JP2007290132A - Image forming apparatus and image forming program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus and an image forming program by which printing can be carried out under a printing condition not supported by the image forming apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus has a dither-setting information table 2222 in which information on a dither pattern 40 set for every printing condition and every drawing object classification is stored, a printing data interpreting means 61 which interprets received printing data, and an image processing means 62 which carries out image processing to printing data after interpreted which is interpreted by the printing data interpreting means 61. The image processing means 62 carries out drawing processing to the printing data after interpreted by referring to the dither-setting information table 2222. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming program that can perform printing under printing conditions that are not supported by the image forming apparatus.

  An image forming apparatus represented by a copying machine or a printer has a dither pattern for each print condition such as a type of a drawing object included in print data such as a character, a graphic, and an image, a resolution, a gradation depth, and a color component. Equipped with a γ table and a color profile for each printing condition such as plain paper, OHP, etc., and printing conditions, etc., making the best use of the performance characteristics of the high-performance printer engine. Printing is in progress.

  According to the printing conditions set in the received print data and the type of drawing object in the data, the method uses pseudo-gradation, density correction, and color matching using the optimal dither pattern, γ table and color profile. This is realized by performing various image processing.

Therefore, the user can set the printing conditions according to the printing application from the printer driver installed (installed) in the user terminal, and send the print data so that the image forming apparatus is optimized based on the printing conditions. Image processing can be performed using a simple dither pattern, γ table, and color profile, and printing can be performed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2003-145841 A

  However, regardless of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-145841, an image forming apparatus equipped with a dither pattern, a γ table, and a color profile is compatible with all printing conditions due to the limitation of the storage capacity of a storage device (ROM) included in the image forming apparatus. It is impossible to hold a dither pattern, a γ table and a color profile. Therefore, depending on the print data, the image forming apparatus may not be equipped with the dither pattern, γ table, and color profile corresponding to the printing conditions specified by the user, and an error may occur during printing. For example, this is a case where print data in which printing conditions with a resolution of 300 dpi are specified is transmitted to an image forming apparatus equipped with a dither pattern and a γ table corresponding to resolutions of 400 dpi, 600 dpi, and 1200 dpi.

  Even if the image forming apparatus is equipped with a dither pattern that corresponds to the printing conditions, the print data that includes a specific brush pattern interferes with the dither pattern that is adapted to the brush pattern depending on the set printing conditions. Since moire may occur in the result, there is a concern that the print quality will deteriorate.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image forming apparatus and an image forming program that can perform printing under printing conditions that are not supported by the image forming apparatus.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention interprets received dither data and a dither setting information table storing dither pattern information set for each print condition and drawing object type. Interpreting means, and image processing means for performing image processing on the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpreting means. In the image processing means, for the interpreted print data The drawing process can be performed with reference to the dither setting information table.

  Thus, the image forming apparatus interprets the print data, and whether the image forming apparatus has a dither pattern corresponding to the printing conditions (resolution, bit depth) set by the user from the interpreted print data If the image forming apparatus has a printing condition that is closest to the printing condition set by the user in the dither setting information table, and does not have a corresponding dither pattern. In addition, with reference to the dither setting information table, drawing processing can be performed using a dither pattern corresponding to the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus, and printing can be performed under printing conditions not supported by the image forming apparatus. it can.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is configured such that the image processing unit performs γ correction with reference to the dither setting information table for the interpreted print data. be able to.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus corresponds to the dither pattern determined by the dither setting information table in which the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus that are closest to the printing conditions set by the user are set based on the interpreted print data. Drawing processing can be performed using the γ table.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention has a dither pattern corresponding to a print condition and a drawing object type of the print data after the interpretation in the print data interpretation unit. If not, a print condition closest to the print condition of the interpreted print data among the print conditions of the image forming apparatus is determined, and the dither setting information table is changed to the determined print condition. In addition, the image processing means can be requested.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus, when the image forming apparatus does not have the dither pattern corresponding to the printing condition of the print data after interpretation and the drawing object type, among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus, the user Can determine the print condition closest to the set print condition, and can request the determined print condition to be set in the dither setting information table.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, in the image processing unit, when the change of the dither setting information table is requested by the print data interpretation unit, the print data interpretation unit, The dither setting information table may be changed to the determined printing condition.

  As a result, when a change in the dither setting information table is requested, the image forming apparatus changes the dither setting information table to a printing condition closest to the printing condition set by the user among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus. can do.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention interprets a color profile setting information table storing color profile information set for each printing condition and each type of drawing object, and the received print data. Printing data interpretation means, and image processing means for performing image processing on the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpretation means. In the image processing means, printing after interpretation The data can be configured to perform color matching with reference to the color profile setting information table.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus interprets the print data, and the image forming apparatus has a color profile corresponding to the printing conditions (color matching method suitable for the printing application) set by the user from the interpreted print data. If it does not have a corresponding color profile, the printing condition of the image forming apparatus that is closest to the printing condition set by the user is set in the color profile setting information table, and the image When performing processing, the color profile setting information table is referenced, color matching can be performed using a color profile corresponding to the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus, and in printing conditions that the image forming apparatus does not support, Printing can be performed.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention has a color profile corresponding to the print condition and drawing object type of the print data after interpretation in the print data interpreting means. If not, a printing condition closest to the printing condition of the interpreted print data is determined among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus, and the color profile setting information table is changed to the determined printing condition. As described above, the image processing means can be requested.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus, when the image forming apparatus does not have a color profile corresponding to the printing condition of the print data after interpretation and the drawing object type, the user among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus. Can determine the printing condition closest to the printing condition set, and can request to set the determined printing condition in the color profile setting information table.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is configured such that when the print data interpretation unit requests the change of the color profile setting information table in the image processing unit, the print data interpretation unit. The color profile setting information table can be changed to the determined printing conditions.

  As a result, when a change in the color profile setting information table is requested, the image forming apparatus sets the color profile setting information table to the printing condition closest to the printing condition set by the user among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus. Can be changed.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention determines whether or not the dither pattern set according to the dither setting information table interferes with the dot pattern of the print data in the image processing unit. In the case of interference, the dither setting information table may be updated so as to set a dither pattern that does not interfere.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus can determine whether or not the dither pattern used for drawing and the dot pattern of the print data (for example, “brush pattern”) interfere before drawing the print data. In the case of interference, the dither pattern used at the time of drawing can be changed, and interference can be prevented in advance.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming program of the present invention is an image forming program in an image forming apparatus having a dither setting information table storing dither pattern information set for each printing condition and drawing object type. The computer interprets the received print data, the print data interpreting means, and the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpreting means performs image processing, functions as an image processing means, The image processing means can be configured to perform a drawing process with reference to the dither setting information table for the interpreted print data.

  As a result, the image forming program interprets the print data, and whether the image forming apparatus has a dither pattern corresponding to the printing conditions (resolution, bit depth) set by the user from the interpreted print data. If the image forming apparatus has a printing condition that is closest to the printing condition set by the user in the dither setting information table, and does not have a corresponding dither pattern. In addition, with reference to the dither setting information table, it is possible to operate so as to perform the drawing process using the dither pattern corresponding to the printing condition of the image forming apparatus.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming program according to the present invention forms an image in an image forming apparatus having a color profile setting information table storing color profile information set for each printing condition and each type of drawing object. A program that functions as an image processing unit that performs image processing on a print data interpretation unit that interprets received print data, and an interpreted print data that is interpreted by the print data interpretation unit. The image processing means can be configured to perform color matching with reference to the profile setting information table for the interpreted print data.

  As a result, the image forming program interprets the print data, and the image forming apparatus has a color profile corresponding to the printing conditions set by the user (color matching method suitable for the printing application) from the interpreted print data. If it does not have a corresponding color profile, the printing condition of the image forming apparatus that is closest to the printing condition set by the user is set in the color profile setting information table, and the image When performing the processing, the color profile setting information table can be referred to operate so as to perform color matching using a color profile corresponding to the printing condition of the image forming apparatus.

  The present invention can provide an image forming apparatus and an image forming program that can perform printing under printing conditions that are not supported by the image forming apparatus.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 20 according to the first embodiment of the invention.

  1, an image forming apparatus 20 according to the first embodiment includes a network I / F 21, a controller unit 22, an engine unit 23, an I / O input / output circuit 24, a display unit 25, an input unit (hereinafter referred to as “operation unit”). 26), an image forming unit 27, a toner unit 28, and other device group 29.

  The network I / F 21 receives print data, information indicating the status of the image forming apparatus 20 (“status notification”), and the like with a communication device on a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a public line, and a wireless line. Send and receive by two-way communication.

  The controller unit 22 includes a controller control unit 221 and a main storage unit 222.

  The controller control unit 221 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and a program (for example, a program for realizing the functions of the image forming apparatus 20 on a control OS (Operating System)). , “Printer application”, etc.) and control the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 20 via the system bus.

  The main storage unit 222 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The ROM executes a program executed by the controller control unit 221 and data used in the program (for example, “dither pattern”, “ γ table ”,“ color profile ”, etc.) are stored, and the stored program and data used in the program are expanded in the RAM when the program is executed and executed by the controller control unit 221. The RAM temporarily stores intermediate data after interpretation of print data and a raster image (bitmap image) obtained by image processing (including “drawing processing”) of the intermediate data by a program executed by the controller control unit 221. Retained.

  The main storage unit 222 includes an NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory), and the NVRAM stores setting information necessary for control of the controller unit 22 and state information when the power is turned off (for example, “total number of printed sheets”). ", Etc.).

  The engine unit 23 includes an engine control unit 231 and a main storage unit 232.

  The engine control unit 231 includes a CPU, executes an engine control program for realizing the printing function of the image forming apparatus 20, and performs image processing (“rendering process to RAM” after interpreting print data in the controller unit 22. In order to print the raster image (bitmap image), the paper cassette unit storing various sizes of printing paper and the printing paper stored in the paper cassette unit are taken out to the image forming unit. A paper feeding and conveying unit that conveys, an image forming unit that forms a printed image from a raster image (bitmap image) (latent image on a photoconductor), and prints (develops and transfers) the printing paper; and a printed sheet A paper discharge unit that discharges paper to a paper discharge tray and a drive unit that drives each of the above-described units are controlled.

  The main storage unit 232 includes a ROM and a RAM. The ROM stores a program executed by the engine control unit 232 and data used by the program. The RAM uses the stored program or program. Data is expanded when the program is executed and is executed by the engine control unit 231. In addition, a raster image (bitmap image) generated by the controller unit 22 is temporarily stored in the RAM.

  The main memory unit 232 includes an EEPROM (Electronically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory). The EEPROM stores setting values necessary for controlling the engine unit 23 and state information when the power is turned off (for example, “registration adjustment”). -Concentration adjustment value "etc.) is stored.

  The I / O input / output circuit 24 exchanges data necessary for control of the image forming apparatus 20 and raster images to be printed with each functional unit including the controller unit 22 and the engine unit 23 included in the image forming apparatus 20. Give and receive.

  The display unit 25 includes a liquid crystal display device and the like, and displays various information such as information on the print job, driving conditions of the image forming apparatus 20, printing conditions, and apparatus status on the screen. In the case of an MFP (Multi-Function Printer), the display unit 25 has a touch panel function.

  The input unit 26 includes a numeric keypad, various function keys, start / stop keys, etc. in the case of MFP, and includes an online / offline key, various function keys, etc. in the case of a printer, and the driving conditions and printing conditions of the image forming apparatus 20. Enter (set). In the case of the MFP, the display unit 25 has a touch panel function, and the driving conditions, printing conditions, and the like of the image forming apparatus 20 can be set by pressing a function button displayed on the panel with an attached touch pen or the like. Input (setting) is possible.

  The image forming unit 27 is controlled by the engine control unit 231 of the engine unit 23, and from the raster image (bitmap image) generated from the controller unit 22, a print image is latently formed on the photoconductor, and then a latent image is formed. The developed image is developed, transferred and fixed on printing paper, and printed.

  When printing is performed by the image forming unit 27, the toner unit 28 stores toner that is powder ink to be printed on paper and a developer necessary for attaching the toner to the photosensitive member.

  The other device group 29 includes a paper feeding cassette unit that stores printing paper of various sizes, a paper feeding conveyance unit that takes out the printing paper stored in the paper feeding cassette unit and conveys it to the image forming unit 27, and a post-printing unit A haiku portion that discharges printing paper to a discharge tray, a drive unit that drives each of the above-described units, and control sensors.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 20 receives print data from the user via the network I / F 21, interprets the print data by the controller unit 22, and then generates a raster image (bitmap image). Thereafter, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the generated raster image (bitmap image) by the engine unit 23 via the I / O input / output circuit 24 and processes the latent image and the development by the image forming unit 27 in this order. The developed image is transferred and fixed on the printing paper fed from the paper feed tray, thereby printing the print data on the paper.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a flow from print data reception to printing according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 1 shows the function of the hardware configuration provided in the image forming apparatus 20 and the flow until the constituent hardware receives print data and prints it on the paper has been described, but in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 20 has. A flow from interpreting received print data to generating a raster image to be passed to the engine unit 23 will be described with a focus on a printer application.

  The main program executed to print the print data in the controller control unit 221 of the controller unit 22 is a printer application. First, main function units constituting the printer application will be described.

  The printer application has a print data interpretation unit 2211n and an image processing unit 2212. The print data interpretation unit 2211n and the image processing unit 2212 are separate programs, and are executed as separate threads when the application is executed. , Cooperate with each other while exchanging data.

  First, the PDL switching unit of the printing system determines which PDL the print data received via the network I / F 21 is, and the PDL switching unit can interpret the print data. 2211n is activated.

  The print data interpretation unit 2211n is a print described in PDL (Page Description Language) represented by PCL (registered trademark) developed by Hewletto-Packard, PostScript (registered trademark) developed by Adobe, etc. It is an interpreter program that interprets data.

  The print data is described and generated in PDL by a printer driver installed in the user's host PC 10.

  The PDL described in the print data is designed to set graphic information such as figure type, origin, size, background color, pattern, and fill with separate commands. In order to convert an object) into a raster image (bitmap image), multiple commands must be interpreted. Therefore, after interpreting the PDL, the print data interpretation unit 2211n converts the graphic information necessary for each object into a display list 32 that is combined into one.

  Here, the intermediate data 30 including the display list 32 generated by the print data interpretation unit 2211n will be described with reference to a diagram illustrating a data configuration example of the intermediate data 30 in FIG.

  According to FIG. 3, when generating the display list 32 of the intermediate data 30, the print data interpretation unit 2211n considers the capacity of the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 for rendering the display list 32 for one page, and displays the display list 32. There are cases where the list 32 is divided into a plurality of band-like areas (hereinafter referred to as “bands”) (for example, “bands 1 to 4”), and the bands 1 to 4 and the bands are drawn. The band correspondence information 31 of the power figure is also generated. For example, the triangle expanded in the display list 32 shown in FIG. 3 is drawn in the band correspondence information 31 and drawn in the band 1 because it is drawn across both the band 1 and band 2 areas. Information of “Band 1: Triangle 1” indicating the upper part of the triangle to be generated and “Band 2: Triangle 2” indicating the middle / lower part of the triangle to be drawn in band 2 is generated.

  In this way, after interpreting the print data, the print data interpretation unit 2211n writes the intermediate data 30 composed of the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 to the intermediate data memory area 2221 in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22. .

  The print data interpretation unit 2211n also prints the print conditions ("resolution: number of dots per inch in the X and Y directions (dot per inch)", "bit depth: bits expressing gradations". The printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 are designated as specified printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). .)), And if not, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 that are designated (“ The printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) closest to "resolution", "bit depth", etc.) are determined, and the determined printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) To the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22. To change the setting information table 2222, and requests to the image processing unit 2212.

  The image processing unit 2212 performs image processing such as gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) based on the intermediate data 30 generated by the print data interpretation unit 2211n, and raster image (bit). Map image) (hereinafter referred to as “rasterize”).

  Based on the display list 32 and the band correspondence information 31 written in the intermediate data memory area 2221 in the RAM 222 included in the controller unit 22, the image processing unit 2212 obtains an object to be drawn in the band currently being rasterized, The display list 32 is read from the data memory area 2221, the display list 32 is interpreted to determine the object type, and objects such as circles, rectangles, and straight lines are converted into bitmaps (raster images), and the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23 The page memory area 2321 is drawn.

  Further, the image processing unit 2212 determines the object type and the like based on the display list 32 generated by the print data interpretation unit 2211n, and among the dither pattern and γ table developed on the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22, Gradation processing using the dither pattern and γ table according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) set in the dither setting information table 2222 held on the RAM 222 included in the unit 22 (“ Dither processing ”,“ γ correction processing ”, etc.).

  Here, the gradation processing in the image processing unit 2212 will be described with reference to the dither pattern and γ table data examples shown in FIG.

  According to FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 20 includes object types (“character”, “graphic”, “photo”), color planes (“K (black)”, “C (cyan)”, “M (magenta)). ) ”,“ Y (Yellow) ”), dither pattern 40 for performing optimum gradation processing for each printing condition (“ resolution ”,“ bit depth ”, etc.), and a γ table corresponding to the dither pattern 40 50.

  The dither pattern 40 is an aggregate of dots used for performing pseudo gradation expression using the dither method. The dither pattern 40 has information on whether or not to perform drawing for each dot, and a dot area having information for performing drawing. The gradation is expressed by the area of. For this reason, the image processing unit 2212 uses a dither pattern 40 having a small number of dots and a small pattern area, such as the 600 dpi 1-bit character dither shown in FIG. By using a dither pattern 40 having a large number of dots and a large pattern area, such as a 600 dpi 1-bit photographic dither, it is possible to express color continuity in images such as photographs. .

  The γ table 50 corrects gradation characteristics of the image forming apparatus 20 when gradation expression is performed using the dither pattern 40 (hereinafter referred to as “γ correction”), and corresponds to the dither pattern 40. ing. γ correction is a process that corrects the curve (γ curve: γ correction curve) from the darkest part (0) to the brightest part (255), and changes the intermediate position of brightness. It is something to be made. The γ value is a value indicating input / output gradation characteristics. When the γ value is 1 (linear), it indicates that the optimum gradation is expressed (print data is faithfully expressed). However, the image forming apparatus 20 cannot always express the ideal gradation characteristic (γ value 1) in the output result due to the gradation characteristic of the print data and the characteristic of the dither pattern 40 used when performing gradation expression. Therefore, for example, if the γ value of the gradation characteristic of the print data is 1.8, the γ correction value that approximates the γ value of the gradation characteristic of the output result to 1 is set to 0.56 (1 ÷ 1.8). It is necessary to perform γ correction in order to express a proper gradation. Therefore, the image processing unit 2212 performs γ correction using the γ table 50 having a γ correction curve indicating an exponential change shown in FIG.

  Next, the dither setting information table 2222 that is changed and referred to by the image processing unit 2212 will be described with reference to a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the dither setting information table 2222 in FIG.

  The dither setting information table 2222 is data included in the printing system (the dither setting information table 2222 is prepared as initial data as a structure in the program), and while the printing system is executed by the controller control unit 221. Is temporarily held on the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22, and the data is referred to and updated by the image processing unit 2212 included in the printer application. Therefore, it is referred / updated from the printer application (including “print data interpretation unit 2211n” and “image processing unit 2212”) corresponding to each PDL.

  The dither setting information table 2222 includes printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data and printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. And object types (“character”, “graphic”, “photo”), and color planes (“K (black)”, “C (cyan)”, “M (magenta)”, "Y (yellow)") printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.), and printing conditions specified by the print data ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) On the other hand, the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 closest to the print data designation determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 2211n are associated.

  For example, if the print data specifies printing conditions with a resolution of 300 dpi in the X and Y directions and a bit depth of 1 bit, as shown in the data configuration example of the dither setting information table 2222 in FIG. Does not have the corresponding printing conditions (“X: 300 dpi, Y3: 300 dpi”, “1 bit”), the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus 20 with the resolution of 600 dpi in the X and Y directions and the bit depth of 1 bit are It is associated.

  The image processing unit 2212 refers to the dither setting information table 2222 having such a data structure when performing gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), and prints designated by print data. The dither pattern 40, γ according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 associated with the conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) Processing is performed using the table 50.

  Further, the image processing unit 2212 performs gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) when a request for changing the setting information in the dither setting information table 2222 is received from the print data interpretation unit 2211n. Before, the dither setting information table 2222 is changed to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined by the print data interpretation unit 2211n.

  The dither setting information table 2222 is initialized when all values are set to “0” when the printing system is activated, as in the initial data configuration example of the dither setting information table 2222 in FIG. It has become.

  For example, as shown in the data example when the data of the dither setting information table 2222 in FIG. 5C is updated, the image processing unit 2212 prints the print data with a resolution of 300 dpi in the X and Y directions and a bit depth of 1 bit. When the conditions are specified, the print data interpretation unit 2211n causes the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 to be specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). It is decided to apply the printing conditions with the resolution of 600dpi in the X and Y directions and the bit depth of 1bit that are closest to the "bit depth" etc.), and according to the determined printing conditions, the object type ("character", "graphic" ”,“ Photo ”) and by color plane (“ K (Black) ”,“ C (Cyan) ”,“ M (Magenta) ”,“ Y (Yellow) ”) printing conditions (“ Resolution ”,“ Bit ”) Depth "etc.) Set to be. As shown in FIG. 5D, the image processing unit 2212 causes the print data interpretation unit 2211n to display an image when the print data designates printing conditions with a resolution of 1200 dpi in the X and Y directions and a bit depth of 2 bits. X and Y closest to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data among the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the forming apparatus 20. It is decided to apply the printing condition of direction resolution 1200dpi and bit depth 1bit, and according to the decided printing condition, the object type (“character”, “graphic”, “photo”) and the color plane (“K”) (Black) ”,“ C (Cyan) ”,“ M (Magenta) ”,“ Y (Yellow) ”) printing conditions (“ Resolution ”,“ Bit Depth ”, etc.) are set.

  In the printing system, the print data interpretation unit 2211n, the image processing unit 2212, and the like included in the printer application refer to / update the data of the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), and intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence”). API (Application Program Interface) for writing (drawing) data of “information 31” and “display list 32”) is prepared.

  The print data interpretation unit 2211n and the image processing unit 2212 included in the printer application incorporate the API provided by the printing system into each program, so that when the program of the print data interpretation unit 2211n and the image processing unit 2212 is executed, the API By referring to the print condition (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) in the dither setting information table 2222, intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32” is set. ]) Can be written to the intermediate data memory area 2221 of the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22.

  As described above, the printer application included in the image forming apparatus 20 receives the print data (1-1 in FIG. 2) transmitted from the host PC 10 via the network I / F 21 (1-2 in FIG. 2). For the print data, the print data interpretation unit 2211n, which is a PDL interpreter capable of interpreting the print data, is activated by the PDL switching unit of the printing system (1-3 in FIG. 2), and the print data interpretation unit 2211n activates the print data. Are read, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data are read, and the designated printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are read out by the image forming apparatus. 20 is determined to be incompatible with the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of FIG. 20 (1-4 in FIG. 2), the printing conditions (“resolution”) of the image forming apparatus 20 Among the “bit depth”, etc.), the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) closest to the specified printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are determined. The image processing unit 2212 is requested to change the dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 to the determined printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) (FIG. 2-5).

  Further, the printer application generates a display list 32 and band correspondence information 31 as intermediate data 30 based on the PDL command in the print data by the print data interpretation unit 2211n, and the intermediate data memory of the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 Write to the area 2221 (1-6 in FIG. 2).

  Next, when a request for changing the dither setting information table 2222 is received from the print data interpretation unit 2211n by the image processing unit 2212 (1-5 in FIG. 2), the printer application is provided in the controller unit 22 according to the request. The dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 is changed to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 2211n (1-7 in FIG. 2).

  Thereafter, the printer application refers to the dither setting information table 2222 by the image processing unit 2212, and print conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “gap” in the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222. The printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) in the dither setting information table 2222 associated with “bit depth” etc.) are acquired (1-7 in FIG. 2), and the display list 32 Based on the band correspondence information 31, an object to be drawn in the currently rasterized band is obtained, the display list 32 is read from the intermediate data memory area 2221 (1-8 in FIG. 2), and the object is obtained by interpreting the display list 32. The dither pattern 4 developed on the RAM 222 is determined based on the determined object type. 2, using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the dither setting information table 2222 (1-8 in FIG. 2). ) Perform gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), convert each object into a bitmap (raster image), and draw it in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23 (FIG. 2 of 1-9).

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 processes the raster image (bitmap image) drawn in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 included in the engine unit 23 in the order of the latent image and development by the image forming unit 27 ( 1-10 in FIG. 2, and printing is performed on the paper by the engine unit 23 (1-11 in FIG. 2).

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a main part according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The configuration of FIG. 6 is divided into a print data interpretation unit 61 and an image processing unit 62.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the print data described in the PDL, print conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), and the print conditions (“ Issue a change request for the dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 based on “resolution”, “bit depth”, etc .; Based on the PDL command, intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) is generated.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 reads the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data, and the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. .) Corresponds to the specified printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), and the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 are determined. .) Is determined based on the presence or absence of the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50. If the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 do not correspond, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 are designated. Printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) closest to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are determined, and the determined printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are determined. To the bit depth "etc.)) To change the dither setting information table 2222 held in that RAM 222, and requests the image processing unit 2212.

  The print data interpreting means 61 interprets the PDL command in the print data, reads the graphic information of the object type constituting the print data for each page, and the graphic necessary for each object constituting the page. Based on the information, a display list 32 of the intermediate data 30 is generated. Also, the print data interpretation unit 61 draws the display list 32 for the intermediate data 30 in consideration of the capacity of the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 for rendering the display list 32 for one page. In some cases, the process is divided into a plurality of bands, and band correspondence information 31 of a band and a graphic to be drawn in the band is also generated. The print data interpretation unit 61 thus writes the intermediate data 30 composed of the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 to the intermediate data memory area 2221 in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 after interpreting the print data. .

  The print data interpretation unit 61 is performed by the print data interpretation unit 2211n included in the printer application.

  Based on the display list 32 and the band correspondence information 31 written in the intermediate data memory area 2221 in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22, the image processing unit 62 obtains an object to be drawn in the band currently being rasterized, The display list 32 is read from the data memory area 2221, the display list 32 is interpreted to determine the object type, and objects such as circles, rectangles, and straight lines are converted into bitmaps (raster images), and the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23 The page memory area 2321 is drawn.

  Further, the image processing means 62 determines the object type and the like based on the display list 32 generated by the print data interpretation means 61, and includes the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22. The dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) set in the dither setting information table 2222 held on the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 are used. Tone processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed.

  The image processing means 62 refers to the dither setting information table 2222 when performing gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), and print conditions (“resolution”, “ The processing is performed according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the associated image forming apparatus 20.

  Further, the image processing unit 62 performs gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) when the print data interpretation unit 61 receives a change request for setting information in the dither setting information table 2222. Before, the dither setting information table 2222 is changed to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined by the print data interpretation unit 61.

  The image processing unit 62 is performed by an image processing unit 2212 included in the printer application.

  As described above, the printer application included in the image forming apparatus 20 interprets the print data transmitted from the host PC 10 by the print data interpretation unit 61 and print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”) specified by the print data. Etc.) and the designated printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) cannot be handled by the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. If it is determined, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 are the most suitable for the specified printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). Near printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are determined, and the dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 is determined according to the determined printing conditions (“resolution”, “resolution”). Tsu DOO depth "or the like.) To change to a request to the image processing unit 62.

  Also, the printer application generates a display list 32 and band correspondence information 31 as intermediate data 30 based on a PDL command in the print data by the print data interpretation unit 61, and an intermediate data memory in a RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22. Write to area 2221.

  Next, when there is a change request for the dither setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61 by the image processing unit 62, the printer application receives the dither setting information held in the RAM 222 included in the controller unit 22 in accordance with the request. The table 2222 is changed to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 61.

  After that, the printer application refers to the dither setting information table 2222 by the image processing means 62, and among the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “ The print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the dither setting information table 2222 associated with “bit depth” etc.) are acquired, and based on the display list 32 and band correspondence information 31, the current An object to be rendered in a band that is being rasterized is obtained, the display list 32 is read from the intermediate data memory area 2221, the display list 32 is interpreted to determine the type of the object, and the RAM 222 is read based on the determined object type. Of the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed in FIG. Tone processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”) using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the setting information table 2222. Etc.), each object is converted into a bitmap (raster image) and rendered in a page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23.

  Therefore, the image forming apparatus 20 has printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data that are not supported by the image forming apparatus 20 (“resolution”, “bit depth”). ”, Etc.), no error occurs, and the dither setting information table 2222 does not cause an error, and printing specified in the printing conditions (“ resolution ”,“ bit depth ”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 is specified. The printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) closest to the conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are associated with each other, and the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”). Etc.) can be printed using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing of the print data interpretation unit 61 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the print data and reads the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data (S101). Next, the print data interpretation unit 61 checks the types of the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 (S102).

  Next, the print data interpretation unit 61 includes the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”) specified by the print data among the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. It is determined whether or not there is a dither pattern 40 corresponding to "."

  When there is no dither pattern 40 corresponding to the printing conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), the print data interpretation unit 61 (the image forming apparatus 20 determines that the specified printing conditions (“ (When “resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are not supported) (S103 is NO), the dither setting information table 2222 is transferred to the image processing unit 2212 by the printing conditions (“resolution”, “ It is requested to change the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 associated with “bit depth” etc.) (S104). Thereafter, the print data interpreting means 61 interprets the PDL command in the print data, reads the graphic information of the object type constituting the print data for each page, and the necessary graphics for each object constituting the page. Based on the information, the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 of the intermediate data 30 are generated (S105).

  Further, when there is a dither pattern 40 corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data (S103: YES), the print data interpretation unit 61 determines whether the PDL command in the print data is present. The graphic information of the object type constituting the print data is read for each page, and based on the graphic information necessary for each object constituting the page, the band correspondence information 31 of the intermediate data 30, the display A list 32 is generated (S105).

  Finally, the print data interpretation unit 61 transfers the intermediate data 30 composed of the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 to the intermediate data memory area 2221 in the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 via the API of the printing system. Write (S106).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing for determining the presence or absence of the dither pattern 40 in the print data interpretation unit 61 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 8 shows a print that the image forming apparatus 20 has associated with the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the print data read by the print data interpretation unit 61 in S103 shown in FIG. A method for determining the conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) will be described.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 includes print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data among the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. It is determined whether there is a dither pattern 40 corresponding to () (S1031).

  When there is no dither pattern 40 corresponding to the printing conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), the print data interpretation unit 61 (the image forming apparatus 20 determines that the specified printing conditions (“ Resolution ”,“ bit depth ”, etc.) (S1031 is NO), the printing condition bits of the image forming apparatus 20 at the resolution and bit depth of the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus 20 Although the depth is different from the bit depth of the printing condition designated by the print data, it is determined whether the resolution is the same and the corresponding dither pattern 40 is present (S1032).

  When there is a dither pattern 40 corresponding to a condition in which the resolutions match, although the bit depth is different (YES in S1032), the print data interpretation unit 61 determines the resolution and bit depth of the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus 20 at this time. Is determined as a print condition (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) that is currently specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). (“Resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are held (S1034).

  Further, when there is no dither pattern 40 corresponding to the condition in which the resolutions match, although the bit depth is different (S1032 is NO), the print data interpretation unit 61 prints conditions (“resolution”, “ Printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) closest to the printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) specified by the print data. Determine (S1033). Thereafter, the print data interpretation unit 61 holds the determined printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) (S1034).

  The print data interpretation unit 61 changes the setting information in the dither setting information table 2222 to the determined printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), and the dither setting information table 2222 is sent to the image processing unit 2212. Is requested to be changed (S104).

  When there is a dither pattern 40 corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data (S1031 is YES), the print data interpretation unit 61 makes an update request to the dither setting information table 2222. Do not do.

  In this way, the print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the print data transmitted from the host PC 10, reads the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data, and designates the designated print. If it is determined that the conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are not compatible with the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20, the image forming apparatus 20 Among the printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) of the printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) closest to the specified printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.)) And the dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 is changed to the determined printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). Necessary to the image processing means 62 To.

  Further, the print data interpretation unit 61 generates a display list 32 and band correspondence information 31 that are intermediate data 30 based on the PDL command in the print data, and writes them to the intermediate data memory area 2221 of the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22. .

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing of the image processing means 62 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The image processing unit 62 determines whether a change request for the dither setting information table 2222 has been received from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S201).

  When the image processing unit 62 receives a change request for the dither setting information table 2222 (YES in S201), the image processing unit 62 converts the dither setting information table 2222 into the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth” determined by the print data interpretation unit 61). ("S").) (S202).

  Next, in the image processing means 62, the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) is written by the print data interpretation means 61 in the intermediate data memory area 2221 on the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22. (S203).

  When there is no writing in the intermediate data memory area 2221 (NO in S203), the image processing unit 62 waits until the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) is written by the print data interpretation unit 61. .

  In addition, when there is a write in the intermediate data memory area 2221 (YES in S203), the image processing unit 62 refers to the updated dither setting information table 2222 and print conditions (“resolution”, “ The printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 associated with “bit depth” etc.) are acquired (S204).

  When the image processing unit 62 does not receive a change request for the dither setting information table 2222 (S201 is NO), the print data interpretation unit 61 writes the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”). It is determined whether it has been received (S208).

  If there is no writing in the intermediate data memory area 2221 (NO in S208), the image processing means 62 waits until the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) is written by the print data interpretation means 61. .

  Further, the image processing means 62 interprets the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data when the intermediate data memory area 2221 is written (YES in S208). Obtained from the means 61 (S209).

  Next, the image processing means 62 sets the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data to the image. If the forming apparatus 20 does not have the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the dither setting information table 2222, and the corresponding printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”). If the image forming apparatus 20 has “, etc.”), the dither pattern 40 included in the image forming apparatus 20 based on the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data. The γ table 50 is confirmed (S205).

  Next, the image processing means 62 refers to the dither setting information table 2222 and print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”) specified by the print data in the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222. The dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the dither setting information table 2222 associated with “, etc.” are acquired (S206).

  Finally, the image processing means 62 obtains an object to be drawn in the band currently rasterized based on the display list 32 and the band correspondence information 31, reads the display list 32 from the intermediate data memory area 2221, and displays the display list 32. , The object type is determined, and the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit” of the dither setting information table 2222 out of the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222 are determined based on the determined object type. Tone processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to “depth”, etc., and each object is converted into a bitmap (raster image). , Rendering is performed in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 included in the engine unit 23 ( 207).

  As described above, when there is a change request for the dither setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61, the image processing unit 62 reads the dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 according to the request. Then, the printing condition is changed to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 61.

  After that, the image processing means 62 refers to the dither setting information table 2222 and print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”) specified by the print data in the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222. Etc.) is acquired, and the current rasterization is performed based on the display list 32 and the band correspondence information 31. The print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the dither setting information table 2222 associated with The display list 32 is read from the intermediate data memory area 2221, the object type is determined by interpreting the display list 32, and the object is developed on the RAM 222 based on the determined object type. Of the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50, the acquired printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit” Gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 in accordance with the “depth”, etc.) to convert each object into a bitmap (raster image). Then, drawing is performed in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 included in the engine unit 23.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating processing performed between the print data interpretation unit 2211n and the image processing unit 2212 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the print data and based on the read print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), the image forming apparatus 20 prints the print conditions (“resolution” specified by the print data). ”,“ Bit depth ”, etc.), the image forming apparatus 20 determines whether or not the printing conditions (“ resolution ”,“ bit depth ”) specified by the print data. If there is no dither pattern 40 corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data, the printing conditions (“ Resolution ”,“ bit depth ”, etc.) and the dither setting information table 2222 is changed to the determined printing conditions (“ resolution ”,“ bit depth ”, etc.) to the image processing means 62. , Dither setting information table 2222 to request a change of.

  The image processing unit 62 receives the request from the print data interpretation unit 61 and changes the dither setting information table 2222 to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined by the print data interpretation unit 61.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 creates the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 based on the PDL command of the print data, and writes it in the intermediate data memory area 2221.

  After changing the dither setting information table 2222, the image processing unit 62 determines whether or not the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 are written in the intermediate data memory area 2221 by the print data interpretation unit 61. In this case, the updated dither setting information table 2222 is referred to, and the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus 20 associated with the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data ( "Resolution", "Bit depth", etc.) are obtained, and based on the display list 32 and the band correspondence information 31, an object to be drawn in the current rasterized band is obtained, and the display list is obtained from the intermediate data memory area 2221. 32 is read and the display list 32 is interpreted to determine the object type. The dither according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the dither setting information table 2222 out of the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222 based on the object type. Tones are processed using the pattern 40 and the γ table 50 (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), and each object is converted into a bitmap (raster image), and a page on the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23 Drawing is performed in the memory area 2321.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the printer application included in the image forming apparatus 20 interprets the print data transmitted from the host PC 10 by the print data interpretation unit 61 and prints designated by the print data. The conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are read, and the specified printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are the printing conditions (“resolution”, If it is determined that the image forming apparatus 20 cannot cope with the “bit depth” or the like, the specified printing condition (“resolution”) among the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 is determined. , “Bit depth”, etc.) is determined, and the dither setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 is determined. The image processing unit 62 is requested to change to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), and the image processing unit 62 holds the data in the RAM 222 included in the controller unit 22 in accordance with the request. By changing the dither setting information table 2222 to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 61, the printing conditions (“resolution”, Print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the dither setting information table 2222 associated with “bit depth”, etc.), read the display list 32 from the intermediate data memory area 2221, The display list 32 is interpreted to determine the object type, and the dither setting information table 2222 is determined based on the determined object type. Tone processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the acquired printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). Each object can be converted into a bitmap (raster image) and rendered in a page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23.

  Therefore, the image forming apparatus 20 has printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data that are not supported by the image forming apparatus 20 (“resolution”, “bit depth”). ”, Etc.), since there is no dither pattern 40 or γ table 50 to be applied, an error occurs during printing, and even for print data that could not be printed, the dither setting information table 2222 is used for the image forming apparatus. Among the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) included in the print conditions 20, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) that are closest to the specified printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). Bit depth ", etc.) are associated, and printing can be performed using the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 according to the printing conditions (" resolution "," bit depth ", etc.).

  In the first embodiment, the image forming apparatus 20 having the full color printing function has been described. However, in the image forming apparatus 20 having the monochrome printing function, the color plane item K (in the dither setting information table 2222) It is possible to use only black).

  Example 2 considers a case where a color matching method, which is a printing condition other than the resolution and bit depth, is specified in the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data. It is.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that a color profile setting information table is provided in addition to the dither setting information table.

  Therefore, in the second embodiment, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1, the flow from reception of print data to printing in FIG. 2, the data configuration example of intermediate data in FIG. 3, the dither pattern and γ table in FIG. 5A, a data configuration example of the dither setting information table in FIG. 5A, an initial data configuration example of the dither setting information table in FIG. 5B, and the dither setting information in FIGS. 5C and 5D. Since the data example when the table data is updated is the same as that in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given in the description of the second embodiment and the description thereof will be omitted when FIGS.

  In the second embodiment, the color profile corresponding to the image forming apparatus in the configuration example of the main part of FIG. 12, the processing of the print data interpretation unit of FIG. 14, and the print data interpretation unit of FIG. The processing for determining the presence / absence, the processing of the image processing unit in FIG. 16, and the processing performed between the print data interpretation unit and the image processing unit in FIG. 18 are partly the same as in FIGS. Therefore, the same configuration example and process will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted, and only the part related to the second embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a data example of the color profile 70 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The color profile data is used when performing color matching processing in the image forming apparatus 20 having a full-color printing function.

  The color matching process performed in the image forming apparatus 20 is a method for reducing the difference between the print data image displayed on the monitor connected to the host PC 10 or the like and the color printed by the image forming apparatus 20. While the monitor expresses the colors using the three primary colors of RGB light, the image forming apparatus 20 expresses the colors using four CMYK colors. Since the color expression method differs between the two, the print displayed on the monitor is displayed. It is difficult to print the data image as it is, and to express the color in the printing result of the image forming apparatus 20, and the color expression is different even in the same image depending on the model of the image forming apparatus 20. In order to eliminate the difference in color expression, the image forming apparatus 20 is prepared with data recording the color expression characteristics, the color profile 70, and the difference is calculated to obtain the print data. A color representation screen display of, is a print result of the image forming apparatus 20 intended to be possible also.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the color profile 70 included in the image forming apparatus 20 includes an object type (“character”, “graphic”, “photo”, etc.) constituting print data, and a paper type to be printed (“plain paper”). ”,“ OHP ”,“ thick paper ”, etc.), and each color profile 70 corresponds to the print data characteristics and paper type, and takes into account the color reproduction characteristics of the image forming apparatus 20. It consists of conversion values for color expression (convert from RGB to CMYK).

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 20 has data depending on the model such as the color profile 70 as well as the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50.

  FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a main part according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The configuration shown in FIG. 12 is divided into a print data interpretation unit 61 and an image processing unit 62.

  The difference from the configuration example of the main part according to the first embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 is that the main storage unit 222 included in the controller unit 22 holds the color profile 70 and the color profile setting information table 2222.

  Here, FIG. 13 showing an example of the data configuration of the color profile setting information table 2222 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The color profile setting information table 2222 includes a number for identifying a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) designated by the print data, and a color matching method (“brightness”) of the image forming apparatus 20. Priority ”,“ Gradation Priority ”, etc.) and image formation for color matching methods (“ Vividness Priority ”,“ Gradation Priority ”, etc.) specified by the print data. A color profile of a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the apparatus 20 is associated.

  For example, the number that identifies the color profile that corresponds to “brightness priority” in the color matching method is 1, the number that identifies the color profile that corresponds to “tone priority” is 2, and the color profile that corresponds to “thick paper” is identified. Image forming apparatus with color profiles corresponding to “Brightness priority (1)” and “Gradation priority (2)”, where 4 is the number to identify and 5 is the number identifying the color profile corresponding to “OHP” When print data designating the “OHP” color matching method is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20, the image forming apparatus 20, as shown in the data configuration example of the color profile setting information table 2222 in FIG. “OHP (5)”) does not have a color profile, so the image processing apparatus 20 has a “brightness priority (1)” color profile. File is associated with.

  Hereinafter, only the print data interpretation unit 61 and the image processing unit 62 related to the color profile 70 and the color profile setting information table 2222 will be described. Therefore, in the print data interpretation unit 61 and the image processing unit 62 of the second embodiment, the same contents as those of the print data interpretation unit 61 and the image processing unit 62 of the first embodiment are omitted.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 reads the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) designated by the print data, and the color matching method (“brightness priority”, Whether or not “tone priority” etc. corresponds to the specified color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.). The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) specified by the print data is determined based on the presence or absence of the color profile 70 corresponding to “brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.). If the color matching method is not supported, the designated color matching method (“brightness priority”) among the color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 is provided. The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) closest to “tone priority” is determined, and the determined color matching method (“brightness priority”, “floor priority”) is determined. To the image processing unit 2212 to change the color profile setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22.

  The image processing means 62 includes a color matching method (“brightly colored” set in the color profile setting information table 2222 held on the RAM 222 included in the controller unit 22 among the color profiles 70 developed on the RAM 222 included in the controller unit 22. Color matching processing is performed using the color profile 70 in accordance with “priority priority”, “tone priority”, etc.).

  When performing the color matching process, the image processing unit 62 refers to the color profile setting information table 2222 and performs color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) designated by the print data. Processing is performed according to a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the associated image forming apparatus 20.

  In addition, when the print data interpretation unit 61 requests the setting information in the color profile setting information table 2222 to be changed, the image processing unit 62 stores the color profile setting information table 2222 in the print data before performing the color matching process. The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) determined by the interpretation unit 61 is changed.

  As described above, the printer application included in the image forming apparatus 20 interprets the print data transmitted from the host PC 10 by the print data interpretation unit 61, and specifies the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “floor”) designated by the print data. The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) designated by the image forming apparatus 20 (“brightness priority”, “floor priority”, etc.) is read. If it is determined that the image cannot be handled by the “tone priority”, etc.), among the color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) that the image forming apparatus 20 has, a designated color matching method (“ The color matching method (“Vividness Priority”, “Gradation Priority”, etc.) closest to “Vividness Priority”, “Gradation Priority”, etc.) is determined, and the controller unit 2 The color profile setting information table 2222 held in the RAM222 included in the determined color matching method ( "vividness priority", "tone priority", and the like.) To change to a request to the image processing unit 62.

  Next, when there is a change request for the color profile setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61 by the image processing unit 62, the printer application, in accordance with the request, the color profile held in the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22. The setting information table 2222 is changed to a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 61.

  Thereafter, the printer application refers to the color profile setting information table 2222 out of the color profiles 70 developed on the RAM 222 by the image processing means 62, and the color matching method ("brightness priority", " Color matching processing is performed using the color profile 70 according to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the color profile setting information table 2222 associated with “tone priority”. Do.

  Accordingly, the image forming apparatus 20 uses a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data that is not supported by the image forming apparatus 20. "Priority", "tone priority", etc.), no error occurs, and the color matching method ("brightness priority", "tone priority") of the image forming apparatus 20 is determined by the color profile setting information table 2222. Etc.), the color matching method (“Vividness priority”, “Gradation priority”, etc.) closest to the specified color matching method (“Vividness priority”, “Gradation priority”, etc.) is supported. In addition, printing can be performed using the color profile 70 according to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing processing of the print data interpretation unit 61 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 14 includes the same processing as the processing of the print data interpretation unit 61 of FIG. 7 shown in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same processing is given the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted. A location where processing different from 1 is performed is indicated by a dotted line frame, and the description will be made focusing on the location of the dotted line frame.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 confirms the types of the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 (S102), and then forms an image. The type of the color profile 70 corresponding to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the apparatus 20 is confirmed (S301).

  The print data interpretation unit 61 includes print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data among the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. ) (S103), the image forming apparatus 20 has color matching methods (such as “brightness priority” and “tone priority”), and print data is included. It is determined whether there is a color profile 70 corresponding to the designated color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) (S302).

  When there is no color profile 70 corresponding to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data (the image forming apparatus 20 specifies the specified color). (If the matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) is not supported) (S302: NO), the color profile setting information table 2222 is displayed in the color specified by the print data to the image processing unit 2212. The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 associated with the matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) is changed. (S303). Thereafter, the print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the PDL command in the print data, and generates the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 of the intermediate data 30 (S105).

  Further, when there is a color profile 70 corresponding to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data (S302 is YES), the print data interpretation unit 61 The PDL command is interpreted, and the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 of the intermediate data 30 are generated (S105).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating processing for determining whether or not the corresponding color profile 70 exists in the image forming apparatus in the print data interpretation unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 15 illustrates an image forming apparatus 20 in which the print data interpretation unit 61 associates the read print data with a color matching method (such as “brightness priority” or “tone priority”) in S302 illustrated in FIG. Shows a method for determining a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.).

  The print data interpretation means 61 is a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 specified by the print data. It is determined whether there is a color profile 70 corresponding to “tone priority” or the like (S3021).

  When there is no color profile 70 corresponding to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data (the image forming apparatus 20 specifies the specified color). Matching methods ("brightness priority", "tone priority", etc.) are not supported) (S3021 is NO), color matching methods ("brightness priority", "tone priority") of the image forming apparatus 20 ”Etc.), the color matching method (“ Vividness priority ”,“ Gradation priority ”, etc.) closest to the color matching method specified by the print data (“ Vividness priority ”,“ Gradation priority ”, etc.), etc. .) Is determined (S3022). Thereafter, the print data interpretation unit 61 holds a number (setting information) for identifying the determined color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) (S3023).

  The print data interpretation unit 61 changes the setting information in the color profile setting information table 2222 to the determined color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.), and sends the color information to the image processing unit 2212. The change of the profile setting information table 2222 is requested (S104).

  When there is a color profile 70 corresponding to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data (S3021 is YES), the print data interpretation unit 61 determines the color profile setting information table. No update request is sent to 2222.

  In this way, the print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the print data transmitted from the host PC 10, reads the color matching method ("brightness priority", "tone priority", etc.) specified by the print data and specifies it. If the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) is not supported by the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20. If determined, among the color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20, the designated color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”). Color matching method ("brightness priority", "gradation priority", etc.) closest to the color matching method and the color profile setting information held in the RAM 222 provided in the controller unit 22 The Buru 2222, determined color matching method ( "vividness priority", "tone priority", and the like.) To change to a request to the image processing unit 62.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the processing of the image processing means 62 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 16 includes the same processing as the processing of the image processing unit 62 of FIG. 9 shown in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same processing is given the same reference numerals and the description is omitted, and the first embodiment is omitted. The location where the processing different from that shown in FIG.

  The image processing unit 62 determines whether a change request for the dither setting information table or the color profile setting information table 2222 is received from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S401).

  When the image processing unit 62 receives a change request for the dither setting information table or the color profile setting information table 2222 (YES in S401), the image processing unit 62 converts the dither setting information table 2222 into the printing condition ( "Resolution", "Bit depth", etc.), and the color matching method determined by the print data interpretation means 61 in the color profile setting information table 2222 ("Vividness priority", "Tone priority", etc.). (The identification number is changed) (S402).

  Next, the image processing unit 62 determines whether to write the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) from the print data interpretation unit 61 to the intermediate data memory area 2221 (S203). If there is (YES in S203), the updated dither setting information table 2222 is referred to, and the image forming apparatus associated with the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data. 20 is acquired (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.)) (S204), the updated color profile setting information table 2222 is referred to, and the color matching method (“bright” is designated by the print data). Color matching method (“brightness priority”, “image quality priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) associated with the image forming apparatus 20. Tone priority ", and the like.) To obtain the (acquires identifying number) (S403).

  When the image processing unit 62 does not receive a change request for the dither setting information table or the color profile setting information table 2222 (S401 is NO), the image processing unit 62 receives the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “Display list 32”) is determined to be written (S208), and if written (S208 is YES), the printing conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are used as the print data. After being acquired from the interpretation unit 61 (S209), the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) designated by the print data is acquired from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S407).

  Next, the image processing means 62 prints the print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the dither setting information table 2222, and the print conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”). After confirming the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 of the image forming apparatus 20 (S205) and acquiring (S206), the color matching method (“brightness priority”) designated by the print data is obtained. When the image forming apparatus 20 does not have a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) corresponding to “tone priority”, etc.), the color profile setting information table 2222. Color matching methods ("brightness priority", "gradation priority", etc.) acquired from the above, and corresponding color matching methods ("brightness priority", "gradation priority", etc.). If the image forming apparatus 20 has, the color profile 70 of the image forming apparatus 20 is confirmed based on the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) specified by the print data. (S404).

  Next, the image processing means 62 acquires a color profile 70 according to a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) (S405).

  Finally, the image processing means 62 performs color matching processing using the acquired color profile 70, and then reads the display list 32 from the intermediate data memory area 2221, interprets the display list 32, determines the type of object, and acquires it. The gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50, and each object is converted into a bitmap (raster image), which is stored in the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23. The page memory area 2321 is drawn (S406).

  As described above, when the print data interpretation unit 61 receives a change request for the color profile setting information table 2222, the image processing unit 62 follows the request and the color profile setting information table held in the RAM 222 included in the controller unit 22. 2222 is changed to a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) determined and determined by the print data interpretation unit 61.

  Thereafter, the image processing means 62 refers to the color profile setting information table 2222 among the color profiles 70 developed on the RAM 222, and determines the color matching method ("brightness priority", "tone priority") specified by the print data. The color matching process is performed using the color profile 70 according to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) of the color profile setting information table 2222 associated with.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating processing for determining a setting information table change request in the image processing unit 62 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  17, in S401 and S402 illustrated in FIG. 16, the image processing unit 62 receives a change request for the dither setting information table and the color profile setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61, and receives the dither setting information table and the color profile. A method for changing the setting information table 2222 will be described.

  The image processing unit 62 determines whether a change request for the dither setting information table and the color profile setting information table 2222 has been received from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S4011).

  When the image processing unit 62 receives a change request for the dither setting information table and the color profile setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61 (YES in S4011), the change request from the print data interpretation unit 61 receives the dither setting. It is determined whether or not there is a request to change both the information table and the color profile setting information table 2222 (S4012).

  When the image processing unit 62 receives a request to change both the dither setting information table and the color profile setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61 (YES in S4012), the image processing unit 62 converts the dither setting information table 2222 into the print data interpretation. The printing conditions ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) determined by the means 61 are changed (S4021). Next, the image processing means 62 changes (identifies numbers) the color profile setting information table 2222 to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) determined by the print data interpretation means 61. (S4022).

  Further, when the image processing unit 62 receives a request to change either the dither setting information table or the color profile setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S4012: NO), the image processing unit 62 determines whether the dither setting information table, color It is determined which of the profile setting information table 2222 is to be changed (S4013).

  When the image processing unit 62 receives a request to change the dither setting information table 2222 (S4013 is “dither setting information table 2222”), the image processing unit 62 converts the dither setting information table 2222 into the printing conditions ( "Resolution", "Bit depth", etc.) (S4023).

  In addition, when the image processing unit 62 receives a request to change the color profile setting information table 2222 (S4013 is “color profile setting information table 2222”), the print data interpretation unit 61 determines the color profile setting information table 2222. The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) is changed (the identification number is changed) (S4024).

Next, the image processing unit 62 determines to write the intermediate data 30 (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S203).
When the image processing unit 62 does not receive a change request for the dither setting information table and the color profile setting information table 2222 from the print data interpretation unit 61 (S4011 is NO), the image processing unit 62 receives the intermediate data 30 from the print data interpretation unit 61. It is determined whether to write (“band correspondence information 31”, “display list 32”) (S208).
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating processing performed between the print data interpretation unit 2211n and the image processing unit 2212 according to the second embodiment.

  FIG. 18 includes the same processing as the processing performed between the print data interpretation unit 2211n and the image processing unit 2212 in FIG. 10 illustrated in the first embodiment. However, only the processing related to the color profile setting information table 2222 and the color profile 70 different from those in the first embodiment will be described.

  The print data interpretation unit 61 interprets the print data and based on the read color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.), the image forming apparatus 20 performs color matching specified by the print data. It is determined whether the image forming apparatus 20 has a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) corresponding to the method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.). If it does not have a color profile 70 corresponding to “Saturation priority”, “Gradation priority”, etc.), it is the most suitable color matching method (“Vividness priority”, “Gradation priority”, etc.) specified by the print data. The color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) that the image forming apparatus 20 has is determined, and the color profile setting information table 2222 is determined. Color matching method ( "vividness priority", "tone priority", and the like.) To (change the identifying number) changes to, the image processing unit 62, requesting a change of color profile setting information table 2222.

  The image processing means 62 receives the request from the print data interpretation means 61, and the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) determined by the print data interpretation means 61 in the color profile setting information table 2222. Change to (change the identification number).

  The print data interpretation unit 61 creates the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 based on the PDL command of the print data, and writes it in the intermediate data memory area 2221.

  After changing the color profile setting information table 2222, the image processing unit 62 determines whether or not the band correspondence information 31 and the display list 32 are written in the intermediate data memory area 2221 by the print data interpretation unit 61. In this case, the updated color profile setting information table 2222 is referred to, and the image forming apparatus 20 associated with the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data is used. Acquires a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.), and a color profile 70 according to the acquired color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.). When the color matching process is performed using, the display list 3 is displayed from the intermediate data memory area 2221. Read to determine the type of object to interpret the display list 32, each object turned into a bitmap (raster image), it renders the page memory area 2321 of the RAM232 the engine unit 23 is provided.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the printer application included in the image forming apparatus 20 interprets the print data transmitted from the host PC 10 by the print data interpretation unit 61 and specifies the color specified by the print data. The matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) is read, and the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) designated by the image forming apparatus 20 is used. If it is determined that the matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) cannot be used, the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 is included. Among them, the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) closest to the designated color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.). Image processing so that the color profile setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 is changed to the determined color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.). The color matching method (“brilliantly” is determined by the print data interpreting means 61 and makes a request to the means 62 and the image processing means 62 determines the color profile setting information table 2222 held in the RAM 222 of the controller unit 22 according to the request. ”Priority”, “tone priority”, etc.), by referring to the color profile setting information table 2222 among the color profiles 70 developed on the RAM 222, the color matching method (“ Colors associated with “Brightness priority”, “Tone priority”, etc.) Color matching processing is performed using the color profile 70 according to the color matching method (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) of the profile setting information table 2222, and the raster image (bitmap image) is converted into the engine unit 23. The image can be drawn in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 included.

  Accordingly, the image forming apparatus 20 uses a color matching method (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) specified by the print data that is not supported by the image forming apparatus 20. In the case of “priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.), since there is no color profile 70 to be applied, an error occurs during printing, and print data that could not be printed is also stored in the color profile setting information table 2222. Among the color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20, the specified color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) are the most. Close color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “tone priority”, etc.) are associated with each other, and the color matching methods (“brightness priority”, “gradation priority”, etc.) It can be printed using the "like. Color profile 70 in accordance with).

  In the second embodiment, the image forming apparatus 20 having a color matching function has been described. However, in addition to the color matching function, a function (for example, total amount regulation) that performs processing depending on the model is provided. The image forming apparatus 20 can also be implemented by using information associating the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus 20 with the printing conditions specified by the print data, as in the color matching setting information table 2222.

  In the third embodiment, when printing data including a brush pattern, which is a drawing option, is printed, the brush pattern and the dither pattern may interfere with each other depending on the applied dither pattern. Therefore, a method for preventing interference between the brush pattern and the dither pattern during printing is proposed.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that a dither pattern and a γ table are used to perform gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), and the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23 The raster image (bitmap image) drawn for the size of the dither pattern is analyzed to determine whether there is interference.

  Therefore, in the third embodiment, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1, the flow from reception of print data to printing in FIG. 2, the data configuration example of intermediate data in FIG. 3, the dither pattern and γ table in FIG. 5A, a data configuration example of the dither setting information table in FIG. 5A, an initial data configuration example of the dither setting information table in FIG. 5B, and the dither setting information in FIGS. 5C and 5D. Data example when table data is updated, configuration example of main part of FIG. 6, processing of print data interpretation unit of FIG. 7, processing of determining presence or absence of dither pattern in print data interpretation unit of FIG. 8, Since the processing of the image processing means and the processing performed between the print data interpretation unit and the image processing unit in FIG. 10 are the same as those in the first embodiment, the explanation of the third embodiment will be given with the use of FIGS. The same sign is given in The description thereof is omitted Te.

  Further, in the third embodiment, the drawing processing in the image processing unit in FIG. 20 described later includes a part of the same processing as S205 to S207 in FIG. 9 shown in the first embodiment. With respect to, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted, and only the portion related to Example 3 will be described.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a drawing example using the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 19A shows an example in which the brush pattern is normally drawn. In the gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) shown on the left side of FIG. 19A. Since the dot pattern of the dither pattern 40 used in FIG. 19 is the same as the brush pattern included in the print data shown on the right side of FIG. 19A, drawing can be performed without interference.

  On the other hand, FIG. 19B shows an example in which the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 interfere with each other. The dither pattern 40 shown on the left in FIG. 19B and the brush pattern shown on the right in FIG. Since the dot pattern is reversed, it causes interference and is drawn in a state where the dot is missing (it is rendered in a state where the dot is missing, so nothing is actually drawn).

  The example given in FIG. 19B is an example assuming that the size of the dots for forming the dither pattern 40 and the dots for drawing the brush pattern are the same, but the brush pattern used in the actual print data. Are expressed in various shapes, and a pattern that causes interference and a pattern that does not cause interference coexist, which causes interference fringes (moire) in the printed result.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a drawing process in the image processing unit 62 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  20 includes the same processing as the processing of the image processing unit 62 of FIG. 20 shown in the first embodiment. For the same processing, the same reference numerals are given and the description is omitted, and the processing different from the first embodiment is also described. Only explained.

  The image processing unit 62 sets the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) corresponding to the printing conditions specified by the print data (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.)) to the image forming apparatus 20. , The printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the dither setting information table 2222 and the corresponding printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.). ), The dither pattern 40 and γ table of the image forming apparatus 20 based on the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data. 50 (S205), and the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) are acquired (S206).

  Next, the image processing means 62 obtains an object to be drawn in the band currently rasterized based on the display list 32 and the band correspondence information 31, reads the display list 32 from the intermediate data memory area 2221, and displays the display list 32. If the object whose type has been determined by interpreting is an object using a brush pattern, and if it is an object using a brush pattern, the print conditions ("resolution", "bit depth" Etc.) is subjected to gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 to form a bitmap (raster image), and the engine unit 23. Draw in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 included in the If there is interference, redrawing is performed using the new dither pattern 40 (S501).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating processing for preventing interference in the drawing processing according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 21 shows a method for preventing the interference between the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 when the image processing means 62 performs the drawing process in S501 shown in FIG.

  When the object whose interpretation type is determined by interpreting the display list 32 is an object using a brush pattern, the image processing means 62 determines the size of the brush pattern from gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”). It is determined whether it is an integral multiple of the size of the dither pattern 40 used when performing ("S.11").

  If the size of the brush pattern is not an integral multiple of the size of the dither pattern 40 (NO in S5011), the image processing means 62 determines that the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 do not interfere with each other, and the currently used dither pattern 40 Are used as they are to perform gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), convert them into bitmaps (raster images), and draw them in the page memory area 2321 (S5012).

  Further, when the size of the brush pattern is an integer multiple of the size of the dither pattern 40 (YES in S5011), the image processing unit 62 determines whether the color used in the brush pattern is a color other than white. (S5013).

  If the color used in the brush pattern is white (NO in S5013), the image processing means 62 determines that the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 do not interfere with each other, and uses the currently used dither pattern 40 as it is. Then, gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed, converted into a bitmap (raster image), and rendered in the page memory area 2321 (S5012).

  Further, when the color used in the brush pattern is a color other than white (YES in S5013), the image processing means 62 uses the dither pattern 40 to perform gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”). Etc.), a bitmap (raster image) corresponding to the size of the dither pattern 40 is formed and rendered in the page memory area 2321 (S5014).

  Next, the image processing means 62 analyzes the drawn bitmap image (raster image), and determines whether or not it is in the same state as the white data (dots are missing) (S5015).

  When the drawn bitmap image (raster image) is in the same state as the white data (dots are missing) (YES in S5015), the image processing means 62 currently performs gradation processing ("dither processing"). , “Γ correction processing”, etc.) is changed to another dither pattern 40 included in the image forming apparatus 20, and the process returns to S5014 (S5016).

  In addition, when the drawn bitmap image (raster image) is not in the same state as the white data (dots are missing) (S5015 is NO), the image processing unit 62 determines that the current state is reached. It is determined whether or not the dither pattern 40 used in the gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) has been changed to another dither pattern 40 included in the image forming apparatus 20 ( S5017). If the dither pattern 40 is not changed to the current state (NO in S5017), it is determined that the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 do not interfere with each other, and the currently used dither pattern 40 is used as it is. Then, gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed, converted into a bitmap (raster image), and rendered in the page memory area 2321 (S5012).

  In addition, when the image processing unit 62 changes to another dither pattern 40 before the current state is reached (YES in S5017), the dither setting information table 2222 does not interfere with the brush pattern of the image forming apparatus 20. The printing condition ("resolution", "bit depth", etc.) corresponding to the dither pattern 40 is changed (S5018).

  The image forming apparatus 20 refers to the updated dither setting information table 2222 and does not interfere with the brush pattern associated with the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data. Print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the image forming apparatus 20 are acquired (S5019). Next, the image processing means 62 sets the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) corresponding to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) designated by the print data to the image. When the forming apparatus 20 does not have the dither pattern 40 and γ table that the image forming apparatus 20 has, based on the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) acquired from the dither setting information table 2222. 50 is confirmed (S50110). Next, the image processing means 62 refers to the dither setting information table 2222 and print conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”) specified by the print data in the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222. The dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 are acquired according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the dither setting information table 2222 associated with “etc.” (S50111).

  Finally, the image processing means 62 dithers according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) of the dither setting information table 2222 out of the dither pattern 40 and γ table 50 developed on the RAM 222. Tones are processed using the pattern 40 and the γ table 50 (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.), and each object is converted into a bitmap (raster image), and a page on the RAM 232 provided in the engine unit 23 Redrawing is performed in the memory area 2321 (S50112).

  As described above, according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the printer application included in the image forming apparatus 20 uses the image processing unit 62 for print data including a brush pattern that is a drawing option transmitted from the host PC 10. Thus, gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50, and a raster image (bitmap image) corresponding to the size of the dither pattern 40 is processed by the engine unit. The image data is drawn in the page memory area 2321 on the RAM 232 provided in the RAM 23, and the drawn raster image is analyzed to determine whether or not there is interference. As a result, the drawn bitmap image (raster image) is white data. The same state (with missing dots) is confirmed, and the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 interfere with each other. In such a case, the dither pattern 40 used in the gradation processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is changed to another dither pattern 40 included in the image forming apparatus 20, and interference with the brush pattern is caused. The dither pattern 40 that does not occur is found, and the dither setting information table 2222 is changed to a printing condition (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) corresponding to the dither pattern 40 that does not cause interference, thereby updating the dither. With reference to the setting information table 2222, the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”) of the dither setting information table 2222 associated with the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) specified by the print data are referred to. The tone pattern (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”, etc.) is performed using the dither pattern 40 and the γ table 50 according to the “sa” etc.), and the brush pattern. Interference without causing, can be drawn raster image (bitmap image) to the page memory area 2321 of the RAM232 with the engine unit 23.

  Therefore, the image forming apparatus 20 applies to the print data in which the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 interfere with each other due to the applied dither pattern 40, and interference fringes (moire) are generated in the print result and the quality is reduced. Also, according to the dither setting information table 2222, tone processing (“dither processing”, “γ correction processing”) is performed using the dither pattern 40 of the image forming apparatus 20 that does not interfere with the brush pattern included in the print data. , Etc.) are associated with printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.), and a dither pattern according to the printing conditions (“resolution”, “bit depth”, etc.) 40 can be printed, and the interference between the brush pattern and the dither pattern 40 that has deteriorated the print quality can be prevented.

  Although the present invention has been described based on each embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the requirements shown here, such as combinations of other elements with the shapes listed in the above embodiments.

  With respect to these points, the present invention can be changed within a range that does not detract from the gist of the present invention, and can be appropriately determined according to the application form.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the flow from the printing data reception which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention to printing. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of the intermediate data which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data example of the dither pattern and (gamma) table which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of the dither setting information table which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of an initial data structure of the dither setting information table which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data example at the time of updating the data of the dither setting information table which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data example at the time of updating the data of the dither setting information table which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the principal part which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a print data interpretation unit according to the first embodiment of the invention. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing for determining the presence or absence of a dither pattern in the print data interpretation unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the image processing means which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating processing performed between a print data interpretation unit and an image processing unit according to the first embodiment of the invention. It is a figure which shows the data example of the color profile which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the principal part which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of the color profile setting information table which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the print data interpretation means based on Example 2 of this invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing for determining whether or not a corresponding color profile exists in the image forming apparatus in the print data interpretation unit according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the image processing means which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which judges the setting information table change request in the image processing means which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. The present invention is a diagram illustrating processing performed between a print data interpretation unit and an image processing unit according to the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of drawing by the brush pattern and dither pattern which concern on Example 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the drawing process in the image processing means which concerns on Example 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which prevents the interference in the drawing process which concerns on Example 3 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Host PC
21 Network I / F
22 Controller unit 221 Controller control unit 2211n Print data interpretation unit (interpreter)
2212 Drawing processing unit (renderer)
222 Main memory unit 2221 Intermediate data memory 2222 Dither / color profile setting information table 2321 Page memory 23 Engine unit 27 Image forming unit

Claims (10)

A dither setting information table storing dither pattern information set for each printing condition and drawing object type;
Print data interpretation means for interpreting received print data;
Image processing means for performing image processing on the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpretation means,
The image processing means includes
An image forming apparatus that performs drawing processing on the interpreted print data with reference to the dither setting information table. The image processing means includes
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein γ correction is performed on the interpreted print data with reference to the dither setting information table. The print data interpretation means includes
When the image forming apparatus does not have a dither pattern corresponding to the print condition of the print data after interpretation and the drawing object type,
Among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus, the image processing is performed such that the printing condition closest to the printing condition of the interpreted print data is determined, and the dither setting information table is changed to the determined printing condition. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a request is made to the means. The image processing means includes
When the change of the dither setting information table is requested by the print data interpretation unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the dither setting information table is changed to the determined printing condition by the print data interpretation unit. A color profile setting information table storing information on color profiles to be set for each printing condition and type of drawing object;
Print data interpretation means for interpreting received print data;
Image processing means for performing image processing on the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpretation means,
The image processing means includes
An image forming apparatus, wherein color matching is performed on the interpreted print data with reference to the color profile setting information table. The print data interpretation means includes
When the image forming apparatus does not have a color profile corresponding to the print condition of the print data after interpretation and the drawing object type,
Among the printing conditions of the image forming apparatus, the printing conditions closest to the printing conditions of the interpreted print data are determined, and the color profile setting information table is changed to the determined printing conditions. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein a request is made to the image processing means. The image processing means includes
When the change of the color profile setting information table is requested by the print data interpretation unit,
7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the color profile setting information table is changed to the determined printing condition by the print data interpretation unit. The image processing means includes
If the dither pattern set according to the dither setting information table and the dot pattern of the print data determine whether or not interfere,
8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the dither setting information table is updated so as to set a dither pattern that does not interfere. An image forming program in an image forming apparatus having a dither setting information table storing dither pattern information set for each printing condition and drawing object type,
Computer
Print data interpretation means for interpreting received print data;
An image process is performed on the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpreting means, and the print data interpreting means functions as an image processing means.
An image forming program for performing drawing processing by referring to the dither setting information table for the interpreted print data by the image processing means. An image forming program in an image forming apparatus having a color profile setting information table storing information on color profiles to be set for each printing condition and type of drawing object,
Computer
Print data interpretation means for interpreting received print data;
An image process is performed on the interpreted print data interpreted by the print data interpreting means, and the print data interpreting means functions as an image processing means.
An image forming program for performing color matching on the interpreted print data with reference to the profile setting information table by the image processing unit.

Images