JP2007065872A - Information recording device, printer, information recording method, and printing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology for generating and using a recording medium of which content of a stored image can be viewed. <P>SOLUTION: When producing a recording medium 500 in which image data are recorded, the following processing is executed. That is, image data are acquired, and a code 504 obtained by encoding the image data is generated on the basis of the image data, and printed on the recording medium 500. Also, an image 502 is printed on the recording medium 500 on the basis of the image data. Thus, it is possible to generate the recording medium 500 the content of the stored image of which can be viewed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for recording and displaying image data.

  Conventionally, a technique for printing an image recorded on a recording medium such as a CD has been developed. For example, in the image processing apparatus of Patent Document 1, when printing image data in the memory unit 103, first, an index print 301 having a thumbnail image 302 and a print designation area 303 is printed. Then, the number of prints is entered on a mark sheet in the print designation area 303 of the index print 301, and this is read to print image data. As a result, it was possible to specify and print image data without using a device such as a personal computer or a digital camera.

JP 2004-25576 A

  However, in the prior art, there is a problem that it is not possible to know what kind of image is stored just by looking at a CD as a recording medium.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to provide a technique for generating and using a recorded matter in which the contents of a stored image can be seen with the eyes.

(1) Production of recorded matter on which image data is recorded:
When producing a recorded matter (printed matter) on which image data is recorded, the following processing is performed. That is, first, image data is acquired. Based on the image data, a code obtained by encoding the image data is generated and printed on a recorded material. Also, an image is printed on a recorded material based on the image data. According to such an aspect, it is possible to generate a recorded matter in which the contents of an image stored as image data can be seen.

  When generating a code obtained by encoding image data, it is preferable to compress the image data before generating the code. With such an aspect, it is possible to store image data of a finer image within a certain area where the code is printed. Note that the image data generated by the compression includes image data in which information is compressed and stored as compared to image data in which color information is stored in a one-to-one correspondence with each pixel in the image. can do.

  Further, the code can be a code representing information by colors formed or displayed at a plurality of positions in a predetermined area. With such an embodiment, a recorded matter in which image data is recorded by color can be produced. The displayed colors preferably include a plurality of chromatic colors. With such an aspect, more information can be stored per a certain number of pixels compared to a code using only black.

  Further, the code may be a code that represents information by the size of a portion having a color at each position. With such an aspect, more information can be stored in a code having the same area.

  The recorded material is preferably a medium for printing a photograph. A medium for printing a photograph can perform recording at a higher density than a medium for mainly printing characters. For this reason, if it is set as such an aspect, a code | cord | chord can be recorded in a highly reproducible state.

  Note that a plurality of codes and a plurality of images can be formed or displayed on the recorded matter. At this time, the plurality of codes are preferably printed at positions adjacent to the image of the image data recorded by the respective codes. Note that “adjacent” means that there is no other code included in the plurality of codes or another image included in the plurality of images between the corresponding code and the image.

  In addition, when printing a plurality of codes and a plurality of images on a recorded matter, the plurality of codes are printed in one area where the images included in the plurality of images are not printed. It is preferable to do. In such an aspect, since a plurality of codes are recorded on the recorded matter, the codes of the plurality of images recorded on the recorded matter can be read in a short time.

  When the surface of the recorded matter on which the code is recorded is divided into the first area near the outer periphery and the second area surrounded by the first area, the code is in the second area. It is preferable to be formed. With such an aspect, even if the user handles the recorded material with his dirty hand, the possibility that the code is stained is low. For this reason, the image data recorded in the code is not easily lost.

  When the recorded material has the first surface and the second surface that cannot be viewed at the same time, the recorded material has an image formed on the first surface. The second surface may have a cord formed thereon. With this aspect, the user can enjoy the image without worrying about the code by looking at the first surface on which the image is formed and the code is not formed.

  Note that the processing described above can also be realized in the form of the following recorded matter. That is, a recorded matter in which image data is recorded, in which a code obtained by encoding the image data and an image of the image data are formed.

(2) Image output:
When an image is output based on a recorded matter on which image data is recorded, the following processing is performed. That is, first, the code of the recorded matter is read to generate image data. Then, an image of the image data is output based on the generated image data. According to such an aspect, it is possible to obtain an image of image data using a recorded material in which the content of the stored image can be seen.

  When a plurality of codes and a plurality of images are formed on the recorded material, it is preferable to perform the following processing. That is, first, a print instruction medium on which image specifying information that can specify an image to be printed among a plurality of images is formed or displayed is generated. Then, the printing instruction medium is read to acquire image specifying information. At that time, it is preferable not to acquire other image data. And when outputting an image, the image which should be printed is printed based on image specific information and image data. With such an aspect, it is possible to designate and print a desired image from a plurality of images with a simple procedure.

  It is also preferable that the image specifying information is information that can specify the number of images to be printed and the following processing is performed. That is, when outputting an image, the number of images to be printed is printed based on the image specifying information and the image data. According to such an aspect, it is possible to print a desired number of sheets by designating a desired image from a plurality of images with a simple procedure.

  It is preferable that the reading of the print instruction medium is performed prior to the reading of the code of the recorded matter. Then, when reading the code of the recorded matter, it corresponds to the image to be printed without reading the code corresponding to at least a part of the image other than the image to be printed among the plurality of codes based on the image specifying information. The code is read to generate image data. With such an aspect, it is possible to shorten the time required to output an image compared to an aspect in which all codes are read.

  In addition, it is preferable to perform the following processing by superimposing a print instruction medium on an area on the recorded matter where no code is formed. That is, the reading of the recorded matter and the reading of the print instruction medium are executed at a time by reading the recorded matter on which the print instruction medium is superimposed. According to such an aspect, the time required for reading the recorded matter and reading the print instruction medium can be shortened as compared with an aspect in which the reading of the recorded matter and the reading of the print instruction medium are performed separately.

  When the display of the image specifying information includes a partial display corresponding to the code of each image to be printed, when the print instruction medium is overlaid on the recorded material, the arrangement of the code of the image to be printed on the recorded material It is preferable to superimpose so that the orientation and the orientation of the partial display arrangement on the print instruction medium are the same. Then, it is preferable that the reading of the recorded matter and the reading of the print instruction medium are executed such that the partial display is read before the code of the image to be printed corresponding to the partial display. When reading the recorded matter, the code corresponding to the image to be printed without reading the code corresponding to at least a part of the image other than the image to be printed out of the plurality of codes based on the image specifying information. Is preferably read to generate image data. With such an aspect, it is possible to shorten the time for reading the recorded matter as compared with the aspect of reading all codes.

  The print instruction medium may be configured such that the display of the image specifying information includes partial displays corresponding to the codes of the image to be printed. In such an embodiment, the partial display is preferably formed on the print instruction medium in the same arrangement order as the code of the image to be printed. According to such an aspect, when the code on the recorded matter is read, it can be read in the same order as the partial display on the print instruction medium. As a result, it is possible to control whether or not the code read first is read based on the partial display information read first.

  In the case where a plurality of codes and a plurality of images are formed on the recorded matter, and the plurality of images are formed in one area where no code is formed therein, the following is performed: It is preferable to set it as an aspect. That is, the print instruction medium is set to a size that can be arranged in one area where an image is recorded. According to such an aspect, the code on the recorded matter and the print instruction medium can be simultaneously read by superimposing the print instruction medium on the area where the image is recorded.

  The present invention can be realized in various forms, for example, a data recording method and a data recording apparatus, a printing method and a printing apparatus, a printing control method and a printing control apparatus, and functions of those methods or apparatuses. In the form of a computer program for realizing the above, a recorded matter recorded with the computer program, a data signal including the computer program embodied in a carrier wave, an image processing system including a recording device and a printing device for image data, etc. Can be realized.

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order based on examples.
A. First embodiment:
(1) Device configuration:
(2) Generation of image data sheet:
(3) Formation of image of image data recorded on image data sheet:
B. Second embodiment:
C. Third embodiment:
D. Fourth embodiment:
E. Example 5:
F. Example 6:
G. Variation:

A. First embodiment:
(1) Device configuration:
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an image recording system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The image recording system 1 includes a personal computer 10, a liquid crystal display 20, and a color printer 30. The image recording system 1 includes a keyboard 40, a mouse 50, a scanner 60, and a memory card reader 80 as means for inputting information to the personal computer 10. The memory card reader 80 can read and write to a compact flash card (registered trademark) 81, an SD card (not shown), and a memory stick (not shown). Furthermore, the personal computer 10 includes a DVD drive 70 as means for inputting information to the personal computer 10. The DVD drive 70 can also read from and write to a CD. In the present specification, the “printing apparatus” refers only to the printer 30 in a narrow sense, but represents the entire image recording system 1 including the printer 30 in a broad sense.

  The personal computer 10 includes a CPU 110, a RAM 120, and a hard disk 130. In the personal computer 10, application software 112 operates under a predetermined operating system. In addition, a video driver 114 and a printer driver 116 are incorporated in the operating system. On the right side of FIG. 1, a block diagram showing the configuration of software executed by the CPU 110 using the RAM 120 and the hard disk 130 is shown.

  In response to a user instruction input from the mouse 50 or the keyboard 40, the application software 112 outputs original image data ORG composed of three color components of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) to the DVD drive. 70 can be read from a DVD 71 or a CD (not shown) in 70, and a compact flash card 81 in a memory card reader 80. The original image data ORG can also be acquired by reading from a printed material using the scanner 60.

  The application software 112 can display an image of the image data on the liquid crystal display 20 via the video driver 114. The application software 112 also displays thumbnails indicating what kind of image data each of the file names of one or more original image data ORG stored in a recording medium such as a DVD 71 or a CD set in the DVD drive 70 is. In addition, it can be displayed in the form of a list.

  The application software 112 can read a plurality of original image data ORG designated by the user from the DVD 71 or the compact flash card 81. The original image data ORG can be written to a medium such as a CD-ROM set in the hard disk 130 or the DVD drive 70 or a compact flash card 81 set in the memory card reader 80. Further, the application software 112 can store the image by printing the two-dimensional code on which the image data is recorded on the image data sheet with the printer 30. Specifically, this processing is performed by the application software 112 issuing an instruction to the printer driver 116. Hereinafter, “saving an image by printing a two-dimensional code on an image data sheet” is also referred to as “print saving”.

  Upon receiving a print save instruction from the user, the application software 112 issues a print save instruction to the printer driver 116, and outputs it to the printer driver 116 as a plurality of initial image data PID representing a plurality of images. The initial image data PID is image data including three color components of red (R), green (G), and blue (B).

  The printer driver 116 receives initial image data PID from the application software 112, performs predetermined image processing on the initial image data PID, and then print image data FNL that can be processed by the printer 30 (here, cyan, magenta, yellow, black, light cyan, Multi-valued signals for seven colors of light magenta and dark yellow. Then, the print image data FNL is sent to the printer 30.

  A functional unit that receives initial image data PID from the application software 112 in the printer driver 116 is shown as an image data input unit 116a in FIG. A functional unit that receives a user instruction input from the mouse 50 or the keyboard 40 is shown as a user interface unit 116b. A functional unit that performs a process of creating a two-dimensional code from the initial image data PID to perform print storage is indicated as an image processing unit 116d. A function unit that performs processing for converting image data received by the printer driver 116 and image data processed by the printer driver 116 into print image data FNL using seven color components that can be processed by the printer 30 is provided as a print processing unit. 116e.

  The color printer 30 can perform printing by forming dots on a print medium with seven colors of ink of cyan, magenta, yellow, black, light cyan, light magenta, and dark yellow. The color printer 30 can form dots of a plurality of types for each ink color. In addition, by being controlled by the printer driver 116, dots can be formed on the print medium with a plurality of recording densities.

(2) Generation of image data sheet:
FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing processing in the printer driver when image data is recorded as a two-dimensional code on a print medium. In step S110, a plurality of image data PIDs to be stored on the print medium are received from the application software 112. In step S120, thumbnail data of the image data PID is created and stored in the RAM 120 or the hard disk 130 of the personal computer 10. Specifically, first, the initial image data PID is converted into image data having a smaller number of pixels. For example, the initial image data PID is converted into image data of the number of pixels for printing on a print medium at a predetermined recording density to a size of 30 mm × 40 mm. Thereafter, the image data is stored in the RAM 120 of the personal computer 10 or the like. Note that the function of step S120 is realized by the thumbnail generation unit 116f, which is a functional unit of the printer driver 116.

  In step S130, the image data PID is converted into a two-dimensional code and stored in the RAM 120 or the hard disk 130 of the personal computer 10. The function of step S130 is realized by a two-dimensional code generation unit 116g which is a functional unit of the printer driver 116.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the two-dimensional code 504 obtained by encoding the image data PID. The two-dimensional code 504 is a code that represents information by colors represented by a plurality of pixels in a predetermined area. The two-dimensional code 504 is formed by forming dots in four colors of cyan, magenta, yellow or black at a predetermined recording density in an area of 10 mm × 30 mm, and further forming or not forming the dots. It is possible to use a code that represents information by the size of a dot. That is, the recording and non-recording of dots of each color and each size are codes. In the example of FIG. 3, within one pixel PX, cyan large dot Dbc, cyan small dot Dsc, magenta large dot Dbm, magenta small dot Dsm, yellow large dot Dby, yellow small dot Dsy, black 8 types of dots, a large dot Dbk and a black small dot Dsk, can be selectively recorded. Note that the “pixel” is a square grid virtually defined on the print medium in order to define the position where the ink droplet is landed and the dot is recorded. In FIG. 3, the pixels PX are indicated by broken lines for reference.

  In step S130 of FIG. 2, when the image data PID is JPEG format data, data of a two-dimensional code 504 representing the image data PID itself is generated. On the other hand, when the image data PID is data in a format other than JPEG data, such as data in BMP format or GIF format, the image data PID is converted into JPEG data once and represents a converted data. Data of code 504 is generated. By doing so, the data format handled by the two-dimensional code can be unified, and as a result, the subsequent two-dimensional code reading process can be simplified. In addition, by converting the image data into data having a higher compression ratio before generating the two-dimensional code, a high quality image can be stored in a small area.

  In step S140 of FIG. 2, it is determined whether thumbnail and two-dimensional code data have been generated for all the image data received in step S110. If the determination result is No, the process returns to step S120, and the processing of S120 and S130 is performed on the image data for which thumbnail and two-dimensional code data has not yet been generated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S140 that thumbnails and two-dimensional code data have been generated for all the image data received in step S110, the process proceeds to step S150.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing an image data sheet 500. In step S150 of FIG. 2, layout data of the image data sheet 500 is created based on the thumbnail and two-dimensional code data stored in the RAM 120 or the like, and is printed by the printer 30. The image data sheet 500 is recorded at a constant recording density. The medium on which the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 are printed is A4 size photo printing paper.

  In the image data sheet 500, a thumbnail 502 of an image and a two-dimensional code 504 of the image are arranged adjacent to each other in the vertical direction. That is, no other thumbnail 502 or two-dimensional code 504 is recorded between the corresponding thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504. In the image data sheet 500, such a set of thumbnails 502 and a two-dimensional code 504 are arranged in 6 rows × 4 columns. If the number of image data PIDs received from the application software 112 in step 110 in FIG. 2 is 24 or more, the image data sheet 500 is printed over a plurality of pages in step S150.

  In step S150, the function of creating the layout data of the image data sheet 500 is realized by the layout generation unit 116h, which is a functional unit of the printer driver 116. The function of converting the layout data of the image data sheet 500 into print image data FNL that can be handled by the printer 30 is realized by the print processing unit 116 e that is a functional unit of the printer driver 116. The layout generating unit 116h, the print processing unit 116e, and the printer 30 correspond to a “printing unit” in the claims.

  In the image data sheet 500, a two-dimensional code 504 representing information of the image data PID is recorded. Therefore, the user can save the image data itself by saving the image data sheet 500. The image data sheet 500 records a thumbnail 502 representing the pattern of the image data PID. Therefore, the user can visually confirm what kind of image data is recorded on the image data sheet 500 without using a device such as a CD-ROM drive, a DVD drive, or a personal computer.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a storage file 1000 that can accommodate a plurality of image data sheets 500. The save file 1000 includes a plurality of transparent bag portions 1002 each capable of accommodating the image data sheet 500, a front cover 1004, a back cover 1006, and a spine cover 1008. A plurality of bag parts 1002, a cover sheet 1004, and a back cover sheet 1006 are bound by a back cover sheet 1008. If the image data sheet 500 on which a plurality of thumbnails 502 are displayed is stored in such a storage file 1000, the user can use the image data sheet 500 as an album. Further, since the image data sheet 500 records the two-dimensional code 504 of the image data, a plurality of image data sheets 500 are saved by the save file 1000, so that a large number of images can be obtained without preparing a separate CD or DVD. Image data can be saved.

(3) Formation of image of image data recorded on image data sheet:
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the image reproduction system 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The application software 112 of the image reproduction system 2 includes a user interface unit 112a, an image reading unit 112b, an image recognition unit 112c, a code extraction unit 112d, and a decoding unit 112e as functional units. Other points of the image reproduction system 2 are the same as those of the image recording system 1. The image reproduction system 2 and the image recording system 1 can be a single system capable of realizing both functions, or can be separate systems realizing the respective functions. 6, the same components as those of the image recording system 1 in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a print designation sheet for giving the application software 112 an instruction to print an image based on the two-dimensional code of the image data sheet 500. The user can cause the application software 112 to print the desired number of images based on the two-dimensional code recorded on the image data sheet 500 using the print designation sheet 600. This print designation sheet 600 has a print number designation column 602 of 6 rows × 4 columns. The print number designation column 602 is a column in which a user writes a number representing the number of prints by handwriting.

  The arrangement order of the print number designation column 602 in the print designation sheet 600 and the arrangement order of the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 in the image data sheet 500 correspond to each other. That is, the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 of the image data corresponding to the print number designation column 602 located in n rows and m columns (n and m are positive integers) in the print designation sheet 600 are n in the image data sheet 500. Located in row m column. For example, when the numeral “3” is entered in the second row and third column of the print designation sheet 600, the handwritten character is captured by the scanner, image recognition (character recognition) is performed, and finally, Three images of the two-dimensional code 504 in the second row and third column of the image data sheet 500 are printed. If the number of prints designation field 602 is blank, the corresponding image data sheet 500 image is not printed. Information entered in the print number designation column 602 corresponds to “image specifying information” in the claims, and each print number designation column 602 corresponds to “partial display”.

  The print designation sheet 600 has two optical codes 604. When the print designation sheet 600 is read by a scanner and image recognition is performed, the orientation of the print designation sheet 600 can be specified by recognizing the optical code 604.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing when an image recorded on the image data sheet 500 is formed. First, in step S210, the user manually enters the desired number of prints in the number-of-prints designation field 602 corresponding to the image desired to be printed on the print designation sheet 600 (see FIG. 7). (Not shown). In step S220, an instruction to print image data recorded on the image data sheet 500 is received from the user, and the application software 112 reads the print designation sheet 600 with the scanner 60 (see FIG. 6). Then, image recognition is performed, and the number of sheets designated in the number-of-prints designation column 602 for each row and column is acquired. At that time, the orientation and position of the print designation sheet 600 are specified by the optical code 604 printed on the print designation sheet 600, and the position (row and column) of each print number designation column 602 corresponds to the designated number of sheets. It is attached.

  In the application software 112, the user interface unit 112a realizes a function of receiving a user instruction input from the mouse 50 or the keyboard 40. The function of reading an image by the scanner 60 is realized by the image reading unit 112b of the application software 112, and the function of image recognition is realized by the image recognition unit 112c. The image reading unit 112b, the image recognition unit 112c, and the scanner 60 correspond to a “specific information acquisition unit” in the claims.

  Next, in step S230, the image data sheet 500 (see FIG. 4) is read by the scanner 60 to generate reproduced image data PID2. As long as the two-dimensional code 504 is accurately decoded, the content of the reproduced image data PID2 is equal to the content of the image data PID. When the image data sheet 500 is arranged on a reading table (not shown) of the scanner 60, the image data sheet 500 is arranged so that the image data sheet 500 is read from the top to the bottom of FIG. (See arrow Ar in FIG. 4).

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the reading process of the image data sheet 500 in step S230 of FIG. First, in step S232, the application software 112 determines whether or not the two-dimensional code of the image to be printed exists in the two-dimensional code 504 of the row to be read next on the image data sheet 500. Specifically, based on the analysis result of the print designation sheet 600 obtained in step S220, whether or not the number of prints has been designated in the print number designation column 602 corresponding to the two-dimensional code 504 of the line to be read next. Determine. For example, in the example of FIG. 7, “1” is entered in the print number designation column 602 in the first column in the print number designation column 602 in the first row. For this reason, in the first process, the determination result of step S232 is Yes.

  If the number of prints is designated in the number-of-prints designation field 602 corresponding to any one of the two-dimensional codes 504 of the line to be read next, the application software 112 determines the two-dimensional code 504 for one line in step S234. Read. Then, the area of the two-dimensional code 504 for which the number of printed sheets is designated on the print designation sheet 600 is specified in the read image. For example, according to the example of FIG. 7, the image of the leftmost two-dimensional code 504 corresponding to the print number designation field 602 in the first column is specified in the image data including the two-dimensional code 504 for one row. Thereafter, the application software 112 analyzes the two-dimensional code 504 and generates reproduced image data PID2. Note that the two-dimensional code 504 encodes and holds information about its own direction. For this reason, in order to analyze the two-dimensional code 504 itself, the two-dimensional code 504 need not be read in a specific orientation.

  Note that the function of specifying the area of the two-dimensional code 504 for which the number of prints has been specified is realized by the code extraction unit 112d which is a functional unit of the application software 112. The function of analyzing the two-dimensional code 504 and generating the reproduced image data PID2 is realized by the decoding unit 112e. The code extraction unit 112d, the decoding unit 112e, the image reading unit 112b, and the scanner 60 correspond to an “image data generation unit” in the claims.

  On the other hand, when the number of prints is not designated in the print number designation column 602 corresponding to the next one-line two-dimensional code 504, the image to be printed in the next one-line two-dimensional code 504 is displayed. There is no two-dimensional code. Therefore, if there is no image to be printed on the next line, the process proceeds from step S232 to step S236. In step S236, the application software 112 skips scanning for the distance corresponding to one line (one set) of the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504. That is, the optical sensor for reading of the scanner 60 is sent at a higher speed than when reading the two-dimensional code 504L (see step S234). For example, in the example of FIG. 7, the number of prints is not specified in the print number specification field 602 in the fourth line of the print specification sheet 600. Therefore, the reading of the two-dimensional code 504 in the fourth row of the image data sheet 500 is not performed, and the sensor is sent at high speed. By performing such processing, the time required for reading the image data sheet 500 can be shortened.

  In this process, the image data sheet 500 is set on the reading table of the scanner 60 in a predetermined arrangement and read in a predetermined direction (in the example shown in FIG. 4, from the top to the bottom). A plurality of two-dimensional codes 504 are arranged side by side in a direction perpendicular to the reading direction of the scanner (see arrow Ac in FIG. 4), so that the two-dimensional code 504 can be executed efficiently.

  In the first embodiment, the print designation sheet 600 is read in step S220 prior to reading the image data sheet in step S230 of FIG. Therefore, reading of the two-dimensional code 504 can be skipped in step S230 (step S236 in FIG. 9) based on the information read in step S220.

  In step S238 of FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not reading or skipping has been performed for the two-dimensional codes 504 in all the rows of the image data sheet 500. If there is a line that has not been read or skipped yet, the process returns to step S232. When reading or skipping has been performed for the two-dimensional codes 504 of all rows, the reading processing of the image data sheet 500 is terminated. The process of step S230 of FIG. 8 is performed as described above.

  In step S240 in FIG. 8, the designated number of images of the reproduced image data PID2 based on the reproduced image data PID2 of the image to be printed generated in step S230 and the designated number of each image read in step S220. Just print. Thereafter, the process ends.

  According to the image reproduction system 2 described above, the user views the thumbnail 502 of the image data sheet 500 in which the image data is recorded in the form of the two-dimensional code 504, and enters the number of sheets on the print designation sheet 600. Thus, an image desired to be printed can be specified, and the number of sheets desired to be printed can be designated for the image. That is, as in the case where image data is recorded on a CD, a desired image is selected from a plurality of images recorded with image data without having to bother printing thumbnails prior to image designation and printing. The number of prints can be specified.

  In the first embodiment, the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 are recorded adjacent to each other on the image data sheet 500 (see FIG. 4). For this reason, the user can easily determine which two-dimensional code should be read by the handy scanner, for example, when acquiring image data of individual images using a handy scanner.

  In the first embodiment, the system is realized by a personal computer to which the card reader 80, the printer 30, and the scanner 60 are locally connected. Therefore, printing can be performed at a higher speed than when the system is realized by an integrated printer, and image processing is easy.

B. Second embodiment:
FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing an image data sheet 500b in the second embodiment. The image data sheet 500b of the second embodiment is different from the image data sheet 500 of the first embodiment in the layout of the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504. In the second embodiment, the method for reading the print designation sheet 600 and the image data sheet 500b is different from that in the first embodiment (see steps S220 and S230 in FIG. 8). The other points of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  In the image data sheet 500b of the second embodiment, the thumbnail 502 is displayed in the thumbnail area 512 on the image data sheet 500b. The two-dimensional code 504 is displayed in the two-dimensional code area 514. The two-dimensional code 504 is not displayed in the thumbnail area 512, and the thumbnail 502 is not displayed in the two-dimensional code area 514. The arrangement order of the thumbnails 502 in the thumbnail area 512 and the arrangement order of the two-dimensional code 504 in the two-dimensional code area 514 correspond to each other. That is, the image represented by the thumbnail 502 located in n rows and m columns (n and m are positive integers) in the thumbnail region 512 is a two-dimensional code 504 located in n rows and m columns in the two-dimensional code region 514. It is an image showing the content of the image data.

  Further, the arrangement order of the number-of-prints designation field 602 in the print designation sheet 600 and the arrangement order of the thumbnails 502 in the thumbnail area 512 also correspond to each other. That is, the image data of the two-dimensional code 504 corresponding to the print number designation field 602 located in n rows and m columns (n and m are positive integers) in the print designation sheet 600 is arranged in n rows and m columns in the thumbnail area 512. This is image data representing an image of the thumbnail 502 positioned. By adopting such an aspect, the user can intuitively enter the designated number of copies in the print number designation column 602 at the position corresponding to the thumbnail 502 displayed on the image data sheet 500b.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for reading the print designation sheet 600 and the image data sheet 500b in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the print designation sheet 600 is disposed so as to overlap the thumbnail area 512 of the image data sheet 500b, and the scanner 60 reads the print designation sheet 600 and the image data sheet 500b in one scan.

  In the second embodiment, the thumbnail 502 is arranged in the thumbnail area 512, and the two-dimensional code 504 is not displayed in the thumbnail area 512. Further, the print designation sheet 600 is sized so as to be placed in the thumbnail area 512. Therefore, the print designation sheet 600 can be overlapped in the thumbnail area 512, and the print number designation field 602 of the print designation sheet 600 and the two-dimensional code 504 of the image data sheet 500b can be read in the same scan. By reading them in one scan, the time-consuming image reading process can be reduced by one time, and as a result, the time required for image printing can be shortened.

  In the second embodiment, the print number designation column 602 of the line that is first read on the print designation sheet 600 is an image of the two-dimensional code 504 of the line that is first read on the image data sheet 500b. The print designation sheet 600 is arranged on the image data sheet 500b so as to become a print number designation column 602 for designating the number of sheets. That is, on the image data sheet 500b, the reading order of each line of the two-dimensional code 504 on the image data sheet 500b is the same as the reading order of each line of the corresponding print number designation column 602 on the print designation sheet 600. A print designation sheet 600 is arranged. By adopting such an aspect, when there is no designation of printing in a certain line of the number-of-printing designation field 602 that has been read in advance, reading of the two-dimensional code 504 in the corresponding line can be skipped (FIG. 9). Steps S232 and S236 of FIG. As a result, the time required for reading the image data sheet 500b and the print designation sheet 600 can be shortened.

C. Third embodiment:
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of an image data sheet 500c according to the third embodiment. The image data sheet 500c of the third embodiment is different from the image data sheet 500 of the first embodiment in the shape of the two-dimensional code 505 and the layout of the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 505. The other points of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  In the third embodiment, the two-dimensional code 505 representing the image data has a size of 15 mm × 20 mm, and is displayed in the two-dimensional code area 518 in 6 rows × 4 columns. The thumbnails 502 are arranged in 3 rows × 4 columns in thumbnail regions 516 and 517 located on both sides of the two-dimensional code region 518, respectively. The thumbnails 502 displayed in the thumbnail areas 516 and 517 together constitute an array of 6 rows × 4 columns. The thumbnail 502 at each position represents an image of the two-dimensional code 505 in the corresponding row and column. A print number designation column 602 at each position of the print designation sheet 600 is a designation column for designating the number of prints of the two-dimensional code 505 in the corresponding row and column (see FIG. 7).

  By adopting such an aspect, the user can intuitively designate the number of prints in the print number designation column 602 of the print designation sheet 600. The area 515 near the outer periphery of the image data sheet 500c other than the two-dimensional code area 518 including the thumbnail areas 516 and 517 is a “first area” in the claims, and the two-dimensional code area 518 is a patent. This is the “second region” in the claims.

  The two-dimensional code area 518 of the third embodiment is an area near the center that is 3 cm or more away from the outer periphery of the image data sheet 500c. For this reason, even if the user holds the image data sheet 500c with a dirty hand, the two-dimensional code 505 in the two-dimensional code area 518 is not easily stained. As a result, there is little possibility that the image data recorded in the form of the two-dimensional code 505 on the image data sheet 500c is lost.

D. Fourth embodiment:
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of an image data sheet 500d according to the fourth embodiment. The image data sheet 500d of the fourth embodiment has one image 503 on the front surface and one two-dimensional code 506 on the back surface. The other points of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  The image 503 is printed based on the image data PID received by the printer driver 116 from the application 112, as with the thumbnail 502 in the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). Similarly to the two-dimensional code 504 in the first embodiment, the two-dimensional code 506 is printed based on the image data PID received by the printer driver 116 from the application 112. Note that the printing paper used for the image data sheet 500d in the fourth embodiment is an L size (89 mm × 127 mm) printing paper that has been subjected to surface processing for photo printing on both sides.

  When generating such an image data sheet 500d, the image 503 is once recorded on the printing paper, and then the two-dimensional code 506 is printed by inverting the printing paper.

  By adopting such an aspect, the user can print the image by causing the scanner 60 or a handy scanner (not shown) to read the two-dimensional code 506 of the image data sheet 500d. That is, an image can be printed on a printing paper larger than the image data sheet 500d, such as A4 size, without using the print designation sheet 600 (see FIG. 7). In addition, an image data sheet 500d on which image data is recorded can be stored in a conventional album for accommodating prints of photographs.

E. Example 5:
FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the image processing apparatus 3 of the fifth embodiment. The image processing apparatus 3 is a printer that can print an image based on image data stored in a storage medium such as a compact flash card alone without being connected to an external computer. In the first embodiment, the image recording system 1 and the image reproduction system 2 are separate systems each including a computer 10, a color printer 30, a scanner 60, and the like. However, a device that generates the image data sheet 500 and prints an image based on the two-dimensional code 504 of the image data sheet 500 can be a single device such as the image processing device 3.

  The image processing apparatus 3 includes a print head (not shown) that performs printing by ejecting ink droplets, an auto seed feeder 201 that supplies printing paper, and a paper discharge tray that receives printing paper on which an image is printed. 202, a liquid crystal display 220, a button group 240 for performing various operations, a card reader 280 for inserting a memory card such as a compact flash card, an SD card, and a memory stick and reading data, and a CPU 231 I have. Further, the image processing apparatus 3 forms dots with a scanner unit (not shown) that can optically read an image and inks of seven colors of cyan, magenta, yellow, black, light cyan, light magenta, and dark yellow. And a printing unit (not shown) that can perform printing. In FIG. 14, the CPU 231 and its functional units are displayed outside the image processing apparatus 3 for easy understanding.

  The image data input unit 231a which is a functional unit of the CPU 231 realizes a function of receiving image data from the compact flash card 81, the SD card (not shown), and the memory stick (not shown) via the card reader 280. The image data input unit 231a is a functional unit corresponding to the image data input unit 116a (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. The user interface unit 231b realizes a function of receiving a user instruction input from the button group 240. The user interface unit 231b corresponds to the user interface unit 116b (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment.

  The print processing unit 231e, which is a functional unit of the CPU 231, uses the image data received by the image processing device 3 via the card reader 280 or the image data processed by the CPU 231 as seven colors that are ink colors used by the image processing device 3. This realizes a function of converting to print image data FNL by the color components. The print processing unit 231e corresponds to the print processing unit 116e (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. The image processing unit 231d realizes a function of performing various image processing such as creation of two-dimensional code and thumbnail data based on image data received by the image processing apparatus 3 via the card reader 280. The image processing unit 231d corresponds to the image processing unit 116d (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment.

  An image reading unit 231f that is a functional unit of the CPU 231 realizes an image reading function by the scanner unit. The image reading unit 231f corresponds to the image reading unit 112b (see FIG. 6) of the first embodiment. The image recognition unit 231g realizes a function of recognizing an image read by the scanner unit. The image recognition unit 231g corresponds to the image recognition unit 112c (see FIG. 6) of the first embodiment.

  In addition, the thumbnail generation unit 231h, the two-dimensional code generation unit 231i, the layout generation unit 231j, the code extraction unit 231k, and the decoding unit 231l that are functional units of the CPU 231 are the thumbnail generation unit 116f and the two-dimensional code generation of the first embodiment, respectively. It corresponds to the unit 116g, the layout generation unit 116h, the code extraction unit 112d, and the decoding unit 112e.

  According to such an aspect, without using the computer 10, the image processing apparatus 3 alone generates the image data sheet 500 to record the image data, and prints the image based on the image data sheet 500. it can. Therefore, the user can record the image data on the image data sheet with a simple procedure, and can read the image data sheet and print the image.

F. Example 6:
FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an image processing system according to the sixth embodiment. The image processing system according to the sixth embodiment includes a personal computer 10, a printer 30, a digital still camera 300, and a storage server 400 that are connected to each other via a network that includes the Internet INT. The same elements as those of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In FIG. 15, the keyboard 40, mouse 50, scanner 60, and memory card reader 80 connected to the personal computer 10 are not shown.

  In the image processing system of the sixth embodiment, the personal computer 10 and the printer 30 connected via a network perform the same functions as the image recording system 1 and the image reproduction system 2 of the first embodiment. Further, the personal computer 10 reads image data via the memory card reader 80 and the DVD drive 70, and also stores image data accumulated in the digital still camera 300 and accumulated in the storage server 400 via the network. Image data can be read.

  Even in such an aspect, as in the first embodiment, an image data sheet is generated in which the contents of the stored image can be seen with the eyes, and the image is displayed on the screen based on the image data sheet. In addition, printing from the printer 30 is possible. In the sixth embodiment, since the storage server 400 is provided, image data can be selected from a large amount of image data and recorded on the image data sheet.

G. Variation:
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.

(1) Modification 1:
In the above embodiment, the thumbnail 502 data is created based on the image data PID passed from the application software 112 to the printer driver 116. However, the thumbnail 502 data is image data converted from the image data PID, and can be generated based on the image data recorded as the two-dimensional code 504. In such an aspect, the thumbnail 502 is an image that can be generated based on the image data recorded as the two-dimensional code 504. That is, the thumbnail 502 may be in various forms as long as it represents an image of image data recorded as the two-dimensional code 504.

(2) Modification 2:
In the first embodiment, the two-dimensional code in which image data is recorded records JPEG image data. However, the two-dimensional code can also record image data of other formats such as BMP format, TIFF format, and GIF format. However, the image data recorded by the two-dimensional code is different from the image data in the format in which the information on the color to be displayed is held in one-to-one correspondence with each pixel in the image as in the BMP format. The image data is preferably compressed and stored. According to such an aspect, an image having a larger number of pixels than that of the image can be recorded with a two-dimensional code expressed in a narrower area than the image displayed on the same recorded matter.

(3) Modification 3:
In the above embodiment, the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 are recorded on the image data sheet 500 with the same recording density. However, the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 can be recorded at different recording densities. However, the thumbnail 502 is preferably recorded at a recording density coarser than the two-dimensional code 504. With such an aspect, the recording speed of the thumbnails 502 per unit area can be made faster than that of the two-dimensional code 504. Therefore, the time required for recording the image data sheet 500 as a whole can be shortened without reducing the amount of information recorded by the two-dimensional code 504.

  Note that in a mode in which the recording density of the thumbnail 502 and the two-dimensional code 504 are different, the recording density of the two-dimensional code 504 is preferably an integral multiple of the recording density of the thumbnail 502 in both the vertical and horizontal directions. With such an aspect, it is possible to facilitate processing when generating the print image data FNL and performing printing based on the print image data FNL.

(4) Modification 4:
In the above embodiment, the two-dimensional code 504 is formed by forming dots in four colors of cyan, magenta, yellow or black at a predetermined recording density in a rectangular area, and forming or not forming dots of those colors. Furthermore, the code represents information by the size of the dots to be formed. However, the two-dimensional code for recording image data can be in other forms.

  For example, in a two-dimensional code for recording image data, dots are formed using other inks of a printer such as light cyan and light magenta, and the formation or non-formation of the dots is further performed. It can also be a code that represents information in size.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, there are two types of dot sizes for each ink color (see FIG. 3), but three or more types of dots can also be used. The dot size can be one kind. In any aspect, “no color is displayed” at a specific position can represent the predetermined information.

  Also, for light-colored inks that are difficult to determine whether ink is recorded or not, such as yellow, light cyan, and light magenta, and for which it is difficult to determine the size of the dots, reduce the number of types of dots compared to other inks. You can also. Further, the light color ink including yellow may not be used for generating the two-dimensional code.

  Further, the two-dimensional code for recording image data uses a plurality of inks in a predetermined area in addition to a mode in which information is recorded by forming or not forming dots with each color ink as in the above-described embodiment. Other types of colors may be displayed based on the mixed colors, and information may be expressed based on the expressed colors. In this case, the region that expresses colors using a plurality of inks may be one pixel in printing or a region composed of a plurality of pixels.

  In the above embodiment, the two-dimensional code is recorded by forming dots by attaching ink to a recorded matter. However, the two-dimensional code can be recorded on the recorded material by other methods. For example, a photosensitive material can be applied to a recorded material, and the photosensitive material can be exposed to display the color at each position.

  In the above embodiment, the two-dimensional code 504 has a rectangular shape. However, the two-dimensional code 504 may have another shape such as a polygon other than a rectangle, a circle, or a star. However, the code representing the image is preferably recorded in an area smaller than the thumbnail. Such an embodiment makes the two-dimensional code less visible on the image data sheet than the thumbnail, and is preferable when the image data sheet is used as an album.

  As described above, the code for recording image data may be a code that represents information by colors displayed at a plurality of positions in a predetermined area. The two-dimensional code may be displayed in a color that cannot be visually recognized by human eyes. For example, the presence / absence of recording may be detected by applying light of a specific wavelength and detecting the reflected light.

(5) Modification 5:
In the first embodiment, after reading the print designation sheet 600, the image data sheet 500 is read. However, the reading order of the print designation sheet and the image data sheet is not limited to this order, and the print designation sheet and the image data sheet may be read in parallel, or the image data sheet may be read first.

  However, even when the print designation sheet and the image data sheet are read in parallel, the print number designation column 602 corresponding to the two-dimensional code 504 that is read first in all the two-dimensional codes is the first in the total print number designation column. Is preferably read. And it is preferable that the reading order of the number-of-prints designation column corresponding to each two-dimensional code matches the reading order of each two-dimensional code. According to such an aspect, it is possible to discard from the memory in order from the data of the two-dimensional code that has been processed based on the data in the number-of-prints designation column. That is, it is not necessary to hold all the two-dimensional code data until all the two-dimensional codes are processed. Therefore, the required memory capacity can be reduced.

(6) Modification 6:
The image displayed on the image data sheet may be displayed with a smaller number of pixels than the image data recorded by the two-dimensional code of the image data sheet, and more than the image data recorded by the two-dimensional code. It may be displayed with a large number of pixels. That is, the image recorded on the image data sheet is an image representing the pattern of the image data recorded by the two-dimensional code regardless of whether the image is reduced, enlarged, or subjected to image processing. I just need it.

(7) Modification 7:
In the third embodiment, the two-dimensional code 505 is recorded in an area 518 near the center that is 3 cm or more away from the outer periphery of the image data sheet 500c. However, the two-dimensional code in which the image data is recorded can be recorded at other positions. However, the two-dimensional code can be recorded in an area 2 cm or more away from the outer periphery of the image data sheet. More preferably, the two-dimensional code is recorded in an area 4 cm or more away from the outer periphery of the image data sheet. It is further preferable to record in an area 5 cm or more away from the outer periphery of the image data sheet.

(8) Modification 8:
In the first to third embodiments, a plurality of two-dimensional codes in which image data is recorded are recorded in the same arrangement order as the arrangement order of the images of the respective image data. However, a plurality of two-dimensional codes displayed on the recorded material can be recorded in other arrangement orders. However, it is preferable that the print number designation field of the print designation sheet is arranged in the same arrangement order as the arrangement order of the corresponding images.

(9) Modification 9:
In the first to third embodiments, the number of sheets to be printed for each image is entered on the print designation sheet 600 by handwriting. However, the print instruction medium for specifying the image to be printed displays information for specifying the image and the number of sheets to be printed by other methods such as a method for filling in a mark sheet and a method for making a hole in a print designation sheet. May be. However, the information is preferably displayed so that the information can be read by optical means. According to such an aspect, the print instruction medium can be read by the same device as that for reading the recorded matter on which the image data is recorded.

(10) Modification 10:
In the fourth embodiment, two-dimensional code 506 and image 503 recording image data are recorded one by one on the front and back of one sheet-like recorded matter. However, it is also possible to record a plurality of codes that record images and the images on different surfaces. In this case, it is preferable that the arrangement order of the plurality of codes on one surface and the arrangement order of the corresponding images on the other surface all coincide with each other. In addition, it is preferable that the arrangement order of the plurality of images and the arrangement order of the print number designation columns of the corresponding images in the print designation sheet also coincide.

  In the fourth embodiment, the two-dimensional code 506 and the image 503 in which image data is recorded are recorded on the front and back of a single sheet-like recorded matter. However, the two-dimensional code 506 and the image 503 in which the image data is recorded can be recorded on the recorded matter in another manner. For example, the image 503 can be recorded on a surface with an object (recorded material) having a three-dimensional shape, and the two-dimensional code can be recorded on a bottom surface that is not normally visible or a surface that does not appear unless the lid is opened. That is, the code for recording the image data and the image may be recorded on the surface that cannot be visually recognized at the same time. Note that "a surface that cannot be viewed at the same time in the shape when recording the code and the image recorded on the recorded material but can be viewed simultaneously by deforming the recorded material from that state" It shall fall under the “incapable aspect”.

  A recorded matter in which a code obtained by encoding image data and an image of the image data are recorded can be variously displayed so that the code and the image of the image data can be displayed. For example, it can be a sheet of paper or resin that can display an image. Further, the paper or resin sheet may be subjected to surface treatment. Furthermore, it may be paper or a sheet coated with a photosensitive material as described above. On the other hand, it may be an object having a three-dimensional shape as described above. That is, a “recorded matter” for recording a code obtained by encoding image data and an image of image data is capable of displaying or printing the code and an image of image data.

(11) Modification 11:
In the above embodiment, the reproduced image data PID2 generated based on the two-dimensional code of the image data sheet is printed by the printer 30. However, the image data generated based on the code on the recorded material may be output by other methods, for example, displayed on the display 20 or projected on a screen, in addition to being printed.

(12) Modification 12:
In the sixth embodiment, each device is connected via a network including the Internet INT (see FIG. 15). However, each device can be connected locally. For example, the digital still camera 300 can be connected to the personal computer 10 by USB (Universal Serial Bus). In place of USB, infrared communication, Bluetooth communication, or wireless LAN connection may be employed.

  In the aspect in which the digital still camera 300 and the personal computer 10 are connected by USB, image data can be transferred by high-speed communication of several Mbps to several hundred Mbps with inexpensive equipment. Further, in the aspect using infrared communication, the digital still camera 300 and the personal computer 10 can be connected relatively easily and inexpensively. The same applies to the mode of using communication by Bluetooth. And in the aspect using the connection by wireless LAN, high-speed communication of several Mbps to several tens Mbps can be performed.

(13) Modification 13:
In the above embodiment, a part of the configuration realized by hardware may be replaced with software, and conversely, a part of the configuration realized by software may be replaced by hardware. For example, a part of the functions of the application software 112 and the printer driver 116 (FIGS. 1 and 6) can be executed by the circuit of the printer 30.

  A computer program for realizing such a function is provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a floppy disk or a CD-ROM. The host computer reads the computer program from the recording medium and transfers it to the internal storage device or the external storage device. Alternatively, the computer program may be supplied from the program supply device to the host computer via a communication path. When realizing the function of the computer program, the computer program stored in the internal storage device is executed by the microprocessor of the host computer. Further, the host computer may directly execute the computer program recorded on the recording medium.

  In this specification, the computer is a concept including a hardware device and an operation system, and means a hardware device that operates under the control of the operation system. The computer program causes such a computer to realize the functions of the above-described units. Note that some of the functions described above may be realized by an operation system instead of an application program.

  In the present invention, the “computer-readable recording medium” is not limited to a portable recording medium such as a flexible disk or a CD-ROM, but an internal storage device in a computer such as various RAMs and ROMs, An external storage device fixed to a computer such as a hard disk is also included.

1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an image recording system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing in a printer driver when image data is recorded as a two-dimensional code on a print medium. Explanatory drawing of the two-dimensional code 504 showing image data PID. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an image data sheet 500. Explanatory drawing which shows the preservation | save file 1000 which can accommodate several image data sheet 500. FIG. Explanatory drawing which shows the image reproduction system 2 of one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a print designation sheet for giving an instruction to print an image to the application software based on a two-dimensional code of the image data sheet. 5 is a flowchart showing processing when an image recorded on an image data sheet 500 is formed. 5 is a flowchart showing processing for reading an image data sheet 500. Explanatory drawing which shows the image data sheet 500b in 2nd Example. Explanatory drawing which shows the reading method of the printing designation | designated sheet | seat 600 and the image data sheet 500b in 2nd Example. Explanatory drawing of the image data sheet 500c of 3rd Example. Explanatory drawing of the image data sheet 500d of 4th Example. The perspective view which shows the image processing apparatus 3 of 5th Example. Explanatory drawing which shows the image processing system of 6th Example.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image recording system 2 ... Image reproduction system 3 ... Image processing apparatus 10 ... Personal computer 20 ... Liquid crystal display 30 ... Color printer 40 ... Keyboard 50 ... Mouse 60 ... Scanner 70 ... DVD drive 71 ... DVD
80 ... Memory card reader 81 ... Compact flash card 110 ... CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 112 ... Application software 112a ... User interface part 112b ... Image reading part 112c ... Image recognition part 112d ... Code extraction part 112e ... Decoding part 114 ... Video driver 116 ... Printer driver 116a ... Image data input part 116b ... User interface part 116d ... Image Processing unit 116e ... Print processing unit 116f ... Thumbnail generation unit 116h ... Layout generation unit 120 ... RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 130 ... Hard disk 201 ... Auto seed feeder 202 ... Paper discharge tray 220 ... Liquid crystal display 231 ... CPU
231a ... Image data input unit 231b ... User interface unit 231d ... Image processing unit 231e ... Print processing unit 231f ... Image reading unit 231g ... Image recognition unit 231h ... Thumbnail generation unit 231j ... Layout generation unit 231k ... Code extraction unit 231l ... Decoding unit 240 ... Button group 280 ... Card reader 300 ... Digital still camera 400 ... Storage server 500, 500b to 500d ... Image data sheet 502 ... Thumbnail 512, 516, 517 ... Thumbnail area 600 ... Print designation sheet 602 ... Number of print designation field 604 ... Optical code 1000 ... Saved file 1002 ... Bag 1004 ... Cover 1006 ... Back cover 1008 ... Back cover Ac ... Arrow indicating two-dimensional code arrangement direction (direction perpendicular to the reading direction of the scanner) A ... Arrows indicating the scanning direction of the scanner Dbc ... Large cyan dots Dbk ... Large black dots Dbm ... Large magenta dots Dby ... Large yellow dots Dsc ... Small cyan dots Dsk ... Small black dots Dsm ... Small magenta dots Dsy ... yellow small dot FNL ... print image data ORG ... original image data PID ... initial image data PID2 ... reproduction image data PX ... pixel

Claims (14)

A recorded matter in which image data is recorded,
A recorded matter in which a code obtained by encoding image data and an image of the image data are formed. The recorded matter according to claim 1,
The recorded image data is image data in which information is compressed and held as compared with image data in which color information is held in a one-to-one correspondence with each pixel in the image. The recorded matter according to claim 1,
Having a first surface and a second surface that is not visible at the same time as the first surface;
The image is formed on the first surface,
A recorded matter in which the code is formed on the second surface. A method for producing a recorded matter in which image data is recorded,
(A) acquiring image data;
(B) generating a code obtained by encoding the image data based on the image data, and printing the code on a recorded matter;
(C) A method for producing a recorded matter, comprising: printing an image on the recorded matter based on the image data. The method of claim 4, comprising:
The method, wherein the recorded matter is a medium for printing a photograph. A method of recording image data,
(A) acquiring image data;
(B) generating a code obtained by encoding the image data based on the image data, and printing the code on a recorded matter;
(C) printing an image on the recorded matter based on the image data. An image data recording device,
A code generation unit that generates a code obtained by encoding the image data based on the image data;
An apparatus comprising: a printing unit that prints the code and an image of the image data on a recorded material. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein
The code generation unit compresses the image data before generating the code. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein
The apparatus is an apparatus in which the code represents information by colors formed at a plurality of positions in a predetermined area. The apparatus of claim 9, comprising:
The code | cord | chord is a code | cord | chord which further represents information with the magnitude | size of the part which has the said color in each said position. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein
The printing unit
Printing the plurality of codes and the plurality of images on the recorded matter;
An apparatus for printing the plurality of codes at a position adjacent to an image of image data recorded by each code. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein
The printing unit
Printing the plurality of codes and the plurality of images on the recorded matter;
An apparatus for printing the plurality of codes in one area in which the image is not printed. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein
When the surface of the recorded matter on which the code is recorded is divided into a first region near the outer periphery and a second region surrounded by the first region,
The printing unit is an apparatus for recording the code in the second area. A computer program for recording image data on a recorded material,
A function to acquire image data;
A function for generating a code obtained by encoding the image data based on the image data and printing the recorded data;
A computer program capable of causing a computer to realize a function of printing an image on the recorded matter based on the image data.

Images