and the target printer 500t. . On the other hand, when it is determined that the identification information matches, the process proceeds to step S530.

  In step S530 (FIG. 12), the elapsed day determination unit 230 (FIG. 1) determines the elapsed days from the LUT file generation date. The determination of the number of days elapsed from the LUT file generation date is performed in order to determine whether or not the LUT file used for the adjustment amount A setting process is correct. As described above, since the LUT file is generated every 30 days, an old LUT file generated before may be erroneously used in the adjustment amount A setting process. In this embodiment, in order to prevent misuse of this old LUT file, the number of days elapsed from the LUT file generation date is determined.

  For example, specifically, the elapsed days determination from the LUT file generation date is performed by the elapsed day determination unit 230 including the current date output from the timer 150 (FIG. 1) and the LUT file generation date (see FIG. 1) included in the LUT file. 11) to determine whether the number of days elapsed from the LUT file generation date to the present is within 35 days. That is, if the number of days elapsed from the LUT file generation date to the present is within 35 days, the LUT file is determined to be correct, and if the number of days elapsed is 36 days or more, the LUT file is determined to be old. Is done. Note that the determination threshold may be longer than the LUT file update cycle and less than twice the LUT file update cycle, and may be set shorter or longer. . For example, the threshold value may be set to 30 days.

  In the determination of the number of days elapsed from the LUT file generation date in step S530 in FIG. 12, when it is determined that the number of days elapsed is 36 days or more, the computer 100 ends the process, and the user checks the LUT file. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of elapsed days is within 35 days, the process proceeds to step S540.

  In step S540 (FIG. 12), the input value conversion unit 222 (FIG. 1) of the print adjustment amount setting unit 220 uses the LUT file to convert the image input value (R value) in the sample input value file SIF to the L * value. A sample conversion file SCF converted into is generated. FIG. 4 shows how the sample conversion file SCF is generated from the sample input value file SIF using the LUT file.

  Specifically, the input value conversion unit 222 converts the R value of the patch with the patch number in the sample input value file SIF into an L * value using the LUT corresponding to each patch number. For example, the R value of the patch whose patch number j is 1 in the sample input value file SIF is converted to L * using the LUT-1 (FIG. 11B) corresponding to the patch number 1. By using the 24 LUTs (LUT-1 to LUT-24) included in the LUT file, all the R values of the 24 patches in the sample input value file SIF can be converted into L * values. In the generated sample conversion file SCF, the L * values in the patches of the respective patch numbers in the sample chart SC are represented as in the colorimetric value file MF shown in FIG.

  In step S550 (FIG. 12), the print adjustment amount setting unit 220 (FIG. 1) calculates an ideal gradation value GI for each L * value in the sample conversion file SCF using the ideal relationship IR. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the ideal relationship IR. As shown in FIG. 14, the ideal relationship IR indicates in advance the relationship between the gradation value G of image data used for printing a patch and the desired L * value of the patch when the patch is printed using black ink. Defined. That is, if the relationship between the gradation value G and the L * value of the patch is on the curve of the ideal relationship IR, it is a desirable printing characteristic. The ideal tone value GI for the L * value means the tone value G on the curve of the ideal relationship IR corresponding to a certain L * value. Therefore, calculating the ideal gradation value GI for each L * value in the sample conversion file SCF is to calculate the gradation value G of the image data for which it is desirable that the print result be each L * value in the sample conversion file SCF. It means to calculate. Note that the ideal gradation value GI for the L * value of the patch with the patch number j in the sample conversion file SCF is represented as an ideal gradation value GIj.

In step S560 (FIG. 12), the print adjustment amount setting unit 220 (FIG. 1) sets the adjustment amount A. The adjustment amount A is a coefficient for multiplying the gradation value of the image data used for printing so that a desired printing result can be obtained in the target printer 500t. The adjustment amount Aj corresponding to the patch with the patch number j in the sample conversion file SCF is calculated by the following equation (2).
Adjustment amount Aj = sample gradation value GSj / ideal gradation value GIj (2)

  Since the adjustment amount A is set for each patch, a total of 24 adjustment amounts A (A1 to A24) are set. The 24 adjustment amounts A correspond to combinations of ink nozzles, dot diameters, and printing modes used for printing corresponding patches in the sample chart SC, respectively. When printing using the combination, adjustment is performed by multiplying the image data used for printing by the corresponding adjustment amount A, and the subsequent printing process is performed based on the adjusted image data. The adjustment amount A set as described above is stored in a predetermined storage area of the target printer 500t.

  As described above, according to the image processing system 10 of the present embodiment, the association between the image input value by the scanner 400 and the image colorimetric value by the colorimeter 300 is executed by generating an LUT file. Can do.

  Further, in the image processing system 10 of the present embodiment, when the LUT file is generated (FIG. 8), the coincidence determination (Step S435) of the production dates (print dates) of the plurality of sheets of the reference chart BC is performed. Yes. As a result, inappropriate misuse of the sheet can be prevented. Further, at the time of generating the LUT file (FIG. 8), the compatibility determination between the color measurement date of the reference chart BC and the date of preparation of the reference chart BC is performed (step S445). As a result, misuse of the old reference chart BC and misuse of the old colorimetric value file MF can be prevented. The date of production printed on the reference chart BC is determined by these determination processes (steps S435 and S445) and the expiration date confirmation process of the reference chart BC (step S120 in FIG. 5 and step S460 in FIG. 8). Shared. As a result, it is possible to prevent the reference chart BC from becoming excessively complicated in order to perform such multiple types of determination. In addition, when the user confirms the appropriateness of the reference chart BC, the user only has to confirm the date, so the burden on the user for confirming the appropriateness of the reference chart BC can be reduced. Further, when the adjustment amount A is set (FIG. 12), a determination is made as to whether the print identification information matches the target identification information (step S526). Therefore, inappropriate misuse of the sample chart SC can be prevented. As a result, according to the image processing system 10 of the present embodiment, the appropriateness of the image input value by the scanner 400 can be determined efficiently and accurately. Further, the adjustment amount A of the printer 500t can be efficiently set using the image input value from the scanner 400.

  Further, in the image processing system 10 of this embodiment, when the LUT file is generated, the number of days elapsed from the color measurement date by the colorimeter 300 (step 450 in FIG. 8) and the number of days elapsed from the reference chart BC production date. Determination (step S460 in FIG. 8) is performed. Therefore, misuse of the colorimetric value file MF and misuse of the reference input value file BIF can be prevented. Further, in the image processing system 10 of the present embodiment, when the LUT file is used, the number of days elapsed from the LUT file generation date is determined (step S530 in FIG. 12). Therefore, misuse of the LUT file can be prevented. Therefore, according to the image processing system 10 of the present embodiment, the image input value by the scanner 400 and the image colorimetric value by the colorimeter 300 can be associated efficiently and accurately.

  In the image processing system 10 of the present embodiment, the adjustment amount setting process of the printer 500t that performs printing using four colors of ink can be performed using only one color of black ink, and the print adjustment amount setting process is performed. Can be done efficiently.

B. Variations:
The present invention is not limited to the above-described examples and embodiments, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the following modifications are possible.

B1. Modification 1:
In the above embodiment, the image processing system 10 is used for setting the adjustment amount A of the printer, but the image processing system 10 corresponds to the image input value by the image input device and the image colorimetric value by the colorimeter. It can be used for other purposes as long as it is attached. For example, the input value conversion unit 222 (FIG. 1) may execute an image input value conversion process on an arbitrary image. Here, a common LUT file may be used regardless of the imaging position. Such a common LUT file can be generated based on input values and colorimetric values at predetermined positions on the reference chart.

B2. Modification 2:
In the above embodiment, the elapsed days determination unit 230 of the image processing system 10 determines the elapsed days from the colorimetric date, the elapsed days from the reference chart BC production date, the elapsed days from the LUT file generation date, However, it is not always necessary to perform all three determinations, and at least one of the three determinations may be performed.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the production date coincidence determination (FIG. 8: step S435), the conformity determination between the production date and the colorimetric date (FIG. 8: step S445), and the identification information coincidence determination (FIG. 12: step). However, it is not always necessary to perform all three determinations, and at least one of the three determinations may be performed. Further, the above-described three determinations by the elapsed days determination unit 230 (determination of elapsed days from the colorimetric date, determination of elapsed days from the reference chart BC creation date, and determination of elapsed days from the LUT file generation date) are omitted. It is good as well.

B3. Modification 3:
The reference chart BC and the sample chart SC used in the above embodiment are merely examples, and other charts can be used. In the above embodiment, the reference chart BC and the sample chart SC are all printed using only one color of black ink, but may be printed using ink originally used for the ink nozzles of the printer.

B4. Modification 4:
The configuration of the image processing system 10 in the above embodiment is merely an example, and the image processing system 10 can have other configurations. For example, the image processing system 10 may include a digital camera instead of the scanner 400 as an image input device. In this embodiment, an ink-jet printer using four color inks of C, M, Y, and K is used as the printer 500 of the image processing system 10. For example, LC (light cyan), LM (light It is also possible to use other printers such as an ink jet printer that uses six colors of ink including two colors (magenta) and a printer other than the ink jet printer.

B5. Modification 5:
In the adjustment amount A setting process shown in FIG. 12, the date input / addition unit 252 (FIG. 1) may add the print identification information read from the sample chart SC (step S522) to the sample input value file SIF. Good. In this case, the identification information determination unit 280 may perform identification information match determination (step S526) with reference to the print identification information added to the sample input value file SIF. In this way, inappropriate use of the sample input value file SIF can be prevented. In particular, in the printer production line, the adjustment amount A setting process for a plurality of printers may be executed using one computer 100. In this case, the computer 100 may be able to use a plurality of types of sample input value files SIF with different printers used for printing the basic sample chart SC. Even in such a case, misuse of the sample input value file SIF can be prevented. In this case, the date input / addition unit 252 also functions as a “print identification information adding unit that adds print identification information to the sample input value file SIF”.

B6. Modification 6:
As a format for printing the identification information on the sample chart SC, various formats other than a format using a combination of “numerals” and “alphabets” as shown in FIG. 13 (hereinafter referred to as “alphanumeric format”) are adopted. be able to. However, if the alphanumeric format is adopted, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the recognition rate of identification information due to the OCR function. Furthermore, if a format using only “numbers” (hereinafter referred to as “number format”) is adopted, the recognition rate can be improved. Here, the same identification information may be printed in two formats, “alphanumeric format” and “numeric format”. In step S522 in FIG. 12, if the date input / addition unit 252 (FIG. 1) reads two pieces of identification information having different formats and confirms that the contents match, the misidentification of the identification information is suppressed. Can do. Here, as a method of associating the “alphanumeric format” with the “numeric format”, for example, a method using an ASCII code may be employed.

B7. Modification 7:
In each of the embodiments described above, in various determination processes (for example, steps S435, S445, S450, and S460 in FIG. 8 and steps S526 and S530 in FIG. 12), the computer 100 determines that the process should not be continued. In that case, it is preferable that the computer 100 notifies the user to that effect. In this way, the user can easily grasp the processing status. As a configuration of such a computer 100, for example, a configuration in which a determination result management unit is provided in the internal storage device 200 (FIG. 1) can be employed. Here, the determination result management unit may display the determination result on the display unit 120. The determination result management unit can be realized by using a computer program in the same manner as the LUT generation unit 210 and the print adjustment amount setting unit 220. Not only the display on the display unit 120 but also other methods such as sounding may be used.

1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the configuration of an image processing system as a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of print adjustment amount setting processing by the image processing system of the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of processing for preparing a reference chart BC and processing for preparing an LUT file in the print adjustment amount setting processing. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of adjustment amount A setting processing in print adjustment amount setting processing. The flowchart which shows the flow of a preparation process of reference | standard chart BC. Explanatory drawing which shows the content of reference | standard chart BC roughly. The flowchart which shows the flow of a process of preparation of a LUT file. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of LUT file generation processing in step S400 of FIG. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the colorimetric value file MF. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the reference | standard input value file BIF. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of a LUT file. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing for setting an adjustment amount A. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of sample chart SC. Explanatory drawing which shows ideal relationship IR roughly.

Explanation of symbols

10. Image processing system 100 ... Computer 110 ... CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 120 ... Display part 130 ... Operation part 140 ... External storage device 150 ... Timer 160 ... Interface part 170 ... Bus 200 ... Internal storage device 210 ... LUT generation part 212 ... LUT generation date addition unit 220 ... Print adjustment amount setting unit 222 ... Input value conversion unit 230 ... Elapsed days determination unit 240 ... Color measurement processing unit 242 ... Color measurement date addition unit 250 ... Imaging processing unit 252 ... Date input / addition unit 260 ... Print processing unit 270 ... Date determination unit 280 ... Identification information determination unit 300 ... Colorimeter 400 ... Scanner 500 ... Printer

Claims (6)

An image processing system,
A colorimetric unit that performs colorimetry on a predetermined reference chart and generates reference chart colorimetric value data representing a colorimetric value at a predetermined position of the reference chart;
An imaging unit that images the reference chart and generates reference chart input value data representing an input value at the predetermined position of the reference chart;
A conversion generating unit that generates conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the imaging unit to a colorimetric value in the colorimetric unit based on the reference chart colorimetric value data and the reference chart input value data;
An input value conversion unit that converts target image input value data representing a target image input value acquired by capturing an arbitrary conversion target image by the imaging unit using the conversion data;
The reference chart includes a plurality of sheets,
Each of the plurality of sheets includes a reference chart production date image representing a reference chart production date on which the reference chart was produced,
The imaging unit further specifies, for each of the plurality of sheets, the reference chart preparation date based on the reference chart preparation date image included in the sheet,
The image processing system further includes:
A preparation date determination unit that determines whether or not the reference chart preparation dates specified for each of the plurality of sheets match,
Image processing system. An image processing system for setting an adjustment amount for adjusting printing characteristics of a printing apparatus,
A storage unit that stores a desired correspondence relationship between a gradation value of image data and a colorimetric value of a printing result printed by the printing apparatus using the image data;
A colorimetric unit that performs colorimetry on a predetermined reference chart including a plurality of patches, and generates reference chart colorimetric value data representing colorimetric values at respective positions of the plurality of patches of the reference chart;
An imaging unit that images the reference chart and generates reference chart input value data representing an input value at each position of the plurality of patches of the reference chart;
A conversion generating unit that generates conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the imaging unit to a colorimetric value in the colorimetric unit based on the reference chart colorimetric value data and the reference chart input value data;
Sample chart input value data representing input values at positions of a plurality of patches of the sample chart obtained by capturing an image of the sample chart having a shape corresponding to the reference chart printed by the printing apparatus and captured by the imaging unit, An input value converter for converting using the converted data;
An adjustment amount setting unit that sets the adjustment amount based on the conversion result by the input value conversion unit, the correspondence relationship, and the gradation value of the image data used for printing the sample chart,
The reference chart includes a plurality of sheets,
Each of the plurality of sheets includes one or more patches, and a reference chart production date image representing a reference chart production date on which the reference chart was produced,
The imaging unit further specifies, for each of the plurality of sheets, the reference chart preparation date based on the reference chart preparation date image included in the sheet,
The image processing system further includes:
A preparation date determination unit that determines whether or not the reference chart preparation dates specified for each of the plurality of sheets match,
Image processing system. The image processing system according to claim 1 or 2,
The reference chart is updated according to a predetermined condition,
The image processing system in which color measurement by the color measurement unit, imaging by the imaging unit, and generation of conversion data by the conversion generation unit are executed every time the reference chart is updated. The image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The imaging unit includes an image processing system including a scanner. An image processing method comprising:
(A) measuring a predetermined reference chart to generate reference chart colorimetric value data representing a colorimetric value at a predetermined position of the reference chart;
(B) imaging the reference chart and generating reference chart input value data representing an input value at the predetermined position of the reference chart;
(C) A step of generating conversion data representing conversion from the input value in the step (b) to the colorimetric value in the step (a) based on the reference chart colorimetric value data and the reference chart input value data. When,
(D) converting target image input value data representing a target image input value acquired by capturing an arbitrary conversion target image using the conversion data, and
The reference chart includes a plurality of sheets,
Each of the plurality of sheets includes a reference chart production date image representing a reference chart production date on which the reference chart was produced,
The step (b) includes, for each of the plurality of sheets, a step of specifying the reference chart preparation date based on the reference chart preparation date image included in the sheet,
The step (c) includes a step of determining whether or not the reference chart preparation dates specified for each of the plurality of sheets match.
Image processing method. A computer program for causing a computer to execute image processing,
(A) a colorimetric function for measuring a predetermined reference chart and generating reference chart colorimetric value data representing a colorimetric value at a predetermined position of the reference chart;
(B) an imaging function for imaging the reference chart and generating reference chart input value data representing an input value at the predetermined position of the reference chart;
(C) a conversion generation function for generating conversion data representing conversion from an input value in the imaging function to a colorimetric value in the colorimetry function based on the reference chart colorimetry value data and the reference chart input value data; ,
(D) an input value conversion function for converting target image input value data representing a target image input value acquired by imaging an arbitrary conversion target image using the imaging function using the conversion data; A computer program to be realized,
The reference chart includes a plurality of sheets,
Each of the plurality of sheets includes a reference chart production date image representing a reference chart production date on which the reference chart was produced,
The imaging function includes a preparation date specifying function for specifying the reference chart preparation date based on the reference chart preparation date image included in the sheet for each of the plurality of sheets,
The conversion generation function includes a production date match determination function for determining whether or not the reference chart production dates specified for each of the plurality of sheets match.
Computer program.

Images