JP2009288943A - Image processing apparatus, information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, image forming system, and image processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing apparatus for acquiring image data corresponding to a printed matter with high quality as a result of having had working given. <P>SOLUTION: The image processing apparatus includes: an outline extraction means for extracting the outline of an image as the object of cutoff related with a prescribed image corresponding to image data to be printed; an image display processing means for making a display means display a prescribed image, and for making the display means display the outline extracted by the outline extraction means as a cutoff line; a cutoff line processing means for changing a designated prescribed section related with a cutoff line displayed at the display means so that it can be positioned on a face opposite to the surface or the backside on which the prescribed section of a recording medium is positioned; and an image data processing means for processing the cutoff line based on the results of change by the cutoff line processing means and any cutoff line other than the prescribed section and the prescribed image as latest image data as the object of printing. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and an image processing program.

  Conventionally, for example, a large-scale distribution company (such as a large-scale mass retailer or a major convenience store) pastes “sale advertisement”, “nobori”, “product information posted on a product shelf”, “POP” A centralized department with a centrally managed design is distributed to each store.

  On the other hand, medium-sized distribution companies (medium-scale mass retailers, super pharmacies, etc.) differ in the area and layout of each store. Designed and created.

  Conventionally, there has been proposed a technique for printing a cut line corresponding to a predetermined image on the back surface of a printed material (paper). In this case, by cutting the printed material along the cut line, the cut printed material can be processed (attached, folded, etc.).

In addition, what was described in patent document 1 is known as an apparatus which prints a cut line on the back surface of printed matter (paper).
JP 2007-104172 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus, an information processing apparatus, and an image processing program capable of obtaining image data corresponding to a printed matter having a high quality as a result after being subjected to predetermined processing.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and an image forming system capable of obtaining a printed matter with high quality as a result after being subjected to predetermined processing.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention includes an outline extraction unit that extracts an outline of an image to be cut out related to a predetermined image corresponding to image data to be printed, An image display processing unit for displaying the predetermined image on the display unit and displaying the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction unit on the display unit as a cut line, and a designation related to the cut line displayed on the display unit A cut line processing unit that changes a predetermined part of the recording medium so that the predetermined part of the recording medium is positioned on a surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface of the recording medium, And image data processing means for processing the cut line other than the predetermined portion and the predetermined image as the latest image data to be printed. And wherein the door.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the image processing apparatus according to the second aspect of the invention includes a display unit that displays display information, an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data to be printed, and the image data acquisition unit. Contour line extracting means for extracting a contour line of an image to be cut out related to a predetermined image corresponding to the acquired image data, and the contour line extracted by the contour line extracting means while displaying the predetermined image on the display means Image display processing means for displaying on the display means as a cut line, a cut line specifying means for specifying a predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display means, and a predetermined line specified by the cut line specifying means A cut line processing means for changing the portion so that the portion is located on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined portion is located Image data processing means for processing a cut line based on a result of the change by the cut line processing means, a cut line other than the predetermined portion, and the predetermined image as the latest image data to be printed. And

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the second aspect, the cut line designating unit designates a start point position and an end point position by a coordinate system so as to adjust a length of the designated predetermined part. The cut line processing means has a predetermined length portion based on the position information of the start point position and the end point position specified by the cut line specifying means, on the front surface or the back surface of the recording medium where the predetermined portion is located. It changes so that it may be located in the opposite surface.

  The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the display means displays the predetermined image and the cut line on the front surface and the back surface of the recording medium according to the contents. It is characterized by being displayed corresponding to each.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the processing line setting means for setting a new processing line for the predetermined image displayed on the display means in the invention according to any one of claims 2 to 4, The image data processing means further comprises a cut line based on a result of the change by the cut line processing means, a cut line other than the predetermined portion, the predetermined image, and a processing line set by the processing line setting means. Are processed as the latest image data to be printed.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an information processing apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention includes the image processing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and the image data processing unit is the latest print target. The image data is transmitted to the image forming apparatus.

  In order to solve the above problem, an image forming apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention includes the image processing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and the image data processing unit is the latest print target. The image forming process is performed based on the image data.

  In order to solve the above problem, an image forming system according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is an image based on the information processing apparatus according to the sixth aspect and image data transmitted from the image processing apparatus of the information processing apparatus. And an image forming apparatus that performs the forming process.

  In order to solve the above problems, an image forming system according to a ninth aspect of the present invention includes the image forming apparatus according to the seventh aspect and an information processing apparatus that transmits image data to be printed to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus updates the image data to be printed from the information processing apparatus to the latest image data to be printed, and then performs an image forming process based on the latest image data to be printed. It is characterized by implementing.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an image processing program according to the present invention described in claim 10 includes a contour line extraction process for extracting a contour line of an image to be cut related to a predetermined image corresponding to image data to be printed. An image display processing step for displaying the predetermined image on the display means and displaying the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction processing step as a cut line on the display means, and a cut line displayed on the display means. The specified predetermined part concerned is changed by the cut line process so that the predetermined part of the recording medium is located on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined part is located, and after the cut line process is changed. Image data processing for processing a cut line other than the predetermined portion, a cut line other than the predetermined portion, and the predetermined image as the latest image data to be printed. Characterized in that to execute the steps, to the computer.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain image data corresponding to a printed matter having a high quality result after being subjected to predetermined processing.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain image data corresponding to a printed matter having a high quality result after being subjected to the predetermined processing.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the predetermined part related to the cut line corresponding to the predetermined image can be adjusted based on the position information by the coordinate system, so that it corresponds to the printed matter after processing with a desired processing accuracy. Image data can be obtained.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the user records the predetermined part related to the cut line with reference to the content of the predetermined image and the cut line to be printed corresponding to each of the front and back surfaces of the recording medium. Since it can be specified to be printed on the front surface or the back surface of the medium, it is possible to obtain image data corresponding to a printed matter with a high-quality result after processing desired by the user.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since a cut line and a new processing line can be set corresponding to a predetermined image, a printed matter whose result after the processing desired by the user is performed becomes high quality. Can be obtained.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain image data corresponding to a printed matter having a high quality as a result after being subjected to predetermined processing.

  According to the seventh aspect of the invention, it is possible to obtain a printed matter with a high quality result after the predetermined processing.

  According to invention of Claim 8, the printed matter from which the result after performing a predetermined process becomes high quality can be obtained.

  According to the ninth aspect of the invention, it is possible to obtain a printed matter with a high quality result after the predetermined processing.

  According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide software capable of generating image data corresponding to a printed matter having a high quality result after being subjected to predetermined processing.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that components having the same function are denoted by the same reference symbols throughout the drawings for describing the embodiment, and the repetitive description thereof will be omitted.

  (Embodiment 1)

  FIG. 1 shows a functional configuration of the image forming system according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes a computer 10 that functions as an image processing apparatus or an information processing apparatus, and a printer 20 that functions as an image forming apparatus. The computer 10 and the printer 20 are connected via a communication line 30. Examples of the communication line 30 include a communication cable, a wired communication line such as a local area network (LAN) and a telephone line, a wireless communication line such as a wireless LAN, and a combination of these communication lines.

  The computer 10 includes an image processing unit 11, a storage unit 12, an interface 13, an input unit 14, and a display unit 15.

  The image processing unit 11 creates image data and print data, stores the created image data and print data in the storage unit 12, and outputs the created print data to the interface 13.

  The storage unit 12 stores the created image data and print data, the result of the process of the image processing unit 11 (updated print data), a driver user interface and a print preview user interface, which will be described later.

  The interface 13 communicates with the printer 20 and transmits, for example, print data (image data) from the image processing unit 11 to the printer 20.

  The input unit 14 inputs predetermined input information such as image data creation and a print request instruction. Examples of the input unit 14 include input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse.

  The display unit 15 displays predetermined display information such as a driver user interface (to be described later), a print preview user interface, and a preview (print preview) of a predetermined image. An example of the display unit 15 is a display device.

  In the first embodiment, the display unit 15 is a display unit that displays (print preview) display information such as a predetermined image corresponding to image data to be printed and a contour line of a cut target image related to the predetermined image. And a function of display means for displaying the predetermined image and the cut line corresponding to each of the front surface and the back surface of the recording medium in accordance with the contents formed on the recording medium. .

  Further, in the first embodiment, the input unit 14 has a function of a cut line specifying unit that specifies a predetermined part related to the cut line displayed (print preview) on the display unit (display unit) 15 and the specified predetermined. And a function of a cut line designation means for designating the start point position and the end point position by the coordinate system in order to adjust the length of the portion. The input unit 14 also has a function of a processing line setting unit that sets a new processing line for a predetermined image displayed on the display unit 15.

  The image processing unit 11 creates image data and outputs image data to be printed to the printer driver 100 in response to a user's print request instruction, and image data to be printed from the application software 101. A printer driver 100 that converts the data into print data and outputs the print data to the interface 13.

  The printer driver 100 includes a printer driver image data processing unit 110 that converts image data to be printed in page description language (PDL data), that is, print data, and print data (image to be printed) according to user instruction information. A printer driver user interface processing unit (hereinafter referred to as a “printer driver UI processing unit”) 120 that sets a cut line or a processing line for (data). Details of the printer driver 100 will be described later.

  In the first embodiment, the printer driver 100 and the application software 101 as software are stored in the storage unit 12, and the central processing unit reads out these software from the storage unit 12 and executes them, whereby the printer driver 100 and application software 101 are realized.

  In the first embodiment, when the computer 10 functions as an image processing device, at least the image processing unit 11 and the storage unit 12 perform the function of the image processing device.

  In the first embodiment, when the computer 10 functions as an image processing apparatus, the components 11 to 15 function as the image processing apparatus.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when the computer 10 functions as an information processing device, the image processing unit 11 and the storage unit 12 function as an image processing device, and the image processing device (the image processing unit 11 and the storage unit). 12) and each of the above-described components 13 to 15 function as an information processing apparatus.

  The printer 20 includes an interface 21, an image processing unit 22, an engine control unit 23, an engine unit 24, and an operation panel 25.

  The interface 21 communicates with the computer 10 and receives, for example, print data and outputs it to the image processing unit 22.

  The image processing unit 22 performs image processing such as drawing processing (conversion processing to raster data), color conversion processing, gradation correction processing, and halftone generation processing on the print data from the interface 21, and image data after image processing (Raster data in page units) is output to the engine control unit 23.

  The engine control unit 23 controls the engine unit 24 to output the image data after image processing from the image processing unit 22 and perform image formation.

  The engine unit 24 forms (prints) an image on a recording medium (for example, paper) based on the image data under the control of the engine control unit 23, and outputs the recording medium (printed material) to the outside of the printer 20.

  The operation panel 25 includes a functional unit that inputs predetermined input information and a functional unit that displays predetermined display information.

  Next, details of the printer driver 100 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the printer driver 100, the printer driver image data processing unit 110 includes a print target data acquisition unit 111 and an image data processing unit 112, as shown in FIG.

  The print target data acquisition unit 111 has a function of an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data to be printed from the application software 101.

  The image data processing unit 112 creates print data (PDL data) based on the print target image data stored in the storage unit 12 and stores the print data in the storage unit 12. For example, a drawing object corresponding to an image, a figure, and a character, that is, print data (PDL data) is created.

  The print data created as described above is stored in a storage area different from the storage area where the image data is stored in the storage unit 12. Of course, the print data may be overwritten in a storage area in the storage unit 12 where the image data is stored.

  In addition, after saving the print data in the storage unit 12, the image data processing unit 112 inquires of the user whether or not to perform the cutting line setting process, and the result of the inquiry from the user indicates the setting of the cutting line. When the processing is not performed, the print data stored in the storage unit 12 is read out and passed to the interface 13, while when the result of the inquiry from the user indicates that the cut line setting processing is performed, The printer driver UI processing unit 120 is requested to perform cut line setting processing.

  In addition, the image data processing unit 112 has a cut line based on the result of a change process performed by a cut line processing unit (cut line processing unit) 124 described later and a cut line other than the cut line (cut line other than a predetermined part described later). And a function of an image data processing unit that processes a predetermined image corresponding to the image data acquired by the print target data acquisition unit (image data acquisition unit) 111 as the latest print target image data (print data). Yes.

  Further, the image data processing unit 112 has a cut line, a cut line other than the cut line (a cut line other than a predetermined part described later) based on the result of the change process by the cut line processing unit 124 described later, the predetermined image, It also has a function of image data processing means for processing the processed line set by the input unit (processed line setting means) 14 as the latest image data (print data) to be printed.

  When the image data processing unit 112 receives information indicating the completion of the setting of the cut line (processed line) from the cut line processing unit 124, which will be described later, the contents of the storage unit of the storage unit 12 (the latest print target) Print data) and read it to the interface 13.

  The interface 13 transmits the print data transferred from the image data processing unit 112 to the printer 20.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 includes an outline extraction unit 121, a print preview processing unit 122, and a processing line processing unit 123.

  The contour line extraction unit 121 has a function of a contour line extraction unit that extracts a contour line of a cut target image related to a predetermined image corresponding to the image data acquired by the print target data acquisition unit (image data acquisition unit) 111. is doing.

  The contour line extraction unit 121 extracts the contour line of the image to be cut out based on the print data (image data) stored in the storage unit 12, and the stored contents of the storage unit 12 based on the extracted contour line. And the print preview processing unit 122 is notified that the contour line has been extracted. The storage unit 12 stores print data (image data) indicating a predetermined image and an outline.

  The print preview processing unit 122 displays (prints preview) the predetermined image on the display unit (display unit) 15 and uses the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction unit (contour line extraction unit) 121 as a cut line. It has a function of image display processing means for displaying (print preview).

  The print preview processing unit 122 causes the display unit 15 to print preview a predetermined image and a cut line (contour line) based on the storage contents (print data) stored in the storage unit 12, and processing line processing indicates that the print preview has been performed. To the unit 123.

  The processed line processing unit 123 includes a cut line processing unit 124.

  The cut line processing unit 124 stores a predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display unit 15, that is, a predetermined portion related to the cut line specified by the input unit (cut line specifying means) 14. It has a function of a cut line processing means for changing so that the predetermined portion (for example, paper) is located on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface.

  Further, the cut line processing unit 124 sets a predetermined part of the length based on the position information of the start point position and the end point position specified by the input unit (cut line specifying unit) 14 as the position of the predetermined part on the recording medium. It also has a function of a cut line processing means for changing to be located on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface.

  When the predetermined part related to the cut line is changed to a predetermined position, the cut line processing unit 124 updates the storage content of the storage unit 12 according to the changed content and performs an input operation from the input unit 14. When the message indicating the completion of the setting of the cut line (processed line) is received, the fact is notified to the image data processing unit 112 of the printer driver image data processing unit 110.

  Incidentally, when the cut line processing unit 124 receives an indication that the setting of the cut line (processing line) has been completed, the storage unit 12 stores the latest print data (image data) to be printed.

  When the printer driver UI processing unit 120 configured as described above receives a cut line setting processing request from the image data processing unit 112 of the printer driver image data processing unit 110, the contour line extraction unit 121, the print preview processing unit, and the like. 122 and the predetermined processing described above by the processing line processing unit 123 are performed.

  Next, an operation for setting a processing line such as a cut line for a predetermined image corresponding to image data to be printed will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the running application software 101 issues a print request for image data to be printed to the printer driver 100 in response to a print request operation instruction by the user's operation of the input unit 14, the printer driver 100 uses the printer driver image data. The image data processing unit 121 of the processing unit 110 causes the display unit 15 to display a driver user interface (hereinafter referred to as “driver UI”) 300 as shown in FIG. 3 stored in the recording unit 12.

  In the driver UI 300, when the user operates the input unit 14 to select (click) a user interface tab (hereinafter referred to as “UI tab”) 301 of “cut line setting”, an area 302 for “cut line setting” is displayed. Is displayed. Then, when printing the cut line, the user operates the input unit 14 and checks the item 303 “print cut line”. When the item “print cut line” 303 is checked in this way, the item 304 “make detailed settings in print preview” can be selected. 14 is checked, and an item 304 “Perform detailed setting in print preview” is checked, and an “OK” button 305 is selected (clicked).

  Input information (setting information) for the driver UI 300 input (set) in this way is input to the printer driver image data processing unit 110 (the image data processing unit 112 thereof).

  By the way, an inquiry to the user as to whether or not to perform the above-described cutting line setting process performed by the image data processing unit 112 is performed by causing the display unit 15 to display the driver UI 300. At least when the UI tab 301 is selected (clicked) and the item 303 “print cut line” is checked, it is assumed that the cut line setting process is specified. On the other hand, it is assumed that when only the “OK” button 305 is selected (clicked), it is designated that the setting process of the cut line is not performed.

  When the printer driver UI processing unit 120 receives a request for setting a cut line from the image data processing unit 112 of the printer driver image data processing unit 110, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 performs a predetermined image corresponding to the print data stored in the storage unit 12. Also, a print preview user interface (hereinafter referred to as “print preview UI”) ”400 as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display unit 15.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the print preview UI 400 displays a print front surface display area 410 for displaying (print preview) an image printed on the surface of the recording medium, and an image printed on the back surface of the recording medium ( A print back surface display area 420 for printing preview), a machining line designation field 430 for designating the type of machining line, an item for designating simple settings, that is, an “automatic arrangement of cut lines (contour lines)” item 440 For example, an “OK” button 450 for confirming the content specified (set) in the print preview UI 400, such as confirming the processing line specified in the processing line specification field 430, the print front surface display area 410, and printing And a “print start” button 460 for executing printing based on the images displayed in the respective back surface display areas 420.

  By executing the print preview processing by the print preview processing unit 122, for example, a print front surface 411 corresponding to the surface of the recording medium and a printed image 412 are displayed in the print front surface display area 410. In the print back surface display area 420, for example, a print back surface 421 corresponding to the back surface of the recording medium and a printed image 422 are displayed. Incidentally, image 412 is a figure (background is the first color) and text (50% and OFF is the second color), while image 422 is a figure (background is the third color) and text (sale is the first color). 4 color = second color).

  Further, in the machining line designation field 430, for example, a desired machining line can be selected (designated) from among three types of machining lines of “cut line”, “mountain fold line”, and “valley fold line”. It has become. Incidentally, when the “automatic arrangement of cut line (contour line)” item 440 of the simple setting is selected, “cut line” is set (designated) in the processing line designation field 430.

  In the first embodiment, the predetermined image corresponding to the image data (print data) to be printed corresponds to the image 412 and the image 422, and the image to be cut out related to the predetermined image corresponds to the image 412. Therefore, an outline (cut line) related to the image 412 displayed on the print front surface display area 410 of the print preview UI 400 and printed on the surface of the recording medium is extracted.

  The user performs an operation for arranging a cut line (contour line) as a processing line, an operation for changing a printing surface of the cut line as a processing line, an operation for adding a processing line, and a print start operation on the print preview UI 400. These operations will be described.

  (1) “Placement of cut line (contour line) as machining line”

  Check the “Automatic arrangement of cut line (contour line)” item 440 of the simple setting and click the “OK” button 450.

  When such an operation is performed, outline extraction processing by the outline extraction unit 121 and print preview processing by the print preview processing unit 122 are performed, and the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 4 transitions to the contents shown in FIG. . At this time, all the contour lines, that is, the cut lines 470 are displayed on the print front surface 411 in the print front surface display area 410.

  By the way, display contents of the print preview UI 400 in FIG. 5 by the display unit 15, particularly display contents in the print front face display area 410 and the print back face display area 420 are displayed by a predetermined image (image 412) by the display means. , Image 422) and cut line (cut line 470) are displayed corresponding to the front and back surfaces of the recording medium in accordance with the contents of the image 422) and cut line (cut line 470).

  In the first embodiment, the simple setting is not used (the “automatic arrangement of the cut line (contour line)” item 440 in the simple setting is not checked), and the cut line is designated at an arbitrary place. You may do it. In this case, “select (specify) a cutting line processing line from among the three types of processing lines in the processing line designation field 430, and then drag and specify the pointer at an arbitrary position.

  For example, a processing line of “cut line” is selected (specified) in the processing line specification field 430, and a part to be specified as a cutting line in the image to be printed next is specified by dragging the pointer so that the part is included. To do. Specifically, regarding the image 412 in FIG. 4, when it is desired to specify a cut line similar to the cut line (contour line) 470 related to the image 412 in FIG. 5, “Select cut line processing line” is selected in the processing line specification field 430. (Designation) and drag the pointer so that all of the image 412 is included, whereby the print preview UI 400 of FIG.

  (2) “Operation for changing the printing surface of the cut line as the processing line”

  When changing the print surface of the cut line from the state of the display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 5, it is confirmed that the process line is “cut line” specified in the process line designation field 430. When “mountain fold line” or “valley fold line” is selected (designated) as the machining line in the machining line designation field 430, “cut line” is selected (designated).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the portion of the cut line 470 to be changed is designated by dragging the pointer, for example, and the “OK” button 450 is clicked. Here, the part of the cut line 470 to be changed is a cut line 472 inside the dotted line indicated by reference numeral 470A shown in FIG. In this case, the cut line 470 includes a cut line 471 and a cut line 472.

  By the way, the designation of the portion 470A to be changed of the cut line 470 in FIG. 6 by the input unit 14 means that a predetermined portion related to the cut line is designated by the cut line designation means.

  When such an operation is performed, the processing line processing by the processing line processing unit 123 and the print preview processing by the print preview processing unit 122 are performed, and the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 6 transitions to the content shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the cut line 472 inside the dotted line indicated by reference numeral 470 </ b> A shown in FIG. 6 is subjected to mirror conversion of coordinates by the processing line processing unit 123, and the print front surface in the print front surface display area 410. The print back surface 421 in the print back surface display area 420 is changed from 411.

  In the first embodiment, when the portion of the cut line 470 to be changed is designated in detail (when a detailed processing line printing position is designated), an operation for selecting an arbitrary line by the input unit 14, for example, double-clicking With respect to the selected arbitrary line, the starting point position and the ending point position by the coordinate axis (coordinate system) can be specified in units of millimeters, for example.

  That is, when an arbitrary line is double-clicked, the position information of the start point position and the end point position related to the selected arbitrary line is displayed, so the position information is changed to a desired value, and Click the “OK” button 450. As a result, an arbitrary line for which a detailed print position is designated is subjected to mirror conversion of coordinates by the processing line processing unit 123, and the print front surface 411 in the print front surface display area 410 to the print back surface display area 420. Is changed to a printing back surface 421.

  (3) “Process line addition operation”

  From the state of the display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 7, when further processing lines are necessary, for example, when “valley fold lines” are necessary, as shown in FIG. A processing line of “valley folding line” is selected (designated) from the processing lines, a position where the “valley folding line” is to be arranged is designated, and an “OK” button 450 is clicked.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the designated position of the “valley fold line” as a new processing line is such that, for example, a line segment 470B formed by the start point and the end point of the position where the “valley fold line” is to be placed is obtained. Drag the pointer to specify.

  By the way, the designation of the line segment 470B as the position where the “valley fold line” in FIG. 8 is to be arranged by the input unit 14 means that a new processing line has been set for a predetermined image by the processing line setting means. To do.

  When such an operation is performed, the processing line processing by the processing line processing unit 123 and the print preview processing by the print preview processing unit 122 are performed, and the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 8 transitions to the contents shown in FIG.

  The display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 9 has a configuration in which a valley fold line 473 is added to the cut line 472 in the display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG.

  As is clear from the display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 9, an image 412 and a cut line 471 are displayed on the print front surface 411 in the print front surface display area 410. On the other hand, an image 422, a cut line 472, and a valley fold line 473 are displayed on the print back surface 421 in the print back surface display area 420.

  (4) "Print start operation"

  If the display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 9 is acceptable, the “print start” button 460 is pressed (clicked).

  As a result, print data (image data) corresponding to the display content of the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 9 is transmitted from the computer 10 to the printer 20, and an image is recorded by the printer 20 based on the print data (image data). An image is formed on a medium (paper).

  In FIG. 9, a cut line 472 corresponds to a cut line based on the result of change by the cut line processing unit (cut line processing means) 124, a cut line 471 corresponds to a cut line other than a predetermined portion, and an image 412 The image 422 corresponds to a predetermined image, and the valley fold line 473 corresponds to a processing line set by the input unit (processing line setting means) 14.

  FIG. 10A shows an example of the result of the image forming process, that is, a printed material (recording medium). 10A, reference numeral 411A indicates the front surface (printing front surface) of the printed material (recording medium), reference numeral 421A indicates the back surface (printing back surface) of the printed material (recording medium), and reference numeral 471A indicates the cutout in FIG. 9 shows a printed cut line corresponding to line 471, 472A shows a printed cut line corresponding to cut line 472 in FIG. 9, and 473A shows a printed valley corresponding to valley fold line 473 in FIG. Indicates a fold line.

  After the printed material shown in FIG. 10 (a) is processed (in this example, cut and mountain folded) based on the processed lines (in this example, cut lines and valley fold lines) printed on the printed material. An example of the processed printed matter is shown in FIG.

  As a usage form of the printed matter (printed matter after processing) shown in FIG. 10 (b), for example, as shown in FIGS. 11 (a) and 11 (b), a slightly stylish furniture, a display item of an interior or miscellaneous goods store. The form used as can be considered.

  In a state where the printed matter (printed matter after processing) shown in FIG. 10B is used in the usage form shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the person (customer) makes an arrow in FIG. 11A. When the furniture, the interior, and the processed printed matter are viewed from the direction of A and the direction of the arrow B in FIG. 11B, the printed matter (recording medium) on the surface to be seen in the processed printed matter is displayed. The cut line 471A on the front surface (printing front surface) 411A, the cut line 472A on the back surface (printing back surface) 421A of the printed material (recording medium), and the valley fold line 473A do not appear (see FIG. 10B). Therefore, the finished printed matter after processing is not impaired.

  Next, the setting process of the cut line (working line) by the computer 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for setting the cut line (processed line).

  In the computer 10, when there is a print request related to image data to be printed from the application software 101, in the printer driver 100, the printer driver image data processing unit 110 causes the print target data acquisition unit 111 to print from the application software 101. The image data acquired by the image data processing unit 112 is stored in the storage unit 12, and then the driver UI 300 shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the display unit 15.

  Here, the image data to be printed is, for example, the image data shown in FIG. 13, that is, the image data corresponding to the image 412 printed on the printing front side 411 shown in FIG. 4 and the image 422 printed on the printing back side 421. Suppose that

  When the user performs the setting for cutting line printing using the driver UI 300 displayed on the display unit 15, the user operates the input unit 14 to select (click) the UI tab 301, and then perform this operation. Because of this, an area 302 for “switching line setting” is displayed, so an item 303 “print cut line” is checked.

  When the item “print cut line” 303 is checked in this way, the item 304 “make detailed settings in print preview” can be selected. 14 is checked, and an item 304 “Perform detailed setting in print preview” is checked, and an “OK” button 305 is selected (clicked).

  Note that the user selects (clicks) only the “OK” button 305 by operating the input unit 14 when the print setting for the cut line is not performed.

  In the printer driver image data processing unit 110, the image data processing unit 112 determines whether or not to print a cut line (processed line) depending on whether or not the “print cut line” item 303 is checked. Is determined (step S102).

  Here, if the item 303 “print cut line” is checked, it is determined that the cut line (processed line) is printed, while the item 303 is not checked or the UI tab 301 is selected (clicked). If the “OK” button 305 is selected (clicked), it is determined that the cut line (processed line) is not printed.

  The image data processing unit 112 that has determined that the cut line (processed line) is to be printed in step S102 determines whether the cut line (processed line) is selected according to whether or not the item 304 “make detailed settings in print preview” is checked. It is determined whether or not detailed setting is necessary (step S103).

  Here, if the item 304 “Detailed setting in print preview” is checked and the “OK” button 305 is selected (clicked), it is necessary to make detailed settings for the cut line (processed line). On the other hand, if the item 304 “Perform detailed setting in print preview” is not checked and the “OK” button 305 is selected (clicked), detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) is not necessary. It has come to be judged.

  The image data processing unit 112 that has determined that detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) is necessary in step S103 creates print data (PDL data) based on the print target image data stored in the storage unit 12. After that, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 is requested to perform detailed setting processing of cut lines (processed lines).

  The printer driver UI processing unit 120 that has received the request for the detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line), the detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) for the print preview display screen, that is, the print preview UI 400, and the setting contents thereof. For example, the cut line (processed line) detailed setting process is executed (step S105), such as changing the print data based on. In this case, the print preview UI 400 is displayed. The details of the detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line) will be described later.

  After completing step S105, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 notifies the printer driver image data processing unit 110 (the image data processing unit 112) that the detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line) has been completed. In the printer driver image data processing unit 110, the image data processing unit 122 transmits the print data (the latest print data to be printed) in the storage unit 12 to the printer 20 via the interface 13 (step S106).

  The printer 20 performs an image forming process based on the print data from the computer 10 and outputs a printed matter (recording medium) as a result of the image forming process. As an example of the printed matter in this case, for example, a printed matter having the contents shown in FIG.

  By the way, the image data processing unit 112, which has determined that the detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) is not necessary in step S103, generates print data (PDL data) based on the print target image data stored in the storage unit 12. After that, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 is requested to perform contour line extraction processing (step S107).

  In the printer driver UI processing unit 120 that has received the request for the contour line extraction process, the contour line extraction unit 121 creates an image to be cut out (image 412 in this example) based on the print data stored in the storage unit 12. An outline is extracted, and the storage content of the storage unit 12 is updated based on the extracted outline (step S108). In this case, the print preview UI 400 is not displayed. Details of the contour line extraction process will be described later.

  When the contour line extraction process by the contour line extraction unit 121 is completed, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 notifies the printer driver image data processing unit 110 (the image data processing unit 112 thereof) that the contour line extraction process has been completed. Then, step S106 is executed. That is, the image data processing unit 122 of the printer driver image data processing unit 110 transmits the print data in the storage unit 12 (the latest print data to be printed) to the printer 20 via the interface 13.

  The printer 20 performs an image forming process based on the print data from the computer 10 and outputs a printed matter (recording medium) as a result of the image forming process. As an example of the printed material in this case, for example, a printed material having contents corresponding to the image 412 printed on the printing front surface 411 and the image 422 printed on the printing back surface 421 shown in FIG.

  By the way, the image data processing unit 112 that has determined that the cut line (processed line) is not printed in step S102 creates print data (PDL data) based on the image data to be printed stored in the storage unit 12 ( Step S109), and then the process proceeds to Step S106. In step S <b> 106, the image data processing unit 1120 transmits the created print data to the printer 20 via the interface 13.

  The printer 20 performs an image forming process based on the print data from the computer 10 and outputs a printed matter (recording medium) as a result of the image forming process. As an example of the printed material in this case, for example, a printed material having contents corresponding to the image 412 printed on the printing front surface 411 and the image 422 printed on the printing back surface 421 shown in FIG.

  Next, the outline extraction process by the outline extraction unit 121 will be described.

  When there is a print request from the application software 101, in the printer driver image data processing unit 110 of the printer driver 100, the image data processing unit 112 acquires the print target data acquired by the print target data acquisition unit 111 and stored in the storage unit 12. For example, image, graphic, and character drawing objects are created based on the image data, and these drawing objects (PDL data) are stored in the storage unit 12.

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 14A, the image data processing unit 112 creates drawing objects of a red circle 501 and a blue rectangle 502, and sets a cutting line for the printer driver UI processing unit 120. The processing shall be requested.

  In the printer driver UI processing unit 120 that has received the request for the setting process of the cut line, the contour line extraction unit 121 performs the contour line extraction process as follows.

  That is, the contour line extraction unit 121 calculates the drawing range of each drawing object based on the print data (each drawing object) stored in the storage unit 12 and all the drawing objects based on the calculated result. A process for adjusting the drawing range (logical operation (logical sum)) is executed.

  In addition, the contour line extraction unit 121 holds the result of this execution (the result of the logical sum (OR) operation) as “drawing range information for one print surface” in the work area assigned to the storage unit 12. In this case, the contour line extraction unit 121 executes a process of filling the inside of the drawing range based on the result of the logical sum (OR) operation with the same color, for example, black.

  For example, the result of executing the logical operation (logical sum) of the drawing ranges of each drawing object shown in FIG. 14A becomes drawing range information 503 shown in FIG. 14B. The inside of the drawing range is filled with the same color, for example, black.

  Next, the contour line extraction unit 121 records the coordinates of the portion where the color has changed in each line (for example, each line in the main scanning direction) of the “drawing range information for one printing surface”, and The aggregate is extracted as a contour line. For example, the contour line 504 shown in FIG. 14C is extracted based on the drawing range information (“drawing range information for one print surface”) 503 shown in FIG.

  Next, details of the processing for setting the cutting line (working line) details (step S105 in FIG. 12) by the printer driver UI processing unit 120 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the printer driver UI processing unit 120 receives a request for detailed setting processing of cut lines (processed lines) from the image data processing unit 112 of the printer driver image processing unit 110, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 displays the print preview UI 400 shown in FIG. 15 is displayed.

  In addition, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 displays an image based on the print data read from the storage unit 12 in the print front surface display area 410 and the print back surface display area 420 in the print preview UI 400 by the print preview processing unit 122. Print preview.

  The printer driver UI processing unit 120 determines whether or not the setting contents of the “automatic arrangement of cut line (contour line)” item 440 of the simple setting has been updated (step S201).

  Here, in the initial state in which the print preview UI 400 is first displayed on the display unit 15, the simple setting “automatic arrangement of cut lines (contour lines)” item 440 is not checked, and the simple setting is invalid. It is a state.

  From this simple setting invalid state, when the “Automatically place cut line (outline)” item 440 in the simple setting is checked and the “OK” button 450 is clicked, the simple setting is changed from invalid to valid. It has been changed. In addition, when this simple setting is enabled, when the “Automatically place cut lines (contour lines)” item 440 in the simple setting is unchecked and the “OK” button 450 is clicked, the simple setting is valid. It has been changed to an invalid state.

  As described above, when the simple setting is changed from the invalid state to the valid state or from the valid state to the invalid state, the setting content of the “automatic arrangement of the cut line (contour line)” item 440 of the simple setting is updated. It has come to be judged.

  Note that the settings in the “Automatically place cut lines (contour lines)” item 440 in the simple settings remain unchanged (checked or unchecked, that is, the simple settings are invalid or valid), and “OK” is displayed. When the “” button 450 is clicked, it is determined that the setting contents of the “automatic arrangement of the cut line (contour line)” item 440 in the simple setting have not been updated.

  If the printer driver UI processing unit 120 determines in step S201 that the setting content of the “automatic arrangement of cut line (contour line)” item 440 has been updated in step S201, the storage unit 12 corresponds to the updated content. The content of the print data stored in is updated (step S202).

  In step S <b> 202, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 includes the update contents included in the print data stored in the storage unit 12 when the simple setting is changed from valid to invalid. The content of the print data is updated by deleting the “contour line as a cut line”.

  When the print preview processing unit 122 performs a print preview based on the updated print data, for example, the print preview UI 400 in FIG. 5 transitions to the contents of the print preview UI 400 in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the updated content is a content that changes the simple setting from invalid to valid, in the printer driver UI processing unit 120, the contour line extracting unit 121 stores the print data stored in the storage unit 12. The outline extraction process is performed based on the outline, and the outline as a result of the extraction process is added to the print data as a cut line to update the contents of the print data.

  When the print preview processing unit 122 performs a print preview based on the updated print data, the print preview UI 400 in FIG. 4 transitions to the contents of the print preview UI 400 in FIG.

  Next, when the printer driver UI processing unit 120 completes step 202, if it is determined in step S201 that the setting contents of the simple setting “automatic arrangement of cut lines (contour lines)” item 440 have not been updated, the printer driver In the driver UI processing unit 120, the processing line processing unit 123 determines whether or not a processing line is added based on the content of setting (designation) by the user input unit 14 with respect to the print preview UI 400 (Step S1). S203).

  Here, when the operation based on the above-described “processing line addition operation” is performed on the print preview UI 400, it is determined that the processing line is added, and other operations such as the above-described “processing line as processing line” are performed. When an operation based on the “change operation of the printing surface of the cut line” or the “operation to start printing” is performed, it is determined that the processing line is not added.

  When the processing line processing unit 123 determines that the processing line is to be added in step S203, the processing line processing unit 123 adds the specified processing line to the print data stored in the storage unit 12 to thereby determine the contents of the print data. Is updated (step S204).

  When the print preview processing unit 122 performs a print preview based on the updated print data in step S204, for example, the print preview UI 400 in FIG. 7 (or FIG. 8) transitions to the contents of the print preview UI 400 in FIG. .

  Next, when the processing line processing unit 123 ends step S204 or determines that the processing line is not added in step S203, the content of setting (designation) by the user input unit 14 for the print preview UI 400 Based on the above, it is determined whether or not the machining line is changed (step S205).

  Here, when an operation for changing an existing processing line is performed on the print preview UI 400 such as the above-described “changing operation of a printing surface of a cut line as a processing line”, it is determined that the processing line is changed. When other operations, for example, operations based on the above-described “print start operation” are performed, it is determined that the processing line is not changed.

  The processing line processing unit 123 determines whether or not the printing surface is changed according to whether or not an operation based on the “changing operation of the printing surface of the cut line as the processing line” is performed (step S206). As a result of this determination, when the print surface is changed, the coordinates of the cut line as the designated processing line are mirror-transformed, and the print surface is changed so that the cut line is positioned, and stored in the storage unit 12. The contents of the printed print data are updated (step S207).

  When the print preview processing unit 122 performs a print preview based on the updated print data in step S207, for example, the print preview UI 400 in FIG. 5 (or FIG. 6) transitions to the contents of the print preview UI 400 in FIG. .

  When step S207 is completed, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 determines whether the setting is completed depending on whether the “print start” button 460 is clicked (step S208).

  Here, when the “print start” button 460 is clicked, it is determined that the setting is completed, and when the “print start” button 460 is not clicked, it is determined that the setting is not completed. .

  When the printer driver UI processing unit 120 determines in step S208 that the setting is not completed, the process returns to step S201. On the other hand, if the printer driver UI processing unit 120 determines that the setting is not completed, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 ends this processing. Return to the processing line setting process.

  The processing line processing unit 123 that has determined that the printing surface is not changed in step S206 is a change designation of the start point position and the end point position based on the coordinate system designated by the user input unit 14, that is, whether or not the machining line position is changed. (Step S209), and if the result of this determination is that the position is changed, the contents of the print data stored in the storage unit 12 are changed by changing the coordinates of the position of the designated processing line. Is updated (step S210), and then the process proceeds to step S208.

  The processing line processing unit 123 that has determined that the processing line position is not changed in step S209 is the type of processing line specified in the processing line specification field 430 for the processing line specified by the user input unit 14. It is determined whether or not (line type) is changed (step S211). If the result of this determination is that the type (line type) of the processed line is changed, the specified processed line is changed to the changed line. By changing to the line type, the contents of the print data stored in the storage unit 12 are updated (step S212), and then the process proceeds to step S208.

  For example, when the user should set the valley fold line 473 in the print preview UI 400 of FIG. 9, if the mountain fold line is set by mistake, the user specifies the mountain fold line as the processing line, and then the processing line specification field 430. To select a valley fold line (change from a mountain fold line to a valley fold line), and click an “OK” button 450. Accordingly, the processing line processing unit 123 changes the mountain fold line to the valley fold line, and the contents of the print data are also changed.

  If it is determined in step S205 that the machining line is not changed, or if it is determined in step S211 that the machining line type is not changed, the process proceeds to step S208.

  If the printer driver UI processing unit 120 determines that the setting is not completed in step S208, the printer driver UI processing unit 120 ends this processing and returns to the setting process of the cut line (processed line) in FIG. The printer driver image data processing unit 110 (the image data processing unit 122) is notified of the completion. Thus, in the printer driver image data processing unit 110, the image data processing unit 122 performs the process of step S106. That is, the print data in the storage unit 12 (latest print target print data) is transmitted to the printer 20 via the interface 13.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the computer (image processing apparatus, information processing apparatus) 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As illustrated in FIG. 16, the computer 10 includes a CPU 610, a storage device 620 such as a hard disk, a ROM 630, a RAM 640, a display device 650, an input device 660, and a communication interface (communication I / F) 670.

  In the first embodiment, the computer 10 functions as an image processing apparatus or an information processing apparatus with the above-described components 610 to 670. When functioning as an information processing apparatus, each of the above-described components 610 to 640 functions as an image processing apparatus provided in the information processing apparatus.

  The storage device 620 includes a program for realizing the functions of the printer driver 100 (see FIGS. 1 and 2), a program corresponding to the processing procedure (see FIGS. 12 and 15), and application software 101 (see FIG. 1) and the like. Note that the programs for realizing the functions of the printer driver 100 described above include programs for realizing the functions of the driver UI 300 and the print preview UI 400. The storage device 620 fulfills a part of the functions of the storage unit 12 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) described above.

  Here, a program for realizing the function of the printer driver 100 and a program corresponding to the above-described processing procedure (see FIGS. 12 and 15) are defined as an image processing program.

  This image processing program includes at least the following processing steps (1) to (4).

  (1) A contour line extraction process for extracting a contour line of a cut target image related to a predetermined image corresponding to print target image data (print data).

  (2) An image display process in which the predetermined image is displayed on the display means and the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction process is displayed on the display means as a cut line.

  (3) Cut line processing for changing a specified predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display means so as to be positioned on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined portion is positioned on the recording medium. process.

  (4) Image data processing process for processing the cut line after the cut line processing process, the cut line other than the predetermined part, and the predetermined image as the latest print target image data (print data) .

  The ROM 630 is a read-only memory, and stores data, information, and the like necessary for performing processing line print setting processing by the printer driver 100 (CPU 610).

  The RAM 640 is a read / write memory as needed, stores a predetermined program (the image processing program, application software 101) read from the storage device 12, and stores information and data read from the ROM 630.

  In addition, the RAM 640 performs a part of the functions of the storage unit 12 described above. The image data created by the application software 101 (CPU 610), the print data created by the printer driver 100 (CPU 610), and the printer driver 100 (printer driver thereof) Data for print preview is stored by the UI processing unit 120).

  The display device 650 is constituted by a display device, for example, and fulfills the function of the display unit 15 (see FIG. 1) described above.

  The input device 660 includes, for example, a keyboard and a mouse, and fulfills the function of the input unit 14 (see FIG. 1) described above.

  The communication I / F 670 performs communication with the printer 20, and transmits print data (PDL data) transmitted from the printer driver image data processing unit 110 of the printer driver 100 to the printer 20, for example.

  The CPU 610 is a central processing unit, and implements the functions of the printer driver 100 by reading the predetermined program from the storage device 620 to the RAM 640 and executing it.

  In the present specification, the above-described predetermined program including the image processing program has been described as an embodiment of recording in a storage device such as a hard disk as a recording medium. However, the predetermined program can be provided as follows. is there.

  That is, the predetermined program may be stored in the ROM, and the CPU may load the predetermined program from the ROM to the main storage device and execute it.

  The predetermined program may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a DVD-ROM, a CD-ROM, an MO (magneto-optical disk), a flexible disk, and distributed. In this case, after the image processing apparatus installs the predetermined program recorded on the recording medium, the CPU executes the predetermined program. The installation destination of the predetermined program includes a memory such as a RAM and a storage device such as a hard disk. The computer loads a predetermined program stored in the storage device into the main storage device and executes it as necessary.

  Further, the computer is connected to a server device or a host computer via a communication line (for example, the Internet), and after the computer downloads the predetermined program from the server device or the host computer, the predetermined program is executed. You may make it do. In this case, download destinations of the predetermined program include a memory such as a RAM and a storage device (recording medium) such as a hard disk. Then, the computer loads the predetermined program stored in the storage device into the main storage device and executes it as necessary.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the computer (printer driver) can obtain image data (print data) corresponding to a printed matter with a high quality result after being subjected to predetermined processing. it can.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the user can use the print preview UI to display an arbitrary processing line (cut line, valley fold line, mountain fold line, etc.) on the print front surface or print back corresponding to the recording medium. Can be specified on the face.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, an image is formed based on print data including a processing line (cut line, valley fold line, mountain fold line, etc.) designated (set) for a predetermined image using the print preview UI. When a predetermined process (for example, cut, valley fold, mountain fold, etc.) is performed on the (printed) printed matter (recording medium) according to the processing line, the finished printed matter can be improved. .

  (Embodiment 2)

  FIG. 17 shows a functional configuration of the image forming system according to the second embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the image forming system 2 includes a computer 40 and a printer 50 that functions as an image forming apparatus. The computer 40 and the printer 50 are connected via a communication line 60. Examples of the communication line 60 include a communication cable, a wired communication line such as a local area network (LAN) and a telephone line, a wireless communication line such as a wireless LAN, and a combination of these communication lines.

  The computer 40 includes an image processing unit 41, a storage unit 42, an interface 43, an input unit 44, and a display unit 45.

  The image processing unit 41 creates image data, and outputs the print target image data to the printer driver 41B at the time of a print request, and converts the print target image data from the application software 41A into print data. And a printer driver 41B for outputting to the interface 43. That is, the image processing unit 41 creates image data and print data, and outputs the created print data to the interface 43.

  The storage unit 42 stores the created image data, print data, and the like.

  The interface 43 communicates with the printer 50, and transmits print data (image data) from the image processing unit 41 to the printer 50, for example.

  The input unit 44 is an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, for example, and inputs predetermined input information such as image data creation and a print request instruction.

  The display unit 45 is a display device, for example, and displays predetermined display information.

  The printer 50 includes an interface 51, a processing unit 500, a storage unit 52, an engine control unit 53, an engine unit 54, an input unit 55, and a display unit 56.

  The interface 51 communicates with the computer 10 and receives, for example, print data and outputs it to the processing unit 500.

  The processing unit 500 includes an image processing unit 510 and a user interface processing unit (hereinafter referred to as “UI processing unit”) 520.

  The image processing unit 510 performs image processing such as drawing processing (conversion processing to raster data), color conversion processing, tone correction processing, and halftone generation processing on the print data from the interface 51, and performs this on the engine control unit 53. Output to.

  The UI processing unit 520 sets a cut line or a processed line for the print data (image data) to be printed in accordance with user instruction information.

  The storage unit 52 stores the created image data and print data, the result of the process of the image processing unit 52 (updated print data), a processing line print setting user interface and a print preview user interface, which will be described later. .

  The engine control unit 53 controls the engine unit 54 to output image data after image processing (raster data in units of pages) from the image processing unit 52 and perform image formation.

  The engine unit 54 forms (prints) an image on a recording medium (for example, paper) based on the image data under the control of the engine control unit 53, and outputs the recording medium (printed material) to the outside of the printer 50.

  The input unit 55 inputs predetermined input information such as print settings for processing lines such as cut lines.

  The display unit 56 displays predetermined display information such as a driver user interface, a print preview user interface, and a predetermined image (print preview) which will be described later.

  In the second embodiment, the input unit 55 and the display unit 56 are realized by, for example, a touch panel (touch screen).

  In the second embodiment, the display unit 56 displays (prints preview) display information such as a predetermined image corresponding to the image data to be printed and a contour line of the image to be cut related to the predetermined image. A function of a means, and a function of a display means for displaying the predetermined image and the cut line corresponding to each of the front surface and the back surface of the recording medium according to the contents formed on the recording medium. ing.

  In the second embodiment, the input unit 55 has a function of a cut line designation unit that designates a predetermined part related to the cut line displayed (print preview) on the display unit (display unit) 56, and the designated predetermined value. And a function of a cut line designation means for designating the start point position and the end point position by the coordinate system in order to adjust the length of the portion. The input unit 55 also has a function of a processing line setting unit that sets a new processing line for a predetermined image displayed on the display unit 56.

  In the second embodiment, at least the processing unit 500 and the storage unit 52 function as an image processing apparatus.

  Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the processing unit 500 and the components 51, 52, 55, and 56 function as an image processing apparatus.

  Next, details of the processing unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the processing unit 500, the image processing unit 510 includes a print target data acquisition unit 511 and an image data processing unit 512, as shown in FIG.

  The print target data acquisition unit 511 has a function of image data acquisition means for acquiring print data (image data) to be printed from the computer 40 via the interface 51.

  The image data processing unit 512 stores the print target print data (PDL data) acquired by the print target data acquisition unit 511 in the storage unit 52.

  The image data processing unit 512 also inquires of the user whether or not to perform the cut line setting process after storing the print data in the storage unit 52, and the result of the inquiry from the user is the cut line setting. When the processing is not performed, the print data stored in the storage unit 52 is read out and passed to the engine control unit 53, while the result of the inquiry from the user indicates that the cut line setting processing is performed. Requests the UI processing unit 520 to perform the setting process of the cut line.

  Further, the image data processing unit 512 has a cut line and print target data acquisition unit (image data acquisition unit) 511 based on the result of a change process performed by a cut line processing unit (cut line processing unit) 524 (to be described later). It has a function of an image data processing means for processing a predetermined image corresponding to (image data) as the latest print data (image data) to be printed.

  Further, the image data processing unit 512 updates the cut line based on the result of the change process by the cut line processing unit 524 described later, the predetermined image, and the processing line set by the input unit (processing line setting means) 55 to the latest. It also has a function of image data processing means for processing as print data (image data) to be printed.

  When the image data processing unit 512 receives an indication from the cut line processing unit 524, which will be described later, that the setting of the cut line (processed line) has been completed, the contents of the storage unit 52 (the latest print target) Print data) and read it to the engine control unit 53.

  The engine control unit 53 outputs the print data transferred from the image data processing unit 512 to the engine unit 54.

  As illustrated in FIG. 18, the UI processing unit 520 includes an outline extraction unit 521, a print preview processing unit 522, and a processing line processing unit 523.

  The contour line extraction unit 521 extracts a contour line extraction unit that extracts a contour line of a cut target image related to a predetermined image corresponding to the print data (image data) acquired by the print target data acquisition unit (image data acquisition unit) 511. It has the function of

  The contour line extraction unit 521 extracts the contour line of the image to be cut based on the print data (image data) stored in the storage unit 52, and the storage contents of the storage unit 52 based on the extracted contour line. , And notifies the print preview processing unit 522 that the outline has been extracted. The storage unit 52 stores print data (image data) indicating a predetermined image and an outline.

  The print preview processing unit 522 displays the predetermined image on the display unit (display unit) 56 (print preview) and uses the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction unit (contour line extraction unit) 521 as a cut line. It has a function of image display processing means for displaying (print preview).

  The print preview processing unit 522 causes the display unit 56 to print preview a predetermined image and a cut line (contour line) based on the storage contents (print data) stored in the storage unit 52, and processing line processing indicates that the print preview has been performed. Notification to the unit 523.

  The processed line processing unit 523 has a cut line processing unit 524.

  The cut line processing unit 524 stores a predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display unit 56, that is, a predetermined portion related to the cut line specified by the input unit (cut line specifying means) 55. It has a function of a cut line processing means for changing so that the predetermined portion (for example, paper) is located on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface.

  In addition, the cut line processing unit 524 positions a predetermined part of the length based on the position information of the start point position and the end point position specified by the input unit (cut line specifying unit) 55, and the predetermined part of the recording medium is positioned. It also has a function of a cut line processing means for changing to be located on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface.

  When the position of the predetermined part related to the cut line is changed to a predetermined position, the cut line processing unit 524 updates the storage content of the storage unit 52 according to the changed content, and from the input unit 55 When it is received that the setting of the cut line (processed line) by the input operation is completed, the fact is notified to the image data processing unit 512 of the image processing unit 510.

  Incidentally, when the cut line processing unit 524 receives an indication that the setting of the cut line (processing line) has been completed, the storage unit content in the storage unit 52 is the latest print data (image data) to be printed.

  When the processing unit 520 configured as described above receives a request for setting a cut line from the image data processing unit 112 of the image processing unit 510, the contour line extraction unit 521, the print preview processing unit 522, and the processing line processing The predetermined processing described above by the unit 523 is performed.

  Next, an operation for setting a processing line such as a cut line for a predetermined image corresponding to print data (image data) to be printed will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the printer 50 that has received the print data to be printed from the computer 40, the image processing unit 510 stores the print data in the storage unit 52, and the processing lines as shown in FIG. A print setting user interface (hereinafter referred to as “processed line print setting UI”) 700 is displayed on the display unit 56.

  In the processing line print setting UI 700, when the user operates the input unit 55 to select (click) a user interface tab (hereinafter referred to as "UI tab") 701 of "cut line setting", the "cut line setting" An area 702 is displayed. Then, when printing the cut line, the user operates the input unit 55 to check the item “print cut line” 703. When the item “print cut line” 703 is checked in this way, the item 704 “detailed settings in print preview” can be selected. 55, the item 304 “Perform detailed settings in print preview” is checked, and the “OK” button 705 is selected (clicked).

  The input information (setting information) for the processing line print setting UI 700 input (set) in this way is input to the image processing unit 510 (the image data processing unit 512).

  By the way, an inquiry to the user as to whether or not to perform the above-described cut line setting process performed by the image data processing unit 512 is performed by displaying the processing line print setting UI 700 on the display unit 56. At least when the UI tab 301 is selected (clicked) and the “print cut line” item 703 is checked, it is assumed that the cut line setting process is specified. On the other hand, when only the “OK” button 705 is selected (clicked), it is assumed that it is designated that the setting process of the cut line is not performed.

  When the UI processing unit 520 receives a request for the setting process of the cut line from the image data processing unit 512 of the image processing unit 510, the UI processing unit 520 shows a predetermined image corresponding to the print data stored in the storage unit 52 and FIG. The print preview UI 400 according to the first embodiment is displayed on the display unit 56. The print preview UI 400 has the same configuration and function as the print preview UI 400 of the first embodiment.

  Also in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, (1) “placement operation of a cutting line (contour line) as a processing line”, (2) “printing surface of a cutting line as a processing line” Operations based on “change operation”, (3) “process line addition operation”, and (4) “print start operation” can be performed (see FIGS. 4 to 9).

  When the “print start operation” is performed, print data corresponding to the display content of the print preview UI 400 illustrated in FIG. 9 is transmitted from the processing unit 500 (the image processing unit 512) via the engine control unit 53. To the engine unit 54. The engine unit 54 forms an image on a recording medium (paper) based on the print data (image data).

  FIG. 10A shows an example of the result of the image forming process, that is, a printed material (recording medium). The printed material shown in FIG. 10A is printed on the printed material. FIG. 10B shows an example of the processed printed material after processing based on the processed line.

  Next, the setting process of the cut line (working line) by the printer 50 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for setting the cut line (processed line).

  In the printer 50, when the interface 51 receives print data to be printed from the computer 40, the processing unit 500 acquires the print data to be printed from the interface 51 by the print target data acquisition unit 511 (step S301). The print data acquired by the image data processing unit 512 is stored in the storage unit 52, and then the processing line print setting UI 700 shown in FIG. 19 is displayed on the display unit 56.

  Here, it is assumed that the print data to be printed is, for example, print data corresponding to the image 412 printed on the print front side 411 and the image 422 printed on the print back side 421 shown in FIG.

  When the user performs the cut line print setting using the processing line print setting UI 700 displayed on the display unit 56, the user operates the input unit 55 to select (click) the UI tab 701, and then Since an area 702 for “switching line setting” is displayed due to this operation, the item “print cut line” 703 is checked.

  When the item “print cut line” 703 is checked in this way, the item 704 “detailed settings in print preview” can be selected. 55 is checked, and the item 704 “Detailed setting in print preview” is checked, and the “OK” button 705 is selected (clicked).

  Note that the user selects (clicks) only the “OK” button 705 by operating the input unit 55 when not performing the print setting for the cut line.

  In the image processing unit 510, the image data processing unit 512 determines whether or not to print a cut line (processed line) depending on whether or not the “print cut line” item 703 is checked. (Step S302).

  Here, when the item 703 “print cut line” is checked, it is determined that the cut line (processed line) is printed. On the other hand, the item 703 is not checked, or the UI tab 701 is selected (clicked). If the “OK” button 705 is selected (clicked), it is determined that the cut line (processed line) is not printed.

  The image data processing unit 512 that has determined that the cut line (processed line) is to be printed in step S302 determines the cut line (processed line) depending on whether or not the item 704 “detailed settings in print preview” is checked. It is determined whether or not detailed setting is necessary (step S303).

  Here, if the item 704 “Detailed setting in print preview” is checked and the “OK” button 705 is selected (clicked), it is necessary to make detailed settings for the cut line (processed line). On the other hand, if the item 704 “Detailed setting in print preview” is not checked and the “OK” button 705 is selected (clicked), detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) is not necessary. It has come to be judged.

  The image data processing unit 512 that has determined that detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) is necessary in step S303 requests the UI processing unit 520 to perform detailed setting processing of the cut line (processed line).

  The UI processing unit 520 that has received the request for the detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line), based on the detailed setting of the cut line (processed line) for the print preview display screen, that is, the print preview UI 400, and the setting contents. Processing for detailed setting of the cut line (processed line), such as changing the print data, is executed (step S304). In this case, the print preview UI 400 is displayed.

  The detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line) is the same as the detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line) of the first embodiment shown in FIG. Therefore, the detailed description of the detailed setting process is omitted here.

  After completing step S304, the UI processing unit 520 notifies the image processing unit 510 (the image data processing unit 512) that the detailed setting process of the cut line (processed line) has been completed. In the image processing unit 510, the image data processing unit 512 outputs the print data (latest print target print data) in the storage unit 52 to the engine control unit 53 (step S305).

  When the engine control unit 53 outputs the print data to the engine unit 54, the engine unit 54 performs an image forming process based on the received print data, and a printed matter (recording medium) as a result of the image forming process. Is output. As an example of the printed matter in this case, for example, a printed matter having the contents shown in FIG.

  By the way, the image data processing unit 512 that has determined that the detailed setting of the cut line (processing line) is not necessary in step S303 requests the UI processing unit 520 to perform the contour line extraction processing.

  In the UI processing unit 520 that has received the request for the contour line extraction process, the contour line extraction unit 521 extracts the contour line of the image to be cut out based on the print data stored in the storage unit 52 and extracts the extracted contour line. The content stored in the storage unit 52 is updated based on the contour line (step S306). In this case, the print preview UI 400 is not displayed.

  The contour line extraction process is the same as the contour line extraction process performed by the contour line extraction unit 121 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the detailed description of the outline extraction process is omitted here.

  When the contour line extraction processing by the contour line extraction unit 521 ends, the UI processing unit 520 notifies the image processing unit 510 (the image data processing unit 512) that the contour line extraction processing has ended.

  Then, step S305 is executed. That is, the image data processing unit 512 of the image processing unit 510 outputs the print data (the latest print target print data) in the storage unit 52 to the engine control unit 53.

  When the engine control unit 53 outputs the print data to the engine unit 54, the engine unit 54 performs an image forming process based on the received print data, and a printed matter (recording medium) as a result of the image forming process. Is output. As an example of the printed material in this case, for example, a printed material having contents corresponding to the image 412 printed on the printing front surface 411 and the image 422 printed on the printing back surface 421 shown in FIG.

  Meanwhile, the image data processing unit 512 that has determined that the cut line (processed line) is not printed in step S302 proceeds to step S305. In step S <b> 305, the image data processing unit 512 of the image processing unit 510 outputs the print data in the storage unit 52 (the state of the acquired print data to be printed) to the engine control unit 53.

  When the engine control unit 53 outputs the print data to the engine unit 54, the engine unit 54 performs an image forming process based on the received print data, and a printed matter (recording medium) as a result of the image forming process. Is output. As an example of the printed material in this case, for example, a printed material having contents corresponding to the image 412 printed on the printing front surface 411 and the image 422 printed on the printing back surface 421 shown in FIG.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the printer (image forming apparatus) 50 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The printer 50 includes a CPU 810, a storage device 820 such as a hard disk, a ROM 830, a RAM 840, a display device 850, an input device 860, a communication interface (communication I / F) 870, and an image output device 880, as shown in FIG. ing.

  In the second embodiment, the printer 50 functions as an image forming apparatus with the components 810 to 880 described above. When functioning as an image forming apparatus, the above-described components 810 to 840 function as an image processing apparatus provided in the image forming apparatus.

  The storage device 820 stores predetermined programs such as a program for realizing the functions of the processing unit 500 (see FIGS. 17 and 18) and a program corresponding to the processing procedure (see FIGS. 20 and 15). is doing. The programs for realizing the functions of the processing unit 500 include programs for realizing the functions of the processing line print setting UI 700 and the print preview UI 400. The storage device 820 performs a part of the function of the storage unit 52 (see FIGS. 17 and 18) described above.

  Here, a program for realizing the functions of the processing unit 500 described above and a program corresponding to the processing procedure described above are defined as an image processing program 820A.

  The image processing program 820A includes at least the following processing steps (1) to (4).

  (1) A contour line extraction process for extracting a contour line of a cut target image related to a predetermined image corresponding to print target image data (print data).

  (2) An image display process in which the predetermined image is displayed on the display means and the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction process is displayed on the display means as a cut line.

  (3) Cut line processing for changing a specified predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display means so as to be positioned on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined portion is positioned on the recording medium. process.

  (4) Image data processing process for processing the cut line after the cut line processing process, the cut line other than the predetermined part, and the predetermined image as the latest print target image data (print data) .

  The ROM 830 is a read-only memory, and stores data necessary for performing processing line print setting processing by the image processing unit 310 (CPU 610) of the processing unit 500, data necessary for image formation processing, and the like. Yes.

  The RAM 840 is a read / write memory as needed, and stores a predetermined program (such as the image processing program 520A) read from the storage device 52 and data read from the ROM 830.

  In addition, the RAM 840 and a part of the functions of the storage unit 52 (see FIGS. 17 and 18) described above, print data acquired by the image processing unit 510 (CPU 810) of the processing unit 500, and the UI processing unit of the processing unit 500 Data for print preview is stored by 520 (CPU 810).

  The display device 850 is constituted by a display device, for example, and fulfills the function of the display unit 56 (see FIG. 17) described above.

  The input device 860 includes, for example, a keyboard and a mouse, and fulfills the function of the input unit 55 (see FIG. 17) described above.

  Here, the display device 850 and the input device 860 are electrically connected to a device main body constituted by the respective components 810 to 840, 870, and 880, for example, via a communication cable.

  The communication I / F 870 communicates with the computer 40 and receives, for example, print data (PDL data) transmitted from the computer 40.

  The CPU 810 is a central processing unit, and implements the function of the processing unit 500 by reading and executing the predetermined program from the storage device 820 to the RAM 840.

  The image output device 880 performs the functions of the engine control unit 53 and the engine unit 54 described above, forms (prints) an image on a recording medium (for example, paper) based on the print data, and uses the recording medium (printed material) as the printer 50. To the outside.

  The printer 50 may include a touch panel (touch screen) having a display function and an input function instead of the display device 850 and the input device 860.

  In the present specification, the above-described predetermined program including the image processing program has been described as an embodiment of recording in a storage device such as a hard disk as a recording medium. However, the predetermined program can be provided as follows. is there.

  That is, the predetermined program may be stored in the ROM, and the CPU may load the predetermined program from the ROM to the main storage device and execute it.

  The predetermined program may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a DVD-ROM, a CD-ROM, an MO (magneto-optical disk), a flexible disk, and distributed. In this case, after the image processing apparatus installs the predetermined program recorded on the recording medium, the CPU executes the predetermined program. The installation destination of the predetermined program includes a memory such as a RAM and a storage device such as a hard disk. The printer loads a predetermined program stored in the storage device into the main storage device and executes it as necessary.

  Further, the printer is connected to a server device or a host computer via a communication line (for example, the Internet), and after the printer downloads the predetermined program from the server device or the host computer, the predetermined program is executed. You may make it do. In this case, download destinations of the predetermined program include a memory such as a RAM and a storage device (recording medium) such as a hard disk. The printer loads the predetermined program stored in the storage device into the main storage device and executes it as necessary.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, in the printer, it is possible to obtain image data corresponding to a printed matter having a high quality result after being subjected to predetermined processing.

  Also, according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the user records an arbitrary processing line (cut line, valley fold line, mountain fold line, etc.) using the print preview UI. It can be designated as a printing front side or a printing back side corresponding to the medium.

  Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, processing lines (cut lines, valley fold lines, mountain fold lines) designated (set) for a predetermined image using the print preview UI. When a predetermined process (for example, cut, valley fold, mountain fold, etc.) is applied to a printed matter (recording medium) that is image-formed (printed) based on print data including The finish of the printed material can be improved.

  The present invention can be applied to an image processing apparatus or an information processing apparatus that outputs the latest image data to be printed (print data) to a card-type storage medium (memory card, PC card, etc.) or an external storage device.

  The present invention can also be applied to an image forming apparatus that acquires print data (image data) to be printed from a card-type storage medium or an external storage device.

  Furthermore, the present invention is applied to a printing system that includes an image processing apparatus or an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus, and these apparatuses exchange print data (image data) via a card-type storage medium or an external storage device. can do.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image forming system according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a printer driver included in the computer according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a driver user interface provided by the printer driver according to the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a print preview user interface provided by the printer driver according to the first embodiment and an example of an operation corresponding to the print preview user interface (an example of a cut line print setting operation). 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of a print preview of an image in the print preview user interface when a cut line print setting operation is performed on the print preview user interface according to the first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a print preview user interface according to the first embodiment and an example of an operation corresponding to the print preview user interface (an example of an operation for changing a cut line print surface); FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of a print preview of an image in the print preview user interface when an operation of changing a cut line print surface is performed on the print preview user interface according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a print preview user interface according to the first embodiment and an example of an operation corresponding thereto (an example of an operation for adding a new processing line). FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of a print preview of an image in the print preview user interface when a new processing line addition operation is performed on the print preview user interface according to the first embodiment. An example of a printed material (recording medium) that is a result of image forming processing performed based on contents set for the print preview user interface according to the first embodiment and an example of a result of processing the printed material. FIG. It is a figure explaining the utilization form of the printed matter after a process after processing with respect to the printed matter which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for setting a cut line (working line) according to the first embodiment. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of image data to be printed according to Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining outline extraction processing according to Embodiment 1; 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for detailed setting processing of a cut line (working line) according to Embodiment 1; 2 is a configuration diagram showing a hardware configuration of a computer according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image forming system according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a processing unit provided in a printer according to Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a figure explaining the processing line setting process user interface provided by the process part which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for setting a cut line (working line) according to the second embodiment. FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a printer according to a second embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1, 2 Image forming system 10, 40 Computer 20, 50 Printer 30, 60 Communication line 11 Image processing unit 12, 42, 52 Storage unit 13, 21, 43, 51 Interface 14, 44, 55 Input unit 15, 45, 56 Display unit 22 Image processing unit 23, 53 Engine control unit 24, 54 Engine unit 25 Operation panel 100 Printer driver 110 Printer driver image processing unit 111, 511 Print target data acquisition unit 112, 512 Image data processing unit 120 Printer driver user interface processing Sections 121 and 521 Outline extraction sections 122 and 522 Print preview processing sections 123 and 523 Processing line processing sections 124 and 524 Cut line processing section 300 Driver user interface 400 Print preview user interface 500 Processing section 510 Image processing Part 520 user interface processing unit 610,810 CPU
620,820 Storage device 630,830 ROM
640,840 RAM
650, 850 Display device 660, 860 Input device 670, 870 Communication interface 700 Processing line print setting user interface 880 Image output device

Claims (10)

Contour extraction means for extracting a contour of an image to be cut out related to a predetermined image corresponding to image data to be printed;
Image display processing means for causing the display means to display the predetermined image and causing the display means to display the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction means as a cut line;
A cut line processing means for changing a specified predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display means so as to be positioned on a surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined portion is positioned on the recording medium;
Image data processing means for processing a cut line based on a result of the change by the cut line processing means, a cut line other than the predetermined portion, and the predetermined image as latest image data to be printed;
An image processing apparatus comprising: Display means for displaying display information;
Image data acquisition means for acquiring image data to be printed;
Contour extracting means for extracting a contour of an image to be cut out related to a predetermined image corresponding to the image data acquired by the image data acquiring means;
Image display processing means for causing the display means to display the predetermined image and causing the display means to display the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction means as a cut line;
A cut line designating unit for designating a predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display unit;
A cut line processing means for changing the predetermined portion specified by the cut line specifying means so as to be positioned on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined portion is positioned in the recording medium;
Image data processing means for processing a cut line based on a result of the change by the cut line processing means, a cut line other than the predetermined portion, and the predetermined image as latest image data to be printed;
An image processing apparatus comprising: The cut line designation means includes:
Specify the start point position and end point position by the coordinate system to adjust the length of the specified predetermined part,
The cut line processing means includes:
A predetermined portion having a length based on the position information of the start point position and the end point position specified by the cut line specifying means is positioned on the surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface of the recording medium where the predetermined portion is positioned. To change,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2. The display means includes
The predetermined image and the cut line are displayed corresponding to each of the front and back surfaces of the recording medium according to these contents,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image processing apparatus is an image processing apparatus. Processing line setting means for setting a new processing line for the predetermined image displayed on the display means,
The image data processing means includes
Processing the cut line based on the result of the change by the cut line processing unit, the cut line other than the predetermined portion, the predetermined image, and the processed line set by the processed line setting unit as the latest image data to be printed. To
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image processing apparatus is an image processing apparatus.   An information processing apparatus comprising the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image data processing unit transmits the latest image data to be printed to the image forming apparatus.   An image forming apparatus comprising the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image data processing unit performs an image forming process based on the latest image data to be printed. An information processing apparatus according to claim 6;
An image forming apparatus that performs an image forming process based on image data transmitted from the image processing apparatus of the information processing apparatus;
An image forming system comprising: An image forming apparatus according to claim 7;
An information processing apparatus that transmits image data to be printed to the image forming apparatus;
Have
The image forming apparatus includes:
After the image data to be printed from the information processing apparatus is updated to the latest image data to be printed, an image forming process is performed based on the latest image data to be printed.
An image forming system. An outline extraction process for extracting an outline of an image to be cut out related to a predetermined image corresponding to image data to be printed;
An image display process for displaying the predetermined image on a display unit and causing the display unit to display the contour line extracted by the contour line extraction process as a cut line;
A cut line processing step of changing a specified predetermined portion related to the cut line displayed on the display means so as to be positioned on a surface opposite to the front surface or the back surface on which the predetermined portion is positioned on the recording medium;
An image data processing step for processing the cut line after the cut line processing step, the cut line other than the predetermined portion, and the predetermined image as the latest image data to be printed;
An image processing program for causing a computer to execute.