JP2007043599A - Image processing apparatus and image processing apparatus control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent an image different from the image intended by the user from being printed when combining an image handwritten by a user and a photo, and an image processing apparatus capable of printing only the photo desired by the user An object of the present invention is to provide a control method for an image processing apparatus.

SOLUTION: A sheet code described in a predetermined setting information input sheet, in which information relating to an image is embedded, is created, and a setting information input sheet and an image stored in an image storage means According to the result of analyzing the information read from the mark and sheet code on the setting information input sheet, the output condition or output designated image is displayed, and the predetermined mark on the setting information input sheet is read. When this is analyzed, the analyzed image to be output and the output conditions are displayed on the display means.

[Selection] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a control method for the image processing apparatus.

  In recent years, the spread of digital cameras has spread rapidly, and digital cameras have traditionally been imaged as peripheral devices for personal computers. However, sales of digital cameras are growing, including homes that do not have personal computers. Therefore, particularly in recent years, there is an increasing demand for printing digital camera data directly on a home printer or the like without using a personal computer.

  Data captured by a digital camera is stored in a memory card such as an SD card or a compact flash (registered trademark) memory, and when there is a personal computer at home, the captured image data can be taken into a personal computer. Further, it can be printed by a recording device such as a printer.

  On the other hand, as a method of directly printing without going through a personal computer, a method of printing a photograph by inserting a medium for storing a digital image such as a memory card directly into a recording device and operating the operation unit of the recording device is adopted. Yes.

  However, many home-use recording devices have a small operation unit or a small number of keys, and the viewer required to select an image is limited in size. The current situation is difficult.

  In particular, when printing an image in a memory card, there are many points to set, such as browsing an image, specifying an image number, specifying the number of copies of the image to be printed, specifying the print resolution, etc. There is no need to arrange many keys, which tends to be a complicated operation.

  Therefore, as a method for printing image data in a memory card without using a personal computer, an index sheet for navigating photographic printing, taking advantage of the fact that the multifunction device has its own reading device and recording device. The method using is adopted.

  In the conventional method, the index sheet is recorded by the image processing apparatus. The “index sheet” is a sheet in which images that are printing candidates are collected into an index, a mark is added to each image, and a mark that can instruct a print resolution or the like is added.

  The user marks the index sheet with an image and a recording setting that the user wants to record. This method is similar to the procedure for reprinting a photograph, and is therefore an operation method that is intuitively easy for the user to understand.

  Thereafter, the index sheet entered by the user is read by the reading unit of the multi-function peripheral, and the multi-function peripheral prints a photo based on the result of the user's entry. By using this method, it is possible to easily perform complicated operations of photographic printing that have been performed on the operation panel when performing photographic printing without using a personal computer (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). ).

  In these Patent Documents 1 and 2, the index sheet is called a “proof sheet”.

Similarly to the above, a handwritten composite sheet is used as an existing method of photographic printing using a sheet. In this method, an image to be printed and image data handwritten on a sheet called a “handwritten composition sheet” are combined and printed as a photograph.
JP 2002-273974 A JP 2002-305701 A

  In the conventional photo printing method using the index sheet, the reading unit of the multifunction peripheral reads the index sheet, analyzes the reading result, and immediately starts printing the photo.

  By the way, depending on the way of marking by the user, there is a possibility that the reading unit of the multifunction device may cause a reading error and the analysis unit of the multifunction device may cause an analysis error of the reading result. For this reason, there is a problem that when the user makes a mistake in entering a mark, or when a reading error or an analysis error occurs in the multifunction device, a photograph different from the one intended by the user is printed.

  In the above-described conventional handwritten composite sheet, after the reading unit of the multifunction peripheral reads the handwritten composite sheet, the reading result is analyzed, the photograph and the read result are automatically combined, and the printing of the photograph is started. .

  However, since the user-written image and the photograph are combined, there is a problem that a composite photograph different from the one intended by the user is printed, as in the conventional method of printing a photograph using an index sheet.

  The present invention prevents a photograph different from the one intended by the user from being printed when a photograph using an index sheet is printed or when an image handwritten by a user is combined with a photograph. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of printing only a photograph desired to be printed and a method for controlling the image processing apparatus.

  In addition, when the user confirms the analysis result, the user can not only confirm whether the photograph is intended by the user using the operation display unit, but can also change the number of prints or cancel printing using the operation display unit. The purpose is to be able to.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus capable of reprinting the setting information input sheet read by the image processing apparatus when the user confirms the analysis result, and a control method for the image processing apparatus.

The present invention relates to an image storage means for storing an image, a sheet code described in a predetermined setting information input sheet, and a sheet code generation means for generating a sheet code in which information relating to the image is embedded; Setting information input sheet creating means for creating the setting information input sheet using the image accumulated in the image accumulating means and the code created via the sheet code creating means, and the setting information input sheet creating An output means for outputting the setting information input sheet created by the means, an image stored in the image storage means, a reading means for reading the mark and the sheet code on the setting information input sheet, and the reading means Analyzing means for analyzing the mark read by the sheet and the sheet code, and when the analyzing means analyzes a predetermined mark, the output means An image processing apparatus characterized by having a display means for displaying an image and the output condition for the desired output.

According to the present invention, when combining a handwritten image and a photograph, it is possible to prevent a photograph different from the one intended by the user from being printed, and to print only the photograph that the user wants to print. There is an effect.

  The best mode for carrying out the invention is the following embodiment.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral 100 that is Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  The multi-function device 100 constitutes an image processing system, and includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, an image memory 104, a data conversion unit 105, a reading control unit 106, a reading unit 107, an operation display unit 108, and a resolution. A conversion processing unit 109. The multi-function device 100 includes a code decoding processing unit 110, a recording control unit 111, a USB host control unit 112, a recording unit 113, a USB function control unit 114, and a CPU bus 121.

  In addition, a memory card 115 is connected to the USB host control unit 112.

  The CPU 101 is a system control unit and controls the entire multifunction peripheral 100.

  The ROM 102 stores fixed data such as a control program executed by the CPU 101, a data table, and an embedded operating system (OS) program. In the first embodiment, each control program stored in the ROM 102 performs software execution control such as scheduling, task switching, and interrupt processing under the management of the embedded OS stored in the ROM 102.

  The RAM 103 is configured by an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) that requires a backup power source, and data is held by a primary battery for data backup (not shown). The RAM 103 stores program control variables and the like that are difficult to delete data. In addition, a memory area for storing setting values registered by the operator, management data of the multifunction peripheral 100, and the like is also provided.

  The image memory 104 is configured by a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like, and stores image data. A part of the area is reserved as a work area for executing software processing.

  The data conversion unit 105 performs conversion of image data such as analysis of a page description language (PDL) and the like, and CG (Computer Graphics) development of character data.

  In the reading control unit 106, the reading unit 107 optically reads a document using a CIS image sensor (contact image sensor). The image signal converted into electrical image data is subjected to various image processing such as binarization processing and halftone processing via an image processing control unit (not shown), and high-definition image data is output. In the first exemplary embodiment, the reading control unit 106 and the reading unit 107 control both a sheet reading control method for reading a document while conveying the document and a book reading control method for scanning a document fixed on a document table. It corresponds to the method.

  The operation display unit 108 includes a numeric input key, a character input key, a one-touch telephone number key, a mode setting key, a determination key, a cancel key, and the like. The user determines the image transmission destination data, sets registered value setting data, and saves energy. And an operation unit for performing a setting registration operation. The operation display unit 108 includes various keys, LEDs (light emitting diodes), an LCD (liquid crystal display), and the like. The operation display unit 108 displays various input operations performed by the operator, the operation status of the multifunction peripheral 100, and the status status. Part.

  The resolution conversion processing unit 109 performs resolution conversion control such as mutual conversion between millimeter image data and inch image data. Note that the resolution conversion processing unit 109 can also perform enlargement / reduction processing of image data. The encoding / decoding processing unit 110 mutually encodes / decodes image data (non-compressed, MH, MR, MMR, JBIG, JPEG, etc.) handled by the multi-function device 100 and performs enlargement / reduction processing.

  The recording control unit 111 converts the image data to be printed into high-definition image data by performing various kinds of image processing such as smoothing processing, recording density correction processing, and color correction via an image processing control unit (not shown). And output to the USB host control unit 112 (described later). Further, by controlling the USB host control unit 112, it also plays a role of periodically acquiring the status information data of the recording unit 113.

  The USB host control unit 112 is a control unit for performing communication using a protocol defined by the USB communication standard. The USB communication standard is a standard for performing bidirectional data communication at high speed, and a plurality of hubs or functions (slaves) can be connected to one host (master). The USB host control unit 112 has a host function in USB communication.

  The recording unit 113 is a recording device such as a laser beam printer or an ink jet printer controlled by a dedicated CPU (not shown), and prints color image data or monochrome image data received via the USB interface on a printing member. The USB host control unit 112 communicates with a protocol defined by the USB communication standard. In particular, the recording unit 113 has a function function. In the first embodiment, the USB communication of the recording function uses a one-to-one connection form. In the first embodiment, USB support is used.

  The USB function control unit 114 performs communication control of the USB interface, performs protocol control according to the USB communication standard, and converts data from the USB function control task executed by the CPU 1 into packets. Then, the USB function control unit 114 performs USB packet transmission to an external PC (not shown), and conversely converts the USB packet from the external PC into data and transmits it to the CPU 1.

  The memory card 115 is a data storage medium and can be connected to the multi-function device 100. In the first embodiment, the memory card 115 and the multifunction peripheral 100 are connected by a USB interface, but may be connected by other methods. The image data and other electronic data are accessed through the USB host controller 112 to the data in the memory card.

  The components 101 to 106, 108 to 112, and 114 are connected to each other via a CPU bus 121 managed by the CPU 101.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the operation display unit 108 provided in the multifunction peripheral 100.

  The operation display unit 108 includes an LCD viewer 201, a power key 202, a copy mode key 203, a scan mode key 204, a photo mode key 205, an up / down / left / right key 206, a menu key 207, and a user setting key 208. Have The operation display unit 108 includes a photo index sheet key 209, a set key 210, a STOP key 211, a monochrome start key 212, and a color start key 213.

  The LCD viewer 201 is a display that displays messages, operation prompts, and various information. A power key 202 is a key for turning on / off the power of the multifunction peripheral 100.

  The copy mode key 203 is a key that makes the multifunction device 100 ready for copying. By pressing the copy mode key 203, the multifunction device 100 can be placed in the copy mode.

  The scan mode key 204 is a key for setting the MFP 100 in a scannable state. By pressing the scan mode key 204, the MFP 100 can be set in the scan mode.

  A photo mode key 205 is a key for enabling the digital printer to perform direct printing from a digital camera (not shown) connected to the memory card 115 or the USB host control unit 112 in the multi-function device 100. By pressing the photo mode key 205, the multi-function device 100 can be set to the photo mode.

  The up / down / left / right key 206 is a key used when the user selects from a plurality of options such as a menu and user settings.

  A menu key 207 is a key for displaying an item for setting a setting value at the time of execution such as copying or direct printing from a card. By pressing the menu key 207, setting items for execution can be displayed on the LCD viewer 201, selected with the up / down / left / right keys 206, and set with the set key 210.

  The user setting key 208 is a key for displaying a screen for registering setting values set by the user in the multifunction peripheral 100. By pressing the user setting key 208, user setting items can be displayed on the LCD 201, selected by the up / down / left / right key 206, and set by the set key 210.

  The photo index sheet key 209 is a key for printing on a photo index sheet or shifting to a screen for reading the photo index sheet. When the photo index sheet key 209 is pressed while the memory card 115 is inserted in the multi-function device 100, the screen shifts to a screen that can instruct printing on the photo index sheet 300 described later or reading from the photo index sheet 300. It is possible to select reading or printing with the up / down / left / right key 206 and set with the set key 210. Details of the photo index sheet will be described with reference to FIG.

  The set key 210 is a key for determining the selected item. The STOP key 211 is a key for stopping facsimile transmission / reception, copying, and other operation operations. A monochrome start key 212 is a key for starting monochrome copying, monochrome scanning, and the like. A color start key 213 is a key for starting color copying, color push scanning, color photo printing, and the like.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the photo index sheet 300 used in the first embodiment.

  The photo index sheet 300 is a sheet for specifying an object to be printed by the multifunction peripheral 100 when the photo index sheet key 209 is pressed and a printing instruction is issued.

  When a photo index sheet print instruction is issued via the operation display unit 108, image data is called from the memory card 115 mounted on the multifunction peripheral 100, and a photo index sheet 300 is created.

  At this time, each image to be printed on the photo index sheet 300 is marked. The user enters an instruction for printing an image in the memory card into the photo index sheet 300 and reads it into the multi-function device 100, thereby realizing photo printing.

  When an instruction to print an image in the memory card 115 is entered in the photo index sheet 300, the mark of the image to be printed is painted out, thereby performing the print setting. Print settings are made simply by painting the mark corresponding to the image to be printed. A photo index sheet 300 in which the mark of an image to be printed is marked is placed on the reading unit 107. Then, by pressing the photo index sheet key 209, the photo index sheet 300 is read, and at the time of reading, the state of the mark is determined, the image to be printed is recognized, and the photo is printed.

  The photo index sheet 300 is an example of a setting information input sheet, and instead of the photo index sheet 300, another setting information input sheet may be used.

  The photo index sheet 300 includes a mark sheet portion 301, image selection portions 302 and 303, a preview display mark 304, and a sheet code 305.

  The mark sheet unit 301 is a mark sheet unit that determines print settings when performing photo printing. The mark sheet section 301 includes items such as paper size, paper type, printing method, date printing, VIVID photo, noise removal, and selection of all images. When setting each item, the filled item is set by painting the item to be set.

  Further, a “select all” mark is provided, and this “select all” mark is a mark to be filled when selecting all images displayed on the sheet.

  Image selection portions 302 and 303 are portions for selecting a desired image (an image for which photo printing is desired) from among images displayed on the photo index sheet 300. The image selection part 302 is a part displaying an image to be selected, and the image selection part 303 corresponds to a desired image (an image for which photo printing is desired) among displayed images. It is a mark provided.

  The image selection portions 302 and 303 are marked for each image, and a mark 303 corresponding to an image desired to be printed is painted to indicate that an image corresponding to the painted mark is selected. The mark 303 includes contents indicating the number of printed sheets, and the user can select how many sheets are printed for each image.

  That is, in FIG. 3, three marks 303 are described below one image 302, and when the left mark, the center mark, and the right mark of the three marks 303 are filled, the corresponding images 302 are respectively displayed. , 1, 2 and 3 are set to be printed.

  In addition, as information to be used as a reference when the user selects an image, a date on which the photograph was taken and an image number uniquely indicating a selectable image are added.

  The preview display mark 304 is as follows when the user wants to display a preview of a photo on the LCD viewer 201 before the user starts printing the photo using the photo index sheet 300. That is, the mark 304 is applied, and the multifunction peripheral 100 performs a sheet reading operation, thereby analyzing the data read by the multifunction peripheral 100 and displaying a preview of the photograph determined to be designated for printing on the LCD viewer 201.

  The sheet code 305 is a code including information on the sheet 300. When the reading unit 107 reads the photo index sheet 300, the sheet code 305 reads the information on the sheet 300 from here and combines information such as which image is present. The machine 100 can know. In addition, the sheet code 305 can maintain consistency between information read by the reading unit 107 from the photo index sheet 300 and information stored in the memory card 115.

  The above method is an example of the photo index sheet 300 as a photo printing method. If the method for allowing the user to confirm the photo to be printed before printing of the photo is correctly performed, the user may confirm the photo to be printed by another method.

  Next, an operation for instructing an object to be printed using the photo index sheet 300 in the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of instructing an object to be printed using the photo index sheet 300 in the first embodiment.

  In order to print the photo index sheet 300, the photo index sheet key 209 of the operation display unit 108 is pressed, whereby a series of operations of the photo index sheet 300 can be performed.

  First, when it is detected in S401 that the photo index sheet 300 has been printed via the operation display unit 108, it is confirmed in S402 that the memory card 115 is connected.

  In the memory card confirmation step of S403, if the memory card 115 is not connected, printing cannot be performed and the process ends. If the memory card 115 is connected, the image to be printed is roughly designated in step S404 using the up / down / left / right key 206, the set key 210, etc. of the operation display unit 108.

  If the images stored in the memory card 115 are sorted in order of shooting date and time, the images are designated based on the numbers (NO.) Assigned to the images in the sorting order. For example, NO. 10 is displayed, and the set key 210 is operated to set. Further, using the up / down / left / right key 206, the NO. 20 is displayed, and the set key 210 is operated and set.

  By these operations, the NO. 10-NO. Designation is completed for 20 images. When these operations are completed and the setting of photo printing by the photo index sheet 300 is completed, the setting contents of photo printing are printed on the photo index sheet 300 in S405. This printing will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  As a method for selecting an image to be printed on the photo index sheet 300, a range is designated based on the number (NO.) Assigned to the image as described above. In addition to this, it is possible to adopt a method of specifying a shooting date and time and selecting a photo of that date or a method of selecting and selecting an arbitrary number in order from the latest photo based on the shooting date and time. .

  On the other hand, when reading of the photo index sheet 300 is set in S404, the photo index sheet 300 is read in S406. In accordance with the read photo print setting contents, the photo preview is displayed on the LCD viewer 201, and finally the photo is printed. Reading of the photo index sheet 300, photo preview display, and printing will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  As described above, the printing and reading of the photo index sheet 300 are performed via the operation display unit 108. However, the photo index sheet 300 is printed and read using means other than the operation display unit 108. You may do it.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of printing the photo index sheet 300 in the first embodiment.

  First, in step S <b> 501, information about an image designated by the user is acquired as a print target in the photo index sheet 300.

  In the first embodiment, since the image data in the memory card 115 is a target for photo printing, the image data is acquired from the memory card 115. In this case, in order to speed up printing of the sheet 300, thumbnail images are acquired as image data and displayed on the sheet 300. In S502, image numbers are assigned to the images. The assigned image number is a number used internally by the multi-function device 100 when selecting an image.

  The user does not need to know anything about the distributed image numbers, and it is only necessary to paint the necessary part of the sheet 300, and the reading unit 107 reads this painted part. In step S503, the number of images designated by the user is calculated. Here, the designated number of images is “IMAGE_NUM”. When the user designates the number of images, there are various methods for designating the number of images such as designation by number, designation by date, designation of all images, and the like. When the user designates the number of images, if the number of images is not designated, it is not possible to know how many images will fall into the designated target, and therefore the number of sheets needs to be automatically changed according to the number of images. .

  For this purpose, it is necessary to specify the number of images. In step S504, the sheet page variable of the sheet to be printed is initialized. The sheet page variable is “SHEET”. Since the sheet 300 starts from one sheet, the initialization value is 1.

  In step S505, the number of images on the sheet 300 is compared. Here, the maximum number of images entering the sheet 300 is “MAX”. In this case, it is confirmed whether or not the end of the image designated by the user (all the images) enters the page to be printed now.

  First, since the value of the sheet page variable SHEET is the number of pages of the sheet 300 as it is, the product of the sheet page variable SHEET and the maximum number of images MAX entering the sheet 300 is the number of images that enter the SHEET page. is there. Thus, it is determined whether the designated image number IMAGE_NUM is large or small. If IMAGE_NUM is larger than MAX × SHEEET, the process proceeds to S506. Conversely, if IMAGE_NUM is smaller than MAX × SHEEET, the process proceeds to S509.

  In S506, the MAX number of images is printed on the SHEET page. A photo index sheet 300 is created with images from image number MAX × (SHEET-1) +1 to image number MAX × SHEET. When printing the SHETET page, the image has already been printed on the sheet 300 up to the SHETET-1 page. The number of the images is MAX × (SHEET-1).

  Therefore, the image from the next image MAX × (SHEET-1) +1 to MAX × SHEET which is the maximum number + MAX that can be entered in the sheet 300 is the target of the image printed on the SHEET page. For this purpose, a photo index sheet 300 is created with images from image number MAX × (SHEET−1) +1 to image number MAX × SHEEET.

  When the photo index sheet 300 is created in S506, the photo index sheet 300 is printed in S507. After printing, in step S508, the sheet is incremented by 1, and the process returns to step S505 to create the next sheet 300.

  If it is determined in S505 that IMAGE_NUM is smaller than MAX × SHEEET, an image of sheet 300 is created with images from image number MAX × (SHEET-1) +1 to image number IMAGEGEN in S509. In S509, an image on the last page of the sheet 300 is created.

  For this reason, images are already printed on the sheet 300 up to the SHETET-1 page. Since the number of images is MAX × (SHEET-1), the photo index sheets 300 from the next image MAX × (SHEET-1) +1 to the designated number of images IMAGE_NUM are created. The creation operation of the photo index sheet 300 is described in detail in FIG. In S510, the photo index sheet 300 is printed.

  As described above, printing of the sheet 300 includes an operation in which the user selects an image. Although the selection of images is as simple as possible, it can still be cumbersome for the user. In particular, if you try to print as you wish, you will need complex operations.

  In the first embodiment, since a plurality of copies of the sheet 300 are printed, the page of the sheet 300 is determined and printed based on the maximum number of images that can enter the sheet 300. However, when a plurality of sheets 300 are printed, the plurality of sheets 300 are printed. You may make it employ | adopt the other method of printing.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of creating an image of the photo index sheet 300 in the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when printing the photo index sheet 300, a designated image is extracted from the images recorded on the memory card 115 to create an image of the photo index sheet 300. The image created here is printed by the recording unit 113, whereby the photo index sheet 300 is printed.

  First, in S601, an image of the sheet 300 is created via the photo index sheet 300 shown in FIG. 3 so that the image designated by the user as the target of the photo index sheet 300 is arranged at the position of the image selection portion 302. . At this time, the image may be arranged other than the arrangement shown in FIG.

  In step S602, the header portion of the photo index sheet 300 is attached. In this case, it indicates the title of the photo index sheet 300 shown in FIG. In step S603, a print setting format is added. The format for print setting is the mark sheet portion 301 shown in FIG. In this area, the user performs print settings for photo printing, paper size, and other various printing settings.

  In step S <b> 604, a mark 304 for preview display on the LCD viewer 201 is added to the image selected by the user on the photo index sheet 300. That is, as described with reference to FIG. 3, the photograph is not printed immediately after the sheet 300 is read. When it is desired to confirm the image selected by the user, the user fills the mark 304, the multifunction peripheral 100 reads the sheet 300, and the preview image is displayed on the LCD viewer 201.

  In step S605, the sheet code 305 is attached. This “sheet code” is information in which information about an image described in the photo index sheet 300 is embedded. The sheet code 305 is information indicating, for example, where the image printed on the sheet 300 is embedded in the range of the image number. The “image number” is the same as the image number assigned in S502.

  As described above, image creation when an image designated by the user is recorded on the photo index sheet 300 is realized.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of scanning the photo index sheet 300, displaying a preview, and printing a photo in the first embodiment.

  First, the multifunction peripheral 100 can print the photo index sheet 300 by the method shown in FIG. In the photo index sheet 300, the user marks (paints) an image to be printed. The photo index sheet 300 is read by the multi-function device 100, so that the photo can be printed as specified by the user.

  First, in step S <b> 701, it is recognized that the user has given an instruction to read the photo index sheet 300 via the operation display unit 108. By this operation, an operation other than an instruction to read the photo index sheet 300, for example, a simple copy operation can be distinguished.

  In step S <b> 702, it is confirmed that the memory card 115 is connected to the multifunction peripheral 100. In S703, the operation is determined based on the recognition result. If it is detected that the memory card 115 is connected, the process proceeds to S704. Conversely, if the memory card 115 is not recognized, an error message is displayed on the operation display unit 108, and the operation is terminated.

  In step S <b> 704, it is detected whether the photo index sheet 300 is correctly placed on the reading unit 107. If the photo index sheet 300 is not properly placed on the reading unit 107, information cannot be read from the photo index sheet 300, so that the fact that the photo index sheet 300 cannot be read is displayed on the operation display unit 108, and the process ends. .

  If the photo index sheet 300 is correctly placed in step S704, the process advances to step S705. In the first embodiment, the reading unit 107 is used as to whether the photo index sheet 300 is correctly placed. However, it may be determined whether the photo index sheet 300 is correctly placed by means other than the reading unit 107.

  In step S <b> 705, the mark position arranged in the mark sheet portion 301 of the photo index sheet 300 placed in the reading unit 107 is analyzed. In the photo index sheet 300, since the mark portion of the mark sheet portion 301 is determined in advance, it can be determined whether or not the mark portion is painted on the user based on the read data. For this purpose, data indicating which mark the user has applied is acquired based on the data read by the reading unit 107. After obtaining the painted mark by the user, in S706, it is determined whether or not the preview display mark 304 of the photo index sheet 300 is painted.

  If the user does not paint the preview display mark 304, the process of S707 is executed. In step S <b> 707, data corresponding to a portion applied to the mark sheet portion 301 / image selection portion 303 of the photo index sheet 300 is acquired. Based on the acquired information, setting values for photographic image printing, which image to print, how many images to print, and the like are set. In step S708, the photograph is printed.

  On the other hand, if it is detected in S706 that the preview display mark 304 is applied, the following is performed in order to display the preview of the image selected by the user on the LCD viewer 201. That is, in step S709, data corresponding to a portion applied to the mark sheet portion 301 / image selection portion 303 of the photo index sheet 300 is acquired. Based on the acquired information, information such as setting values for printing a photographic image, which image to print, and how many images to print are acquired.

  Next, based on the information acquired in step S709, the first image designated for printing on the photo index sheet 300 in step S710 (for example, the image with the smallest image number indicated in the image selection portion 303). Are acquired from the memory card 115. In this case, in order to speed up the preview display, a thumbnail image is acquired as image data.

  Subsequently, using the setting information acquired in S709 and the image data acquired in S710, the preview image and the number of prints are displayed on the LCD viewer 201 in S711.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen of the LCD viewer when the preview image and the number of printed sheets are displayed on the LCD viewer 201.

  The preview display unit 1201 displays a preview of the image read from the memory card 115. The print number display unit 1202 displays the number of sheets designated by the user in the image selection portion 303 of the photo index sheet 300. The operation instruction unit 1203 indicates an operation that can be performed by the user in a state where the preview image is displayed.

  When the preview image and the number of prints are displayed on the LCD viewer 201, pressing each key of the operation display unit 108 changes the number of prints, or prints other images specified for printing on the photo index sheet 300. A preview image can be confirmed.

  In S712, it is determined whether or not the up / down key is pressed among the up / down / left / right keys 206. When these keys are pressed, the number of printed images currently displayed on the LCD viewer can be changed in S713. . In the image selection portion 303, only up to three prints can be designated due to the space of the photo index sheet 300, but a larger number can be designated by using the up and down keys.

  In addition, when the user confirms the preview image displayed on the LCD viewer 201 and cancels printing of the image being previewed due to poor image quality, the image being previewed is set to 0 in S713 by setting the number of prints to zero. You can cancel printing.

  If a clear key (not shown) is pressed, printing of the image currently displayed on the LCD viewer is canceled. At the same time, the next image currently displayed on the LCD viewer may be displayed on the LCD viewer in the same manner as when the left / right key is pressed in S714.

  In S714, it is determined whether the left / right key of the up / down / left / right key 206 has been pressed. When these keys are pressed, in S715, the next image of the image currently displayed on the LCD viewer or the thumbnail image data of the previous image is acquired from the memory card 115. The “previous image” is, for example, an image whose image number shown in the image selection portion 303 is the next larger / next smaller value of the image number of the currently displayed image. Using the setting information acquired in S709 and the image data acquired in S715, a preview image and the number of prints are displayed on the LCD viewer 201 in S711.

  In S716, it is determined whether or not the STOP key 211 has been pressed. When the STOP key 211 is pressed, the display of the preview image on the LCD viewer 201 is terminated, and the printing of the photo using the photo index sheet 300 is terminated. For example, this is effective when the user makes a mistake when marking the photo index sheet 300 and an image that the user intends to print does not appear in the preview display.

  In step S717, it is determined whether the color start key 213 has been pressed. When the color start key 213 is pressed, in S718, based on the information confirmed / changed by the user in the preview image, the setting value for photographic image printing, which image to print, how many images are printed. Set whether to do so. In step S719, the photograph is printed.

  In the first embodiment, only the up / down / left / right key / STOP key / color start key 213 is valid during displaying a preview image on the LCD viewer 201. However, other keys may be used. Further, only the preview image and the number of printed sheets can be displayed / changed on the LCD viewer 201, but other items may be displayed / changed. For example, by pressing the menu key 207 while a preview image is displayed, setting confirmation is performed for items such as the paper size, paper type, printing method, date printing, VIVID photo, noise removal, and all images specified in the mark sheet unit 301. Or may be changed.

  Further, when the photo index sheet 300 is read or when the user confirms / changes it with the preview image, the following may be performed. That is, another operation for printing an image obtained by reading information from the photo index sheet 300 or an image confirmed / changed by a user using a preview image may be employed.

Furthermore, when a preview image or setting information is displayed, the first embodiment may be applied to a sheet other than the sheet 300.

  Example 2 of the present invention is an example in which a preview of a composite photo is displayed before the composite photo is printed using the handwritten composite sheet.

  The multifunction device 100 shown in FIG. 1 and the operation display unit 108 provided in the multifunction device 100 shown in FIG. 2 are also used in the second embodiment.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a handwriting synthesis sheet 800 used in the second embodiment.

  By pressing the menu key 207, the “handwritten composition sheet” is selected from the list of setting items for execution displayed on the LCD viewer 201 by using the up / down / left / right key 206, the set key 210, and the like. The printed sheet is the handwritten composite sheet 800 when the user issues a print instruction and the user selects a photograph to be combined.

  When an instruction to print a handwritten composite sheet is given via the operation display unit 108, image data is called from the memory card 115 attached to the multifunction peripheral 100. Then, the user selects a photograph to be combined using the LCD viewer 201, the up / down / left / right key 206, the set key 210, and the like, and creates a handwritten composite sheet 800.

  The user enters an instruction for printing the handwritten image and one image in the memory card 115 selected in S904 as a composite photograph on the handwritten composite sheet 800, and the multifunction peripheral 100 reads the composite image. Realize photo printing.

  When an instruction for printing a handwritten image and one image in the memory card 115 selected in S904 as a composite photo is written on the handwritten composite sheet 800, the mark to be set is filled by Configure print settings. A handwritten composite sheet 800 in which a handwritten image is entered and a mark to be set is marked is placed on the reading unit 107, and the menu key 207 is pressed. Then, from the list of setting items for execution displayed on the LCD viewer 201, the “handwritten composition sheet” is selected using the up / down / left / right key 206, the set key 210, or the like. Thus, the handwritten composite sheet 800 is read, and at the time of reading, the state of the mark is determined, the print setting of the composite photo is recognized, and the composite photo is printed.

  Note that the handwriting composition sheet 800 is an example of a setting information input sheet, and instead of the handwriting composition sheet 800, another setting information input sheet may be used.

  The handwritten composite sheet 800 includes a mark sheet unit 801, a handwritten image input unit 802, a preview display mark 803, a sheet code 804, and a photograph 805 to be combined.

  The mark sheet unit 801 is a mark sheet unit that determines print settings when printing a photograph. The mark sheet portion 801 describes items such as paper size, paper type, print layout, number of printed sheets, and the like. When setting each item, the filled item is set by painting the item to be set.

  The handwritten image input unit 802 is a place where a user enters a handwritten image. When the handwritten composite sheet 800 is read, the content entered in this frame is recognized as a handwritten image, and the recognized image and the photograph 805 to be combined are combined in S906.

  If the user wants to display a preview of the composite photo on the LCD viewer 201 before starting to print the composite photo using the handwritten composite sheet 800, the preview display mark 803 is applied, and the multi-function peripheral 100 causes the sheet to be displayed on the sheet. Read operation. Then, the composite photograph created by analyzing and synthesizing the data read by the multifunction device 100 is displayed on the LCD viewer 201 as a preview.

  The sheet code 804 is a code including information on the handwritten composition sheet 800, and reads the information on the handwritten composition sheet 800 from the sheet code 804 when the reading unit 107 reads the handwritten composition sheet 800. The multifunction device 100 recognizes information such as the image selected by the user in S904. In addition, based on the sheet code 804, it is possible to maintain consistency between the information read by the reading unit 107 from the handwritten composite sheet 800 and the information on the memory card 115.

  The above method is an example of the handwritten composite sheet 800 as a photo printing method. However, any other method may be used as long as the user can correctly confirm the photo to be printed before the printing of the photo is started. May be adopted.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for instructing printing of a composite photograph using the handwritten composite sheet 800 in the second embodiment.

  In order to print the handwritten composite sheet 800, the menu key 207 of the operation display unit 108 is pressed, and “handwritten composite sheet” is selected from the list of setting items for execution displayed on the LCD viewer 201. Select using the up / down / left / right keys 206. Then, by pressing the set key 210, a series of operations of the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 can be performed.

  First, if it is detected in S901 that the handwriting composite sheet 800 has been printed via the operation display unit 108, it is confirmed in S902 that the memory card 115 is connected.

  In the memory card confirmation in S903, if the memory card 115 is not connected, printing cannot be performed and the process ends. If the memory card 115 is connected, it is stored in the memory card 115 as an image to be printed as a composite photograph using the LCD viewer 201, the up / down / left / right key 206, the set key 210, etc. of the operation display unit 108 in S904. Specify one of the existing images. When these operations are finished and the setting of the composite photo printing by the handwritten composite sheet 800 is completed, the setting content of the composite photo printing is printed on the handwritten composite sheet 800 in S905. This printing will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, when reading of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is set in S904, the handwritten composite sheet 800 is read in S906. Then, the composite photo preview is displayed on the LCD viewer 201 in accordance with the read composite photo print settings, and finally the composite photo is printed. The reading of the handwritten composite sheet 800, the preview display of the composite photograph, and the printing of the composite photograph will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  Printing and reading of the handwritten composite sheet 800 are executed via the operation display unit 108 as described above, but printing and reading of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is performed using means other than the operation display unit 108. May be performed.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of printing the handwritten composite sheet 800 in the second embodiment.

  First, using the handwriting synthesis sheet 800, information on the image designated by the user in S904 is acquired as a print target in S1001.

  In the second embodiment, since the image data in the memory card 115 is a target for photo printing, the image data is acquired from the memory card 115. In this case, in order to speed up the printing of the handwriting composition sheet 800, a thumbnail image is acquired as image data and displayed on the handwriting composition sheet 800.

  In step S <b> 1002, an image of the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 is created so as to be arranged at the print layout position of the mark sheet unit 801. At this time, the image may be arranged at a position other than the position shown in FIG.

  Next, in S1003, the header portion of the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 is attached. In this case, the title of the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 shown in FIG. In step S1004, a print setting format is added. This print setting format indicates the mark sheet portion 801 shown in FIG. In this area, the user sets the print resolution of the photo print, the paper size, the print layout, the number of prints, and various other print settings.

  In step S <b> 1005, a mark 803 for previewing the composite photograph created by reading the handwritten composite sheet 800 on the LCD viewer 201 is attached. As described with reference to FIG. 8, the composite photograph is not printed immediately after the handwritten composite sheet 800 is read. In other words, when the user desires to check the synthesized image, the mark is filled and the multifunction peripheral 100 reads the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 to preview the synthesized image on the LCD viewer 201. This is a mark for display.

  In step S1006, a sheet code 804 is attached. The “sheet code” is information in which information related to an image described in the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 is embedded. The sheet code 804 is information indicating the image printed on the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 and selected by the user in step S904.

  Finally, in S1007, image data of the handwritten composite sheet 800 created up to S1006 is created and printed by the recording unit 113.

  As described above, printing of the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 is realized.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of scanning the handwritten composition sheet 800, displaying a preview, and printing a composite photograph in the second embodiment.

  First, the multifunction peripheral 100 can print the handwritten composite sheet 800 by the method shown in FIG. In the handwritten composition sheet 800, the user enters a handwritten image in the handwritten image input unit 802, and marks (paints) various settings of the composite photograph. Then, by reading the handwritten composite sheet 800 by the multifunction peripheral 100, it is possible to print a composite photograph as designated by the user.

  First, in S1101, it is recognized that the user has given an instruction to read the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 via the operation display unit 108. By this operation, it is possible to distinguish from an operation other than an instruction to read the handwritten composite sheet 800, for example, a simple copy operation.

  In step S1102, it is confirmed that the memory card 115 is connected to the multi-function device 100. In S1103, the operation is determined based on the recognition result. If it is detected that the memory card 115 is connected, the process moves to S1104. Conversely, if the memory card 115 is not recognized, an error message is displayed on the operation display unit 108, and the operation is terminated.

  In step S <b> 1104, it is detected whether the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 is correctly placed on the reading unit 107. If the handwritten composite sheet 800 is not correctly placed on the reading unit 107, information cannot be read from the handwritten composite sheet 800, so that the handwritten composite sheet 800 cannot be read is displayed on the operation display unit 108. finish.

  In S1104, if the handwriting synthesis sheet 800 is correctly placed, the process proceeds to S1105. Here, regarding whether or not the handwritten composite sheet 800 is correctly placed, the reading unit 107 is used in the second embodiment, but the handwritten composite sheet 800 is correctly placed by means other than the reading unit 107. It may be determined whether or not.

  In step S1105, the mark position arranged in the mark sheet portion 801 of the read handwritten composite sheet 800 is analyzed. Since the mark portion of the mark sheet portion 801 is determined in advance in the handwritten composite sheet 800, it can be determined from the read data whether the mark portion is painted on the user. For this purpose, data indicating which mark the user has applied is acquired based on the data read by the reading unit 107. After obtaining the painted mark by the user, in S1106, it is determined whether or not the preview display mark 803 of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is painted.

  If the user has not painted the preview display mark 803, the process of S1107 is executed. In step S1107, data corresponding to the location applied to the mark sheet portion 801 of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is acquired, and based on the acquired information, the setting value for printing the composite photograph and the number of composite photographs are obtained. Set whether to print. Then, the handwritten image data entered in the handwritten image input unit 802 of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is acquired. In addition, the information of the sheet code 804 is acquired, the image in the memory card 115 selected by the user in S904 is specified from the acquired information of the sheet code 804, and the image data is acquired. Finally, the handwritten image data and the image data selected by the user are combined to create a composite photograph. In step S1108, the composite photograph is printed.

  On the other hand, if it is detected in S1106 that the preview display mark 803 is applied, a preview display of the composite image created by the user is performed on the LCD viewer 201. For this purpose, in S1109, data corresponding to the location applied to the mark sheet portion 801 of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is acquired, and based on this acquired information, setting values for printing a composite photograph, composite Get setting values such as how many photos to print. Also, the handwritten image data entered in the handwritten image input unit 802 and the sheet code 804 are acquired.

  Next, the image in the memory card 115 selected by the user in S904 is specified from the information of the sheet code 804 acquired in S1109, and the image data is acquired from the memory card 115. In this case, in order to speed up the preview display, a thumbnail image is acquired as image data. In step S1110, the image acquired from the memory card 115 and the handwritten image data acquired in step S1109 are combined.

  Using the setting information acquired in S1109 and the image data acquired in S1110, a preview image and the number of prints are displayed on the LCD viewer 201 in S1111.

  When the preview of the composite image and the number of copies are displayed on the LCD viewer 201, the number of copies can be changed by pressing each key of the operation display unit 108.

  In step S1112, it is determined whether the up / down key of the up / down / left / right keys 206 has been pressed. If these keys have been pressed, the number of printed images currently displayed on the LCD viewer is changed in step S1113. In the mark sheet portion 801, up to five sheets can be designated for the convenience of the handwriting synthesis sheet 800, but a larger number of sheets can be designated by using the up and down keys.

  In S1114, it is determined whether or not the STOP key 211 has been pressed. If so, the display of the composite image preview on the LCD viewer 201 is terminated. In step S <b> 1115, a text asking whether to re-output the handwritten composite sheet 800 is displayed on the operation display unit 108. When the user selects “re-output” using the operation display unit 108, the handwritten composite sheet 800 is output again in S1116, and the reading of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is terminated.

  Since the re-output of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is the same as the printing of the handwritten composite sheet 800 in S905, the description thereof is omitted. On the other hand, when the user selects “Do not re-output” in S1115, reading of the handwritten composite sheet 800 is terminated. For example, when the user is not satisfied with the synthesized composite preview image, and when the handwritten image is written on the handwritten composite sheet 800 with a pencil or the like that can be corrected, the handwritten composite sheet 800 can be corrected. Is unnecessary. In addition, when writing with a ballpoint pen, magic, or the like, the handwritten composite sheet 800 cannot be corrected, so re-output is necessary.

  In S1117, it is determined whether or not the color start key 213 has been pressed. If the color start key 213 has been pressed, in S1118, a setting value for printing the composite photo based on information confirmed / changed by the user in the preview image of the composite image. And how many sheets to print. In step S1119, the composite photograph is printed.

  In the second embodiment, only the up / down / left / right key / STOP key / color start key 213 is valid during the display of the preview image on the LCD viewer 201. However, other keys may be used. Further, only the preview image and the number of printed sheets can be displayed / changed on the LCD viewer 201, but other items may be displayed / changed. For example, by pressing the menu key 207 while a preview image is displayed, items such as the paper size, paper type, printing method, date printing, VIVID photo, noise removal, and all images specified in the mark sheet unit 801 are confirmed. , It may be changed.

  In addition, when the handwritten composite sheet 800 is read or when the user confirms / changes the preview image, an image obtained by reading information from the handwritten composite sheet 800 or an image confirmed / changed by the user using the preview image is printed. You may make it employ | adopt operations other than.

  Further, the above method has been described as the display method and change method of the preview image and setting information. However, if the preview image and setting information are displayed, the second embodiment is applied to other than the handwriting synthesis sheet 800. It may be.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the user can confirm the designated photograph before printing the photograph using the index sheet or the handwritten composition sheet. Also, in this case, without having to perform complicated operations, just apply the mark provided at a predetermined position on the sheet, and read the sheet. This can be confirmed using the display unit.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, it is possible to change the number of prints, cancel printing of an arbitrary image, and the like at the same time as confirming a photo designated for printing.

Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to confirm whether the photograph is intended by the user using the operation display unit, and to change the number of prints, stop printing, or perform image processing using the operation display unit. The setting information input sheet read by the apparatus can be reprinted.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral 100 that is Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of an operation display unit provided in the multi-function peripheral 100. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a photo index sheet 300 used in Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of instructing an object to be printed using a photo index sheet 300 in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of printing a photo index sheet 300 in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of creating an image of a photo index sheet 300 in Embodiment 1. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of scanning a photo index sheet 300, performing a preview display, and printing a photo in the first embodiment. 6 is a diagram illustrating a handwriting synthesis sheet 800 used in Example 2. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for instructing printing of a composite photograph using a handwritten composite sheet 800 in Embodiment 2. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of printing a handwritten composite sheet 800 in Embodiment 2. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of scanning a handwritten composite sheet 800, performing a preview display, and printing a composite photograph in Embodiment 2. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an LCD viewer screen when a preview image and the number of prints are displayed on the LCD viewer 201. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

100 ... Multifunction machine,
101 ... CPU,
102 ... ROM,
108 ... operation display section,
111 ... Recording control unit,
113 ... Recording section,
115: Memory card,
201 ... LCD,
300 ... Photo index sheet,
304: Preview display mark,
305 ... Sheet code,
800 ... handwritten composite sheet,
802 ... Handwritten image input unit,
803 ... Preview display mark,
804: Sheet code.

Claims (8)

Image storage means for storing images;
Sheet code creating means for creating a sheet code written in a predetermined setting information input sheet, in which information relating to an image is embedded;
Setting information input sheet creation means for creating the setting information input sheet using the image stored in the image storage means and the code created via the sheet code creation means;
An output means for outputting the setting information input sheet created by the setting information input sheet creating means and the image stored in the image storage means;
Reading means for reading the mark on the setting information input sheet and the sheet code;
Analyzing means for analyzing the mark read by the reading means and the sheet code;
Display means for displaying an image desired to be output by the output means and output conditions when the analyzing means analyzes a predetermined mark;
An image processing apparatus comprising: In claim 1,
The image processing apparatus includes a synthesis unit that synthesizes an image corresponding to the mark and sheet code read by the reading unit and a specific image on the setting information input sheet read by the reading unit, and the analysis unit includes the setting information. When analyzing that the predetermined mark on the input sheet has been read, the synthesizing unit outputs an image corresponding to the mark and sheet code read by the reading unit and a specific information on the setting information input sheet read by the reading unit. An image processing apparatus characterized in that an image is synthesized, and the display means displays the image synthesized by the synthesis means and the output condition. In claim 1,
The operation means for the user to change the output and the output condition desired by the analysis means, and the operation means for the image and the output condition desired to be displayed on the display means. An image processing apparatus that can be changed by a user. In claim 3,
When outputting an image using the operation means, the output means outputs an image based on an image to be output changed using the operation means and an output condition. . In claim 3,
An image processing apparatus, wherein when the output of an image is canceled using the operation means, the setting information input sheet creating means creates the same setting information input sheet as the setting information input sheet. In claim 5,
When canceling the output of an image using the operation means, a display is made to allow the user to select whether or not to re-output the same setting information input sheet on the display section, and the setting information input sheet is displayed using the operation section. The setting information input sheet creating means re-outputs the same setting information input sheet only when the user selects whether or not to re-create, and the user selects to re-create the image. Processing equipment. In claim 1,
When the analysis unit analyzes that the predetermined mark on the setting information input sheet has not been read, the image stored in the image storage unit is displayed on the basis of the mark on the setting information input sheet and the sheet code. An image processing apparatus characterized by causing an output means to output. An image accumulation process for accumulating images;
A sheet code creating step for creating a sheet code written in a predetermined setting information input sheet, in which information relating to an image is embedded;
A setting information input sheet creation step for creating the setting information input sheet using the image accumulated in the image accumulation step and the code created in the sheet code creation step;
An output step of outputting the setting information input sheet created in the setting information input sheet creation step and the image accumulated in the image accumulation step;
A reading step of reading the mark on the setting information input sheet and the sheet code;
An analysis step of analyzing the sheet code read in the reading step;
A display step of displaying an image desired to be output and an output condition in the output step when a predetermined mark is analyzed in the analysis step;
A control method for an image processing apparatus, comprising:

Images