JP2009077144A - Image processor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To combine an image to which a texture pattern is set and a texture dither pattern suitable for a printer in an arbitrary remote destination and output the resultant composite image, when transmitting the image to the printer to output the image. <P>SOLUTION: Texture pattern information is given to attribute data showing attribute information of each pixel, and attribute data is transmitted together with image data, and attribute data is replaced with texture pattern data suitable for a printer engine of a remote printer on the remote printer side on the basis of texture pattern information of attribute data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to processing for printing an image including a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image for clearly distinguishing a copy from an original in an image processing apparatus configured to include an image input apparatus such as a scanner and a printing apparatus such as a printer. Is.

  Conventionally, for the purpose of prohibiting or suppressing copying of forms and resident cards, these contents have been printed on a specially-printed paper called anti-counterfeit paper. This forgery-preventing paper is hard to be seen by humans in the original, but is a paper on which characters such as “prohibited copying” appear when copying using a copying machine or the like. As a result, the effect of making the copy person hesitant to use the copy is produced. Furthermore, it is assumed that such a form or the like is printed on forgery prevention paper, so that the effect of inhibiting and checking the copy itself is also produced.

  However, such anti-counterfeit paper has a problem that it is more expensive than ordinary paper. Further, only characters set at the time of production of the anti-counterfeit paper can be raised, and the use of the paper is limited.

  On the other hand, as various contents are digitized, contents such as forms and resident's cards are also digitized. However, the digitization of these forms and resident's forms themselves is still in a transitional period, and content created using a computer is often output and used on paper using a printer or the like.

  In response to such a situation, attention has been paid to a technique for generating anti-counterfeit paper, which has been prepared in advance by plate making or the like, using a computer and a printer (Patent Document 1). This is a technique for generating image data called a tint block in addition to content data when printing and outputting content created using a computer, and outputting these data in an overlapping manner. The background pattern is sometimes called a copy check pattern. The copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image appears as a simple pattern or background image to the human eye in the original (printed matter output by the printer), but when copied, predetermined characters and images are visualized. And this original can give the same check effect as said forgery prevention paper. This is possible due to a dramatic improvement in printer performance.

  When a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image created using a computer is output overlaid on content data, it can of course be output using normal printing paper, etc. There are advantages in terms. Furthermore, since a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image can be generated when the content data is printed out, it is possible to freely determine not only the color of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image but also characters to be visualized when copying the original. Another advantage is that the output date and time, information specific to the printing apparatus, and the like can be used as the tint block image.

  Now, as described above, the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image realizes an effect of suppressing the use of the copied material, etc., when the original is copied, a predetermined character that cannot be recognized before copying becomes obvious. is there.

  In order to achieve this effect, the generated copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image basically includes an area in which the same image as the original remains in the copy and an image existing in the original in the copy disappears or the above remaining area. It is composed of two areas that are thinner than the image. The copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image composed of the two areas is preferably set to have substantially the same density in the two areas in a state where the image is printed out. In other words, the printed copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image needs to be configured so that it is difficult for humans to visually recognize that characters to be visualized on a copy are hidden. An image area that is hidden in the printed output of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image but appears to be visually recognizable by humans in a copy of the printed output is called a “latent image (or latent image)”. In addition, an image area having a lower density than the density of a latent image that disappears with a copy or is visualized with the copy is referred to as a “background (or background image)” for convenience. The copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image basically consists of the latent image and the background image.

  The latent image is configured so that dots are concentrated in a predetermined area. On the other hand, the background portion is configured such that dots are dispersed within a predetermined area. By configuring so that the density of dots in this region is substantially the same, it is possible to make it difficult to distinguish the latent image portion from the background portion in the printed output of the tint block image.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the state of dots in these two image areas. As shown in the figure, a tint block image is composed of a background portion in which dots are dispersed in a predetermined area and a latent image portion in which dots are concentrated. The dots in these two regions can be generated by different halftone dot processing and different dither processing. For example, when a tint block image is generated using halftone processing, the latent image portion performs halftone processing with a low number of lines. In addition, it is preferable that the background portion performs halftone dot processing with a high number of lines. Furthermore, when a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image is generated using dither processing, the latent image portion performs dither processing using a dot-concentrated dither matrix. Further, it is preferable that the background portion performs dither processing using a dot dispersion type dither matrix.

  In general, a reading unit and an image forming unit of a copying machine have a limit level of reproducibility depending on an input resolution for reading minute dots on an original and an output resolution for reproducing minute dots. If the dots in the background portion of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image are formed smaller than the limit level of the dots that can be reproduced by the copying machine and the dots in the latent image portion are formed larger than the limit level, the dots in the latent image portion will be Can be reproduced and small dots in the background are not reproduced. By utilizing these characteristics, the latent image becomes apparent on a copy of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image. Hereinafter, an image that appears on a copy is referred to as a visible image. Even if the background portion is reproduced by copying, the same effect as when dots are not reproduced can be obtained as long as the latent image portion on the copy can be clearly recognized.

  FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B are diagrams showing this visualization. This figure conceptually shows that when the dots are concentrated, the image is also visualized in the copy, and when the dots are dispersed, it is not reproduced in the copy.

Note that copy-forgery-inhibited pattern printing is not limited to the above-described configuration, and it is sufficient that a character string or the like can be reproduced on a copy at a recognizable level. That is, even if a character string or the like is designated as the background portion and is shown in a state like a white character at the time of copying, the purpose of the tint block printing is achieved.
JP 2001-197297 A

  Conventionally, when image data with a tint block is transmitted to a device equipped with a different printer engine for remote printing, the tint block is not subjected to an appropriate process and is output as it is. However, the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern dither pattern is inherent to the printer engine, and when the remote destination printer engine is different, the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern dither pattern is also different. There was a harmful effect.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information in attribute data indicating the attribute information of each pixel and transmit the attribute data together with image data. Then, by replacing the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern data suitable for the printer engine on the basis of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information of the attribute data on the remote printer side, a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern dither pattern suitable for the printer is added and output.

  Therefore, in the present invention, the object is achieved by providing the image processing apparatus shown below.

The image processing apparatus that transmits image data includes an adding unit that adds copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information as attribute data to the image data, and a transmission unit that transmits image data to which the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information is added by the adding unit,
The image processing apparatus that receives the image data includes a receiving unit that receives the image data, and a combining unit that synthesizes the background pattern with the image data based on the background pattern information attached to the image data received by the receiving unit. It is characterized by.

  As described above, the attribute data indicating the attribute information of each pixel is provided with the background pattern information, the attribute data is transmitted together with the image data, and the remote printer side generates a background pattern suitable for the printer engine based on the background pattern information of the attribute data. Generate and combine with image data to add and output a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern dither pattern suitable for the printer, so that when the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern is set, it can be output normally even if it is sent to the remote printer. Is obtained.

  Next, details of the present invention will be described in accordance with the description of the embodiment.

  An overall configuration of an image input / output system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, a reader unit (image input device) 200 optically reads an original image and converts it into image data. The reader unit 200 includes a scanner unit 210 having a function for reading a document and a document feeding unit 250 having a function for transporting a document sheet.

  A printer unit (image output device) 300 conveys recording paper, prints image data as a visible image thereon, and discharges the recording paper outside the device. The printer unit 300 includes a paper feed unit 310 having a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes, a marking unit 320 having a function of transferring and fixing image data onto the recording paper, and sorting and stapling the printed recording papers. And a paper discharge unit 330 having a function of outputting to

  A control device 110 is electrically connected to the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300, and is further connected to host computers 401 and 402 via a network 400 such as Ethernet (registered trademark).

  The control device 110 controls the reader unit 200 to read image data of a document, and controls the printer unit 300 to output the image data to a recording sheet to provide a copy function. The control device 110 also converts the image data read from the reader unit 200 into code data and transmits the code data to the host computer via the network 400, and the code data received from the host computer via the network 400 as an image. A printer function that converts the data into data and outputs the data to the printer unit 300 is provided.

  Further, the control device 110 can read data stored in the CD-ROM from the CD-ROM drive 163.

  An operation unit 150 is connected to the control device 110 and is configured by a liquid crystal touch panel, and provides a user I / F for operating the image input / output system.

  FIG. 2 is an overview of the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300 shown in FIG.

  In the reader unit 200, a document feeding unit 250 feeds the documents one by one onto the platen glass 211 in order from the top, and discharges the documents on the platen glass 211 after the document reading operation is completed. When the document is conveyed onto the platen glass 211, the lamp 212 is turned on, and the movement of the optical unit 213 is started to expose and scan the document. Reflected light from the original at this time is guided to a CCD image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CCD) 218 by mirrors 214, 215, and 216 and a lens 217. Thus, the scanned image of the original is read by the CCD 218.

  A reader image processing circuit unit 222 performs predetermined processing on the image data output from the CCD 218 and outputs the processed image data to the control device 110 via the scanner I / F 140. A printer image processing circuit unit 352 outputs an image signal sent from the control device 110 to the laser driver via the printer I / F 145.

  In the printer unit 300, reference numeral 317 denotes a laser driver that drives the laser light emitting units 313, 314, 315, and 316. Laser light corresponding to the image data output from the printer image processing unit 352 is emitted from the laser light emitting unit 313. Light is emitted from 314, 315, and 316. This laser beam is irradiated to the photosensitive drums 325, 326, 327, 328 by mirrors 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347, 348, 349, 350, 351, and the photosensitive drums 325, 326, 327, 328, A latent image corresponding to the laser beam is formed at 328.

  Reference numerals 321, 322, 323, and 324 are developing units for developing a latent image with black (Bk), yellow (Y), cyan (C), and magenta (M) toners, respectively. The toner is transferred to a sheet and printed out in full color.

  A sheet fed from one of the sheet cassettes 360 and 361 and the manual feed tray 362 at a timing synchronized with the start of laser beam irradiation is attracted onto the transfer belt 334 via the registration roller 333 and conveyed. Then, the developer attached to the photosensitive drums 325, 326, 327, and 328 is transferred to the recording paper.

  The recording paper on which the developer is placed is conveyed to the fixing unit 335, and the developer is fixed on the image recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 335. The recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 335 is discharged by the discharge roller 336, and the paper discharge unit 370 sorts the recording paper by bundling the discharged recording paper, and staples the sorted recording paper.

  When bookbinding recording is set, after the recording paper is conveyed to the discharge roller 336, the rotation direction of the discharge roller 336 is reversed and guided to the refeed conveyance path 338 by the flapper 337. The recording sheet guided to the refeed conveyance path 338 is fed to the transfer belt 334 at the timing described above.

<Description of Reader Image Processing Unit>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the reader image processing unit 222 shown in FIG.

  In the reader image processing unit 222, the document on the platen glass 211 is read by the CCD 218 and converted into an electrical signal. When the CCD 218 is a color sensor, even if the RGB color filters are mounted inline in the order of RGB on the 1-line CCD, the CCD 218 is a 3-line CCD, and the R filter, G filter, and B filter are arranged for each CCD. Alternatively, the filter may be on-chip, or the filter may be configured separately from the CCD.

  The electrical signal (analog image signal) output from the CCD 218 is input to the image processing unit 222, and clamp & Amp. & S / H & A / D unit 401 holds the sample (S / H), clamps the dark level of the analog image signal to the reference potential, and amplifies it to a predetermined amount (the above processing order is not limited to the notation order). D-converted and converted into, for example, an RGB 8-bit digital signal.

  And clamp & Amp. The RGB signal output from the & S / H & A / D unit 401 is subjected to shading correction and black correction by the shading unit 402 and then output to the control device 110.

<Description of control device>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of control device 110 shown in FIG.

  In the figure, reference numeral 111 denotes a main controller, which is mainly composed of a CPU 112, a bus controller 113, and various I / F controller circuits.

  The CPU 112 and the bus controller 113 control the overall operation of the control device 110, and the CPU 112 operates based on a program read from the ROM 114 via the ROM I / F 115.

  The program also interprets PDL (page description language) code data received from the host computer, develops it into image data, and generates attributes of each pixel of the image data. Is done. The bus controller 113 controls data transfer input / output from each I / F, and performs arbitration at the time of bus contention and control of DMA data transfer.

  A DRAM 116 is connected to the main controller 111 via a DRAM I / F 117 and is used as a work area for the CPU 112 to operate and an area for storing image data.

  A codec 118 compresses the image data stored in the DRAM 116 using a method such as MH / MR / MMR / JBIG / JPEG, and reversely compresses and stores the code data stored in the image data. An SRAM 119 is used as a temporary work area for the Codec 118. The Codec 118 is connected to the main controller 111 via the I / F 120, and data transfer to and from the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113 and is DMA-transferred.

  Reference numeral 135 denotes a graphic processor that performs image rotation, image scaling, color space conversion, and binarization on the image data stored in the DRAM 116. Reference numeral 136 denotes an SRAM, which is used as a temporary work area for the graphic processor 135. The graphic processor 135 is connected to the main controller 111 via the I / F 137, and data transfer to and from the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113 and DMA transferred.

  Reference numeral 121 denotes a network controller (Network Controller), which is connected to the main controller 111 via an I / F 122 and connected to an external network via a connector 122. The network is generally Ethernet (registered trademark).

  A general-purpose high-speed bus 125 connects an expansion connector 124 for connecting an expansion board and an I / O control unit 126. A general-purpose high-speed bus is a PCI bus.

  An I / O control unit 126 includes two channels of an asynchronous serial communication controller 127 for transmitting and receiving control commands to and from the CPUs of the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300. F circuits 140 and 145 are connected.

  Reference numeral 132 denotes a panel I / F, which is connected to the LCD controller 131 and has an I / F for displaying on a liquid crystal screen on the operation unit 150 and a key input I / F 130 for inputting hard keys and touch panel keys. Consists of The operation unit 150 includes a liquid crystal display unit, a touch panel input device attached on the liquid crystal display unit, and a plurality of hard keys. A signal input by the touch panel or the hard key is transmitted to the CPU 112 via the panel I / F 132 described above, and the liquid crystal display unit displays the image data sent from the panel I / F 520. The liquid crystal display unit displays function display, image data, and the like in the operation of the image forming apparatus.

  Reference numeral 133 denotes a real time clock module for updating / saving the date and time managed in the device, and is backed up by a backup battery 134.

  Reference numeral 161 denotes an E-IDE interface for connecting an external storage device. In this embodiment, the hard disk drive 160 is connected via this I / F, and image data is stored in the hard disk 162 or image data is read from the hard disk 162.

  Reference numerals 142 and 147 denote connectors, which are connected to the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300, respectively, and are composed of synchronized chronochronous serial I / Fs 143 and 148 and video I / Fs 144 and 149.

  A scanner I / F 140 is connected to the reader unit 200 via the connector 142, and is connected to the main controller 111 via the scanner bus 141, and performs predetermined processing on the image received from the reader unit 200. And a function of outputting a control signal generated based on the video control signal sent from the reader unit 200 to the scanner bus 141. Data transfer from the scanner bus 141 to the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113.

  A printer I / F 145 is connected to the printer unit 300 via the connector 147, and is connected to the main controller 111 via the printer bus 146, and performs predetermined processing on the image data output from the main controller 111. And a function of outputting a control signal generated based on the video control signal sent from the printer unit 300 to the printer bus 146. Transfer of raster image data developed on the DRAM 116 to the printer unit is controlled by the bus controller 113 and DMA-transferred to the printer unit 300 via the printer bus 146 and the video I / F 149.

<Description of Image Processing Unit of Scanner I / F>
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a portion responsible for image processing of the scanner I / F 140 shown in FIG. 4, and the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in the figure, when the CCD 218 is a three-line CCD in the connection & MTF correction unit 601 with respect to the image signal sent from the reader unit 200 via the connector 142, the connection process differs in the reading position between the lines. Then, the delay amount for each line is adjusted according to the reading speed, the signal timing is corrected so that the reading positions of the three lines are the same, and the MTF for reading changes according to the reading speed, so the change is corrected. . The digital signal whose reading position timing is corrected is corrected by the input masking unit 602 for the spectral characteristics of the CCD 218 and the spectral characteristics of the lamp 212 and the mirrors 214, 215 and 216. The output of the input masking unit 602 is sent to the ACS count unit (auto color select count unit) 405 and the main controller 111.

<Description of ACS count section>
Hereinafter, the configuration of the ACS count unit 405 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the ACS count unit 405 shown in FIG.

  Auto color select (hereinafter, ACS) determines whether a document is color or monochrome. In other words, color determination is performed based on how many pixels are equal to or greater than a threshold value for which the saturation for each pixel is obtained.

  However, even for a black and white original, due to the influence of MTF and the like, when viewed microscopically, there are a large number of color pixels around the edge, and it is difficult to simply perform ACS determination on a pixel basis. Although various methods are provided for this ACS method, the present embodiment is not limited to a specific ACS method, and will be described using a very general method.

  As described above, even in a black and white image, there are many color pixels when viewed microscopically. Therefore, whether or not the pixel is really a color pixel is determined based on information on surrounding color pixels with respect to the target pixel. The filter 501 shown in FIG. 6 is a filter for this purpose, and has a FIFO structure to refer to the peripheral pixel with respect to the target pixel.

  Reference numeral 502 denotes an area detection circuit that creates an area signal 505 to be subjected to ACS based on the values set in the registers 507 to 510 set from the main controller 111 and the video control signal 512 sent from the reader unit 200. Circuit.

  Reference numeral 503 denotes a color determination unit, which refers to a peripheral pixel in the memory in the filter 501 with respect to the pixel of interest based on an area signal 505 to which ACS is applied, determines whether the pixel of interest is a color pixel or a monochrome pixel, 506 is generated.

  A counter 504 counts the number of color determination signals 506 output from the color determination unit 503.

  Hereinafter, the ACS operation will be described.

  First, the main controller 111 determines an area to be subjected to ACS with respect to the reading range, and sets it in the registers 507 to 510 (in this embodiment, the range is determined independently for the document). Further, the main controller 111 compares the value of the counter 504 that counts the number of color determination signals 506 in the area to be subjected to ACS with a predetermined threshold value, and determines whether the document is color or monochrome.

  In the registers 507 to 510, the position where the color determination unit 503 starts the determination and the position where the determination ends in each of the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction are based on the video control signal 512 sent from the reader unit 200. To set. In this embodiment, each size is set to be about 10 mm smaller than the actual document size.

<Description of Image Processing Unit of Printer I / F>
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, a detailed description will be given of a portion responsible for image processing of the printer I / F 145.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a portion responsible for image processing of the printer I / F 145 shown in FIG. 4, and the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in the figure, an image signal sent from the main controller 111 via the printer bus 146 is first input to the LOG conversion unit 701. The LOG converter 701 converts RGB signals to CMY signals by LOG conversion.

  Reference numeral 702 denotes a moire removing unit that removes moire from the CMY signal output from the LOG conversion unit 701. A UCR & masking unit 703 generates a CMYK signal by performing UCR processing on the CMY signal that has been subjected to moire removal processing by the moire removal unit 702, and corrects the CMYK signal to a signal that matches the output of the printer.

  A γ correction unit 704 adjusts the density of the signal processed by the UCR & masking unit 703. A filter unit 705 performs smoothing or edge processing on the CMY signal whose density has been adjusted by the γ correction unit 704.

  The CMY signal (image) that has undergone these processes is sent to the printer unit 300 via the connector 147.

<Description of GraphicProcessor>
Hereinafter, the graphics processor 135 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the graphic processor 135 shown in FIG. 4, and the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in the figure, the graphics processor 135 is a module that performs image rotation, image scaling, color space conversion, and binarization processing, an image rotation unit 801, an image scaling unit 802, a color space conversion unit 802, and binarization. Part 805. The color space conversion unit 802 includes an LUT (Look Up Table) 804.

  The SRAM 136 is used as a temporary work area for each module of the graphic processor 135. It is assumed that a work area is statically allocated for each module in advance so that the work area of the SRAM 136 used by each module does not compete.

  The graphic processor 135 is connected to the main controller 111 via the I / F 137, and data transfer to and from the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113 and is DMA transferred.

  Further, the bus controller 113 performs control for setting a mode or the like for each module of the graphic processor 135 and timing control for transferring image data to each module.

<Description of image rotation unit>
Hereinafter, an image rotation processing procedure in the image rotation unit 801 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for image rotation control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 makes settings necessary for image rotation (for example, image size, rotation direction, angle, etc.) to the image rotation unit 801.

  After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  Here, the image size to be rotated is 32 pixels × 32 lines.

  In order to obtain an image of 32 pixels × 32 lines, it is necessary to transfer the above unit data 32 × 32 times, and it is necessary to transfer image data from discontinuous addresses (see FIG. 9). FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the image rotation unit 801.

  The image data transferred by the discontinuous addressing is written in the SRAM 136 so that it is rotated to a desired angle at the time of reading. For example, if the rotation is 90 degrees counterclockwise, the transferred image data is written in the Y direction as shown in FIG. By reading in the X direction at the time of reading, the image is rotated. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the image rotation unit 801.

  After the image rotation of 32 pixels × 32 lines (writing to the SRAM 136) is completed, the image rotation unit 801 reads the image data from the SRAM 136 by the reading method described above, and transfers the image to the bus controller 113. The bus controller 113 that has received the rotated image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F by continuous addressing.

  Such a series of processes is repeated until there is no processing request from the CPU 112 (when the necessary number of pages have been processed).

<Explanation of image scaling unit>
Hereinafter, a processing procedure in the image scaling unit 802 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for image scaling control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 performs settings necessary for image scaling (magnification / magnification in the main scanning direction, magnification / magnification in the sub-scanning direction, image size after magnification, etc.) to the image magnification / reduction unit 802. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  The image scaling unit 802 stores the received image data in the temporary SRAM 136 and uses it as an input buffer, and uses the stored data as the number of pixels and lines necessary for the main scanning and sub-scanning scaling ratios. The scaling process is performed by enlarging or reducing the image by performing the interpolation processing for the amount of. The data after scaling is written back to the SRAM 136 again, and the image scaling unit 802 reads out the image data from the SRAM 136 using this as an output buffer and transfers it to the bus controller 113.

  The bus controller 113 that has received the scaled image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.

<Description of color space converter>
The processing procedure in the color space conversion unit 803 shown in FIG. 8 will be described below.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for color space conversion control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 makes settings necessary for color space conversion processing (matrix operation coefficients, LUT table values, etc. described later) for the color space conversion unit 803 and the LUT (look-up table).

  After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  The color space conversion unit 803 first performs a 3 × 3 matrix operation represented by the following equation for each pixel of the received image data.

  In the above formula, R, G, B are input, X, Y, Z are output, a11, a12, a13, a21, a22, a23, a31, a32, a33, b1, b2, b3, c1, c2, c3 is a coefficient.

  Various color space conversions such as conversion from the RGB color space to the Yuv color space can be performed by the calculation of the above equation.

  Next, the data after the matrix calculation is converted by the LUT. Thereby, non-linear conversion can also be performed. Of course, LUT conversion can be substantially not performed by setting a through table.

  Thereafter, the color space conversion unit 803 transfers the image data subjected to the color space conversion processing to the bus controller 113. The bus controller 113 that has received the color space converted image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.

<Description of image converter>
The processing procedure in the image conversion unit 804 shown in FIG.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for image conversion control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 makes settings necessary for image conversion (image size after conversion, etc.) to the image conversion unit 804. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  The image conversion unit 804 stores the received image data in the temporary SRAM 136, uses this as an input buffer, and uses the number of pixels and lines necessary for the stored data according to the set value set in advance for the stored data. Image size conversion processing is performed by adding padding or clipping. The data after the image conversion is written back to the SRAM 136 again, and this is used as an output buffer. The image conversion unit 803 reads the image data from the SRAM 136 and transfers it to the bus controller 113.

  The bus controller 113 that has received the padded or clipping image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.

<Description of image binarization unit>
The processing procedure in the image binarization unit 805 shown in FIG.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for binarization control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 performs settings necessary for the binarization processing (various parameters and the like according to the conversion method) for the image binarization unit 805. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  The image binarization unit 805 performs binarization processing on the received image data. In this embodiment, as a binarization method, image data is compared with a predetermined threshold value and simply binarized. Of course, any method such as a dither method, an error diffusion method, or an improved error diffusion method may be used.

  Thereafter, the image binarization unit 805 transfers the binarized image data to the bus controller 113. The bus controller 113 that has received the binarized image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.

<Explanation of image multi-value conversion unit>
Hereinafter, a processing procedure in the image multi-value quantization unit 806 shown in FIG. 8 will be described.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for image multilevel control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 makes settings necessary for image multi-value conversion (color space after multi-value conversion, etc.) to the image multi-value conversion unit 806. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  The image multi-value conversion unit 806 stores the received image data in the temporary SRAM 136, and uses this as an input buffer to convert the stored binary image data into a monochrome multi-value or color multi-value image. The multivalued data is written back to the SRAM 136 again, and this is used as an output buffer. The image multivalued unit 806 reads the image data from the SRAM 136 and transfers it to the bus controller 113.

  The bus controller 113 that has received the multivalued image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.

<Description of image composition unit>
The processing procedure in the image composition unit 807 shown in FIG. 8 will be described below.

  The CPU 112 performs settings for image composition control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 makes settings necessary for image composition (composition ratio, input / output color space, main / sub-scan image size, etc.) to the image composition unit 807. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits image data transfer and image data attribute data transfer to the bus controller 113. In accordance with this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transferring image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.

  The image composition unit 807 stores the received two image data in the temporary SRAM 136 respectively, and uses this as an input buffer to perform composition processing on the stored two image data. As a synthesis method, if the pixel values of the target pixel of the two input images are A and B, respectively, AxB / 256 or {Axα + Bx (256-α)} / 256 (α: synthesis ratio) The pixel value of the output image is calculated. The image composition unit 807 has a function of generating α and can calculate α from the pixel value of the image data and the attribute data value of the image data in units of pixels. The combined data is written back to the SRAM 136 again, and this is used as an output buffer. The image combining unit 807 reads the image data from the SRAM 136 and transfers it to the bus controller 113.

The bus controller 113 that has received the combined image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.
<Tile image (packet) format>
Image data is transferred to the graphic processor 135 in the packetized format shown in FIG. The image data is divided by the CPU or the graphics processor 135 into image data 3002 in units of tiles of 32 pixels × 32 pixels, and necessary header information 3001 is added to the images in units of tiles to form data packets.

  Data packets are managed by a packet table 6001 shown in FIG.

  The components of the packet table 6001 are as follows. If 5 bits are added to the values of the packet address pointer (PacketAddressPointer) 6002 and the packet length (PacketLength) 6005 registered in the table, the leading address of the packet and the byte length of the packet are obtained.

PacketAddressPointer (27 bits) +00000 (5 bits) = packet head address (32 bits)
PacketLength (11 bits) +00000 (5 bits) = packet byte length (16 bits)
Note that the packet table 6001 and the chain table 6010 are not divided.

The entries of the packet table 6001 are arranged in the tile scanning direction, and Yn / Xn = 0.
000 / 000,000 / 001,000 / 002. . . . It is lined up in this order. Each entry in the packet table 6001 uniquely indicates one tile. The next entry after Yn / Xmax (Xmax is the maximum value in the X direction) is Yn + 1 / X0.

  When the packet is exactly the same data as the previous packet, the packet is not written on the memory, and the same PacketAddressPointer and PacketLength as the previous entry are stored in the packet table entry. That is, one packet data is indicated by two entries. In this case, RepeatFlag 6003 of the second table entry is set.

  When the packet is divided into a plurality of parts by the chain DMA, a division flag (DivideFlag) 6004 is set, and a chain table number (ChainTableNo) 6006 of the chain block containing the head part of the packet is set.

  The entry of the chain table 6010 has a chain block address (ChainBlockAddress) 6011 and a chain block length (ChainBlockLength) 6012, and 0 is stored in both the address lengths in the last entry of the table.

<Sequence when outputting PDL image>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a first control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to the PDL image output procedure in the present embodiment. In addition, S3001-S3008 in a figure shows each step. This flowchart is executed based on a program stored in a storage medium by a CPU (not shown) in the PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1 and the CPU 112 shown in FIG.

  First, when outputting a PDL image, in step S3001, the user performs print settings for the PDL image output job on the PCs 401 and 402. The print setting contents are the number of copies, paper size, single-sided / bookbinding, page output order, sort output, presence / absence of stapling, and the like.

  In step S3002, a print instruction is given on the PCs 401 and 402, and the driver software installed on the PCs 401 and 402 converts the code data on the PCs 401 and 402 to be printed into so-called PDL data. Then, the PDL data is transferred via the network 400 to the control device 110 of the image input / output device together with the print setting parameters set in S3001.

  In step S3003, the CPU 112 of the main controller 111 of the control device 110 expands (rasterizes) the PDL data transferred via the connector 122 and the network controller 121 into image data based on the print setting parameters. The development of the image data is performed on the DRAM 116. When the development of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to S3004.

  In step S3004, the main controller 111 transfers the image data expanded on the DRAM 116 to the graphics processor 135.

  In step S3005, the graphics processor 135 performs image processing independently of the print setting parameters. For example, when the paper size specified by the print setting parameter is A4 but the paper feed unit 360 of the printer unit 300 has only A4R paper, the graphic processor 135 rotates the image by 90 degrees. It is possible to output an image that matches the output paper. When the image processing of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to S3006.

  In step S3006, the graphic processor 135 transfers the image data after image processing to the main controller 111. The main controller 111 stores the transferred image data on the DRAM 116.

  In step S3007, the main controller 111 transfers the image data on the DRAM 116 to the printer unit 300 at an appropriate timing while controlling the printer unit 300 via the printer I / F 145 and the connector 147.

  In step S3008, the control device 110 controls the printer unit 300 to print out image data. When the transfer of the image data is completed, that is, when the PDL job is finished, the print output is finished.

<Sequence when outputting copy image>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to the copy image output procedure in the present embodiment. In addition, S4001-S4007 in a figure shows each step. This flowchart is executed based on a program stored in a storage medium by the CPU 112 shown in FIG.

  When outputting a copy image, in step S4001, the user performs copy settings for the copy image output job on the operation unit 150. The copy settings include the number of copies, paper size, single-sided / bookbinding, enlargement / reduction ratio, sort output, presence / absence of stapling, and the like.

  In step S4002, when a copy start instruction is given on the operation unit 150, the main controller 111 of the control device 110 controls the reader unit 200 via the scanner I / F 140 and the connector 142 to read image data of the document. . Image data is stored on the DRAM 116.

  In the conventional copying machine, the scaling process in the sub-scanning direction is realized by changing the moving speed of the optical unit 213 according to the setting of the enlargement / reduction ratio of the copy setting, that is, according to the scaling ratio in the sub-scanning direction. Was. However, in this embodiment, the image data is always read at the same magnification (100%) regardless of the setting of the enlargement / reduction ratio of the copy setting, and the scaling process will be described later in both the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. It is assumed that the graphic processor 135 performs the processing.

  Next, in step S4003, the main controller 111 transfers the image data on the DRAM 116 to the Graphic Processor 135. In step S4004, the graphic processor 135 performs image processing based on the copy setting parameter. For example, when an enlargement of 400% is set, a scaling process in both the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction is performed using an image scaling unit that is a module in the Graphic Processor 135. When the image processing of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to S4005.

  In step S4005, the graphics processor 135 transfers the image data after image processing to the main controller 111. The main controller 111 stores the transferred image data on the DRAM 116.

  In step S4006, the main controller 111 transfers the image data on the DRAM 116 to the printer unit 300 at an appropriate timing while controlling the printer unit 300 via the printer I / F 145 and the connector 147.

  In step S4007, the control device 110 controls the printer unit 300 to print out the image data. When the transfer of the image data is completed, that is, when the copy job is finished, the print output is finished.

<Description of personal box function>
Hereinafter, the personal box function in the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the key arrangement of the operation unit 150 shown in FIG.

  In the figure, reference numeral 1501 denotes a power switch, which controls energization to the main body. A preheat key 1502 is used to turn on / off the preheat mode. A copy A mode key 1503 is used to select the copy A mode from a plurality of functions. A copy B mode key 1504 is used to select the copy B mode from a plurality of functions. Copy A and Copy B have the same copy function, but if one of the copies has been read by the scanner, the next copy can be entered, so the two copies are used for the sake of clarity. It is divided.

  A box key 1505 is used to select a box mode from a plurality of functions. The box function is a function that has a storage area in the memory in the copying machine for each user or department, puts PDL or a scanned image therein, and outputs it at any time.

  Reference numeral 1506 denotes an expansion key, which is used when performing an operation on the PDL. Reference numerals 1503 to 1506 are also used when calling up each function screen of the LCD 1516 described later, and the status of each job can be viewed on the display of the LCD 1516.

  Reference numeral 1507 denotes a copy start key which is used to instruct the start of copying. Reference numeral 1508 denotes a stop key which is used when copying is interrupted or stopped. A reset key 1509 operates as a key for returning to the standard mode during standby.

  Reference numeral 1510 denotes a guide key which is used to know each function. A user mode key 1511 is used when the user changes the basic setting of the system. An interrupt key 1512 is used when an interrupt occurs during copying and copying is desired. Reference numeral 1513 denotes a numeric keypad which is used when inputting numerical values.

  A clear key 1514 is used to clear a numerical value. An ID key 1515 is used when shifting to an ID input mode when using a copying machine. An LCD touch panel 1516 includes a combination of a liquid crystal screen and a touch sensor. An individual setting screen is displayed for each mode, and various detailed settings can be performed by touching the drawn keys. is there. It also displays the operation status of each job.

  A tally lamp 1517 indicating a network communication state is normally green, blinks green when communicating, and becomes red when a network error occurs.

  An ACS (Auto Color Select) key 1518 is used to automatically determine whether the copy original is color or black and white, and to set a mode for scanning in color if it is color, or in black if it is black and white. A full color mode key 1519 is used to set a full color scan mode regardless of the copy original. Reference numeral 1520 denotes a black mode key, which is used to set a mode for scanning with a black color regardless of a copy original. Toggle operations 1518 to 1520 are always selected, and the selected key is lit.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a copy standard screen of the operation panel 1516 shown in FIG. The image processing apparatus of the present embodiment is activated on this copy standard screen as a default when the power is turned on.

  In the figure, reference numeral 1601 denotes a message line, which displays the status of the copy job as a message. Reference numeral 1602 denotes a magnification display, which displays a magnification that is automatically determined according to a set magnification or a copy mode as a percentage. A sheet size display 1603 displays the selected output sheet. When automatic sheet selection is set, a message “auto sheet” is displayed.

  Reference numeral 1604 denotes a numeric display indicating how many copies are made. Reference numeral 1605 denotes a reduction key, which is used when a reduction copy is desired. Reference numeral 1606 denotes an equal magnification key, which is used when it is desired to return to an equal magnification when reduction or enlargement is set. Reference numeral 1607 denotes an enlargement key, which is used when an enlarged copy is desired. Reference numeral 1608 denotes a zoom key, which is used when a reduction copy or an enlargement copy is desired by setting a magnification in a fine unit.

  A sheet selection key 1609 is used to specify an output sheet. A finisher key 1610 is used to set a sort or stapling mode. Reference numeral 1611 denotes a double-sided key, which is used when setting the double-sided mode.

  Reference numeral 1612 denotes a density display, which shows the current density. The density on the left side is light and the density on the right side is high. The density display 1612 changes display in conjunction with the light key 1613 and the light key 1615. The light key 1613 is used when it is desired to reduce the density. The rich key 1615 is used to increase the density. Reference numeral 1614 denotes an automatic key which is used when a mode for automatically determining density is used.

  Reference numeral 1616 denotes a character key, which is used to set a character mode that is automatically set to a density suitable for copying a character document. Reference numeral 1617 denotes a character / photo key, which is used to set a character / photo mode that is automatically set to a density suitable for copying a document in which a photo is mixed. An application mode key 1618 is used to set various copy modes that cannot be set on the copy standard screen.

  Reference numeral 1619 denotes a system status key, which is used when it is desired to check the status of printing or scanning currently performed in the image input / output system 100. This system status key 1619 always appears at this position as well as the copy standard screen, and the system status can be viewed at any time by pressing this key.

  Although not shown in FIG. 14, an area 1620 is a status line for displaying a low-priority alarm that does not need to be displayed on the message line 1601 or an execution status of another function.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a logical usage method of the hard disk 162 shown in FIG.

  As shown in the figure, in the present embodiment, the storage area of the hard disk is logically divided into a temporary area 701 and a box area 1702 according to usage. The temporary area 1701 is a memory that temporarily stores PDL development data and image data from a scanner in order to change the output order of image data or to output a plurality of copies in a single scan. It is an area.

  A box area 1702 is a storage area for using the box function, and is divided into a small number of registered storage areas 1703 to 1707. Boxes 1703 to 1707 are assigned to each department such as each user or company, and a box name and a password can be attached to each box. A user can input a PDL job or a scan job in each box by designating a box, and by actually entering a password, the user can actually see the inside of the box, change settings, or perform print output.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a third control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to the box registration procedure in the present embodiment. Registration in the box in this embodiment includes registration of a PDL image from the host computer and a scan image from the scanner. FIG. 16A shows the registration from the host computer (PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1). Corresponding to the PDL image box registration procedure, FIG. 16B corresponds to the scan image box registration processing from the scanner (reader unit 200 shown in FIG. 1). Note that S1801 to S1808 in the figure indicate each step. 16A is executed based on a program stored in a storage medium by a CPU (not shown) in the PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1 and the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4, and FIG. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4 based on a program stored in a storage medium.

  First, a case where the PDL images from the PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1 are box registered will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1801, the user performs print settings on the PCs 401 and 402, and the process advances to step S1802. The print setting contents include the number of copies, paper size, enlargement / reduction ratio, single-sided / bookbinding, page output order, sort output, presence / absence of stapling, and the like.

  Next, in step S1802, by setting a box number on the PC 401, 402, an area in the box area 1702 of the hard disk 162 is designated, and the process proceeds to step S1803. For example, when the box number is designated as 1, the personal box area 1703 in the box area 1702 is designated.

  Next, in step S803, a print instruction is given on the PC 401, 402, and at the same time, the driver software installed on the PC 401, 402 converts the code data to be printed into so-called PDL data, and is set in step S1801. The PDL data is transferred to the control device 110 of the image input / output device together with the print setting parameters, and the process advances to step S1804.

  In step S1804, the transferred PDL data is developed (rasterized) into image data. When the development of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to step S1805.

  In step S1805, the developed image data is sequentially recorded in the box area 1702 of the hard disk 162. For example, when the box number designated in step S1802 is “1”, it is stored in the area 1703. At this time, the print setting parameters set in step S1801 are also recorded in the area 1703. When the box numbers designated in step S1802 are “2” and “3”, they are stored in areas 1704 and 1705, respectively.

  Next, a case where a scan image from the reader unit 200 shown in FIG. 1 is registered in a box will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S1806, a box number for inputting an image is designated by the operation unit 150, and the process proceeds to step S1807.

  In step S1807, scan settings such as image processing are designated by the operation unit 150, and the process advances to step S1808.

  In step S1808, by issuing a scan start instruction (pressing the copy start key 1507 shown in FIG. 13), the reader unit 200 reads the document, and the process advances to step S1809.

  In step S1809, the image read in step S1808 is stored in the box area designated in step S1806.

  FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a display on the LCD 1516 when the box key 1505 of the operation panel 1500 shown in FIG. 13 is pressed, and corresponds to a box selection screen.

  In the figure, reference numeral 900 denotes a screen for selecting a box (box selection screen). In the box selection screen 900, reference numeral 901 indicates information on each box, and displays the box number 901a, box name 901b, and information 901c indicating how much capacity the box has in the box area 1702 of the hard disk 162. To do. When the box number 901a is pressed, the screen changes to a password input screen shown in FIG.

  Reference numerals 1902 and 1903 denote vertical scroll keys, which are used to scroll the screen when a number of boxes exceeding the display of 901 are registered.

  FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a display on the LCD 1516 when the box number 901a on the box selection screen 900 shown in FIG. 17 is pressed, and corresponds to a password input screen.

  In the figure, reference numeral 1000 denotes a password input screen. When a password set in each box is input from this screen, the screen transits to the in-box screen shown in FIG. 19, and each box can be accessed. If the password is different, the screen changes to a warning screen (not shown) and the box cannot be accessed.

  In the password input screen 1000, reference numeral 1003 denotes a password display field, which displays the password input from the numeric keypad of the operation unit 150, 1513 or the touch panel 1516 in obfuscated characters.

  Reference numeral 1001 denotes a cancel key. When the key is pressed, the box selection screen 900 shown in FIG. Reference numeral 1002 denotes an OK key. When this key is pressed, the entered password is confirmed, and the password is verified.

  FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing the display on the LCD 1516 when the OK key 1002 on the password input screen 1000 shown in FIG. 18 is pressed and it is determined that the password is correct, and corresponds to the in-box file display screen.

  In the figure, reference numeral 1100 denotes an in-box file display screen. In the in-box file display screen 1100, reference numeral 1101 denotes a file list in the box, in which a registration date 110a and a file name 1101b of each file are displayed as a list. To select a file, the user presses the file name 1101b, and the currently selected file is highlighted.

  Reference numeral 1102 denotes a scan key, which is used when an image is input from a scanner into a currently open box, and transitions to a scan setting screen (not shown). A print key 1103 is used when printing a file selected in the file list 1101.

  A color conversion key 1104 is used when color conversion of a file selected in the file list 1101 is performed, and transitions to a color conversion screen (not shown). An erasure key 1105 is used when erasing a file selected in the file list 1101.

  Reference numerals 1106 and 1107 denote vertical scroll keys, which are used when scrolling the screen when a number of files exceeding the display of the file list 1101 are registered. A close key 1107 is used to return to the box selection screen 900 shown in FIG.

<Description of numbering composition function>
A numbering synthesis function for synthesizing numbers such as page numbers, chapter numbers, and user IDs will be described with reference to FIG.

  A plurality of numbering font vectors are stored in advance in a memory such as a hard disk.

  When the user gives an instruction to the copying apparatus through the operation unit to form an image using the numbering composition function, the copying apparatus displays an image generated by expanding the font vector (FIG. 20A). ) And the image data of the read original ((b) of FIG. 20) are combined and printed. As a result, the user can obtain data as shown in FIG.

  The font vector area 1709 will be described. A font vector area 1709 is an area for storing a numbering font vector.

  Further, unlike the temporary area 1701, the font vector area 1709 is an area for storing font vectors for performing numbering synthesis processing, and these font vectors are not deleted even when the job is completed.

<Description of form composition function>
The form composition function will be described with reference to FIG. A plurality of form images are stored in advance in a memory such as a hard disk. FIG. 21 (a) shows an example of a form image. FIG. 21B shows a document to be read by the copying apparatus.

  When the user gives an instruction to the copying apparatus using the operation unit to form an image using the form combining function, the copying apparatus combines and prints the form image and the read image data of the original. As a result, the user can obtain data as shown in FIG.

  In this embodiment, a plurality of form images can be registered in the HD 162 shown in FIG. Also, registration (storage processing) or deletion (erasing processing) of the form image with respect to the HD 162 can be set by the user.

  The setting method of the form composition function and the setting method of registration / deletion of form images will be described. The form composition function of the present embodiment is a function for storing a plurality of form images (for example, tables and illustrations) in the HD 162 as registered images, and combining and printing the form image and image data read by the scanner. It is.

  A screen 2300 shown in FIG. 22 is a form composition setting screen for the form image stored in the HD 162 and the read original image data. When the user presses the form composition button 1302 on the application screen 1300 in FIG. This is the screen that is displayed.

  A list of form images registered in the HD 162 is displayed on the screen 2300 (see display area 2307). In the figure, it is shown that only one form image with the name “entire synthesis” is registered in the HD 162.

  A number is displayed at the left end of the display area 2307. This is a form number, which is attached to each form image registered in the HD 162. For example, the figure shows that a number “00” (hereinafter referred to as a form number) is attached to a form image named “entire synthesis”.

  In this embodiment, when a form image is registered in the HD 162, the form image and the form number are associated with each other and stored in the HD 162.

  On the other hand, “unregistered” is displayed in the line of the form number “01”. This means that the form number is unused and the form image corresponding to the form number is not registered in the HD 162.

  Similarly, the form numbers “02”, “03”, “04”, and “05” are unused, and the form images corresponding to these form numbers are not registered in the HD 162 (unregistered). means. In addition, regarding the form number, this form is prepared from 00 to 99. Therefore, 100 form images can be registered in the HD 162.

  When registering a form image in the HD 162, for example, when newly registering a form image, the user selects one of the unused form numbers displayed in the display area 2307, An erase button 2305 is pressed. The copying apparatus stores the form image and the form number in the HD 162 in association with each other.

  When the form image registered in the HD 162 is rewritten with the read image data, that is, when the form image is re-registered in the HD 162, the form number corresponding to the form number already registered in the HD 162 is selected.

  The setting of the form composition function will be described. On the screen 2300, the user presses a form number corresponding to a desired form image from among the form images displayed in a list in the display area 2307. The form image selected by the user is displayed in black and white reversed.

  When the user selects a form image and presses an OK key 2306, a setting for form composition of the form image selected by the user on the screen 2300 and the read original image is performed on the copying apparatus, as shown in FIG. Switch to the standard screen. Note that the application mode key 918 in FIG. 9 is displayed in black and white inversion to notify the user that the application mode is set. Then, when the user presses a copy start key 1507 shown in FIG. 13 on the screen, the copying apparatus starts a compositing process so as to create a form composite copy.

  A check copy button 2304 on the screen 2300 is a button for performing a trial copy (trial printing) before creating a form composite copy of the form image selected by the user and the read original image data.

  When the user presses the check copy button 2304, the button 2304 is displayed in black and white reversed. When the check copy button 2304 is in a black state and the user presses the OK key 2306, the copying apparatus is set to perform a trial copy before creating a form composite copy.

  A cancel button 2301 is a button for canceling the form composition setting, and when the user presses the cancel button 2301, the screen returns to the application screen 1300 shown in FIG.

  Reference numerals 2302 and 2303 are scroll buttons for scrolling the screen when displaying a large number of job contents that cannot be displayed on one screen. When 2302 is pressed by the user, the screen scrolls up, and when 2303 is pressed, the screen scrolls down.

  Reference numeral 2305 denotes a registration / deletion button. When the user selects any form number from the display area 2307 and presses the registration / deletion button 2305, the screen shifts to a registration content setting screen 2400 shown in FIG.

  A screen 2400 in FIG. 23 is a screen for registering or deleting a form image corresponding to the form number selected by the user on the screen 2300.

  A registration button 2401 in FIG. 23 is a button for storing the form image corresponding to the form number selected in FIG. 22 in the HD 162. The name registration button 2402 is a button for shifting to registration of the name of the form image selected in FIG.

  The delete button 2403 is a button for deleting the form image corresponding to the form number selected in FIG. 22 from the HD 162.

  Reference numeral 2404 denotes a close button. When this button 2404 is pressed, the form image registration / deletion setting is not performed, and the screen returns to the form composition setting screen of FIG.

  FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram of the HD 162. The HD 162 includes a temporary area 1701, a personal box area 901, and a form area 1708. The temporary area 1701 is an area for temporarily storing image data for electronic sorting, and the image data is erased after the job is completed.

  The personal box area 901 is an area for storing image data in which the PDL image from the host computer is developed in a personal box in the personal box area 901 corresponding to the personal box number received from the host computer. A form area 1708 is an area for storing a form image.

  The form region 1708 will be described. A form area 1708 is an area for storing a form image. In this embodiment, when a form image is registered in the HD 162, the form number and the form image are associated with each other and stored in the form area 1708.

  As described with reference to FIG. 22, 100 form images can be registered in the HD 162. When storing a plurality of form images, the form area 1708 is divided into a plurality of storage areas, and the form images are stored for each storage area.

  In the case where a plurality of form images are stored in the form area 1708, the form area 1708 may be divided into a plurality of storage areas in advance, and the form image may be stored for each storage area.

  Also, considering that the data amount of each form image to be stored is different, when the form image is stored without dividing the form region 1708 into a plurality of storage regions in advance, it corresponds to the data amount of the form image to be stored. The storage area to be stored may be secured and stored in the form area 1708. Thereby, the memory can be used efficiently.

  Further, unlike the temporary area 1701, the form area 1708 is an area for storing form images for performing form composition processing, and these form images are not erased even when the job is completed. The form image is erased from the HD 162 when the user instructs the operation unit to erase it.

<Description of tint block image print processing>
FIG. 28, FIG. 29, FIG. 30, FIG. 31, FIG. 32, and FIG. 33 are diagrams showing an example of a user interface for performing settings related to copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image printing. FIG. 26 is a flowchart of setting related to the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image printing.

  FIG. 28 shows a screen when the application mode button 3305 is pressed. As described above, when the application mode button is pressed, settings such as a reduced layout and color balance can be set. However, when a button 4101 is pressed, settings related to a background pattern can also be performed.

  FIG. 29 shows a screen when the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern setting button 4101 is pressed (S6802). Here, information to be printed as a background pattern can be selected from a stamp, a machine number, and a date. In the present embodiment, these will be described. However, for example, a number of copies or a user ID number may be selected. In addition, although any one is selected here, a plurality of pieces of information may be printed.

  FIG. 30 shows a screen when the 4111 stamp setting button is pressed. Here, you can select the stamp to be printed as a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern from six options: Top Secret, Copy Prohibition, Invalid, CONFIDENTIAL, Confidential, and Copy. For example, if top secret is selected, the 4121 button is pressed and then 4122 is pressed, and a transition is made to the next setting screen shown in FIG.

  FIG. 31 shows a screen when the date setting button 4112 is pressed. In this case, the date format is selected from the four options YY / MM / DD, MM / DD / YY, DD / MM / YY, and YY / MM / DD. For example, if YY / MM / DD is selected, the 4131 button is pressed and then 4132 is pressed to shift to the next setting screen shown in FIG.

  When the machine number setting button 4113 is pressed, the screen shifts to the next setting screen shown in FIG. As the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information, the serial number of the machine body of each printer is printed.

  FIG. 32 shows a screen for setting items common to all copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information. On this screen, the size and color of the font to be printed as the background pattern are selected (S6803). The font size can be selected from large, medium, and small, and the color can be selected from black, magenta, cyan, user-specified color, and automatic. When the user-specified color is selected, the user inputs the specified color using an RGB value or the like. If automatic is selected, a tint block image is generated in a color set in advance for each local pattern. After selecting each font size and color, 4143 is pressed to move to the next setting screen shown in FIG.

  FIG. 33 shows a screen subsequent to the common setting items. On this screen, the user can select a camouflage pattern for tint block printing and set embossing / outline.

  The camouflage pattern is intended to make it difficult for human eyes to recognize that a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image is added to a printed output to which a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image is added. As shown in FIG. 33, the camouflage pattern can be selected from a plurality of patterns such as fans and cherry blossoms. There is also the option of not using a camouflage pattern. The camouflage pattern selected in the tint block print image shown in FIG. 27 is a fan.

  The embossed / outlined setting is for designating which portion of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information such as text information or the other portion is visualized in the image after copying. FIG. 33 is a diagram for explaining setting of embossing / whitening. In the case of the embossing setting, a tint block image is generated such that a portion of tint block information such as characters is visualized on a copy. At this time, the characters can be recognized on the copy in a state where the characters are raised. On the other hand, in the case of white setting, a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image in which a portion other than the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information is visualized on the copy is generated. At this time, characters and the like can be recognized on the copy in a whitened state.

  In the screen of FIG. 33, after selecting a camouflage pattern, embossed / outlined, 4153 is pressed, and all settings relating to the background pattern are confirmed.

<Description of copy-forgery-inhibited pattern processing during remote printing>
A flow when a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image is transmitted to the remote printer and output will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S2601, settings relating to the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image printing are performed from the user interface. In step S2602, copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information is generated based on information set as attribute data of the image data from the user interface. In step S2603, image data to which attribute data including copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information is added is transmitted to the remote printer that is the output destination. The image data here is an image read from a scanner or image data stored in a box. In S2604, the remote destination printer receives the image data to which attribute data including the tint block information is added. In S2605, based on the tint block information in the attribute data, generates a tint block using a dither matrix for the device-specific tint block. To do. Thereafter, in S2606, the generated tint block is combined with the image data, and is printed out in S2607.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an overview diagram of a reader unit and a printer unit illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a reader image processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a portion responsible for image processing of the scanner I / F illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ACS count unit illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a portion that performs image processing of the printer I / F illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of the Graphic Processor illustrated in FIG. 4. It is a figure explaining operation | movement of an image rotation part. It is a figure explaining operation | movement of an image rotation part. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a numbering synthesis processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a form composition processing procedure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It is a top view which shows the keyboard layout of the operation part shown in FIG. It is the schematic diagram which showed an example of the copy standard screen of the operation panel shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the logical usage method of the hard disk shown in FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the display of LCD when the box key of the operation panel shown in FIG. 13 is pressed down. It is a schematic diagram which shows the display of LCD when the box number of the box selection screen shown in FIG. 17 is pressed down. It is a schematic diagram which shows the display of LCD when the OK key of the password input screen shown in FIG. 18 is pressed and it is judged that a password is correct. It is a figure explaining a numbering synthetic | combination function. It is a figure explaining a form composition function. It is a figure which shows the screen of an operation part. It is a figure which shows the screen of an operation part. It is a figure which shows the state of the dot in a tint block image. It is a figure which shows the state which a tint block image visualizes at the time of copying. It is a figure explaining the tint block image control at the time of remote printing. It is a figure which shows the example of a production | generation of the tint block image which performed even the boundary process. It is a figure explaining the setting screen of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern of an operation part. It is a figure explaining the setting screen of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern of an operation part. It is a figure explaining the setting screen of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern of an operation part. It is a figure explaining the setting screen of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern of an operation part. It is a figure explaining the setting screen of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern of an operation part. It is a figure explaining the setting screen of the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern of an operation part.

Claims (2)

An image processing apparatus for transmitting image data with a tint block,
An image processing apparatus comprising: addition means for adding copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information as attribute data to image data; and transmission means for transmitting image data to which the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern information is added by the addition means. An image processing apparatus for receiving image data with a tint block,
An image processing apparatus comprising: receiving means for receiving image data; and synthesizing means for synthesizing a tint block with the image data based on tint block information attached to the image data received by the receiving unit.

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