JP2010074478A - Image processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing apparatus equipped with an image processing condition setting device by which a user can be supported to manually set image processing and can be led to desired setting easily and quickly. <P>SOLUTION: The image processing apparatus includes: an image processing section; an image processing data retention section for retaining first image data having been subjected to image processing in a first image processing setting; an image processing data retention section for retaining the first image processing setting; an association data retention section for retaining first association data for associating the first image data with the first image processing setting; a display section for displaying an image; and an input section for receiving an input instruction from a user. The display section displays a screen including an image based on the first image data. The input section receives an input selection instruction from a user in correspondence with a display screen of the display section. The image processing section executes new image processing on the image data under the first image processing setting if the input section receives a selection instruction to select an image based on the first image data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus including an image processing condition setting apparatus, and more particularly to an image processing condition setting apparatus that calls and sets an image processing condition setting registered in the image processing condition setting and the same The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus.

  In an image processing apparatus such as a scanner, a printer, a copier, a facsimile machine, or a digital multifunction machine (MultiFunction Peripheral, MFP) having the functions of each of these devices in one unit, image information can be input from a printed material, When outputting image information to a print medium or the like based on electronic data representing image information, the image information is generally subjected to image processing in an image processing apparatus. The image processing is a composite processing composed of processing belonging to various categories, and the strength of each processing is adjusted according to the characteristics of the image information and the usage. In such processes, there are processes where it is appropriate for the image processing apparatus to automatically set the degree of strength, and there are processes where it is desired that the user manually set the degree of strength.

  In order to obtain a favorable result in image processing, the user sometimes needs to operate the image processing apparatus to adjust processing settings.

  In the adjustment of the settings, reuse of image information, setting data, and the like generated in the past use of the image processing apparatus contributes to improvement in convenience of use of the image processing apparatus.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a digital multi-function peripheral that holds image data and reuses it as appropriate. The digital multi-function peripheral searches the stored image data, outputs an image list of image data corresponding to the search condition, selects a desired image using the output related to the image list, and selects the image data of the selected image Run the output for.

  Patent Document 2 discloses an image selection information display device that corresponds to a plurality of uses and displays an image and image selection information by changing a display mode according to the uses. The image selection information display device can change and display the display mode of selection information, which is useful information for selecting an image, according to the usage of the image, thereby facilitating the user to select an image. ing.

  Patent Document 3 discloses an image forming apparatus having a function of registering setting data. When the user edits the setting data, the image forming apparatus searches for registered setting data that matches the edited setting data, and if the search finds the corresponding registered setting data, Notify the user to that effect.

  Patent Document 4 discloses an image reproduction system for reproducing an image on a recording material. The image reproduction system includes an image reading device, an image processing device, and an image output device. The image processing device performs image processing on image data input from the image reading device and outputs processed image data as an image. Output to the device. In the image output device, an image is reproduced on the recording material based on the processed image data. The image processing apparatus includes means for holding setting conditions for image processing, and can reuse previously set image processing conditions. In the image reproduction system according to Patent Document 4, it is possible to quickly and easily set desired image processing conditions by maintaining and reusing image processing conditions.

  Patent Document 5 discloses an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on image information and outputs the image information. The image processing apparatus holds a basic electronic image used for the user to grasp the effect of image processing, and performs image processing on the basic processed image under image processing conditions specified by the user. The processed basic electronic image obtained as a result of the image processing is registered in association with the image processing condition designated by the user. Thereafter, the user can select a processed basic electronic image, call up an image processing condition previously designated by the user, and instruct the image processing apparatus to execute image processing based on the image processing condition.

  Patent Document 5 performs image processing based on image processing conditions set by a user on a basic electronic image, and presents the basic electronic image after image processing to the user, so that images used by the user in the past are disclosed. Convenience in selecting image processing conditions by selecting from processing conditions is improved. The basic electronic image is desired to be an image including contents that allow the user to accurately grasp the effects of various image processing.

As described above, there are many attempts to retain data such as images and setting parameter values related to image processing performed in the past and utilize them for subsequent image processing. In particular, Patent Document 5 discloses in detail a method of using a predetermined basic electronic image and visually presenting the effect of image processing to a setting value of image processing performed in the past to the user. Further, Patent Document 5 gives a brief description of the “command history function” in the background art section. According to Patent Document 5, the “command history function” means that a combination of various conditions related to image processing is held in association with data of an original image (output image data) that has been subjected to image processing by applying the combination. In addition, in setting various conditions for subsequent image processing, a function for displaying an output image held in the user interface, allowing the user to select, and reusing a combination of conditions stored in association with the selected output image It is.
JP 2003-099467 A JP 2006-094426 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-254639 JP 09-214686 A JP 2007-116570 A

However, it is still not always easy for the user to manually adjust the image processing settings.
In image processing, for example, in scan processing, which is one of image processing, there are setting items that are relatively easy to set, such as scan layout settings that determine the size of a scan, and relatively settings such as settings related to image quality. There are some setting items that are difficult.
There is also a conventional example in which a simulation result is displayed for the user to confirm whether the image processing setting is right or wrong. Nevertheless, the user is required to have a judgment on the simulation result, and it is often difficult to set.
Conventionally, there is a function for an image processing apparatus to automatically set image processing, but it is not perfect. This is because automatic image processing settings that are currently available are generally determined by the type and series of documents (documents), the layout and file format, and the specifications of image data obtained by image processing (size This is because it is difficult to determine the setting by inferring (finishing depiction and finish description).
At present, the image processing apparatus stores setting conditions related to image processing performed by the user, and narrows down candidates from settings related to image processing performed in the past, such as when the user inputs a keyword. In this case, the user is allowed to select. Even in this case, the user is forced to determine whether or not the selected setting condition is appropriate based on a simulation result or the like.

  In view of such a situation, the present invention assists a user in manually performing settings related to image processing, and includes image processing condition setting devices that can easily and quickly reach desired settings. An object is to provide an apparatus.

  In one aspect of the present invention, an image processing unit that performs image processing on image data, and image data holding that holds first image data that has undergone image processing under the first image processing setting. , An image processing data holding unit for holding first image processing setting data, and an association data holding unit for holding first association data for associating the first image data and the first image processing setting data A display unit that displays an image, and an input unit that receives an input of an instruction from a user. The display unit displays a screen including an image based on the first image data, and the input unit displays When the input unit receives an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data, the image processing unit receives a first selection instruction corresponding to the display screen of the first unit. Under the image processing settings Performing a new image processing to the data, an image processing apparatus.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the image category determination unit that determines the category of the image data that has undergone image processing, the image category data holding unit that holds the determination result of the image category determination unit, and the input unit An image selection frequency counting unit that individually counts the number of selection instructions for the image data, and an image selection frequency data holding unit that holds image selection frequency data indicating a counting result for each image data. The display unit preferably displays a plurality of images based on image data belonging to the same category in an order based on the image selection frequency data.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the input unit can input a selection instruction for selecting two or more images from the plurality of images displayed on the display unit. When an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the image data and an image based on the second image data is received, the first image processing setting and the image processing setting of the image processing relating to the second image data are set. It is preferable to set the third image processing setting based on the second image processing setting and execute new image processing on the image data.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the image processing unit causes a mismatch when setting items are mismatched between the first image processing setting and the second image processing setting. Is displayed on the display unit, and the setting of the priority image processing setting is inconsistent based on the priority set in advance between the first image processing setting and the second image processing setting. It is preferable to set such setting items to eliminate inconsistencies.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the display unit can display the first image processing setting and has a setting value different from the default setting value among the setting items included in the first image processing setting. It is preferable to display the setting item with a display form different from that of the setting item having a default setting value.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, it is preferable that the image processing is image processing accompanied by print output.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the image processing is scanning of a document image, and the image processing unit receives an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data. Changes in image quality before and after image processing under the first image processing setting for the first image data, and changes in image quality before and after image processing under the first image processing setting for the document image It is preferable to evaluate the validity of the image processing under the first image processing setting for the document image based on the first image data and the change in the image quality of the document image.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the validity evaluation is an evaluation of a change in at least one of sharpness, density, contrast, tone curve, ground color removal, and color balance before and after image processing. Is preferred.

  In one aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the display unit displays a screen including an image other than the image based on the first image data based on the evaluation of validity.

  In another aspect of the present invention, the image processing unit performs the image processing step, and the image data holding unit stores the first image data subjected to the image processing under the first image processing setting. A holding step; an image processing data holding unit holding the first image processing setting data; and an association data holding unit associating the first image data with the first image processing setting data. A step of holding one association data, a step of displaying a screen including an image based on the first image data, and an input unit inputting a selection instruction of a user corresponding to the display screen of the display unit And when the input unit receives an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data, the image processing unit adds new image data to the image data under the first image processing setting. Image processing A step of executing an image processing method having.

  According to the image processing condition setting device of the present invention, the user can easily and quickly reach a desired setting when manually setting the image processing.

  An image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention holds an image related to image processing performed in the past and a setting parameter related to the image processing in association with each other. Can do. In subsequent image processing, an image related to past image processing is presented to the user in accordance with an appropriate presentation method, the user is prompted to select, and stored in association with the image related to past image processing selected by the user. By calling the image processing setting parameter that has been set, the value of the parameter can be set as the value of the setting parameter for the image processing to be performed. Therefore, in the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention, the user intuitively determines the setting of the image processing to be performed by selecting the image related to the image processing performed by the user in the past. can do. Therefore, the user is not required to have a skill for evaluating the simulation result or the like as described above.

  In addition, the image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention is also characterized by a method of presenting an image related to past image processing to the user. In this presentation method, images are classified into predetermined “categories” and displayed for each “category”. Therefore, the user can intuitively select a similarity (for example, paper size, document size, document image quality, etc.) between the image processing performed in the past and the image processing performed from now on from a plurality of “categories”.

  In the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the user can select a plurality of images related to past image processing. When the user selects a plurality of images, the image processing apparatus synthesizes the setting parameter values stored in association with each image for each item, generates a new setting parameter (synthesized setting parameter), Processing can be executed. Here, the composition is, for example, a process of determining an intermediate value between two values for one setting parameter and using the value as a parameter value. In addition, when a mismatch occurs between the values of two or more parameters included in the composite setting parameter, the image processing apparatus can prompt the user to reset the setting as appropriate to eliminate the mismatch.

  Furthermore, in the image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the “category” selected by the user or the past when executing the scan process which is one of the image processes. As for the validity of scanning the document using the image processing setting parameters set for the image related to the image processing performed in step 1 and generating the image data, the image quality of the image processing performed in the past and the document image The determination can be made based on the image quality. When it is determined that the image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention lacks validity, the image processing apparatus can notify the user and give a warning to the user. Executing image processing (scanning) with appropriate settings can be prevented in advance. For example, when a manuscript image is a photograph that captures a person up, even when the user selects an image included in the category of a landscape photograph by paying attention to the similarity of being a photograph, image processing is also possible. The apparatus can determine the validity of applying the setting condition for landscape photographs to the document image, and can prompt the user to change the setting.

  Still further, in the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, an image related to past image printing processing is presented to the user, and settings related to printing processing to be performed in the future are performed. Parameters can also be selected by the user.

(First embodiment)
1st Embodiment concerning this invention is an image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus concerning this invention. In the first embodiment, the image processing apparatus is a digital multifunction peripheral (MFP) having a scanner function.

<Hardware Configuration of Image Processing Apparatus Provided with Image Processing Condition Setting Apparatus>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment.

  The MFP 1 is an image processing apparatus that integrates functions such as copying, network printing, scanning, facsimile, and a document data server. The MFP 1 can also request user authentication when the user uses the MFP 1.

  The MFP 1 includes a user interface input unit 11, a user interface display unit 13, an image processing circuit and storage device 15, a printer unit 17, a communication interface unit 19 such as a network interface card (NIC), a modem, and a terminal adapter (TA), and a scanner unit 21. , A document feeder unit 23, a finisher unit 27 that performs stapling and punching, a paper feeding unit (not shown), and the like. The finisher unit 27 includes a paper discharge tray 25 for discharging printed paper.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the scanner unit 21.

  The scanner unit 21 includes a front surface image sensor 31 and a rear surface image sensor 33. The continuous curve in the figure indicates the movement path of the paper document. The arrow drawn accompanying the curve is the moving direction. During the movement of the paper document in this way, the image sensors 31 and 33 receive the reflected light of the light irradiated on the paper document and convert the incident light into an electrical signal, thereby converting the image information on the paper document. Convert to electronic information. The electronic image information generated by the conversion is sent to the image processing circuit and storage device 15 (FIG. 1), subjected to appropriate processing, and held.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the MFP 1.

  The MFP 1 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 41 that controls arithmetic processing of various data, control processing of each part of the MFP 1, a read only memory (ROM) 43 that stores programs executed by the CPU 41, programs executed by the CPU 41, and Random access memory (RAM) 45 for storing various data, hard disk drive (HDD) 51 for storing image data, card reader 53 (portable storage medium reader), memory card 55 (portable storage) Medium), a document feeder unit 23 for sending a paper document or the like to the scanner unit 21, a scanner unit 21, a paper feeding unit 61 for sending printing paper to the printer unit 17, a printer unit 17, a display unit 13 for a user interface, and an input unit for a user interface 11. The CPU 41, ROM 43, and RAM 45 constitute a computer 49, and the ROM 43 and RAM 45 constitute a main storage device 47 of the computer 49. The HDD 51, the card reader 53, and the memory card 55 constitute an auxiliary storage device 57. The user interface 65 includes a display unit 13 and an input unit 11. The computer 49 implements an image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to each embodiment of the present invention by executing the program according to the present invention. The program may be installed in the main storage unit 47 or the auxiliary storage unit 57 and executed. The program may be appropriately distributed from the outside via a network. As a matter of course, the program can be distributed while being stored in a flexible disk (FD) or the like.

  Regarding the user interface 65, the input unit 11 includes a plurality of keys for inputting numbers, characters, symbols, and the like, a sensor that recognizes the pressed key, and a transmission circuit that sends a signal indicating the pressed key to the CPU 41. Etc. The display unit 13 displays a screen for presenting information to the user, a screen for sending an instruction to the user, a screen for the user to input settings and the like, and an image formed by image processing performed by the MFP 1. It is a display device that displays a screen to be displayed. In the present embodiment, display unit 13 is configured with a liquid crystal touch panel. The liquid crystal touch panel has a function of detecting a portion touched by the user on the display screen. With this function, the liquid crystal touch panel has the function of the input unit 11 as well as the display unit 13. Thus, the input unit 11 and the display unit 13 constitute a user interface unit 65 for the user to directly operate the MFP 1. Note that the user interface unit 65 may be realized by driver software or the like installed in a personal computer or the like connected to the MFP 1 via a network. In this case, the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention is an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer in which the driver software and the like are installed and executed.

  The scanner unit 21 photoelectrically reads image information such as photographs, characters, pictures and the like from a document and generates an electrical signal. The electrical signal is a signal representing one-dimensional or two-dimensional density information. The electrical signal is converted into digital data (image data) inside the MFP 1 and subjected to various known image processing, and then sent to the printer unit 17 and the communication interface unit 19 for printing, transmission, and the like. The image data may be held in the MFP 1 for later use.

  The printer unit 17 prints image data acquired by the operation of the scanner unit 21 or the like, image data acquired from the outside via the communication interface unit 19, and image data held in the MFP 1 on a print medium such as paper. . A print medium such as paper is supplied from the paper supply unit 61. The print medium that has been subjected to the printing process by the printer unit 17 is appropriately subjected to a stapling process or a punching process when passing through the finisher unit 27 and then discharged from the discharge tray 25.

  The auxiliary storage device 57 includes an HDD 51, a card reader (writer) 53, and the like. The HDD 51 holds image data acquired by the operation of the scanner unit 21 and the like, image data acquired from the outside via the communication interface unit 19, and the like. The data held in the HDD 51 can be referred from the outside via a network. The card reader (writer) 53 is a device for reading data from and writing data to a memory card 55 such as CompactFlash (registered trademark) or smart media. The memory card 55 can exchange data with a personal computer or the like without using a network, or can be used for data backup.

<Functional configuration of image processing apparatus including image processing condition setting apparatus>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the figure, components provided as devices in terms of hardware are also described so that an overall view of the MFP 1 can be understood. The same components as those in FIGS. 1 to 3 are naturally given the same reference numerals.

  The functional blocks shown in FIG. 4 are functional blocks realized by the CPU 41 of the computer 49 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program. The program does not have to be a single program, and a plurality of programs constituting each functional module may be collected.

  The MFP 1 includes a control unit 71. The control unit 71 controls each block of the MFP 1 and appropriately exchanges data between the blocks. When transferring the data, the control unit 71 can also process the data as appropriate. Moreover, the timing of control etc. is suitably performed based on a well-known technique.

  The image processing unit 73 receives data input from the scanner unit 21 or a communication interface unit (not shown), performs predetermined image processing on the data, and generates image data. The image data generated by the image processing unit 73 is held in the image data holding unit 81 of the data holding unit 57. It is also possible to send the image data to the printer unit 17 and output it from the printer unit 17.

The image category determination unit 75 determines the category to which the image data belongs for the image data generated by the image processing unit 73 and sent to the image data holding unit 81. The image category determination unit 75 sends the determined category to the image category data holding unit 83. The category data held in the image category data holding unit 83 includes data for associating with image data and category data.
Here, the category is a label of each classification when the image data is classified from a predetermined viewpoint. The category may include simultaneously a plurality of labels that are generated when the image data is classified from various viewpoints. One image data may be classified into a plurality of categories.
For example, the category is
-Image data size (photo L size print, A4, special size, etc.),
-Image data quality (high-definition images, standard-quality images, etc.)
-Presence or absence of color information in image data (monochrome, color, etc.)
・ Contents of image data (text, photo, text / photo mixed, thin text, etc.),
A label for each classification when image data is classified from the viewpoint of the type of document (document, slip, printed matter such as newspaper / magazine / catalog / poster, photograph (printing paper), etc.).
The category may be freely created by the user according to the purpose of use of the MFP 1 and added to the existing category. It is more desirable for the user to set the category by himself from the viewpoint of realizing intuitive operation of the MFP 1. For example, in an office, categories may be subdivided for each of various slips, and in a design office or the like, categories may be divided into portrait photos and landscape photos. The category is preferably set according to the user's needs at the user's discretion regardless of the setting value of the setting parameter item for adjusting the image quality of the image. This makes it easier for the user to perform intuitive operations on the MFP 1.

  The image processing parameter setting unit 77 determines a setting parameter value for image processing performed by the image processing unit 73 and sends the value to the image processing unit 73. The image processing unit 73 executes image processing under the control of the control unit 71 using the value of the setting parameter received from the image processing parameter setting unit 77.

  Next, the data holding unit 57 will be described.

  The data holding unit 57 includes an image data holding unit 81 that holds image data, an image category data holding unit 83 that holds category data of image data, an image selection frequency data holding unit 85 that holds image selection frequency data, which will be described later, and an image An image-image processing parameter association data holding unit 87 that holds data for associating data with image processing setting parameter data, and holds setting parameter data (setting parameter items and value data of each item) related to image processing And an image processing parameter data holding unit 89.

  The image data holding unit 81 holds image data processed and generated by the image processing unit 73. The image data holding unit 81 can include a plurality of boxes (81a, 81b). For example, the boxes (81 a, 81 b) are image data generated by image processing performed by the image processing unit 73 based on the image processing parameters determined by the image processing parameter setting unit 77 and instructed to the image processing unit 73. A normal image data box 81a to be held, and a normal image to hold image data (hereinafter referred to as “normal image data”) generated by performing only the minimum image processing necessary to generate image data in the image processing unit 73 And an image data box 81b. The use of normal image data will be described in detail in the third embodiment.

  The image category data holding unit 83 uses the image category of the image data determined by the image category determining unit 75 as the category data for each piece of image data that has been subjected to image processing in the image processing unit 73 and stored in the image data holding unit 81. And associated with the image data.

  The image selection frequency data holding unit 85 indicates the number of times that the user has selected an image from a plurality of images related to past image processing displayed on the display unit 13 in the setting operation of setting parameters for image processing to be described later. Data counted for each image (image selection frequency data) is held. The image selection frequency data is referred to when determining the display order of images in the subsequent display of images related to image processing.

  The image-image processing parameter association data holding unit 87 holds data for associating the image data held in the image data holding unit 81 with the image processing setting parameter data received by the image data.

  The image processing parameter data holding unit 89 is the data of the image processing setting parameters (items and values of each item) received by the image processing unit 73 for the image data held in the image data holding unit 81 ( Image processing parameter data).

  The display screen configuration unit 91 stores the screen to be displayed on the display unit 13 in the image data held in the image data holding unit 81 and the image category data holding unit 83 in the setting operation of setting parameters for image processing to be described later. It is created based on the image category data and the image selection frequency data held in the image selection frequency data holding unit 85 and is displayed on the display unit 13.

  The image selection frequency counting unit 93 updates the image selection frequency data for the image selected by the user from the plurality of images related to the past image processing in the setting operation of the setting parameters of the image processing described later, and the updated image selection frequency data Is stored in the image selection frequency data holding unit 85.

  The image processing condition setting device according to the present invention includes a user interface unit 65, a control unit 71, a display screen configuration unit 91, an image selection frequency counting unit 93, a data holding unit 81, an image category determination unit 75, and an image processing parameter setting unit 77. Consists of. In other words, the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention executes a program in the computer 49 (FIG. 3) of the MFP 1 to thereby configure the control unit 71, the display screen configuration unit 91, and the image selection frequency count configured in the MFP 1. This is implemented by the unit 93, the data holding unit 81, the image category determination unit 75, the image processing parameter setting unit 77, and the user interface unit 65. By executing the program in an information processing apparatus connected to the MFP 1 via a network, the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention can be realized in the information processing apparatus.

<Processing flow in the first embodiment>
The flow of image processing in the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Hereinafter, a scan job execution example will be taken as an example of image processing. However, the present invention does not intend to limit image processing to scan jobs.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the MFP 1 in the first embodiment.

  In connection with step S101, the user places a document to be scanned by the MFP 1 on the document feeder 23. The MFP 1 that has recognized the placement of the document executes Step S101.

In step S101, the MFP 1 prompts the user to select whether to execute the scan job as the custom setting scan mode or to execute the scan job as the automatic setting scan mode, and based on the input of the selection by the user. Then branch the subsequent processing. The custom setting scan mode is a mode in which a user manually sets a value of a setting parameter related to scanning and then executes scanning. On the other hand, the automatic setting scan mode is a mode in which the MFP 1 automatically sets the value of the setting parameter for scanning according to the characteristics of the document and executes scanning.
If the MFP 1 determines that the custom setting scan mode has been selected (“YES” in step S101), the process proceeds to step S103.
If the MFP 1 determines that the automatic setting scan mode has been selected (“NO” in step S101), the process proceeds to step S117.

In step S <b> 103, the MFP 1 refers to an image generated by a scan job performed in a custom setting scan mode performed in the past as a past image processing example in a series of operations for custom setting. Encourage selection of whether or not to do.
If the user selects to refer to an example of past image processing, that is, if MFP 1 determines to use an example of past image processing (“YES” in step S103), the process proceeds to step S105. To do.
When the MFP 1 determines not to use the past image processing example (“NO” in step S103), the process proceeds to step S119.

  In step S <b> 105, the display screen configuration unit 91 of the MFP 1 executes a series of processes for displaying on the display unit 13 an image related to a past custom setting scan held in the box (image data holding unit 81). .

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing details of step S105. The step S105 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S105a, the MFP 1 displays a category including an image related to a past custom setting scan, and uses a setting in a custom setting scan to be performed by selecting a category of an image related to a past custom setting scan. Encourage narrowing down past custom scans that could be done. The category displayed here is a category recorded in the category data held by the image category data holding unit 83. That is, the category assigned to the image data related to the past custom setting scan held in the image data holding unit 81 is displayed.
For example, in step S <b> 105 a, the MFP 1 displays the following category on the display unit 13 and requests the user to select a category from the category and input the selection from the input unit 11.
The categories displayed on the display unit 13 in step S105a include the following examples.
・ Monochrome document (monochrome text)
・ Color document (color manuscript in general)
-Photo L print-Image high definition-Color printed matter Each category may be provided with one or more subcategories below it. That is, the category can have a multi-stage nested structure.
When the user selects a category from the displayed categories and inputs the selection, the MFP 1 proceeds to step S105b.

In step S105b, the MFP 1 refers to the image category data held in the image category data holding unit 83 as to whether or not a plurality of images belonging to the selected image category are held in the image data holding unit 81. ,judge.
If the MFP 1 determines that a plurality of images belonging to the selected image category are held in the image data holding unit 81 (“YES” in step S105b), the process proceeds to step S105c.
When the MFP 1 determines that only one image belonging to the selected image category is held in the image data holding unit 81 (“NO” in step S105b), the process skips step S105c and proceeds to step S105d. Migrate to

  In step S105c, the MFP 1 checks the frequency of selection (for example, the number of times of selection) for each of the plurality of images belonging to the selected image category, and sets the plurality of images to the selected frequency. Sort based on. This process is performed by referring to the image selection frequency data held by the image selection frequency data holding unit 85.

  In step S105d, the MFP 1 displays the images belonging to the category selected in step S105a on the display unit 13 in the order sorted in step S105c.

  FIG. 7 is an example of a screen displayed when the top category “monochrome text” is selected.

  Referring to FIG. 7, images IM <b> 1 to IM <b> 4 are displayed on the display unit 13. The category “monochrome text” includes subcategories “Landscape less than A4”, “Less than A4 variant”, “A4 manuscript”, and “A4 border processing”. Images IM1, IM2, IM3, and IM4 are image examples corresponding to the subcategories. Each image IM1, IM2, IM3, IM4 also serves as an input button for selecting a subcategory.

  FIG. 8 is an example of a screen displayed when the top category “General Color Document” is selected.

  Referring to FIG. 8, images IM <b> 5 to IM <b> 9 are displayed on the display unit 13. The category “general color document” includes subcategories “A4 and below”, “A4 and below photos (L print)”, “A4 printed matter”, and “A4 photos”. Images IM5, IM6, IM7, and IM8 and 9 are examples of images corresponding to the subcategories. Each image IM5, IM6, IM7, and IM8 and 9 also serves as an input button for selecting a subcategory.

  FIG. 9 is an example of a screen displayed when the subcategory “Landscape less than A4” included in the top-level category “monochrome text” is selected.

Referring to FIG. 9, image data generated in the past custom setting scan belonging to the subcategory “Longer than A4” in the category “monochrome text” is displayed on the display unit 13 as an index image. Here, the image IM1a, the image IM1b, and the image IM1c are displayed in the order from the upper left to the lower right in the order of the frequency (for example, the number of times) selected so far according to the result of the sorting in step S105c. In this way, by arranging and displaying images according to the selection frequency so far, the user can more quickly select images that are used more frequently. If the number of images included in a category (or subcategory) is large and index images of all images cannot be displayed at once, a scroll button may be provided so that the user can scroll the screen as necessary.
In this way, the user can select an appropriate custom setting without being aware of the details of the image quality adjustment item setting of the original to be scanned by selecting a past image that is the same as or similar to the original to be scanned. Can do. In addition, since the user may select a past image having the same or similar subject (eg, slip, report, photo, etc.) as the original to be scanned, the user can select the past image without being aware of the content of the original to be scanned. It is also possible to select custom settings appropriate for each subject.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of a screen displayed when the subcategory “A variant under A4” included in the top-level category “monochrome text” is selected.

  Referring to FIG. 10, image data generated by a past custom setting scan belonging to the subcategory “A4 less than variant” in the category “monochrome text” is displayed on the display unit 13. Here, the image IM2a and the image IM2b are displayed in order from the upper left to the lower right in the order of the frequency (for example, the number of times) selected so far according to the result of the sorting in step S105c.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a screen displayed when the subcategory “A4 document” included in the top category “monochrome text” is selected.

  Referring to FIG. 11, image data generated in the past custom setting scan belonging to the subcategory “A4 original” in the category “monochrome text” is displayed on the display unit 13. Also here, the image IM3a and the image IM3b are displayed in order according to the result of the sorting in step S105c.

  FIG. 12 is an example of a screen displayed when the subcategory “A4 edge processing” included in the top category “monochrome text” is selected.

  Referring to FIG. 12, image data generated in the past custom setting scan belonging to the sub-category “A4 edge processing” in the category “monochrome text” is displayed on the display unit 13. Also here, the image IM4a and the image IM4b are displayed in order according to the result of the sorting in step S105c.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of a screen displayed when the subcategory “A4 or lower” included in the top-level category “General Color Document” is selected.

  Referring to FIG. 13, image data generated by a past custom setting scan belonging to the subcategory “A4 or lower” in the category “General Color Document” is displayed on the display unit 13. Also here, the image IM5a, the image IM5b, and the image IM5c are displayed in order according to the result of the sorting in step S105c.

  14, 15, and 16 are also displayed when the subcategory “A4 or less photo (L print)”, “A4 print”, or “A4 photo” included in the top category “General color document” is selected. It is an example of a screen displayed on the screen. In each example, the images are displayed in order according to the result of sorting in step S105c.

  In the display examples shown in FIGS. 7 to 16, the display screen configuration unit 91 (FIG. 4) and the image data generated by the past custom setting scan held in the image data holding unit 81 (FIG. 4), respectively. The image category data generated by the image category discriminating unit 75 (FIG. 4) and held in the image category data holding unit 83 (FIG. 4), and the image selection frequency counting unit 93 (FIG. 4) counts and holds the image selection frequency data. This is configured based on the image selection frequency data held in the unit 85 (FIG. 4) and the input relating to the selection input from the input unit 11 (FIG. 4).

  Returning to FIG. 5, the description will be continued along the flow of processing.

  In step S <b> 107, the MFP 1 accepts input related to image selection performed by the user. The user can input image selection to the MFP 1 by touching the image displayed on the display unit 13.

  In step S <b> 109, the MFP 1 enlarges and displays the selected image in a larger size, presents the details of the image to the user, and prompts the user to confirm the selection.

In step S111, the MFP 1 determines whether or not the user has confirmed the image enlarged and displayed in step S109 and pressed the OK button.
If the MFP 1 determines that the user has pressed the OK button (“YES” in step S111), the process proceeds to step S113.
If the MFP 1 determines that the user has not pressed the OK button (“NO” in step S111), the process returns to step S107. In step S107 after returning, the MFP 1 may redisplay the display screen that was displayed immediately before selection of the previous image.

  In step S <b> 113, the MFP 1 displays the values of the setting parameter items in the past custom setting scan for the image selected by the user on the display unit 13. At this time, the MFP 1 can display a setting item having a setting value different from the default setting value among the setting items in a different display form from the setting item having the default setting value.

  In step S115, the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 accepts editing of the setting parameter value of the custom setting scan by the user.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing details of step S115. The step S115 will now be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S115a, the MFP 1 displays a menu for setting the custom setting scan.

  FIGS. 18 and 19 are user interface (UI) configuration examples for custom setting of image quality adjustment items in the custom setting scan mode, respectively. FIG. 18 is a UI configuration example in the custom setting of normal image quality adjustment items. The UI configuration as shown in FIG. 18 is a UI used in step S119 described later. FIG. 19 is a UI configuration example in the case where a past custom setting is called by the user selecting an image related to a past custom setting scan.

  Referring to FIG. 19, a custom setting UI initial screen configuration example when image data “Sunset in Nagasaki” is selected by the user. As described above, the parameter value used when the image data “Sunset in Nagasaki” is created for the image quality adjustment item in the set parameter group is automatically set. Instead of FIG. 19, the MFP 1 may display only the setting items that have been changed from the default values when the image data “Sunset in Nagasaki” is selected by the user, as shown in FIG.

  In step S <b> 115 b, the MFP 1 receives an input for changing the value of each item of the setting parameter by the user via the input unit 11.

  In step S <b> 115 c, for example, when the user inputs to notify the end of the setting via the input unit 11, the MFP 1 ends the change of the setting parameter related to the custom setting scan and determines the setting parameter value. .

  Returning again to FIG.

  In step S121, the MFP 1 accepts an input instructing the user to start scanning. Step S121 is common to the scan job in the automatic setting scan mode in step S117 and the scan job in the custom setting scan mode that does not refer to the past custom setting scan in step S119.

  In step S <b> 123, the MFP 1 receives the input for instructing the user to start scanning, and scans the document.

  In step S125, the image processing unit 73 of the MFP 1 stores the image data generated in step S123 in the box (image data holding unit 81 (FIG. 4)).

In step S127, the MFP 1 determines whether the scan executed in step S123 is executed as a custom setting scan.
If the MFP 1 determines that the scan has been executed as a custom setting scan (“YES” in step S127), the process proceeds to step 129.
When the MFP 1 determines that the scan has been executed as an automatically set scan (“NO” in step S127), the following processing is skipped, and a series of processing relating to execution of the scan job ends.

  In step S129, the image category determination unit 75 of the MFP 1 determines the image category of the image data generated by the scan executed as the custom setting scan. This image category determination may be performed by determining that the image category to which the image selected by the user in step S107 belongs is the same. Further, the MFP 1 may analyze the scanned image data to automatically determine the image category, or the MFP 1 may manually input the image category to the user and determine the image category.

  In step S131, the MFP 1 holds the setting parameter setting items and their values used in the scan in step S123 in the image processing parameter data holding unit 87 (FIG. 4).

  In step S133, the MFP 1 holds data indicating the association between the image processing parameter data and the image data generated by the scan in step S123 in the image-image processing parameter association data holding unit 87 (FIG. 4).

  As described above, in the image processing apparatus (MFP 1) including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, an appropriate setting parameter can be obtained without the user being aware of the details of the image quality adjustment item. The value of can be reached. Therefore, the user can set an appropriate setting parameter value intuitively, quickly and easily without having the skill to determine the image quality and the knowledge necessary for adjusting the image quality. The setting parameter values used in the current custom setting scan and the generated image data are used in the next custom setting scan. Therefore, as the user uses it, the MFP 1 can realize a custom setting operation that fits the user's sensitivity. Furthermore, since the processing system for the custom setting operation according to the present invention is very simple as described above, an image processing condition setting device that fits the sensitivity of the user can be realized at low cost.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment according to the present invention will be described.
The second embodiment according to the present invention is also an image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention. Also in the second embodiment, the image processing apparatus is a digital multi-function peripheral (MFP) having a scanner function.

  In the second embodiment, the user can select a plurality of images related to past image processing. In this case, the image processing apparatus (MFP 1) checks whether or not there is a mismatch for the setting parameter values corresponding to each of the selected plurality of images. , It is possible to prompt the user to reset the item. If the parameter values for the same setting item are different among the setting parameter values corresponding to each of the plurality of selected images, the MFP 1 automatically performs a composition process and sets the parameter value for the setting item. To decide. Here, the synthesizing process refers to a process of determining a single parameter value by performing a predetermined process for a plurality of parameter values for the same setting item. The predetermined processing includes processing such as taking an average value between two or more parameter values. It is also possible for the user to select a setting item to be combined (selective combining process).

<Hardware Configuration of Image Processing Apparatus Provided with Image Processing Condition Setting Apparatus>
Since the hardware configuration of the MFP according to the second embodiment may be the same as that of the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

<Functional configuration of image processing apparatus including image processing condition setting apparatus>
Since the functional configuration of the MFP according to the second embodiment may be the same as that of the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. The functional unit lock that operates differently from the first embodiment will be described in detail below along the flow of processing.

<Processing flow in the second embodiment>
The flow of image processing in the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Hereinafter, a scan job execution example will be taken as an example of image processing. However, the present invention does not intend to limit image processing to scan jobs.

  FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B are flowcharts showing the flow of image processing according to the second embodiment. Steps showing the same contents as steps in the image processing flow according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals. These steps that have already been described will be omitted as appropriate.

  Since the flow of processing from step S101 to step S107 is the same as the flow of image processing in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

In step S <b> 201, the MFP 1 requests the user to decide whether or not to select further images for the second and subsequent sheets.
When MFP 1 receives an input to select a further image from the user (“YES” in step S201), the process returns to step S107, and MFP 1 accepts selection of a further image.
When the MFP 1 receives an input indicating that no further image is selected from the user (“NO” in step S201), the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S203, the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 determines one parameter value for each item of setting parameter data held in association with a plurality of images selected by the user by the above-described combining processing. Note that the composition processing may be performed only for the setting items selected by the user. In this case, the step of allowing the user to select a setting item for performing the synthesis process may be performed prior to step S203. At this time, for the setting items that are not selected as the setting items to be combined, the parameter values of the setting parameter data corresponding to the selection image to be prioritized are adopted. The selection image to be prioritized refers to, for example, an image selected by the user earlier in time among a plurality of selected images.

  In step S <b> 205, the MFP 1 causes the display unit 13 to display the setting parameter group values of the combined custom setting scan.

In step S207, the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 determines whether or not there is a mismatch in the setting parameters of the current composite custom setting scan.
If the MFP 1 determines that there is a mismatch in the setting parameters of the current composite custom setting scan (“YES” in step S207), the process proceeds to step S209.
If the MFP 1 determines that there is no inconsistency in the setting parameters of the current composite custom setting scan (“NO” in step S207), the process skips to step S215.
Here, inconsistency in the setting parameters of the combined custom setting scan refers to a case where values of setting items such as paper size and direction are not consistent among a plurality of custom setting scan setting parameters.
Note that the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 may adopt the parameter value of the setting parameter data corresponding to the selected image to be prioritized in order to eliminate the mismatch. As described above, the selection image to be given priority refers to an image selected by the user first in time among the plurality of selected images.

  In step S <b> 209, the MFP 1 displays on the display unit 13 items for which inconsistencies in the combined custom setting scan setting parameters have occurred.

  In step S <b> 211, the MFP 1 displays, on the display unit 13, an image associated with a setting that can eliminate the inconsistency with respect to the item in which the inconsistency has occurred.

  In step S213, the MFP 1 accepts selection of the image displayed in step S211. Upon receipt of the selection input, the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 combines the parameter values of the inconsistent items detected in step S207 of the custom setting scan setting parameters associated with the reselected image. Set to the value of the corresponding setting item of the custom setting scan setting parameter.

  In step S215, the MFP 1 causes the display unit 13 to display the setting parameter group values of the current composite custom setting scan.

  The processing from step S115, S117, S119 to step S133 is the same as the processing at the corresponding step in the first embodiment.

  Thus, in the second embodiment, the user can select a plurality of images related to past image processing. In this case, the MFP 1 checks whether or not the setting parameter value is inconsistent. If the inconsistency occurs, the MFP 1 prompts the user to reset the item. If the parameter values for the same setting item are different among the setting parameter values corresponding to each of the plurality of selected images, the MFP 1 automatically performs a composition process and sets the parameter value for the setting item. To decide. It is also possible for the user to select a setting item to be combined (selective combining process). The user can select a plurality of images quickly and easily even when there are a plurality of images to be selected in the setting operation of the setting parameters of the custom setting scan. The MFP 1 compares the settings relating to the plurality of selected images, and appropriately synthesizes the settings associated with both images while prompting resetting, and determines setting parameters.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment according to the present invention will be described.
The third embodiment according to the present invention is also an image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention. Also in the third embodiment, the image processing apparatus is a digital multi-function peripheral (MFP) having a scanner function.

  In the image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the third embodiment, when executing the scan process which is one of the image processes, the “category” selected by the user or the image processing performed in the past is applied. The validity of scanning the document using the image processing setting parameters set for the image and generating image data is determined based on the image quality of the image processing performed in the past and the image quality of the document image. .

<Hardware Configuration of Image Processing Apparatus Provided with Image Processing Condition Setting Apparatus>
The hardware configuration of the MFP according to the third embodiment may be the same as that of the MFP 1 according to the first and second embodiments, and a description thereof will be omitted.

<Functional configuration of image processing apparatus including image processing condition setting apparatus>
Since the functional configuration of the MFP according to the third embodiment may be the same as that of the MFP 1 according to the first and second embodiments, the description thereof is omitted. In addition, the function part lock | rock which acts differently from 1st and 2nd embodiment is demonstrated in detail along the flow of a process below.

<Processing flow in the third embodiment>
The flow of image processing in the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Hereinafter, a scan job execution example will be taken as an example of image processing. However, the present invention does not intend to limit image processing to scan jobs.

  22A and 22B are flowcharts illustrating the flow of image processing according to the third embodiment. Steps showing the same contents as steps in the image processing flow according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals. These steps that have already been described will be omitted as appropriate.

  Since the flow of processing from step S101 to step S107 is the same as the flow of image processing in the first and second embodiments, description thereof is omitted.

In step S301, the scanner unit 21 of the MFP 1 pre-scans the document placed on the document feeder unit 23, and acquires image information of the document.
In step S <b> 301, the image processing unit 73 and the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 cooperate to control the characteristics of the image information of the document (size, color / monochrome, text, graph, etc.) under the control of the control unit 71. Evaluate and derive settings that are considered optimal. This derivation process may be equivalent to the derivation of settings in the automatic setting scan mode.
In relation to step S301, the MFP 1 holds normal image data for the document image.

In step S303, the image processing unit 73 and the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 control the normal image data of the image selected in step S107 and the (processed) image of the selected image under the control of the control unit 71. Recall image data.
In the present embodiment, the image data holding unit 81 includes the image data processed and generated by the image processing unit 73 and the minimum necessary to generate the image data corresponding to the processed image data. Normal image data generated by performing only image processing is held.

FIG. 23 is a table showing items that can be set in the custom setting scan and values that can be used as parameter values of each item in connection with step S305 described later.
Referring to FIG. 23, it can be seen that the setting items are divided into three items: basic setting items, image scan items, and image quality adjustment items. In the present embodiment, as a general rule, for the setting items included in the basic setting items, the MFP 1 sets the setting contents for the image selected by the user in step S107 as the setting values for the scan to be performed. If a non-conformance with the document is found in the basic setting item, the MFP 1 issues a warning to the user regarding the parameter value of the item related to the non-conformance and prompts the user to reset it.
As for the image scan item, the MFP 1 basically includes the image information of the original obtained in step S301, among the setting contents related to the image selected by the user in step S107, the color / monochrome setting and the original size setting. If it matches the above characteristic, the setting content related to the image selected by the user in step S107 is set as a setting value for the scan to be performed. Otherwise, the MFP 1 branches the process from step S305 to step S307, and prompts the user to reset the setting items.
For the image quality adjustment item, the MFP 1 determines a setting value through the processes of steps S315, S317, S319, S321, S323, and S325.

In step S305, the image processing parameter setting unit 77 of the MFP 1 automatically derives the value of the image scan item of the custom setting scan setting parameter held in association with the image selected in step S107 and in step S301. The value of the image scan item of the setting parameter is compared, and it is determined whether any inconsistency has occurred for each item.
Inconsistency occurs for each item between the image scan item value of the custom setting scan setting parameter selected in step S107 and the image scan item value of the setting parameter automatically derived in step S301. If it is determined that it is determined ("YES" in step S305), the process proceeds to step S307.
Inconsistency occurs for each item between the image scan item value of the custom setting scan setting parameter selected in step S107 and the image scan item value of the setting parameter automatically derived in step S301. If it is determined that it has not (“NO” in step S305), the process proceeds to step S311.

  In step S <b> 307, the MFP 1 displays the setting item and its value display unit 13 in which inconsistency has occurred.

  In step S309, the MFP 1 receives an input of the value of the setting item from the user.

  In step S311, the MFP 1 sets the parameter value of the image scan item (FIG. 23) of the setting parameter of the custom setting scan corresponding to the image selected in step S107 as the setting of the custom setting scan to be performed.

  In step S313, the MFP 1 calls the normal image data of the image selected in step S107 and the image processed image data, performs predetermined processing on the corresponding areas of both, and the image quality before and after the processing is determined. Quantify changes.

  FIG. 24 relates to step S313 and step S315 (described later), and FIG. 24 is a diagram in which the image quality of a predetermined region of an image (here, contrast and density as an example) is quantified and a change in image quality before and after processing is charted. . P1 is a point defined by the contrast and density of a predetermined area of the normal image data of the image selected in step S107. P2 is a point defined by the contrast and density of a predetermined area of the image selected (processed) in step S107. A vector V12 is a vector indicating a change in image quality before and after the image processing for the image.

In step S315, the MFP 1 generates, from the normal image data of the original, image data obtained by processing the normal image data with the settings held in association with the image selected in step S107.
Then, the MFP 1 quantifies the amount indicating the image quality of the predetermined area before and after the processing of the image selected in step S107 and the predetermined area before and after the processing of the document image.
Referring to FIG. 24, P3 is a point defined by the image quality of a predetermined area before the document image is processed, and P4 is a point defined by the image quality of the predetermined area after the document image is processed.

In step S317, the MFP 1 results in the image quality feature amount after processing of the document image (P4 in FIG. 24) having the same image quality as the image quality feature amount after processing of the selected image (P2 in FIG. 24). Determine whether or not. This determination is performed in accordance with a predetermined determination rule such as whether or not P4 is present at a predetermined distance from P2 (a circle C having a radius d centered on P2 in FIG. 24). Here, the contrast and density are illustrated, but the MFP 1 performs the same determination for other image quality adjustment items (sharpness, tone curve, ground color removal, color balance) (FIG. 23).
When the MFP 1 determines that the image quality after processing of the document image has resulted in the same image quality as that after processing of the selected image (“YES” in step S317), the process proceeds to step S327. To do.
If the MFP 1 determines that the image quality after processing of the original image has not resulted in the same image quality as that after processing of the selected image (“NO” in step S317), the process proceeds to step S319. To do.

  In step S <b> 319, the MFP 1 displays the setting item and the value display unit 13 in which inconsistency has occurred.

  In step S321, the MFP 1 determines, for the user, an image category that seems to be optimal for processing the document image based on the document image evaluation in step S301, and displays the images included in the image category as an index.

  In step S323, the MFP 1 accepts selection of an image from the user.

  In step S325, the MFP 1 replaces the parameter value of the setting item related to the inconsistency determination in step S317 of the custom setting scan setting data held in association with the image selected in step S323 with the current parameter value. The normal image data of the selected image and the normal image data of the original are subjected to image processing, and the process returns to step S317 again to determine the validity of using the current custom setting scan setting data for image processing on the original.

  In step S327, the current custom setting scan setting data (image quality adjustment item (FIG. 23)) is set to the parameter value of the custom setting scan to be performed.

  The processes up to steps S113, S115, S117, S119,..., To step S133 are the same as the processes at the corresponding steps in the first embodiment.

As described above, in the image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the third embodiment, the “category” selected by the user or the past was performed when the scan process as one of the image processes was executed. Based on the image quality of the image processing performed in the past and the image quality of the document image, the validity of scanning the document using the image processing setting parameters set for the image processing image and generating the image data is determined. Judgment. Therefore, when the setting of the image processing for the image selected by the user is inappropriate for the image processing for the document image, the user is given an opportunity to select the image again. No image processing is performed.
For example, when the original is a photograph with a person as the subject, and the user selects a landscape photograph, the sharpness is set to be somewhat stiff for the person photograph. In addition, the reproducibility of human hair may be poor. In such a case, the MFP 1 prompts the user to reselect an image, and the user can reselect an image associated with a setting appropriate for image processing of the document.

(Fourth embodiment)
The fourth embodiment according to the present invention is also an image processing apparatus including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention. In the fourth embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a printing function is shown. In the fourth embodiment, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is described in association with the first embodiment, but the characteristic functions included in the second and third embodiments are described. Of course, it is also possible to apply to the printing process.
In the printing process in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, the user can easily apply the effect performed in the printing process performed in the past to the printing process to be performed in the future.

<Hardware Configuration of Image Processing Apparatus Provided with Image Processing Condition Setting Apparatus>
Since the hardware configuration of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment may be the same as that of the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

<Functional configuration of image processing apparatus including image processing condition setting apparatus>
Since the functional configuration of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment may be the same as that of the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

<Processing flow in the fourth embodiment>
The flow of image printing processing in the image processing apparatus provided with the image processing condition setting device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of the MFP 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

  In step S401, the MFP 1 prompts the user to select whether to execute the print job as the custom setting print mode or to execute the print job as the automatic setting print mode, and based on the input of the selection by the user. Then branch the subsequent processing.

  In step S <b> 403, the MFP 1 refers to an image to which an effect added in a print job in a custom setting print mode performed in the past is added as a past image processing example in a series of operations for custom setting. Prompts the user to select whether or not to make custom settings.

  In step S <b> 405, the display screen configuration unit 91 of the MFP 1 executes a series of processes for displaying on the display unit 13 images related to past custom setting prints held in the box (image data holding unit 81). .

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing details of step S405. Step S405 can be easily understood by associating with the details of step S105 (FIG. 5). Here, the detailed description is omitted.

  The processing after step S407 is understood by those skilled in the art without requiring a detailed description if it is associated with the processing after step S107 described with reference to FIG. Details of step S415 are separately shown in FIG.

  As can be easily understood with reference to FIG. 27, in step S415, a step of displaying a preview image is added as compared to the details of corresponding step S115 (FIG. 17). For the remaining steps, step S415 corresponds to each step of step S115.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus (MFP 1) including the image processing condition setting apparatus according to the present invention is useful not only for scan jobs but also for other processes, for example, jobs involving printing processes.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, it is not always necessary to perform all of the steps shown and described in the flowchart. For example, when the custom setting scan is selected in step S101 in FIG. 5 and the processes after step S103 are performed, the process of step S103 (determining whether to use past custom scan settings) is omitted. May be. In other words, the present invention may be configured so that the user can receive the presentation of the past custom scan image without receiving an inquiry about whether or not to use the past custom scan setting.

  The present invention is an image processing condition setting device excellent in usability and an image processing device including the image processing condition setting device, and is highly useful.

Perspective view of MFP 1 Conceptual diagram of the scanner unit 21 Block diagram showing the hardware configuration of MFP 1 Block diagram showing the functional configuration of the MFP 1 The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in 1st Embodiment. Flow chart showing details of custom scan image display processing Display example of top image category Display example of top image category Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Display example of image category (subcategory) Flow chart showing details of custom scan settings editing process Configuration example of user interface unit 65 Configuration example of user interface unit 65 Configuration example of user interface unit 65 The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in 2nd Embodiment. The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in 2nd Embodiment. The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in 3rd Embodiment The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in 3rd Embodiment Table of setting items and possible values for custom settings Chart showing examples of image processing validity evaluation The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in 4th Embodiment Flow chart showing details of custom print image display processing Flowchart showing details of custom print settings editing process

Explanation of symbols

1 ... MFP
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Input part 13 ... Display part 15 ... Image processing circuit and memory | storage device 17 ... Printer part 19 ... Communication interface part 21 ... Scanner part 23 ... Document feeder part 25- ··· Output tray 27 ··· Finisher portion 31 ··· Image sensor for front surface 33 ··· Image sensor for rear surface 41 ··· CPU
43 ... ROM
45 ... RAM
47 ... Main storage device 49 ... Computer 51 ... HDD
53 ... Card reader 55 ... Memory card 57 ... Auxiliary storage device (data holding unit)
59... Scanner 61... Paper feeding unit 65... User interface 71... Control unit 73... Image processing unit 75. ... Display screen configuration part 93 ... Image selection frequency counting part

Claims (10)

An image processing unit that performs image processing on image data;
An image data holding unit for holding first image data subjected to image processing under the first image processing setting;
An image processing data holding unit for holding data of the first image processing setting;
An association data holding unit for holding first association data for associating the first image data with the first image processing setting data;
A display for displaying an image;
An input unit that receives input of instructions from the user,
The display unit displays a screen including an image based on the first image data;
The input unit accepts an input of a user's selection instruction corresponding to the display screen of the display unit,
When the input unit accepts an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data, the image processing unit adds a new image to the image data under the first image processing setting. An image processing apparatus that executes processing. Furthermore, an image category discriminating unit that discriminates a category of image data that has undergone image processing;
An image category data holding unit for holding a discrimination result made by the image category discrimination unit;
An image selection frequency counting unit that individually counts the number of selection instructions for image data received by the input unit for a plurality of image data;
An image selection frequency data holding unit that holds image selection frequency data indicating the result of the counting for each image data, and
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays a plurality of images based on image data belonging to the same category in an order based on the image selection frequency data. The input unit can input a selection instruction to select two or more images from the plurality of images displayed on the display unit,
When the input unit receives an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data and an image based on the second image data, the image processing unit and the first image processing setting The third image processing setting is set based on the second image processing setting that is an image processing setting of the image processing related to the second image data, and new image processing is executed on the image data. Image processing apparatus.   If there is a mismatch between setting items between the first image processing setting and the second image processing setting, the image processing unit displays that the mismatch has occurred. And the setting of the priority image processing setting is applied to the inconsistency based on a priority set in advance between the first image processing setting and the second image processing setting. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a setting item is set to eliminate the inconsistency.   The display unit can display the first image processing setting, and among the setting items included in the first image processing setting, a default setting item having a setting value different from a default setting value is displayed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus displays a setting item having a setting value different from a display form.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing is image processing accompanied by print output. The image processing is scanning of a document image,
When the input unit receives an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data, the image processing unit is configured to set the first image processing for the first image data. A change in image quality before and after image processing in the image and a change in image quality before and after image processing under the first image processing setting for the document image are derived, and the first image data and document image are derived. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the validity of the image processing under the first image processing setting for the document image is evaluated based on a change in image quality of the document.   The image according to claim 7, wherein the validity evaluation is an evaluation of a change in at least one of sharpness, density, contrast, tone curve, ground color removal, and color balance before and after the image processing. Processing equipment.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the display unit displays a screen including an image other than an image based on the first image data based on the validity evaluation. An image processing unit performing image processing;
An image data holding unit holding first image data subjected to image processing under the first image processing setting;
An image processing data holding unit holding data of the first image processing setting;
An association data holding unit holding first association data for associating the first image data with the first image processing setting data;
A display unit displaying a screen including an image based on the first image data;
An input unit accepting an input of a user's selection instruction corresponding to the display screen of the display unit;
When the input unit receives an input of a selection instruction for selecting an image based on the first image data, the image processing unit adds a new image to the image data under the first image processing setting. And a step of executing processing.

Images