JP2009017338A - Image processing device, and printing device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing device, a printing device and the like, for performing transmission and reception in a short time, by restricting the amount of data transmitted and received between the image processing device and the printing device even when printing of a frame is performed by using a special color. <P>SOLUTION: Image data including frame identification ID and identification information are received in a step S3 and stored in an internal memory unit. Printing is performed in a step S4. At the printing, the frame identification ID stored in the internal memory unit is referred, and a portion shown by the frame identification ID is decided as a frame. As for the other portion, the image printing unit performs printing with gradation matched with the received color data. After printing of three colors, printing of the frame by using a special color is performed at the position shown by the frame identification ID in a step S8. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a printing apparatus suitable for combining frame data with image data captured by a still camera, a video camera, or the like and printing the frame data.

  Conventionally, heat-sensitive paper is used as printing paper, and a plurality of heating elements arranged in the main scanning direction are selectively driven to print on the paper in the form of dot lines while transporting the paper in the sub-scanning direction. There are line thermal transfer printers that perform.

  In recent years, with the progress of devices that handle images such as digital cameras, digital video cameras, and scanners, thermal transfer printers that print image data transmitted from these devices have attracted attention.

  In addition to thermal transfer printers, inkjet printers exist as widely used printers. However, since the inkjet printer can only select a binary value, whether or not to drop a droplet, let the small droplet land on the paper and get an apparent resolution and gradation by a technique such as error diffusion It is said.

  On the other hand, in a thermal transfer printer, the value of heat that can be controlled for one pixel can be easily changed. For this reason, it is possible to ensure a large gradation with respect to one pixel. Therefore, according to the thermal transfer type printer, a smoother and higher quality image can be obtained as compared with the ink jet printer.

  In addition, the performance of the thermal head and the performance of the paper material are improved, and the image quality of the printed photograph is not inferior to that of the silver salt photograph. For this reason, thermal transfer printers are attracting attention as natural image printers in order to keep pace with recent advances in digital cameras.

  Furthermore, a printing system that directly connects a thermal transfer printer and a photographing device such as a digital camera or a digital video camera has also appeared. In addition, a printing system in which a thermal transfer type printer and a photographing device are integrally formed has appeared. According to these printing systems, it is possible to print captured image information without using a device such as a computer for processing image information. As a result, it is possible to easily print out image information from a digital camera and digital video, which is very convenient.

  In relation to such a printing system, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228561 describes a technique related to power control between a digital camera and a printer. In this technique, a digital camera is configured to receive power from a printer. For this reason, printing can be executed without the user having to worry about the remaining power of the digital camera.

  Also, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-151867 describes a technique relating to low power consumption during printing. According to this technique, power is not supplied to the electronic viewfinder during printing. For this reason, it is effective for power saving.

  Also, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-228688 describes a technique for transferring multi-gradation digital data and a binarized signal at a time with respect to the transfer of image data. The least significant bit in the digital image data of a predetermined gradation is assigned to the binarized signal, and other than the least significant bit is assigned to the multi-gradation digital data. As a result, the digital image data is transferred with the binarized signal superimposed on the multi-tone digital image.

JP-A-10-243327 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-65182 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-128245

  However, with the technique described in Patent Document 3, it is inevitable that the transfer data of multi-gradation digital image data is reduced by one bit, and only a result contrary to the recent demand for higher image quality can be obtained.

  Also, conventional printers do not consider printing special colors such as gold as frame data, and there is almost no technology related to transmission and reception of image data. If a special color is printed after a normal image is printed, the normal image that has been printed first may be seen through.

  The present invention can reduce the amount of data transmitted and received between the image processing apparatus and the printing apparatus and perform transmission and reception in a short time even when printing a frame using a special color. It is an object to provide a processing apparatus and a printing apparatus.

  As a result of intensive studies to solve the above problems, the present inventor has come up with various aspects of the invention described below.

  An image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes: an image acquisition unit that acquires first image data; a frame acquisition unit that acquires frame data that can be combined with the first image data; and A generating unit configured to generate second image data by converting the color data into the first image data, and a transmitting unit configured to transmit the second image data to a printing apparatus; It is characterized by that.

  The printing apparatus according to the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives image data from an image processing device, an extracting unit that extracts predetermined color data from the image data, and the predetermined color data of the image data is excluded. Printing means for performing printing based on the data and thereafter performing printing based on the predetermined color data.

  According to the present invention, when image data and frame data are transmitted and received between the image processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, the frame data is converted into predetermined color data, which is extracted by the printing apparatus. For this reason, image data and frame data can be transmitted and received at a time, and an increase in the amount of data can be suppressed.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(First embodiment)
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention and a digital camera that transmits image data to the printer.

  The digital camera 31 includes a CPU 32, an internal storage unit 33, an external storage unit 34, an image processing unit 36, and an interface 35 for image transfer. A system bus 37 for connecting the CPU 32, the internal storage unit 33, the external storage unit 34, the image processing unit 36, and the interface 35 to each other is also provided.

  In the digital camera configured as described above, image data obtained by an imaging device (not shown) or the like is processed by the image processing unit 36 using the internal storage unit 33 as appropriate under the control of the CPU 32. Then, the processed image data is stored in, for example, the external storage unit 34 under the control of the CPU 32.

  The printer 40 includes an image printing unit 41, an image processing unit 42, an image transfer interface 43, a CPU 44, an internal storage unit 45, and an external storage unit 46. An image printing unit 41, an image processing unit 42, an interface 43 for image transfer, a CPU 44, an internal storage unit 45 and an external storage unit 46 are also provided.

  In the printer configured as described above, for example, image data stored in the external storage unit 34 is processed by the image processing unit 42 using the internal storage unit 45 as appropriate under the control of the CPU 44. Then, the processed image data is printed by the image printing unit 41 under the control of the CPU 44.

  Further, the interface 35 of the digital camera 31 and the interface 43 of the printer 40 can be connected to each other via a cable 38, and image data and the like can be transmitted and received between the digital camera 31 and the printer 40. Accordingly, the printer 40 can print the image data transmitted from the digital camera 31 as it is.

  Next, an example of image data created in the digital camera 31 will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display unit and an operation unit of the digital camera 31. The digital camera 31 is provided with a display unit and an operation unit, for example, on the outer surface opposite to the lens of the housing. The display unit displays a captured image and a frame that can be combined with the captured image. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a flower image and four types of frames that can be combined with the image are displayed. Further, a state in which one of the four types of frames (the frame located at the upper left) is selected is shown. In this state, when a button labeled “SET” is pressed, it is determined to synthesize the selected frame. That is, image data in which an image and one type of frame are combined is created.

  In the present embodiment, the image data of the digital camera 31 can be expressed with 256 bits of 8 bits for each color. However, when the image data is transmitted to the printer 40, it is converted to 255 gradations. The At this time, color data of gradation 0 is expressed as gradation 1, or color data of gradation 255 is expressed as gradation 254. Then, as shown in FIG. 3A or 3B, the color data of gradation 0 or gradation 255 is used as the frame identification ID. That is, part of the color data is used as the frame identification ID. Which gradation is used as the frame identification ID is stored in the internal storage unit 33 of the digital camera 31. This information is also stored in the internal storage unit 45 of the printer 40. That is, the gradation values used as the frame identification ID are shared by the internal storage units 33 and 45. Here, the frame identification ID is not an imaged image data itself but an identification mark for indicating that frame data is allocated to a portion of the image data expressed by the frame identification ID.

  Next, a method for transmitting image data including frame data created by the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a method for transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 in the first embodiment of the present invention. The operation of the digital camera 31 shown below is controlled mainly by the CPU 32 based on a program read from the program memory of the image processing apparatus.

  First, when the digital camera 31 is connected to the printer 40 (step S11), the CPU 32 acquires printer information from the printer 40 via the cable 38 (step S12). The printer information includes, for example, paper type, cartridge type, power supply status, and the like.

  Next, in step S13, when the user selects a desired image in the digital camera 31, and further sets the mode of the digital camera 31 to the frame composition mode, the desired frame can be selected and determined. In this series of user operations, for example, an image shown in FIG. 2 is displayed. At this time, the CPU 32 causes the display unit of the digital camera to display the image recorded in the external storage unit and causes the user to select an image to be printed from the displayed images in order to allow the user to select an image. When selecting a frame, the frame data recorded in the internal storage unit 33 or the external storage unit 34 is read, and the user selects frame data to be used for printing from the read frame data. The frame to be selected may be a frame using a spot color or a normal color frame.

  Thereafter, when the CPU 32 obtains a print start command (step S14), it creates YMC data for printing from the YUV data, and stores this YMC data in the internal storage unit 33 (step S15). This YMC data is color data for each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C) used when printing an image, and is composed of data indicating the gradation of each color. ing.

  Subsequently, the image processing unit 36 synthesizes the YMC data and the frame data corresponding to the frame determined in step S13 (step S16). At this time, a frame identification ID stored in the internal storage unit 33 is assigned to a portion where the frame data is arranged. Here, the frame identification ID is 0. That is, when the image processing unit 36 combines the frame data and the image data, the pixel to which the frame data is assigned is set to gradation 0. Then, a pixel that has a gradation of 0 in the image data portion that is not a frame portion is converted to a gradation of 1. By performing such processing, the image processing unit 36 creates YMC data by combining frame data. If the frame identification ID is stored as 255, the color data of gradation 255 in the image data portion is converted into color data of gradation 254. In addition, the pixel of the frame portion is assumed to be gradation 255. In this way, image data obtained by combining frame data is generated.

  Next, the CPU 32 transfers (transmits) the combined image data in step S16 to the printer 40 via the interface 35 via the cable 38 (step S17).

  Thereafter, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the transfer of the color data for the three colors Y, N, and C has been completed (step S18). If the transfer for the three colors has not been completed, the processing from step S15 to step S17 is repeated.

  On the other hand, if the transfer for the three colors has already been completed, the CPU 32 transmits control information as shown in FIG. 14 to the printer 40 (step S19). At this time, the control information may include a frame identification ID. In the present embodiment, the frame data is a single color, but when there are a plurality of special colors of the printer and the frame data is also composed of a plurality of special colors, different frame identification IDs are assigned to the plurality of colors. In this case, information that associates the frame identification ID with the spot color is created so that the color of the spot color corresponding to the frame identification ID is known, and is transmitted to the printer as control information.

  Subsequently, the CPU 32 receives a notification indicating that printing from the printer 40 has ended (step S20), and displays that printing has ended on the display unit (step S21).

  In this way, image data including frame data created in the digital camera 31 is transmitted to the printer 40.

  Next, details of the printer 40 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the printer 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. First, the mechanical configuration and operation of the printer 40 will be described.

  When there is an instruction to start printing from the user or the digital camera 31, the recording paper P is separated and fed one by one by the paper feed roller 3 from the paper cassette 2 on which the recording paper P is stacked. At this time, the recording paper P is brought into contact with the paper feed roller 3 by the push-up plate 20 biased by the spring 19 at the time of paper feed. The recording paper P is pressed by a paper pressing spring 14 having an acting force that can correct the warping in order to prevent paper feeding failure due to warping of the recording paper P.

  The recording paper P conveyed by the paper feed roller 3 is nipped and conveyed by a conveying roller pair 4 including a pinch roller 4-2 and a grip roller 4-1, so that the image printing unit 41 can reciprocate. An output shaft of a stepping motor (not shown) is directly connected to the grip roller 4-1 via a speed reduction mechanism, and the grip roller 4-1 is driven in a forward and reverse direction by rotation control of the stepping motor. . Since the recording paper P is firmly held by the conveying roller pair 4 and reciprocally conveyed, the recording paper P is also accurately position-controlled and conveyed by the rotation control of the stepping motor. In the image printing unit 41, the platen roller 5 and the thermal head 6 that generates heat according to the print data face each other across the recording paper conveyance path. The print data is generated by the processing circuit 18 based on the image data received from the digital camera 31 that is an image supply device. The processing circuit 18 includes a CPU 44, an image processing unit 42, an interface 43, an internal storage unit 45, an external storage unit 46, and the like.

  An ink sheet 8 is stored in the ink cassette 7. The ink sheet 8 has an ink layer of three colors (yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C)) coated with heat sublimation ink, and an overcoat on the printing surface to protect the printing surface. The protective layer (OP) to be used is included. Further, in the present embodiment, the ink sheet 8 also includes special color ink layers of hot-melt inks such as gold, silver, metallic and fluorescent colors, which are particularly suitable for frame printing. These ink layer, protective layer, and special color ink layer are arranged side by side. At the time of printing, each of these layers is transferred to the recording paper P by the thermal head 6. The thermal head 6 selectively heats the heating element to transfer the ink layer, record an image on the recording paper P, and then overcoat the protective layer. Further, after the overcoat, the special color ink layer of the hot melt ink is transferred. Details of control of these operations will be described later. The ink sheet 8 is supplied to the thermal head 6 from the supply side 7-2, and the used ink sheet 8 is taken up to the take-up side 7-1. Further, the size of the ink sheet 8 covers the printing area of the recording paper P and is approximately the same size as that size. After the thermal transfer of each layer, the recording paper P is returned to the recording start position P1, and the layers are sequentially transferred onto the recording paper P as described above. That is, the recording paper P is reciprocated in the image printing unit 41 by the conveying roller pair 4 according to the number of each color ink layer, protective layer, and special color ink layer. When the recording paper P is reciprocally conveyed, the printed recording paper P is switched in the conveyance path by the conveyance path switching sheet 16 in front of the printer 40 and guided in the discharge direction along the guide portion 15.

  The paper discharge tray unit 26 serves as both the lid of the paper cassette 2 and the tray of the recording paper P discharged after printing, and is configured to be openable and closable. Therefore, it is possible to replace the paper by opening the paper discharge tray section 26. The paper pressing springs 14 are disposed at two locations on the left and right sides inside the paper discharge tray section 26. After the printing of each ink layer is completed, the recording paper P is guided to the paper discharge roller 9, discharged toward the front of the printer 40, and the recording operation is completed.

  Further, the thermal head 6 for printing is provided integrally with the head arm 22, and when the ink cassette 7 is replaced, it is retracted to a position where the ink cassette 7 can be inserted and removed.

  Further, when viewing the conveyance roller pair 4 from the paper feed roller 3, a recording paper leading edge detection sensor 10 is disposed at a position near the conveyance roller pair 4, and the leading edge detection sensor 10 detects the leading edge of the recording paper P. The Although details will be described later, after this detection, the feeding of a predetermined line is stopped within a range that can be held between the pair of conveying rollers 4. This position is the position at the start of recording. From this position, the thermal head 6 is driven to generate heat for each color according to the recording information, a predetermined image of each color ink is recorded, and the overcoat layer and the special color ink layer are also transferred. At this time, when printing for one color is completed, the recording paper P is then returned from this position in the direction in which the paper discharge roller 9 is located, and a predetermined number of lines are again fed back. The distance between the position of the recording paper leading edge detection sensor 10 and the position at which the recording paper P is pressed by the platen roller 5 and the thermal head 6 is not particularly limited, but for example, the distance on the recording paper P is 20 mm.

  Further, the CPU 44 included in the processing circuit 18 manages the number of steps of the stepping motor based on the recording paper leading edge detection signal first detected by the recording paper leading edge detection sensor 10 when the recording paper P is fed. Further, the CPU 44 manages the number of steps for rotational driving of the stepping motor based on the positional relationship during conveyance of the recording paper P during all print recording. In this way, recording position management is performed.

  At the time of transfer recording of each YMC color, overcoat layer, and special color ink layer, the leading edge of the recording paper is detected by providing a detection sensor at the leading edge of the recording paper, and the number of steps of rotation driving of the stepping motor based on the signal The recording position may be managed by managing.

  Further, the recording paper P in the middle of printing is exposed to the outside through a slit 29 provided at the rear of the printer 40, and is conveyed to the rear end 28 of the recording paper below the removable battery 30 held behind.

  Further, the transfer control of the overcoat layer is not limited only to ON / OFF of the heat generation driving of the thermal head 6. For example, a control may be added to gradually increase the heat generation amount at the start of overcoat layer transfer, and to gradually decrease the heat generation amount at the end of transfer of the overcoat layer. However, if the printer 40 is overheated by such an operation involving heat generation, the predetermined performance may not be brought out. In particular, if the head arm 22 that is the vicinity of the thermal head 6 or a mounting part stores heat, an abnormality may occur in overheat control for printing. For this reason, it is preferable to provide a fan 21 and to turn the fan 21 to air-cool when the vicinity of the thermal head 6 exceeds a predetermined temperature.

  Next, the operation of the printer 40 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The operation of the printer 40 described below is controlled mainly by the CPU 44 based on a program for the printing apparatus.

  First, when the digital camera 31 is connected to the printer 40 (step S1), the CPU 44 transmits printer information to the digital camera 31 via the cable 38 (step S2). The printer information includes, for example, paper type, cartridge type, power supply status, and the like. The CPU 44 also checks various conditions necessary for printing with the digital camera 31 and performs image processing on the print information of the image information as necessary. The digital camera 31 may perform processing according to the model of the printer 40 and the like. In this case, for example, the digital camera 31 may further perform resizing processing based on the number of pixels and the print size in the printer 40, and then send image information to the printer 40.

  Thereafter, when the CPU 44 receives the combined image data and control information (FIG. 14) for the three colors transferred (transmitted) via the interface 43 in step S17 by the digital camera 31, these are stored in the internal storage unit 45. Save (step S3).

  Subsequently, the CPU 44 causes the image printing unit 41 to execute printing (step S4). In this printing, the image printing unit 41 refers to the frame identification ID stored in the internal storage unit 45, determines that the part represented by the frame identification ID is a frame, and makes this part white. . In other parts, the image printing unit 41 performs printing with gradations that match the received color data. When printing with special color ink, since the image under the special color ink may be seen through, whitening processing is performed. When the frame identification ID is 0, the frame portion is already whitened, so there is no need for whitening. In addition, when the special color ink is printed when black is printed on the black color, the portion to which the frame identification ID is assigned without being white-colored is converted into data of gradation 255, and the black color is converted. You may make it print by.

  Here, the operation of the image printing unit 41 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image printing unit 41. The image printing unit 41 is controlled mainly by the CPU 44.

  First, in step S401, based on the control by the CPU 44, a stepping motor (not shown) coupled to the paper feed roller 3 is driven to rotate the paper feed roller 3 to start feeding the recording paper P. To do.

  Next, when the leading edge detection sensor 10 detects the leading edge of the recording paper P in step S402, based on the control by the CPU 44, a stepping motor (not shown) coupled to the paper feeding roller 3 rotates by a predetermined step, and printing is performed. To start. At this time, the printing start position is set to 12.465 mm from the leading edge of the recording paper P, for example.

  Thereafter, in step S403, the thermal head 6 is driven to generate heat and printing for one line is performed while the stepping motor rotates by several steps based on the control by the CPU 44. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the recording pitch for one line by the thermal head 6 is 85 μm, and the number of steps of the stepping motor for conveying the recording paper P for one line is four. Further, as an example, it is assumed that the printing range of the recording paper P is 144 mm in the transport direction. In this case, by controlling the rotation of the stepping motor in four steps, the recording paper P can be conveyed by one line (ie, 85 μm). Further, printing for 1694 lines is possible, and in order to transport the recording paper P by this amount, the stepping motor is rotated by 6776 steps. Therefore, when the rotation of the stepping motor for 6776 steps (1694 lines) is completed, printing is completed. Further, the print end position at this time is, for example, 156.455 mm from the leading end of the recording paper P.

  Subsequently, in step S404, based on the control by the CPU 44, the stepping motor rotates about 10 lines (for 40 steps) for deceleration before stopping, and then stops.

  Next, in step S405, based on the control by the CPU 44, the stepping motor rotates in the reverse direction, and the recording paper P is conveyed in the direction opposite to that during printing. For example, the motor rotates backward by a predetermined number of steps (6776 steps-deceleration), further rotates by 10 lines (40 steps) of a predetermined number of lines for deceleration, and then stops.

  In this way, color data for one color is printed (step S4). The CPU 44 determines whether the printing of the color data for three colors has been completed each time the printing of the color data for one color in step S4 is completed (step S5). If the printing for the three colors has not been completed, the process of step S4 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the printing for the three colors has been completed, the overcoat layer for protecting the printing surface is transferred once based on the control by the CPU 44 (step S6).

  Next, the image processing unit 42 extracts a portion to which a frame identification ID is assigned from the image data of each color, and generates frame data (step S7).

  Thereafter, based on the control by the CPU 44, the image printing unit 41 prints a frame using, for example, a special color ink layer (step S8). Then, the recording paper P is guided to the discharge roller 9 by the driving of the stepping motor, and the recording paper P is discharged by the driving of the discharge roller 9 to complete a series of operations.

  Subsequently, the CPU 44 notifies the digital camera 31 that printing has been completed (step S9).

  In this way, printing of image data including frame data created in the digital camera 31 is performed by the printer 40.

  According to such a printing method, for example, when the captured image is as shown in FIG. 8 and the selected and determined frame is as shown in FIG. The image recorded in P is as shown in FIG. In FIG. 10, the blacked out portions are outlined. In step S8, a frame is printed using the special color ink layer or the like on the whitened portion.

  Further, for example, when the captured image is as shown in FIG. 11 and the frame selected and determined is as shown in FIG. 12, the image is recorded on the recording paper P after the three colors are printed by the printer 40. The image shown in FIG. 13 is as shown in FIG. In step S8, a frame using a special color ink layer or the like is printed on the whitened portion.

  According to the first embodiment, since the numerical value different from the gradation data is assigned as the frame identification ID to express the color gradation in the conventional case, the frame data can be easily obtained. Can be identified. If there is a frame identification ID in the color data, it can be easily determined that the location is a frame. Therefore, by using such a frame identification ID, it is possible to transfer the data of the captured image and the frame data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 at a time. In particular, the special color ink tends to show the lower color. For this reason, the color of the special color ink can be seen more clearly when the portion where the special color ink is printed is subjected to a whitening process or a process of converting to a specific color. As in this embodiment, by converting the frame portion on which the special color ink is printed on the digital camera side into specific color data and then sending the data to the printer, the printer can print without performing background processing. Further, since the printer can generate frame data of the frame portion for printing the special color ink from the sent data, the frame printing can be performed without transmitting the frame data for the special color ink.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The second embodiment basically performs the same processing as that of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the same frame identification ID is assigned to the digital camera 31 and the printer 40 in advance. However, in the second embodiment, the digital camera 31 and the printer 40 are individually assigned to the frame data. Determine the ID. It is assumed that a plurality of values that may be used as frame identification IDs are assigned in advance. For example, it is assumed that “0” and “255” are given to both as values that may be used as the frame identification ID. In the present embodiment, although details will be described later, each of the digital camera 31 and the printer 40 determines the brightness of the image from the image data, and determines which is the frame identification ID according to the result. .

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a method for transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 in the second embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S11 to step S15 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 32 obtains an average value of each color data of YMC, and determines a frame identification ID from this average value (step S31). For example, when the average value is larger than half of the number of effective gradations, the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID. When the average value is less than half, the color data “255” is used as the frame. It will be used as an identification ID. Accordingly, in order to avoid confusion with the frame identification ID, when the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID, the image processing unit 36 sets the gradation data to “0”. For the portion that has been changed, the gradation data is changed to “1”. Similarly, when the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “254” for the portion where the gradation data is “255”.

  Thereafter, the image processing unit 36 synthesizes the YMC data and the frame data corresponding to the frame determined in step S13 in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S16).

  Subsequently, the CPU 32 recalculates the average value of the color data to check whether a correct frame identification ID can be calculated (step S32). In this confirmation, the average value of numerical values other than “0” and “255” which are frame identification ID candidates is recalculated. For example, the number of effective gradations is 256, the color data before synthesis is “200, 233, 180, 180, 197, 199, 160, 153, 110, 98”, and the frame data to be synthesized is “0, 20, 20”. , 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0 ". In this example, the average value of the color data before synthesis is “171”. Since this numerical value is larger than half the effective gradation number “128”, “0” is used as the frame identification ID in step S31. As a result, the combined color data in step S16 is “200, 0, 0, 180, 197, 199, 160, 153, 110, 98”. In this case, in step S32, an average value of values other than “0” as the frame identification ID is calculated, and a value “162” is obtained. From this result, it can be confirmed that there is no error in using “0” as the frame identification ID. Note that “20” in the frame data to be combined indicates the presence of a frame, and this value is arbitrary.

  The subsequent processing after step S17 is the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer 40 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S1 to step S3 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 44 obtains an average value of each color data of YMC stored in the internal storage unit 45, and determines a frame identification ID from this average value according to the same rules as the CPU 32 (step S36). For example, when the average value is larger than half of the number of effective gradations, the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID. When the average value is less than half, the color data “255” is used as the frame. It will be used as an identification ID. Accordingly, in order to avoid confusion with the frame identification ID, when the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 determines the portion where the gradation data is “0”. Changes the gradation data to “1”. Similarly, when the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 changes the gradation data to “254” for the portion where the gradation data is “255”.

  The subsequent processing after step S4 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  According to the second embodiment, when the image data includes a lot of dark colors, the tone 0 color data is used as the frame identification ID, and the image data includes a lot of light colors. If it is included, the color data of gradation 255 is used as the frame identification ID. As a result, the color data included in the image data rarely overlaps with the color data used as the frame identification ID. Therefore, even if the imaged image data is converted from 256 gradations to 255 gradations, the color change hardly occurs.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, two types of values that may be used in advance as frame identification IDs are given in advance to the digital camera 31 and the printer 40. In the third embodiment, the control information shown in FIG. Includes a frame identification ID.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S11 to step S15 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 32 obtains an average value of each color data of YMC, and determines a frame identification ID from this average value (step S41). For example, when the average value is larger than half of the number of effective gradations, the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID. When the average value is less than half, the color data “255” is used as the frame. It will be used as an identification ID. Accordingly, in order to avoid confusion with the frame identification ID, when the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID, the image processing unit 36 sets the gradation data to “0”. For the portion that has been changed, the gradation data is changed to “1”. Similarly, when the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “254” for the portion where the gradation data is “255”. In the present embodiment, since the value used as the frame identification ID is not limited as described above, any value other than “0” and “255” may be used as long as the value is used as gradation data. Good.

  Thereafter, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S16 to step S18 is performed.

  Subsequently, the CPU 32 transmits control information including the frame identification ID determined in step S41 to the printer 40 (step S42).

  The subsequent processing after step S20 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer 40 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S1 to step S3 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 44 causes the image printing unit 41 to execute printing (step S46). In this printing, the image printing unit 41 refers to the information of the frame identification ID included in the control information acquired from the digital camera in step S42, and determines the portion represented by the frame identification ID as a frame. This portion may be subjected to whitening processing, or when gradation 0 is assigned to the frame identification ID, it is already white data and may be printed as it is. In other parts, the image printing unit 41 performs printing with gradations that match the received color data.

  The subsequent processing after step S5 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  According to the third embodiment as described above, the control information (FIG. 14) communicated between the digital camera 31 and the printer 40 is used, and the frame identification ID is put on this control information. The printer 40 is notified of the frame identification ID. In this way, by notifying the printer 40 of the frame identification ID, the calculation processing of YMC color data for identifying the frame identification ID on the printer 40 side as in the second embodiment is made unnecessary. A simpler process can be realized.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the values that can be used as the frame identification ID are limited to two types, but in the fourth embodiment, more various values can be used as the frame identification ID. For example, it is assumed that “0”, “50”, “200”, and “255” are given to both as values that may be used as the frame identification ID. In the present embodiment, although details will be described later, each of the digital camera 31 and the printer 40 determines the brightness of the image from the image data, and determines which is the frame identification ID according to the result. .

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a method for transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S11 to step S15 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 32 obtains an average value of each color data of YMC, and determines a frame identification ID from this average value (step S51). At this time, if the average value is 0 or more and less than 63, the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 63 or more and less than 127, the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 127 or more and less than 191, color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 191 or more and 255 or less, color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID. That is, the number of effective gradations is divided into the number of frame identification ID candidates, and the candidate frame identification IDs are assigned to the divided gradation ranges, respectively, and used as frame identification IDs according to the average value. Determine the value. Accordingly, in order to avoid confusion with the frame identification ID, when the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 determines the portion where the gradation data is “0”. Changes the gradation data to “1”. Similarly, when the color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “51” for the portion where the gradation data is “50”. When the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “201” for the portion where the gradation data is “200”. When the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “254” for the portion where the gradation data is “255”. When the color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 may change the gradation data to “49” for the portion where the gradation data is “50”. Further, when the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 may change the gradation data to “199” for the portion where the gradation data is “200”.

  Thereafter, the image processing unit 36 synthesizes the YMC data and the frame data corresponding to the frame determined in step S13 in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S16).

  Subsequently, the CPU 32 recalculates the average value of the color data to check whether a correct frame identification ID can be calculated (step S52). In this confirmation, average values of numerical values other than “0”, “50”, “200”, and “255” that are candidates for the frame identification ID are recalculated. For example, when the number of effective gradations is 256, the color data before synthesis is “200, 233, 180, 180, 197, 199, 160, 153, 110, 98” and the frame data to be synthesized is “0, 20, 20, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0 ". In this example, the average value of the color data before synthesis is “171”. Since this numerical value is within the range of “127 to less than 191”, “50” is used as the frame identification ID in step S51. As a result, the color data after combining in step S16 is “200, 50, 50, 180, 197, 199, 160, 153, 110, 98”. In this case, in step S52, an average value of values other than “50” as the frame identification ID is calculated, and a value “162” is obtained. From this result, it can be confirmed that there is no error in using “50” as the frame identification ID.

  The subsequent processing after step S17 is the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer 40 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S1 to step S3 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 44 obtains an average value of each color data of YMC stored in the internal storage unit 45, and determines a frame identification ID from this average value according to the same rules as the CPU 32 (step S36). For example, if the average value is 0 or more and less than 63, the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 63 or more and less than 127, the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 127 or more and less than 191, color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 191 or more and 255 or less, color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID. Accordingly, in order to avoid confusion with the frame identification ID, when the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 determines the portion where the gradation data is “0”. Changes the gradation data to “1”. Similarly, when the color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 changes the gradation data to “51” for the portion where the gradation data is “50”. When the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 changes the gradation data to “201” for the portion where the gradation data is “200”. When the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 changes the gradation data to “254” for the portion where the gradation data is “255”. When the color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 may change the gradation data to “49” for the portion where the gradation data is “50”. When the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 44 may change the gradation data to “199” for the portion where the gradation data is “200”.

  The subsequent processing after step S4 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  According to the fourth embodiment, since the number of effective gradations is divided more finely, a more appropriate frame identification ID can be used. That is, it is possible to perform control in accordance with the density of the image.

  In the second embodiment, two types of values are determined in advance, and in the fourth embodiment, four types of values are determined in advance. However, if two or more types of values are determined in advance, Thus, it is possible to perform control according to the density of the image.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fourth embodiment, four types of values that may be used in advance as frame identification IDs are assigned in advance to the digital camera 31 and the printer 40. In the fifth embodiment, the control information shown in FIG. Includes a frame identification ID.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a method for transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 in the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S11 to step S15 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 32 obtains an average value of each color data of YMC, and determines a frame identification ID from this average value (step S41). For example, if the average value is 0 or more and less than 63, the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 63 or more and less than 127, the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 127 or more and less than 191, color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID. If the average value is 191 or more and 255 or less, color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID. Accordingly, in order to avoid confusion with the frame identification ID, when the color data “0” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 determines the portion where the gradation data is “0”. Changes the gradation data to “1”. Similarly, when the color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “51” for the portion where the gradation data is “50”. When the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “201” for the portion where the gradation data is “200”. When the color data “255” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 changes the gradation data to “254” for the portion where the gradation data is “255”. When the color data “50” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 may change the gradation data to “49” for the portion where the gradation data is “50”. Further, when the color data “200” is used as the frame identification ID, the CPU 32 may change the gradation data to “199” for the portion where the gradation data is “200”.

  Thereafter, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S16 to step S18 is performed.

  Subsequently, the CPU 32 transmits control information including the frame identification ID determined in step S61 to the printer 40 (step S62).

  The subsequent processing after step S20 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer 40 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  First, similarly to the first embodiment, the processing from step S1 to step S3 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 44 causes the image printing unit 41 to execute printing (step S66). In this printing, the image printing unit 41 refers to the frame identification ID included in the control information in step S3 and stored in the internal storage unit 45, and the part represented by the frame identification ID is defined as a frame. to decide. This portion may be subjected to whitening processing, or when gradation 0 is assigned to the frame identification ID, it is already white data and may be printed as it is. In other parts, the image printing unit 41 performs printing with gradations that match the received color data.

  The subsequent processing after step S5 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  According to the fifth embodiment as described above, the control information (FIG. 14) communicated between the digital camera 31 and the printer 40 is used, and the frame identification ID is put on this control information. The printer 40 is notified of the frame identification ID. In this way, by notifying the printer 40 of the frame identification ID, YMC color data calculation processing for identifying the frame identification ID on the printer 40 side as in the fourth embodiment is not required. A simpler process can be realized.

  In the second to fourth embodiments, the average value of the gradation is obtained, and based on this, the color data used as the frame identification ID is determined. However, the color data not included in the imaged image data is determined. Either of them may be used as the frame identification ID.

  Further, frame data may be determined for each YMC color data.

  Since the printer 40 records the three colors of YMC three times sequentially, it is extremely preferable to accurately match the recording heads of the respective colors. For this purpose, it is preferable to convey the recording paper P firmly with the conveying roller pair 4 without releasing it. Therefore, it is preferable to provide an unrecordable blank portion at the end of the recording paper P in the feeding direction. Therefore, in order to finally obtain a printed material having no border, it is preferable to provide the perforation 12 on the recording paper P as shown in FIG. By providing the perforation 12, the blank portion 13 that is firmly sandwiched by the conveying roller pair 4 at the start of recording and cannot be recorded can be easily cut out with bare hands after printing. In this case, for example, the overcoat layer is transferred to a region including the perforation 12. Further, in FIG. 23, the CPU 44 controls the image printing unit 41 so that the perforation 12 is included in the print area 17 indicated by the left-downward oblique lines. Then, the overcoat layer is transferred to a region slightly wider than the printing region 17.

  Also, the colors used for the frame may be two or more colors. In this case, two types of frame identification IDs may be used. Further, the color used for the frame color need not be a special color such as gold, silver, metallic, or fluorescent color, and red, blue, yellow, or the like may be used.

  Further, when the frame identification ID is transmitted from the image processing apparatus such as the digital camera 31 to the printing apparatus such as the printer 40, it is not necessary to include the frame identification ID in the control information as shown in FIG. For example, it may be included in the header of the image data.

  The embodiment of the present invention can be realized by, for example, a computer executing a program. Also, means for supplying a program to a computer, for example, a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM recording such a program, or a transmission medium such as the Internet for transmitting such a program is also applied as an embodiment of the present invention. Can do. The above program can also be applied as an embodiment of the present invention. The above program, recording medium, transmission medium, and program product are included in the scope of the present invention.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention and a digital camera that transmits image data to the printer. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a display unit and an operation unit of the digital camera 31. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a structure of image data created in the digital camera 31. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer 40 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of the printer 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image printing unit 41. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the imaged image. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of a flame | frame. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an image recorded on a recording paper P. FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other example of the imaged image. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other example of a flame | frame. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an image recorded on recording paper P. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of control information. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of transmitting image data from the digital camera 31 to the printer 40 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the printer 40 which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting image data from a digital camera 31 to a printer 40 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the printer 40 which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting image data from a digital camera 31 to a printer 40 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the printer 40 which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting image data from a digital camera 31 to a printer 40 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the printer 40 which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a recording sheet P. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

2: Paper cassette 3: Paper feed roller 4: Transport roller pair 4-1: Grip roller 4-2: Pinch roller 5: Platen roller 6: Thermal head 7: Ink cassette 7-1: Winding side 7-2: Supply Side 8: Ink sheet 9: Paper discharge roller 10: Recording paper leading edge detection sensor 12: Perforation 13: Margin part 14: Paper pressing spring 15: Guide part 16: Transport path switching sheet 17: Print area 18: Processing circuit 19: Spring 20: Push-up plate 21: Fan 22: Head arm 26: Paper discharge tray portion 28: Rear end portion of recording paper 29: Slit 30: Battery P: Recording paper P1: Recording start position 31: Digital camera 32: CPU
33: Internal storage unit 34: External storage unit 35: Image processing unit 36: Interface 37: System bus 38: Cable 40: Printer 41: Image printing unit 42: Image processing unit 43: Interface 44: CPU
45: Internal storage unit 46: External storage unit 47: System bus

Claims (20)

Image acquisition means for acquiring first image data;
Frame acquisition means for acquiring frame data that can be combined with the first image data;
Generating means for generating second image data by converting the frame data into predetermined color data and combining it with the first image data;
Transmitting means for transmitting the second image data to a printing apparatus;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined color data is a part of a plurality of color data that can be used for expressing the first image data.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a determination unit that determines the predetermined color data based on information on a color constituting the first image data.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the determination unit selects color data not included in the first image data as the predetermined color data.   5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein two or more types of color data that can be used as the predetermined color data are predetermined.   6. The determination unit according to claim 3, wherein the determination unit uses an average value of gradations of the first image data as information of a color constituting the first image data. Image processing apparatus.   When the predetermined color data is also included in the first image data, the generating means shifts the predetermined color data included in the first image data from the color data. 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image data is converted into other color data within a predetermined range.   8. The frame data according to claim 1, wherein the frame data is frame data for performing printing using at least one special color among gold, silver, metallic and fluorescent colors. Image processing apparatus.   The image processing according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes an identification information transmission unit that transmits information for identifying the predetermined color data to the printing apparatus. apparatus. Receiving means for receiving image data from the image processing device;
Extraction means for extracting predetermined color data from the image data;
Printing means for performing printing based on data excluding the predetermined color data in the image data, and thereafter performing printing based on the predetermined color data;
A printing apparatus comprising:   The printing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined color data is a part of a plurality of color data that can be used for expressing the image data.   The printing means performs printing using at least one special color selected from the group consisting of gold, silver, metallic and fluorescent colors as printing based on the predetermined color data. Or the printing apparatus of 11. Identification information receiving means for receiving identification information for identifying the predetermined color data from the image processing device;
Storage means for storing the identification information;
The printing apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising: An image acquisition step of acquiring first image data;
A frame acquisition step of acquiring frame data that can be combined with the first image data;
A conversion step of converting the frame data into predetermined color data;
Generating the second image data by combining the color data after the conversion in the conversion step with the first image data;
A transmission step of transmitting the second image data to a printing apparatus;
An image processing method comprising: A receiving step of receiving image data from the image processing device;
An extraction step of extracting predetermined color data from the image data;
A printing step of performing printing based on data excluding the predetermined color data in the image data, and thereafter performing printing based on the predetermined color data;
A printing method characterized by comprising: On the computer,
An image acquisition step of acquiring first image data;
A frame acquisition step of acquiring frame data that can be combined with the first image data;
A step of generating second image data by converting the frame data into predetermined color data and synthesizing the frame data with the first image data;
A transmission step of transmitting the second image data to a printing apparatus;
A program for an image processing apparatus, characterized in that On the computer,
A receiving step of receiving image data from the image processing device;
An extraction step of extracting predetermined color data from the image data;
A print control step of performing printing based on data excluding the predetermined color data in the image data, and thereafter controlling printing based on the predetermined color data;
A program for a printing apparatus, wherein the program is executed. On the computer,
An image acquisition step of acquiring first image data;
A frame acquisition step of acquiring frame data that can be combined with the first image data;
A step of generating second image data by converting the frame data into predetermined color data and synthesizing the frame data with the first image data;
A transmission step of transmitting the second image data to a printing apparatus;
A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for an image processing apparatus that executes the above. On the computer,
A receiving step of receiving image data from the image processing device;
An extraction step of extracting predetermined color data from the image data;
A print control step of performing printing based on data excluding the predetermined color data in the image data, and thereafter controlling printing based on the predetermined color data;
A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for a printing apparatus that executes the above. An image processing device;
A printing device for printing data received from the image processing device;
Have
The image processing apparatus includes:
Image acquisition means for acquiring first image data;
Frame acquisition means for acquiring frame data that can be combined with the first image data;
Conversion means for converting the frame data into predetermined color data;
Generating means for generating second image data by combining color data after conversion by the conversion means with the first image data;
Transmitting means for transmitting the second image data to a printing apparatus;
Have
The printing apparatus includes:
Receiving means for receiving the second image data transmitted from the transmitting means;
Extraction means for extracting the predetermined color data from the second image data;
Printing means for performing printing based on data excluding the predetermined color data in the second image data, and thereafter performing printing based on the predetermined color data;
A printing system comprising:

Images