JP2008048192A - Image output device, and image processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable an image to be properly output in a desired output mode without providing a server or the like when an image output device has a plurality of output modes. <P>SOLUTION: A printer 14 retains color reproduction characteristic data in which a device color signal value and a device independent color signal value are paired in a color reproduction characteristic data storage 36 for each output mode. An image processing device 12 specifies the output mode, and requests the color reproduction characteristic data from a request transmitter 42. Accordingly, the corresponding color reproduction characteristic data are selected and transmitted to the image processing device of a source of request from a request data transmitter 50. In an image processor 16, data conversion with respect to image data is performed based on the color reproduction characteristic data, and thus, the image data to become a proper output image can be generated in the desired mode by using a desired printer. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image output apparatus that outputs an image corresponding to image data from an output device, and an image processing system that outputs an image corresponding to image data using the image output apparatus.

  In addition to a display (image display device) such as a CRT or LCD, an output device that forms an image according to the image data applies an electrophotographic process to form an image according to the image data on a recording medium such as recording paper. Print output devices.

  For example, in an image display device, an image corresponding to image data is displayed by emitting light corresponding to each color of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) according to image data. The print output apparatus forms a full-color image on recording paper or the like using color materials of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) according to the image data. .

  By the way, the color reproduction characteristics of these output devices are different for each output device. For example, color conversion parameters are created based on the color reproduction characteristics of the target output device and the color reproduction characteristics of the output device to be output. Then, by performing color conversion processing on the image data using the created color conversion parameter, color reproduction of the target output device can be simulated with the output device to be output.

  As the color reproduction characteristics at this time, a color conversion profile such as an ICC profile provided by the manufacturer of the corresponding output device can be used, and a parapatch can be obtained from each output device using predetermined patch data. It can also be obtained by outputting and measuring the output color patch.

  However, in any case, it is necessary to acquire the color reproduction characteristics of the output device each time or store and manage the color reproduction characteristics of each output device. In any case, it is necessary to explicitly specify appropriate color reproduction characteristics.

  From this point, Patent Document 1 proposes that a profile management server is provided so that a color conversion profile can be obtained by requesting the profile management server as necessary.

  Also, in Patent Document 2, by sending patch data from a host computer to a printer that is a print output device, the printer performs print output and colorimetry of color patches based on the patch data, and the colorimetric data is sent to the host computer. As a result, the host computer can perform color correction processing or the like using the received colorimetric data.

  Further, Patent Document 3 proposes storing color conversion information on the printer side and transmitting the color conversion information in response to a request from the host computer, whereby the host computer receives the color conversion information. The color conversion information can be used to perform color conversion processing on the image data.

  On the other hand, it is common for print output devices to have multiple output modes with different color reproduction characteristics depending on combinations of screens and printing speeds with different numbers of lines. In some cases, it has a unique name such as text photo mode. In general, a display or the like is provided with modes having different color reproducibility characteristics such as color temperature.

  Even in one output device, the color reproduction characteristic data obtained from the colorimetric values of the color patches based on the patch data are different in the output modes having different color reproduction characteristics.

  However, in the proposal of Patent Document 1, it is necessary to install a server for profile management, and operation management costs for the corresponding server also occur. Further, in the method proposed in Patent Document 2, in order to obtain colorimetric data, it is necessary to transmit patch data from the host computer to the printer each time.

  Further, in the proposal of Patent Document 3, the color conversion information held on the printer side converts RGB color space values into CMYK color space values. For this reason, for example, simulation between different printers or It is difficult to reproduce the color output on the display with a printer. That is, color conversion between arbitrary output devices is not possible.

In addition, since the color conversion information does not correspond to a plurality of output modes of the printer, when color conversion processing based on the color conversion information held by the printer is performed, depending on the output mode, the color reproduction accuracy There is a problem that the image quality is degraded such as a decrease in image quality and color cast.
JP 2003-303085 A JP 7-288704 A JP 2002-91745 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described facts, and includes an image output device that enables appropriate grasping of color reproduction characteristics according to an output mode when the image output device has a plurality of output modes, and an image output device. An object of the present invention is to propose an image processing system that enables an appropriate simulation according to an output mode.

  An image output apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object is an image output apparatus that has at least one output mode and outputs the image data as an image based on the output mode when image data is input. Color reproduction characteristic data storage means for storing color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode, request acceptance means for accepting a request for color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode, and the request accepted by the request acceptance means A selection unit that selects the color reproduction characteristic data to be stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit from the output mode, and the color reproduction characteristic data selected by the selection unit is a request source of the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode And a sending means for sending to.

  According to the present invention, the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode is held, and when the request receiving unit receives the request for the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode, the color reproduction characteristic data is selected based on the output mode. To the request source.

  Thereby, the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the requested output mode can be distributed without providing dedicated distribution means such as a server.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, the color reproduction characteristic data includes a device color signal which is data in a device color space and a device independent color signal obtained by outputting the device color signal in pairs, The color reproducibility characteristic data includes a predetermined device color signal value group and a device color signal value group of device independent color signal values for each device color signal value of the device color signal value group, and The invention of 4 is characterized in that the color reproducibility characteristic data includes a device color signal value group and a device independent color signal value group of a device independent color signal for each device color signal value of the device color signal value group. And

  According to this invention, at least a device color signal, a device color signal value, or a device color signal value group and a device independent color signal, a device independent color signal value, or a device color signal value group are paired as color reproduction characteristic data. Included.

  As a result, it is possible to accurately grasp the color reproduction characteristics according to the output mode and to generate color conversion parameters with a plurality of image output apparatuses.

  In such an image output device of the present invention, as described in claim 5, when the request receiving unit receives the color reproduction characteristic data together with the output mode, the request reception unit stores the color reproduction characteristic data in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit. The color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode can be updated.

  According to another aspect of the image output apparatus of the present invention, the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit stores the color reproduction characteristic data and the update date and time, and the request reception unit includes the output mode and the output mode. When the update date and time are received together with the color reproduction characteristic data, the selection means is only when the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage means is newer than the received update date and time. It is preferable to select the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage means, so that the latest color reproduction characteristic data can be provided.

  An image processing system according to claim 7 outputs at least one image output device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and image data for image output by the image output device. An image processing system including: an image processing apparatus that transmits to the apparatus, wherein the image processing apparatus is connected to the image processing apparatus so as to be capable of bidirectional communication with the image output apparatus, and the image output via the communication means. Request means for requesting the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode or output mode from the apparatus, and receiving the output mode or color reproduction characteristic data sent from the image output apparatus based on the request of the request means Image processing means for performing image processing on the image data output to the image output device based on the received color reproduction characteristic data. To.

  An image processing system according to an eighth aspect includes at least one image output device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects and image data to be output by the image output device. An image processing system including: an image processing apparatus that transmits to an image output apparatus, wherein the image processing apparatus is connected to the image output apparatus so as to be capable of bidirectional communication; an output mode of the image output apparatus; An information storage unit that stores information including the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode; and the image output unit that does not store the output mode and the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode in the information storage unit. On the other hand, a request means for requesting color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode or the output mode via the communication means, and the image output based on the request of the request means. Image processing means for performing image processing on the image data output to the image output device based on the received color reproduction property data when the output mode or the color reproduction property data sent from the device is received It is characterized by including these.

  Furthermore, an image processing system according to a ninth aspect includes at least one image output device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects and image data to be output by the image output device. An image processing system including: an image processing apparatus that transmits to an image output apparatus, wherein the image processing apparatus is connected to the image output apparatus so as to be capable of bidirectional communication; an output mode of the image output apparatus; Information storage means for storing the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode and information including the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data, and color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode for the image output device via the communication means Requesting means for requesting the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data, and the color reproduction corresponding to the output mode sent from the image output device based on the request of the requesting means A comparison means for comparing the received update date and time and the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the information storage means corresponding to the corresponding output mode when receiving the sex data and the update date and time, and the comparison Image processing means for performing image processing on the image data to be output to the image output device based on the latest color reproduction characteristic data from the comparison result by the means.

  According to the present invention, when the request means provided in the image processing apparatus requests the color reproduction characteristic data or color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode or the output mode and the update date and time, the image output apparatus responds to the request. Output mode, color reproduction characteristics data, etc.

  The image processing apparatus performs data conversion processing on the image data based on the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode acquired from the image output apparatus or the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the information storage unit.

  Thereby, it is possible to generate image data that enables the image output apparatus to output an optimum image in a desired output mode.

  In such an image processing system of the present invention, the color processing characteristic data or the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode sent from the image output apparatus by the image processing apparatus based on the request of the requesting unit. Update means for updating the information stored in the information storage means when the update date and time is received.

  Accordingly, it is possible to perform appropriate image processing using the latest color reproduction characteristic data.

  The image processing system of the present invention preferably encrypts information transmitted / received via the communication means, and the request reception means of the image output apparatus is a pre-authorized image processing apparatus. Only a request from the request means may be accepted.

  As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the color reproduction characteristic data held by the image output apparatus from being unnecessarily transmitted or the color reproduction characteristic data being erroneously changed.

  Note that a request received by the request receiving unit may be a preset application, driver, image processing plug-in software, or the like provided in the image processing apparatus.

  As described above, according to the present invention, for example, color reproduction characteristic data in which a device color signal and a device independent color signal are paired is held for each output mode in the image output apparatus, and held as required. By transmitting the color reproduction characteristic data, the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the requested output mode can be distributed without providing a server or the like.

  In the image processing system of the present invention, an appropriate image can be output according to a desired image processing apparatus and an output mode, and an image output apparatus can be selected so that a desired image can be output. It is possible to obtain an excellent effect that the output mode can be selected and the image data can be processed.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of an image processing system 10 applied to the present embodiment. The image processing system 10 includes, for example, a plurality of image processing apparatuses 12 such as personal computers (PCs) and workstations, and the image processing apparatuses 12 are connected so as to exchange data with each other.

  In the image processing system 10, a plurality of printers 14 are provided as image output devices that are output devices. Each of the printers 14 is connected to the image processing device 12 so as to exchange data, and is transmitted from the image processing device 12. An image can be output (printed output) based on the image data.

  In the following, one image processing apparatus 12 is illustrated as an example, and two printers 14A and 14B (generally referred to as printers 14) are illustrated and described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, as long as one or more image processing apparatuses and image output apparatuses are provided. Further, the image output device is not limited to the printer 14, and a display device (display device) that displays an image corresponding to the image data on a monitor such as a CRT or LCD displays an image corresponding to the image data by printing, printing, or the like. Any output device that outputs can be applied.

  Further, the image processing system 10 can include various image input devices (input devices) such as a scanner device (image reading device) in addition to the image output device. That is, as the image processing system 10, a network system having a known general configuration can be applied.

  The printer 14 applied to the present embodiment includes a print function that records and outputs an image corresponding to image data on various recording media such as recording paper using various color materials such as ink and toner. Any configuration can be applied as long as it is. The printer 14 has various configurations such as a copying machine including a scanner function in addition to a print function, a multifunction machine having various image processing functions such as a facsimile function in addition to a print function and a scanner function, and a communication function. Can be applied.

  An image processing unit 16 is formed in the image processing apparatus 12, and color reproduction of the target output device is performed using the color reproduction characteristic data of both the target output device and the output target output device. It is possible to apply a color conversion parameter simulated by an output device to be output to a predetermined image.

  The image processing apparatus 12 is provided with a communication interface (communication I / F) 22, and the image processing apparatus 12 can transmit and receive image data, color reproduction characteristic data, and the like. Further, the image processing apparatus 12 includes a request transmission unit 42, an image data transmission unit 38, and a request data reception unit 44 that control communication between the image processing unit 16 and the outside via the communication I / F 22. Details of the operation of these functional blocks will be described later. In addition, as the image processing apparatus 12, a general configuration including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM and an HDD, a keyboard, a monitor, various interfaces and the like (not shown) can be applied.

  The printer 14 (14A, 14B) includes a communication interface (communication I / F) 24, a data receiving unit 40, an image processing unit 26, and an image output unit 30 that executes print processing.

  Thus, in the printer 14, when image data is received by the data receiving unit 40 via the communication I / F 24, the received image data is subjected to predetermined image processing by the image processing unit 26 and output to the image output unit 30. To do.

  The image output unit 30 forms an image by applying an electrophotographic process using toners of each color of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black), for example. As a result, the image output unit 30 receives the data of each color component of C, M, Y, and K, generates toner images of each color, and superimposes the generated toner images and transfers them to the recording paper. Thus, a full-color image is formed.

  The image processing unit 26 of the printer 14 may be provided with a color management system (CMS) as necessary. As an example, the device color space is a CMYK color space, and an image input to the image processing unit 26 Data is converted into CMYK color space data (hereinafter referred to as CMYK color signals). For example, when the image data generated and output by the image processing device 12 is RGB color space data (RGB signal), a multidimensional lookup table (multidimensional LUT) is applied to the RGB signal. For example, the data is converted into CMYK color signals that are data in the device color space. By outputting the CMYK color signals to the image output unit 30, image formation (print output) according to the image data is performed.

  Further, for example, when the image data generated and output by the image processing device 12 is data in the CMYK color space (CMYK color signal), a one-dimensional lookup table (one-dimensional LUT) that adjusts gradations. Can be applied, or a multidimensional LUT that realizes CMYK-CMYK color conversion according to the purpose can be applied. In addition, when such color conversion is unnecessary, a configuration that does not perform color conversion is adopted. You can also.

  Thus, the printer 14 performs data conversion according to the device color space and color reproduction characteristics of the image output unit 30 and outputs an image according to the image data.

  By the way, in each printer 14 (14A, 14B), a plurality of output modes are set as output modes when an image corresponding to the image data is printed out, and the designated output is specified by designating the output mode. Print output in mode is possible.

  This output mode includes a photo mode that emphasizes tone reproducibility, a graphic mode that emphasizes chroma reproducibility, and a text mode that emphasizes resolution, and includes various output modes according to the purpose and user requirements. be able to. These output modes are often realized by outputting received images using different screen line numbers, output speeds, and color conversion parameters. It is also possible to configure the output data generated by the above-described image processing apparatus 12 to be an RGB color signal or a CMYK color signal in different output modes.

  Therefore, in the printer 14, when the output mode is designated, predetermined processing such as data conversion based on the designated output mode or screen processing (changing the number of screen lines) is performed, so that the printer 14 is based on the output mode. Image output is possible.

  In such a printer 14, images output using the same image data may be different when the output mode is different. That is, the printer 14 may have different color reproducibility depending on the output mode. Here, the printer 14 (each of the printers 14A and 14B) applied to the present embodiment is provided with a color reproducibility characteristic data storage unit 36. The color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 stores color reproduction characteristic data for each output mode set in the printer 14.

  The color reproduction characteristic data for each output mode is obtained by performing print processing for each output mode by the printer 14 based on preset patch data, outputting a color patch, and measuring each color patch. The color measurement data for each output mode and the device color signal of the corresponding color patch can be configured as a pair.

  Note that the patch data may be stored in the printer 14 in advance, or may be output from the image processing apparatus 12 to the printer 14 as image data. The color measurement of the color patch may be one in which a density sensor is provided in the printer 14 and the color measurement is performed continuously after the print output of the color patch. The color measurement of the color patch may be performed manually.

  Such color patch colorimetric data (colorimetric values) is color space data (device-independent color signal values) independent of the output device printer 14. Therefore, in the mode for outputting an image based on RGB color signals, a pair of the colorimetric values of the RGB color signal value and the corresponding color patch is used. In the mode for outputting an image based on CMYK color signals, the CMYK color signal value is set. A pair with the colorimetric value of the corresponding color patch is stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 as color reproduction characteristic data.

  As a result, the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 stores a device color signal value group and a device independent color signal value group in which a device color signal value and a device independent color signal value are paired for each output mode. The

  In the printer 14, when the color reproduction characteristic data is stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 or when the stored color reproduction characteristic data is rewritten (updated), the update date (date and time) is set. Remembered.

  On the other hand, the communication I / F 22 of the image processing apparatus 12 and the communication I / F 24 of the printer 14 connect the image processing apparatus 12 and the printer 14 so that bidirectional communication is possible. It is possible to exchange data with each other.

  The image data transmission unit of the image processing apparatus 12 described above outputs image data generated by performing image processing in the image processing unit 16. The data receiver of the printer 14 receives this image data.

  Thus, by transmitting the image data from the image processing apparatus 12 to the printer 14A or the printer 14B, in the destination printer 14 (printer 14A or printer 14B), the data receiving unit 40 via the communication I / F 24 When the image data is received, the received image data is output to the image processing unit 26, and image output based on the image data is executed.

  The request transmission unit 42 provided in the image processing apparatus 12 applied to the present embodiment requests the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode and the output mode from the printer 14, and the request data reception unit 44 Based on the request transmitted from the transmission unit 42, the output mode output from the printer 14, the color reproduction characteristic data for each output mode, and the like are received.

  The printer 14 is provided with a selection update unit 48 and a request data transmission unit 50 together with a request reception unit 46 that receives and receives a request transmitted from the request transmission unit 42 of the image processing apparatus 12.

  In the image processing apparatus 12, the request transmission unit 42 requests an output mode included in each printer 14, color reproduction characteristic data for each output mode, and the like. When the request receiving unit 46 receives the output request for the color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode, the selection update unit 48 of the printer 14 selects the color reproduction characteristic data for the corresponding output mode from the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36, and The data is output to the request data transmission unit 50.

  As a result, the request data transmission unit 50 transmits the color reproduction characteristic data to the requesting image processing apparatus 12. The color reproduction characteristic data is received by the request data receiving unit 44 of the requesting image processing apparatus 12, whereby the image processing unit 16 of the corresponding image processing apparatus 12 can acquire the color reproduction characteristic data.

  Further, when the request reception unit 46 receives a request for the output mode set for the own apparatus from the image processing apparatus 12, the request data transmission unit 50 displays the output mode set for the own apparatus. To the image processing apparatus 12.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus 12 can grasp the output mode of each of the printers 14 provided in the image processing system 10, specify the output mode of the printer 14, and perform color reproduction. Request for characteristic data is possible.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 12 is provided with a device information storage unit 52. The device information storage unit 52 stores the output mode provided in the printer 14 received by the request data receiving unit 44 and the color reproduction characteristic data for each output mode.

  In the device information storage unit 52, the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 stores the color reproduction characteristic data and the update date / time of the color reproduction characteristic data, and the update date / time is transmitted from the request data transmission unit 50 together with the color reproduction characteristic data. When this is done, the update date and time are stored.

  In the image processing unit 16 provided in the image processing apparatus 12, the output mode for each printer 14 held in the device information storage unit 52 or acquired via the request data receiving unit 44, and the printer 14 for the output mode. For example, the printer 14A is used by calculating color conversion parameters using the acquired color reproduction characteristic data and performing data conversion processing on the image data based on the color conversion parameters. Thus, it is possible to perform a simulation of an output image in an arbitrary output mode of the printer 14B.

  Of course, the image conversion unit 16 may be configured to perform data conversion processing directly on the target image data from the two color reproduction characteristic data without calculating color conversion parameters such as a multidimensional LUT. Then, only by calculating the color conversion parameters from the two color reproduction characteristic data, and sending the color conversion parameters to the printer 14 together with the image data, the image processing unit 26 of the printer 14 applies the color conversion parameters to the image data. You may comprise as follows.

  Here, an image output in the image processing system 10 will be described as an operation of the present embodiment.

  In the image processing system 10, when printing the image data that has been created, processed, edited, etc. by the image processing unit 16 of the image processing device 12, the printer 14 and the output mode are designated and the image data transmitting unit 38 is designated. Image data to the designated printer 14.

  In the printer 14, when this data is received by the data receiver 40, the received image data is output to the image processor 26. The image processing unit 26 performs predetermined image processing on the input image data, converts the image data into CMYK color signal values, which are signals in the device color space, as necessary, and outputs the image output unit 30. Output to. As a result, the image output unit 30 performs a printing process based on the input CMYK color signal values, and outputs an image corresponding to the image data. At this time, the image processing unit 26 and the image output unit 30 execute image processing and printing processing based on the designated output mode, and perform image output based on the output mode.

  On the other hand, the image processing apparatus 12 provided in the image processing system 10 can simulate an image output from the printer 14B using, for example, the printer 14A. At this time, the image processing apparatus 12 can perform simulation including the output mode of the printer 14B.

  Here, an example of image output processing when a printer 14 in the image processing system 10 is used to simulate an output image of another printer 14 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

  The printer 14 (14A, 14B) is set with a plurality of output modes, and in order to perform simulation, it is necessary to grasp the output mode of each printer 14, and the color in the output mode for performing simulation. Reproduction characteristic information is required. Here, in the image processing apparatus 12, when the color reproduction characteristic data serving as the color reproduction characteristic information for the output mode and the output mode set in the printer 14 is acquired, data for the image data is obtained based on the acquired color reproduction characteristic data. Conversion processing is performed, and the converted image data is transmitted to the printer 14 together with the designation of the output mode.

  FIG. 2 shows the flow of processing of the image processing apparatus 12 at this time. In this flowchart, the image data to be simulated in the first step 100, the output device to be simulated, and the device to output the simulated image are designated. These designations and various setting operations on the image processing apparatus 12 are performed using a UI (user interface) (not shown) provided in the image processing apparatus 12. In addition, any configuration can be applied to the UI at this time. As the ID for designating the output device, any information can be used as long as the printer 14 can be accurately designated, such as an IP address set for each printer 14.

  Thereafter, in step 102, the set output mode is requested to the designated printer 14. In the following description, it is assumed that the output image reproduced by the printer 14B is simulated using the printer 14A. At this time, the printers 14A and 14B are designated to request output mode transmission.

  When the printer 14A, 14B adds an ID addressed to its own device and requests an output mode, it sends the output mode set in its own device to the requesting image processing apparatus 12.

  In the image processing apparatus 12, when the output mode is transmitted from the designated printers 14A and 14B, in step 104, the output mode sent from the printers 14A and 14B is read.

  Thereafter, in step 106, an output mode for executing the simulation is set. The output mode at this time may be, for example, an output mode in which the printers 14A and 14B have substantially the same image quality, or the output modes may be different between the printer 14A and the printer 14B. At this time, the output mode to be set may be set to the output mode designated by the user via the UI, or may be configured to be forcibly set to the recommended output mode.

  When the output mode is designated for the printers 14A and 14B, the process proceeds to step 108, and transmission of color reproduction characteristic data, which is color reproduction characteristic information of the designated output mode, is requested to each of the printers 14A and 14B.

  Here, the image processing apparatus 12 is provided with a device information storage unit 52. The device information storage unit 52 stores the color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode of each printer 14, and the image processing unit In the device 12, when the color reproduction characteristic data of the corresponding output mode is stored in the device information storage unit 52 when the output mode is designated, the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the device information storage unit 52. Is transmitted to the corresponding printer 14 together with the output mode designation.

  FIG. 3 shows an outline of processing of the printer 14 (14A, 14B) in response to a transmission request for color reproduction characteristic data.

  In the printer 14, it is confirmed whether or not a transmission request for the color reproduction characteristic data specifying the own device is received in the first step 140. Here, when the transmission request for the color reproduction characteristic data addressed to the own device is received, an affirmative determination is made in step 140 and the process proceeds to step 142 to receive the transmission request.

  Thereafter, in step 144, first, it is confirmed whether or not the color reproduction characteristic data is included in the received request. If the color reproduction characteristic data is not included, a negative determination is made in step 144 and the process proceeds to step 146. To do. In step 146, the designation of the output mode is read from the received request, and it is confirmed whether or not the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the read output mode is stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 (step 148). .

  As a result, when the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the designated output mode is stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36, an affirmative determination is made in step 148 and the process proceeds to step 150, where the color reproduction characteristic corresponding to the output mode is determined. Characteristic data is selected and read from the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 152, and the read color reproduction characteristic data is transmitted to the requesting image processing apparatus 12.

  On the other hand, when the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the designated output mode is not stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36, a negative determination is made in step 148, and the process proceeds to step 154.

  In the printer 14, for example, one of the output modes is set to the default output mode in advance, the color patch is output using the patch data in the set output mode (default output mode), and the output color patch is output. The color conversion profile is updated by measuring the color. At this time, the patch data and the colorimetric values corresponding to the patch data can be stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 as color reproduction characteristic data for the default output mode.

  From this point, when the color reproduction characteristic data of the designated output mode is not stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36, in step 154, the default color reproduction characteristic data is read, and the read default color reproduction characteristic data is read out. Information indicating that the data is the default mode or information indicating that the data is color reproduction characteristic data for the default output mode is added to the data, and the data is output to the requesting image processing apparatus 12 (step 156).

  In the printer 14 applied to the present embodiment, color reproduction characteristic data can be transmitted based on a request at an arbitrary timing, not only when simulation is performed, and at this time, there is no designation of an output mode. Sometimes, color reproduction characteristic data for the default output mode is output.

  On the other hand, when the color reproduction characteristic data is included in the received request, an affirmative determination is made in step 144 and the process proceeds to step 160 to read the output mode and the update date and time included in the received color reproduction characteristic data.

  In the next step 162, the update date / time of the received color reproduction characteristic data is compared with the update date / time of the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 and stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36. If the current color reproduction characteristic data is newer than the received color reproduction characteristic data, an affirmative determination is made in step 164 and the process proceeds to step 150 to correspond to the output mode specified by the color reproduction characteristic data recording unit 36. Select and read out the color reproduction characteristic data.

  On the other hand, when the data stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit 36 is old, a negative determination is made in step 164 and the process proceeds to step 166, where color reproduction is performed based on the received color reproduction characteristic data and the update date and time. The record of the characteristic data storage unit 36 is updated.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 168, and information indicating that there is no new color reproduction characteristic data is output to the image processing apparatus 12 as the request source.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 2, when there is a response from the printer 14 to the transmitted request, the process proceeds to step 110, and the response transmitted from the printer 14 is received.

  In the next step 112, it is confirmed whether or not the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the designated output mode is included. If the corresponding color reproduction characteristic data is included, an affirmative determination is made in step 112 and the process proceeds to step 114. The received color reproduction characteristic data is stored in the device information storage unit 52 in correspondence with the printer 14 and the output mode, and the device information held by the image processing apparatus 12 is updated.

  In step 116, the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode designated for the printer 14A and the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode designated for the printer 14B are read from the device information storage unit 52, and the printer 14B is read. Data conversion processing is performed on the image data so that an image corresponding to the output image is output from the printer 14A.

  For this data conversion process, for example, a color conversion coefficient creation device, a color conversion coefficient creation method, a storage medium, and a color conversion system described in JP-A-2002-152543 can be used. In addition, any method for calculating color conversion coefficients for performing image color conversion or image color conversion using the device color signals and colorimetric values of both devices may be used.

  Thereafter, in step 118, the image data after data conversion is transmitted to the printer 14 (14A) so as to be printed out in the designated output mode.

  As a response to the request to the printer 14, when the latest or equivalent color reproduction characteristic data stored in the device 14 is stored in the device information storage unit 52 of the image processing apparatus 12, an affirmative determination is made in step 120. The determination is made and the routine proceeds to step 116.

  When color reproduction characteristic data for the default output mode is received, an affirmative determination is made in step 122 and the routine proceeds to step 124. In step 124, the fact that the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode is not held is displayed on a monitor (not shown) by using a predetermined UI, and in step 126, it is confirmed whether or not to continue the simulation. When it is instructed to continue the simulation, an affirmative determination is made in step 126, a default output mode is selected instead of the designated output mode, and data conversion processing using color reproduction characteristic data for the default output mode is selected. (Step 128).

  Depending on the printer 14, the color reproduction characteristic data may not be held. In this case, a negative determination is made in each of steps 112, 120, and 122, the process proceeds to step 130, and the color reproduction characteristic data applied to the simulation. This process is terminated after notifying that there is not. In other words, the printer 14 may not hold the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode or may not hold the color reproduction characteristic data of any output mode. As a result, the image processing apparatus 12 stops the simulation process.

  In this embodiment, the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the printer 14 includes CMYK color signal values in the device color space and measured values in the device independent color space (for example, L *, a *, b * values in the CILAB color space). Are paired.

  Here, if the image data to be simulated is a signal value (C, M, Y, K), the device color signal value of the printer 14A is (Ca, Ma, Ya, Ka), and the corresponding colorimetric value is (La). , Aa, Ba), the device color signal value of the printer 14B is (Cb, Mb, Yb, Kb), and the corresponding colorimetric value is (Lb, Ab, Bb).

  The color reproduction characteristic data includes signal values (Ca, Ma, Ya, Ka) and colorimetric values (La, Aa, Ba) and signal values (Cb, Mb, Yb, Kb) and colorimetric values (Lb, Ab, Bb) is shown, and the color reproduction characteristics data of both devices are used to perform the color reproduction of the printer 14B by using the color conversion coefficient creation method described in JP-A-2002-152543 described above. A color conversion coefficient (multidimensional LUT) to be simulated by the printer 14A can be calculated, and an image to which the calculated color conversion coefficient is applied is output by the printer 14A, so that it is substantially the same as the image output by the printer 14B. You can get a print. In this embodiment, both the printer 14A and the printer 14B are regarded as CMYK printers, and the color conversion coefficient (multidimensional LUT) calculated in this case is a four-dimensional input / four-dimensional output for performing CMYK-CMYK conversion. Become. Therefore, when this color conversion coefficient is applied to a target CMYK image, a C′M′Y′K ′ image for simulating the printer 14B with the printer 14A can be created.

  The image processing unit 16 provided in the image processing apparatus 12 calculates a color conversion coefficient (multidimensional LUT) from the color reproduction characteristic data of the printers 14A and 14B stored in the device information storage unit 52 as described above. A process of applying the color conversion coefficient to the image data is performed. Note that it is also possible to perform direct data conversion on the color signal of each pixel of the image without creating a color conversion coefficient. Furthermore, the created color conversion coefficient (multidimensional LUT) can be sent to the printer 14A together with the image and applied to the image by the printer 14A.

  By outputting the image data thus converted to the printer 14A, an output image that is substantially equivalent to the output image of the printer 14B with respect to the original image data can be printed by the printer 14A.

  On the other hand, FIG. 4 shows an outline of processing in the printer 14 based on the image data transmitted from the image processing apparatus 12. In this flowchart, the image transmitted from the image processing apparatus 12 in the first step 170 is shown. When the data is received, in step 172, the designation of the output mode is read, and in step 174, it is confirmed whether or not the output mode is designated.

  Here, when the output mode is specified, an affirmative determination is made in step 174 and the process proceeds to step 176, where the specified output mode is set as the default of the output mode of the own device.

  Thereafter, in step 178, image output processing is performed based on the set output mode.

  In contrast, if the output mode is not specified for the received image data, the printer 14 makes a negative determination in step 174 and proceeds to step 180. In step 180, the default output mode is set to the output mode for the corresponding image data, and image output in the set output mode is executed.

  As described above, in the image processing system 10, when a plurality of output modes are set for each of the printers 14, the color reproduction characteristic data for each output mode can be stored and acquired from the image processing device 12 at an arbitrary timing. To be.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 12 performs color conversion on the image data between any output devices by performing data conversion on the image data based on the color reproduction characteristic data acquired from the printer 14 by designating the output mode. It can be done with high accuracy.

  On the other hand, here, the image output simulation of the printer 14B using the printer 14A has been described as an example. However, in the image processing system 10, each of the printers 14 outputs color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to each of a plurality of output modes. The color reproduction characteristic data held by the image processing apparatus 12 can be acquired at any timing.

  As a result, it is possible not only to generate color conversion parameters between arbitrary printers 14, but also to select a printer 14 and an output mode suitable for an image (image data) to be output.

  That is, based on the color reproduction characteristic data acquired from the printer 14, the color reproduction range corresponding to the output mode of the printer 14 can be calculated, and thus an image corresponding to the image data can be output appropriately. In addition, the image processing apparatus 12 can automatically determine whether the printer 14 and the output mode of the printer 14 are optimal for performing an appropriate image output.

  On the other hand, the printer 14 unconditionally accepts a request for an output mode and color reproduction characteristic data from the image processing apparatus 12, and based on the accepted request, outputs the output mode, the color reproduction characteristic data, and the like from the requesting image processing apparatus. However, it responds only to a request via preset application software, a driver, plug-in software for image processing added to the image processing unit 16, or the like. May be.

  In addition, when an ID, an output mode, color reproduction characteristic data, or the like is requested from the image processing apparatus 12 to the printer 14 or when the printer 14 transmits an ID, an output mode, color reproduction characteristic data, or the like based on this request, the encryption is performed. It is also possible to perform a digitization process.

  Thereby, it is possible to reliably prevent the information of the printer 14 from being inadvertently disclosed, which is preferable.

  In the above-described embodiment, the printer 14 in which the device color space signal value (device color signal value) is the CMYK color signal value is described as an example of the image output apparatus (output device). The image output apparatus and the device color signal value to which the invention is applied are not limited thereto.

  For example, as a printer, a device color signal value is not limited to a CMYK color signal value, and any combination of color signal values in a device color space such as a CMY color signal value and a CM color signal value can be applied.

  In the present embodiment, the printer is described as an example of the image output device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any image output device that outputs an image according to image data, such as a monitor device (display device) that displays an image on a display, is used. The image output apparatus can be applied. At this time, for example, in the case of a monitor device, the device color signal value becomes an RGB color signal value, and the device color signal data corresponding to the image output device can be applied to the device color signal value.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment described above, the image processing system 10 has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention includes a plurality of output modes as modes for outputting an image according to image data. Any image output device may be used, and any configuration can be applied as long as the image processing system includes at least one image output device.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a main part of an image processing apparatus and a printer to which the present invention is applied. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process in an image processing apparatus. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing in a printer based on a request from an image processing apparatus. 3 is a flowchart showing an outline of image output processing in a printer.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image processing system 12 Image processing apparatus 14 (14A, 14B) Printer (image output device)
16 Image processing unit 22, 24 Communication I / F (communication means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 30 Image output part 36 Color reproduction characteristic data storage part 42 Request transmission part 44 Request data reception part 46 Request reception part 48 Selection update part 50 Request data transmission part 52 Device information storage part

Claims (12)

An image output device comprising at least one output mode and outputting the image data as an image based on the output mode by inputting image data,
Color reproduction characteristic data storage means for storing color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode;
Request accepting means for accepting a request for color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode;
Selecting means for selecting the color reproduction characteristic data to be stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage means from the output mode received by the request reception means;
Sending means for sending the color reproduction characteristic data selected by the selection means to a request source of color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode;
An image output apparatus comprising:   The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the color reproduction characteristic data includes a device color signal which is data in a device color space and a device independent color signal obtained by outputting the device color signal in pairs.   The color reproducibility characteristic data includes a predetermined device color signal value group and a device color signal value group of device independent color signal values for each device color signal value of the device color signal value group. The image output apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.   2. The color reproducibility characteristic data includes a device color signal value group and a device independent color signal value group of a device independent color signal for each device color signal value of the device color signal value group. The image output apparatus according to claim 3.   2. The color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage unit is updated when the request receiving unit receives the color reproduction characteristic data together with the output mode. The image output device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   The color reproduction characteristic data and the update date and time are stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage means, and the selection means is received when the request receiving means receives the update date and time together with the output mode and color reproduction characteristic data. The color reproduction characteristic data stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage means is selected only when the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the color reproduction characteristic data storage means is newer than the update date and time. The image output apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image output apparatus is an image output apparatus. 7. At least one image output device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and an image processing device that transmits image data to be output by the image output device to the image output device. An image processing system,
A communication means connected to the image processing apparatus so as to be capable of bidirectional communication with the image output apparatus;
Request means for requesting the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode or the output mode to the image output device via the communication means;
The image to be output to the image output device based on the received color reproduction characteristic data when the output mode or the color reproduction characteristic data transmitted from the image output device based on the request of the request unit is received. Image processing means for performing image processing on the data;
An image processing system comprising: 7. At least one image output device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and an image processing device that transmits image data to be output by the image output device to the image output device. An image processing system,
A communication means connected to the image processing apparatus so as to be capable of bidirectional communication with the image output apparatus;
Information storage means for storing information including the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to an output mode and an output mode of the image output device;
For the image output device in which the output mode and the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode are not stored in the information storage unit, the color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode or the output mode is provided via the communication unit. Requesting means to request;
The image to be output to the image output device based on the received color reproduction characteristic data when the output mode or the color reproduction characteristic data transmitted from the image output device based on the request of the request unit is received. Image processing means for performing image processing on the data;
An image processing system comprising: 7. At least one image output device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and an image processing device that transmits image data to be output by the image output device to the image output device. An image processing system,
A communication means connected to the image processing apparatus so as to be capable of bidirectional communication with the image output apparatus;
An information storage means for storing information including an update mode of the image output device and the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode and an update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data;
Request means for requesting the date and time of update of color reproduction characteristic data and color reproduction characteristic data for the output mode to the image output device via the communication means;
When the color reproduction characteristic data and the update date / time corresponding to the output mode sent from the image output device based on the request from the request unit are received, the received update date / time and the output mode corresponding to the received output date / time. Comparison means for comparing the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data stored in the information storage means;
Image processing means for performing image processing on the image data to be output to the image output device based on the latest color reproduction characteristic data from the comparison result by the comparison means;
An image processing system comprising:   When the image processing apparatus receives the update date and time of the color reproduction characteristic data or the color reproduction characteristic data corresponding to the output mode sent from the image output apparatus based on the request of the request unit, the information The image processing system according to claim 8, further comprising an update unit that updates information stored in the storage unit.   The image processing system according to claim 7, wherein information transmitted and received via the communication unit is encrypted.   The image processing system according to claim 7, wherein the request receiving unit of the image output apparatus receives only a request from a preset request unit.

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