JP2012198742A - Data generation device, print method, program and print system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily express irregularities on printed matter on the basis of an image.SOLUTION: A data generation device 2 generates print data for printing stereoscopic printed matter. The data generation device includes: an image acquisition unit 205 for acquiring an image to be printed on a print base material; a multiple value processing unit 208 for comparing a pixel value of each pixel in the acquired image with a predetermined luminance value to generate multiple value information having at least two values; and a print data generation unit 209 for generating as the print data height information for printing one area of the acquired image corresponding to one value in the multiple value information relatively higher than another area corresponding to another value smaller than the one value.

Description

  The present invention relates to a data generation device, a printing method, a program, and a printing system.

  Conventionally, as a printer that obtains a three-dimensional output image with unevenness, a technology for three-dimensional printing by laminating curable ink while controlling the height of the ink head stepwise based on the height information of the print data Is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). A technique for generating print data for use in a printer that prints a three-dimensional image is also considered (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 2001-301267 A JP 2008-244831 A

  However, in the technology such as the above-mentioned patent document, since the print data for changing the thickness (height) of the ink at the time of printing is generated based on the distance information for each of the plurality of areas of the image information, the distance information is accurately associated. There is a problem that it is difficult to express unevenness in a surface-treated portion that cannot be performed well.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a data generation apparatus, a printing method, a program, and a printing system that can easily express unevenness of printed matter. It is.

In order to solve the above problems, the data generation device of the present invention provides:
A data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed matter, an acquisition unit that acquires an image printed on a printing substrate, and a pixel of each pixel of the image acquired by the acquisition unit A multi-value conversion unit that compares the value with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least two values, and one corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition unit Generating means for generating, as the print data, height information for printing the area relatively higher than other areas corresponding to other values smaller than the one value. .

In addition, the data generation apparatus of the present invention
A data generation device for generating print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material, an acquisition unit for acquiring an image to be printed on a printing substrate, and a predetermined area of the image acquired by the acquisition unit by a user And a generating unit that generates print data for printing a predetermined area specified by the specifying unit at a desired height. Yes.

The printing method of the present invention includes
A printing method for printing a three-dimensional printed material, in which an acquisition process for acquiring an image to be printed on a printing substrate is compared with a pixel value of each pixel of the acquired image at a predetermined luminance value, and at least Multi-value processing for generating multi-value information having binary values, and one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the acquired image relative to another area corresponding to another value A generation process for generating height information for printing as print data, and the image based on the generated height information so that the one area is relatively higher than the other area. And a printing process for generating the printed matter by printing on a printing substrate.

The program of the present invention is
A computer of a data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material, an acquisition unit that acquires an image printed on a printing substrate, and a pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the acquisition unit Multi-value conversion means for generating multi-value information having at least two values by comparing with a predetermined luminance value, and an area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition means It is characterized by functioning as generation means for generating, as the print data, height information for printing relatively high for other areas corresponding to other values.

The program of the present invention is
A computer of a data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material, an acquisition unit that acquires an image to be printed on a printing substrate, and a predetermined region of the image acquired by the acquisition unit by a user It is characterized by functioning as designation means for designating based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit, and generation means for generating the print data for printing a predetermined area designated by the designation means at a desired height.

Moreover, the printing system of the present invention includes:
A printing system comprising a data generation device that generates print data and a printing device that prints a three-dimensional printed material based on the print data, wherein the data generation device is an image printed on a printing substrate. The first acquisition means for acquiring the image and the multi-value conversion means for comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the first acquisition means with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values And height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition means relatively higher than other areas corresponding to other values. Generating means for generating print data, wherein the printing apparatus acquires a second acquisition means for acquiring the height information generated by the generation means, and the height information acquired by the second acquisition means. Based on before Images the one region is characterized by and a printing means for generating the printed matter printed on the printing substrate to become relatively high with respect to the other regions.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily express the unevenness of the printed material.

1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the imaging device which comprises the printing system of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the data generation apparatus which comprises the printing system of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the printing apparatus which comprises the printing system of FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to print processing by the printing system of FIG. 1. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to a data generation process in the printing process of FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of an image and a printed material according to the printing process of FIG. 5. It is a figure which shows typically schematic structure of the printing system of Embodiment 2 to which this invention is applied. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the imaging device which comprises the printing system of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the printing apparatus which comprises the printing system of FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to data generation processing by the imaging apparatus of FIG. 9. It is a figure which shows typically an example of the base material for printing which concerns on a printing process.

  Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing system 100 according to a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment includes an imaging device 1, a data generation device 2, and a printing device 3, and the data generation device 2 and the printing device 3 have a predetermined communication network N. It is connected so that various kinds of information can be transmitted and received through the network.

First, the imaging device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
Here, FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the imaging apparatus 1.
The imaging device 1 is, for example, a publicly known device having an imaging function. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, a lens unit 101, an electronic imaging unit 102, a unit circuit unit 103, and an imaging control unit. 104, an image processing unit 105, a display unit 106, a recording control unit 107, a memory 108, an operation input unit 109, a central control unit 110, and the like.

  For example, although not shown, the lens unit 101 includes a zoom lens, a focus lens, a diaphragm, and the like, and forms an optical image of a subject that has passed through these lenses.

  The electronic imaging unit 102 includes, for example, an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS), and an optical image that has passed through various lenses of the lens unit 101 is transmitted by the electronic imaging unit 102. It is converted into a two-dimensional image signal (RGB image data) and output to the unit circuit unit 103.

  The unit circuit unit 103 is, for example, omitted from illustration, but includes a CDS (Correlated Double Sampling), an AGC (Auto Gain Control), and an ADC (Analog to Digital Converter). ) Etc. The unit circuit unit 103 holds an analog image signal corresponding to the optical image of the subject output from the electronic image pickup unit 102 and input the CDS, amplifies the image signal using the AGC, and then the amplified image. The signal is converted into a digital image signal by the ADC.

  The imaging control unit 104 controls operations of the lens unit 101, the electronic imaging unit 102, the unit circuit unit 103, and the like when imaging a subject based on a command from the central control unit 110. Specifically, the imaging control unit 104 controls driving of a lens motor (not shown) for moving the zoom lens, the focus lens, and the like of the lens unit 101 on the optical axis, and scans and drives the electronic imaging unit 102. The drive timing of the unit circuit unit 103 is controlled based on the drive timing of the electronic imaging unit 102.

  The image processing unit 105 performs RGB interpolation processing for generating R, G, and B color component data (RGB data) for each pixel with respect to the image signal after A / D conversion, and luminance signal (Y) from the RGB data. YUV conversion processing for generating YUV data composed of color difference signals (U, V) for each pixel, and digital signal processing for improving image quality such as automatic white balance and edge enhancement are performed. Then, the image processing unit 105 sequentially outputs the YUV data of each image frame after conversion to the memory 108 and stores it in the memory 108.

  The display unit 106 converts the YUV data for one frame stored in the memory 108 into a video signal, and then displays it as a live view image on the display screen. Specifically, the display unit 106 displays a live view image at a predetermined display frame rate based on a plurality of image frames generated by imaging a subject, or displays a REC view image captured as a main captured image. To do.

The recording control unit 107 is configured so that the recording medium M is detachable, and controls reading of data from the loaded recording medium M and writing of data to the recording medium M. That is, the recording control unit 107 causes the recording medium M to record image data for recording a captured image encoded by a JPEG compression unit (not shown) of the image processing unit 105. Specifically, the recording control unit 107 causes the recording medium M to record image data for recording of an image P1 (see FIG. 7A) in which a subject exists within a predetermined background.
The recording medium M is composed of, for example, a non-volatile memory (flash memory) or the like. However, the recording medium M is an example and is not limited to this, and can be arbitrarily changed as appropriate.

The memory 108 includes, for example, a buffer memory that temporarily records image data, a working memory such as the central control unit 110, a program memory that stores various programs and data related to the functions of the imaging device 1, and the like (all are (Not shown).
In the program memory, for example, a program line indicating a combination of an aperture value (F) corresponding to an appropriate exposure value (EV) and a shutter speed at the time of each imaging such as a still image imaging and a live view image imaging. Program AE data constituting the figure and an EV value table (both not shown) are also stored.

  The operation input unit 109 is for performing a predetermined operation of the imaging apparatus 1. Specifically, the operation input unit 109 includes, for example, a shutter button related to an instruction to shoot a subject, a selection determination button related to an instruction to select an imaging mode or a function, a zoom button related to an instruction to adjust the zoom amount, and the like ( Neither is shown), and a predetermined operation signal is output to the central control unit 110 in response to a user operation of these buttons.

The central control unit 110 includes, for example, a one-chip microcomputer that includes a CPU that controls each unit of the imaging device 1.
The central control unit 110 controls each unit of the imaging device 1 based on the operation signal output from the operation input unit 109 and input. Specifically, when a recording instruction signal output according to a predetermined operation of the shutter button of the operation input unit 109 is input, the central control unit 110 according to a predetermined program stored in the program memory. Thus, the process of capturing a still image is executed by controlling the drive timing of the electronic imaging unit 102 and the unit circuit unit 103. One frame worth of YUV data stored in the buffer memory by taking a still image is compressed and encoded by the image processing unit 105 using the JPEG method or the like, and recorded on the recording medium M as still image data.

Next, the data generation device 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
The data generation device 2 is configured by, for example, a personal computer or the like, and generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material P (see FIG. 7D) by the printing device 3.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the data generation device 2.
As shown in FIG. 3, the data generation device 2 specifically includes a central control unit 201, a display unit 202, an operation input unit 203, a recording control unit 204, an image acquisition unit 205, and a subject area specification. A unit 206, a subject extraction unit 207, a multi-value processing unit 208, a print data generation unit 209, a communication control unit 210, and the like.

The central control unit 201 controls each unit of the data generation device 2. Specifically, the central control unit 201 includes a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM (all not shown), and performs various control operations according to various processing programs (not shown) for the data generation device 2 stored in the ROM. . At that time, the CPU stores various processing results in a storage area in the RAM, and displays the processing results on the display unit 202 as necessary.
The RAM includes, for example, a program storage area for expanding a processing program executed by the CPU, a data storage area for storing input data, a processing result generated when the processing program is executed, and the like.
The ROM stores a program stored in the form of computer-readable program code, specifically, a system program that can be executed by the data generation device 2, various processing programs that can be executed by the system program, and these various processing programs. Data used for execution is stored.

The display unit 202 includes, for example, a display such as an LCD or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), and displays various types of information on the display screen under the control of the CPU of the central control unit 201.
Specifically, the display unit 202 displays, for example, image data of a desired image P1 related to a printing process (described later) read from the recording medium M on the display screen.

The operation input unit 203 is, for example, a keyboard or mouse configured by data input keys for inputting numerical values, characters, etc., up / down / left / right movement keys for performing data selection, feeding operations, and the like, and various function keys. And a key press signal and a mouse operation signal pressed by the user are output to the CPU of the central control unit 201.
Specifically, the operation input unit 203 uses the boundary line in the image P1 (print image P1) displayed on the display screen of the display unit 202 during print processing (described later) based on a predetermined operation by the user. A setting instruction for coordinates (x, y) of a plurality of points constituting L is input. For example, the operation input unit 203 inputs an instruction to set the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L drawn on the image P1 based on a predetermined mouse operation by the user. Then, the operation input unit 203 outputs a predetermined setting signal corresponding to the operation to the CPU of the central control unit 201.

  Note that a touch panel (not shown) is provided as the operation input unit 203 on the display screen of the display unit 202, and the coordinates (x, y) of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L are set according to the touch position of the touch panel. It may be configured to input an instruction.

The recording control unit 204 is configured so that the recording medium M is detachable, and controls reading of data from the loaded recording medium M and writing of data to the recording medium M.
That is, the recording control unit 204 reads out image data of a desired image P1 related to a printing process (described later) from the recording medium M that is detached from the imaging apparatus 1 and attached to the recording control unit 204. Further, the recording control unit 204 causes the recording medium (recording unit) M to record the print data including the height information H generated by the print data generation unit 209.

The image acquisition unit 205 acquires image data of the printing image P1.
That is, the image acquisition unit 205 acquires the image data of the image P1 read from the recording medium M by the recording control unit 204 as the image data of the printing image P1 printed on the printing base material by the printing device 3.
Here, the image acquisition unit 205 constitutes acquisition means (first acquisition means) for acquiring the image P1 printed on the printing substrate.

The subject area specifying unit 206 specifies the subject area A1 including the subject from the print image P1.
That is, the subject area specifying unit 206 is based on the boundary line L drawn on the print image P1 in accordance with a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 203 by the user, and the subject area A1 includes the subject from the print image P1. Is identified. Specifically, the subject area specifying unit 206 is based on the setting signals of the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L drawn on the printing image P1 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 202. The coordinates of a plurality of points are designated on the printing image P1, and the boundary line L is designated by connecting the plurality of points. Then, the subject area specifying unit 206 specifies the area delimited by the boundary line L in the image data of the printing image P1 as the subject area A1.

The boundary line L may be a closed form that completely surrounds a certain area, or a form in which the start point and the end point of the boundary line L exist at different positions of the image boundary of the printing image P1. May be.
For example, when the boundary line L is not formed in a completely closed form, a region surrounded by the boundary line L and the lower image boundary of the printing image P1 may be set as the subject region A1. . That is, the image area of the subject is displayed in the predetermined display area, for example, the image P1 (for example, a bust shot image) obtained by imaging the top of the print image P1 from the predetermined position of the person or pet who is the subject. May overlap with the lower image boundary. In this case, the subject area specifying unit 206 overlaps the image areas below the face based on the result of face detection processing of a person or a pet, for example, among the four image boundaries on the top, bottom, left, and right of the print image P1. The image boundary is specified as the lower image boundary. The subject area specifying unit 206 acquires, for example, information on the orientation of the image P1 when the printing image P1 is added to the printing image P1 as Exif tag information, and the printing image P1. The lower image boundary may be specified.
Then, the subject area specifying unit 206 specifies a plurality of divided areas divided by the plurality of image boundaries and boundary lines L of the printing image P1, and then a plurality of areas along the edges of the specified plurality of divided areas. The total number of pixels is calculated for each pixel. Subsequently, the subject region specifying unit 206 has a predetermined ratio (for example, 40) of the number of pixels of the image boundary that constitutes the edge of each divided region to the total number of pixels of the edge from among the plurality of divided regions. %), The identified segmented area is excluded from the candidate areas of the subject area A1, and the segment area that includes the largest number of constituent pixels of the lower image boundary is defined as the subject area A1. Identify.

For example, in the case of the printing image P1 shown in FIG. 7A, the torso portion of the dog is in a state of being almost completely overlapped with the lower image boundary. , That is, a region surrounded by a part below the boundary line L, the lower image boundary, and the right image boundary is specified as the subject region A1.
Note that the above-described method of specifying the subject area A1 is an example and is not limited to this, and can be arbitrarily changed as appropriate. For example, the subject area may be specified using a known face detection process or edge detection process.

The subject extraction unit 207 extracts the subject region A1 from the print image P1 to generate a subject cutout image.
That is, the subject extraction unit 207 uses a predetermined single color background as a predetermined single color background in the print image P1 other than the subject region A1 specified by the subject region specification unit 206 (partition region). Generate a cropped image.
Specifically, the subject extracting unit 207 first estimates that a segmented region other than the subject region A1 specified by the subject region specifying unit 206 of the print image P1 is the background, and then determines each pixel of the segmented region. A predetermined calculation is performed based on the pixel value, and the background color of the subject is estimated as a predetermined single color. Then, the subject extraction unit 207 generates difference information (for example, a difference map or the like) of each corresponding pixel between a predetermined single color background image and the print image P1.
After that, the subject extraction unit 207 compares the pixel value of each pixel of the generated difference information with a predetermined threshold value, binarizes it, and then performs a contraction process to remove an area where there is a difference due to fine noise or camera shake. Then, a pixel set smaller than a predetermined value and a thin line pixel set due to camera shake are excluded. Then, the subject extraction unit 207 performs a labeling process for assigning the same number to the pixel sets constituting the same connected component, and sets the pixel set having the largest area as the subject portion. Thereafter, the subject extraction unit 207 performs a dilation process to correct the contraction, and then performs a labeling process only within the subject part to obtain a pixel set of labels having a predetermined ratio or less with respect to the subject part label. Fill in holes by replacing them with parts.

The subject extracting unit 207 indicates the position of the subject area A1 in the print image P1, and generates an extraction image for extracting the subject area A1. Here, as the image for extraction, for example, for each pixel of the print image P1, an alpha map that expresses the weight when alpha blending the subject image with respect to a predetermined background as an alpha value (0 ≦ α ≦ 1). Is mentioned. For example, the subject extraction unit 207 applies a low-pass filter to the binarized difference information in which the pixel set having the largest area is “1” and the other portions are “0”, and an intermediate value is applied to the boundary portion. To create an alpha value. In this case, the alpha value of the subject area A1 is “1”, and the transparency of the print image P1 with respect to a predetermined background is 0%. On the other hand, the alpha value of the background portion of the subject is “0”, and the transparency of the print image P1 with respect to the predetermined background is 100%.
Thereafter, based on the generated extraction image (alpha map), the subject extraction unit 207 transmits a pixel having an alpha value “1” among the pixels of the print image P1 to a predetermined single color image. In addition, the subject image is synthesized with a predetermined single color image so as to transmit a pixel having an alpha value of “0”, and image data of the subject cutout image is generated.

The multi-value processing unit 208 generates multi-value information D from the print image P1.
That is, the multilevel processing unit 208 compares the pixel value (for example, luminance value) of each pixel of the printing image P1 acquired by the image acquisition unit 205 with a predetermined threshold (for example, luminance value), and at least Multi-value information D having binary values (for example, a gray scale image) is generated. Specifically, the multi-value processing unit 208 calculates the pixel value of each pixel in the subject area A1 specified by the subject area specifying unit 206, that is, the subject area A1 of the subject cut-out image generated by the subject extraction unit 207. Compared with a predetermined threshold value, multi-value information D (see FIG. 7B) having at least two values is generated. That is, the multi-value information D is information in which the brightness of the image P1 is expressed by a plurality of gradations (at least two gradations) based on the luminance value of each pixel of the printing image P1, and the multi-value processing unit 208 Generates binary information based on one threshold value, and sets multiple threshold values in a stepwise manner, thereby generating multi-value information of three or more values.
Note that when a plurality of threshold values are set, the multi-value processing unit 208 determines the set number of the plurality of threshold values, the interval between the threshold values, and the like based on, for example, the frequency distribution of the pixel values of all the pixels of the printing image P1. May be set automatically, or may be set based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 203 by the user.
Further, the background area other than the subject area A1 in the multi-value information D shown in FIG. 7B is an area composed of pixels corresponding to the darkest value (smallest value).

The print data generation unit 209 generates print data used for printing the printing image P1 by the printing apparatus 3.
That is, the print data generation unit 209 makes one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information D in the print image P1 relatively to another area corresponding to another value smaller than the one value. Height information H for high printing is generated. Here, the height information H is information relating to the height (thickness) of ink in a state where the ink is ejected from the ink head of the printing apparatus 3 and landed on the printing substrate and cured. The height of the ink can be adjusted, for example, by controlling the ink discharge amount, the number of discharges, the curing speed, and the like.
Specifically, the print data generation unit 209 determines that a bright area (one area) corresponding to one value is a dark area (other area) corresponding to another value based on the multi-value information D in the print image P1. ) To generate height information H (see FIG. 7C) for printing relatively higher than. Here, the bright region is a relatively bright region composed of pixels having a luminance value equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, and the dark region is a relative region composed of pixels having a luminance value smaller than the predetermined threshold. It is a dark area. Accordingly, in the height information H, the pixel corresponding to the brightest value in the multi-value information D is the highest, the pixel corresponding to the darkest value is the lowest, and the pixel becomes darker relative to the brightest region. The height is relatively low (the pixel that is relatively brighter than the darkest region is relatively high).
That is, the print data generation unit 209 generates the height information H for printing so that the brighter region corresponding to one value is relatively higher based on the multi-value information D in the print image P1. .

  Further, the print data generation unit 209 generates print data in which the generated height information H and the image data of the print image P1 acquired by the image acquisition unit 205 are associated with each other.

  The communication control unit 210 includes, for example, a modem (MODEM: Modulator / DEModulater), a terminal adapter (Terminal Adapter), and the like, and communicates information with an external device such as the printing apparatus 3 via a predetermined communication network N. It is for performing control. That is, the communication control unit 210 transmits print data including the height information H generated by the print data generation unit 209 to the printing apparatus 3 via the predetermined communication network N as a transmission unit.

  The predetermined communication network N is, for example, a communication network constructed using a dedicated line or an existing general public line, and has various line configurations such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and a WAN (Wide Area Network). It is possible to apply. The predetermined communication network N includes, for example, various communication line networks such as a telephone line network, an ISDN line network, a dedicated line, a mobile communication network, a communication satellite line, and a CATV line network, and an Internet service provider that connects them. Etc. are included.

Next, the printing apparatus 3 will be described with reference to FIG.
Based on the print instruction from the data generation device 2, the printing device 3 prints the printing image P <b> 1 on the printing substrate to generate a three-dimensional printed material P.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the printing apparatus 3.
As shown in FIG. 7, specifically, the printing apparatus 3 includes a central control unit 301, a communication control unit 302, a printing unit 303, and the like.

The central control unit 301 controls each unit of the printing apparatus 3. Specifically, the central control unit 301 includes a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM (all not shown), and the CPU performs various control operations according to various processing programs (not shown) for the printing apparatus 3 stored in the ROM. I do. At that time, the CPU stores various processing results in a storage area in the RAM, and displays the processing results on a display unit (not shown) as necessary.
The RAM includes, for example, a program storage area for expanding a processing program executed by the CPU, a data storage area for storing input data, a processing result generated when the processing program is executed, and the like.
The ROM stores a program stored in the form of computer-readable program code, specifically, a system program that can be executed by the printing apparatus 3, various processing programs that can be executed by the system program, and execution of these various processing programs The data used for the storage is stored.

The communication control unit 302 includes, for example, a modem, a terminal adapter, and the like, and is for performing communication control of information with an external device such as the data generation device 2 via a predetermined communication network N.
Specifically, the communication control unit 302 prints the print data including the height information H of the print image P1 transmitted from the data generation device 2 via the predetermined communication network N in the print process (described later) and the image. The P1 print instruction is received and output to the printing unit 303.

The printing unit 303 prints the printing image P1 on a predetermined printing substrate to generate a three-dimensional printed material P.
That is, the printing unit 303 prints the printing image P1 corresponding to the printing instruction on a predetermined printing substrate with a predetermined printing method based on the print data and the printing instruction received by the communication control unit 210. To do. Specifically, based on the height information H of the print data output from the communication control unit 302 and input from the communication control unit 302, the printing unit 303 can change one area (for example, a bright area) of the printing image P1 into another area (for example, The amount of ink discharged from the ink head of the predetermined color corresponding to each region, the number of times of discharge, etc. The printing image P1 is printed. At this time, the printing unit 303 sets the height of the ink head so that the ink head does not come into contact with the ink ejected onto the printing substrate (or the stacked ink when ejected multiple times at the same location). May be controlled.
In addition, as a base material for printing, the plate-shaped base material with equal thickness over the whole surface, such as paper, a glass plate, and a metal plate, is mentioned, for example. As the predetermined printing method, various known methods can be applied, and examples thereof include an ink jet printing method.

Next, a printing process using the data generation device 2 and the printing device 3 will be described with reference to FIGS.
Here, FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to the printing process. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to the data generation process. FIG. 7A is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the printing image P1, and FIG. 7B is a schematic example of the multi-value information D that matches the orientation of the printing image P1. FIG. 7C is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the height information H in accordance with the orientation of the printing image P1. FIG. 7D is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the printed matter P generated by the printing process.
In the following description, image data of at least one image captured in advance by the imaging device 1 is recorded on the recording medium M, and the recording medium M is attached to the recording control unit 204 of the data generation device 2. (See FIG. 1).

As shown in FIG. 5, first, the data generation device 2 performs a data generation process for generating print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material P (step S1).
The data generation process will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the recording control unit 204 is designated by the central control unit 201 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 203 by the user in at least one image data recorded on the recording medium M. The image data of the desired image P1 (see FIG. 7A) is read from the recording medium M. Then, after the image acquisition unit 205 acquires the read image data of the desired image P1 as the image data of the printing image P1 related to the printing process, the display unit 202 displays the image data of the printing image P1. Is displayed on the display screen (step S101).

Next, based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 203 by the user, the central control unit 201 coordinates the first point of the boundary line L (first coordinate) in the printing image P1 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 202. ) Setting instruction is determined (step S102). That is, the central control unit 201 selects the first drawn point among the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L drawn continuously on the print image P1 based on a predetermined mouse operation by the user. As a starting point, it is determined whether or not an instruction to set the first coordinate of the starting point has been input.
The determination process in step S102 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that an instruction to set the first coordinate of the start point of the boundary line L is input (step S102; YES).
When it is determined in step S102 that an instruction to set the first coordinate of the start point of the boundary line L has been input (step S102; YES), the subject area specifying unit 206 outputs the first coordinate output from the operation input unit 203. Based on the one-coordinate setting instruction signal, the first coordinate serving as the starting point of the boundary line L is set in the printing image P1 (step S103).

Next, based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 203 by the user, the central control unit 201 coordinates the end point of the boundary line L (second coordinate) in the printing image P1 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 202. ) Setting instruction is determined (step S104). That is, the central control unit 201 selects the last drawn point among the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L drawn continuously on the printing image P1 based on a predetermined mouse operation by the user. As the end point, it is determined whether or not an instruction to set the second coordinate of the end point has been input.
The determination process in step S104 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that an instruction to set the second coordinate of the end point of the boundary line L has been input (step S104; YES), and the data generating device is based on a predetermined mouse operation by the user. 2 to the printing apparatus 3 are sequentially transmitted to the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L drawn continuously on the printing image P1.
If it is determined in step S104 that an instruction to set the second coordinate of the end point of the boundary line L has been input (step S104; YES), the subject area specifying unit 206 outputs the second coordinate output from the operation input unit 203. Based on the two-coordinate setting instruction signal, the second coordinate serving as the end point of the boundary line L in the printing image P1 is set (step S105).

  Subsequently, the subject area specifying unit connects the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L drawn continuously on the printing image P1, and starts from the first point (first coordinate) to the end point (second coordinate). The boundary line L that is continuous up to is designated (step S106).

Next, the subject area specifying unit 206 specifies a lower image boundary among a plurality of image boundaries of the printing image P1 (step S107). Specifically, the subject area specifying unit 206 acquires the image data of the printing image P1 and displays the image data in the state displayed in the display area of the display unit 202 among the upper, lower, left, and right image boundaries in the image data. The side image boundary is specified as the lower image boundary.
Thereafter, the subject area specifying unit 206 specifies a plurality of divided areas that are divided by the four image boundaries on the top, bottom, left, and right of the print image P1 and the boundary line L (step S108). In addition, the subject area specifying unit 206 calculates the total number of pixels obtained by summing up the plurality of pixels along each edge of the specified plurality of divided areas.

  Subsequently, the subject area specifying unit 206 specifies the subject area A1 from the plurality of divided areas of the print image P1 (step S109). Specifically, the subject area specifying unit 206 determines a predetermined number of pixels at the image boundary that constitutes the edge of each divided area from a plurality of specified divided areas with respect to the total number of pixels at the edge. A segmented area having a ratio (for example, 40% or more) is specified. Next, the subject region specifying unit 206 includes a plurality of segmented regions of the printing image P1 in which the number of pixels at the image boundary constituting the edge is a predetermined region or more with respect to the total number of pixels at the edge. Are excluded from the candidates for the subject area A1, and the segment area that includes the largest number of constituent pixels of the lower image boundary is specified as the subject area A1.

Subsequently, the subject extraction unit 207 performs processing for extracting the subject region A1 from the print image P1 according to a predetermined extraction method, and generates an alpha map as an extraction image indicating the position of the subject region A1 in the print image P1. (Step S110).
Thereafter, the subject extraction unit 207 cuts out the subject area A1 from the print image P1 using the generated alpha map, and synthesizes it with a predetermined single color image to generate image data of the subject cutout image (step S111). . Specifically, the subject extraction unit 207 transmits all pixels of the printing image P1 for pixels with an alpha value of 0, and for a pixel with an alpha value of 0 <α <1, a predetermined single color. The pixel having the alpha value of 1 is not subjected to anything and is not transmitted through a predetermined single color. In addition, since the synthetic gradation is given to the edge part of the alpha map, it has a natural feeling that the boundary part between the cut out subject area A1 and the single color image (background) is not clear.
Further, the generated image data of the subject clipped image is recorded in the recording medium M in association with the alpha map that is the image for extraction.

Next, the multi-value processing unit 208 compares the pixel value (for example, luminance value) of each pixel of the printing image P1 with a predetermined threshold value, and generates multi-value information D having at least two values (Step S1). S112). Specifically, the multi-value processing unit 208 compares the pixel value of each pixel of the subject area A1 of the subject cut-out image generated by the subject extraction unit 207 with a predetermined threshold value, and has a multi-value having at least two values. Information D (see FIG. 7B) is generated.
Subsequently, the print data generation unit 209 makes the one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information D in the print image P1 relative to another area corresponding to another value smaller than the one value. Print data including height information H for printing at a high level is generated (step S113). Specifically, the print data generation unit 209 compares a relatively bright area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information D in the print image P1 with respect to a relatively dark area corresponding to another value. The height information H (see FIG. 7C) for printing at a high level is generated. Then, the print data generation unit 209 generates print data in which the generated height information H is associated with the image data of the print image P1.
Thereafter, the recording control unit 204 records the print data including the height information H generated by the print data generation unit 209 on the recording medium M (step S114).

Returning to FIG. 5, the central control unit 201 of the data generation device 2 receives an instruction to transmit the print data generated by the print data generation unit 209 to the printing device 3 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 203 by the user. It is determined whether or not (step S2).
Here, if it is determined that a print data transmission instruction has been input (step S2; YES), the communication control unit 210 associates the print data of the print image P1 with the print instruction and sets up a predetermined communication network N. Then, the data is transmitted to the data generation device 2 (step S3).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2 that the print data transmission instruction has not been input (step S2; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 201 ends the printing process.

In the printing apparatus 3, when the communication control unit 302 receives print data and a print instruction of the print image P1 (step S4), the print unit 303 prints the print image P1 based on the print instruction. A three-dimensional printed material P is generated by printing on the base material for use (step S5).
Specifically, the printing unit 303 determines that one area (for example, a bright area) of the printing image P1 is relatively higher than another area (for example, a dark area) based on the height information H of the print data. In this way, the three-dimensional printing image P1 is printed on the predetermined plate-shaped printing substrate by controlling the discharge amount and the number of discharges of the ink of the predetermined color corresponding to each region from the ink head. Thus, a printed material P (see FIG. 7D) is generated.
FIG. 7D schematically shows the printed material P framed in a predetermined frame, and after the printed material P is packed, it is delivered to the user via a predetermined delivery means ( (See FIG. 1).

As described above, according to the printing system 100 of the present embodiment, the data generation device 2 generates the multi-value information D of the print image P1, and one value of the multi-value information D in the print image P1. The height information H for printing one area corresponding to the other area relatively higher than the other areas corresponding to other values can be generated as print data. Based on the height information H, the three-dimensional printed material P can be generated by printing the printing image P1 on the printing substrate so that one region is relatively higher than the other region.
That is, the height information H relating to the three-dimensional printing of the printing image P1 can be set for every pixel of the entire area of the printing image P1, particularly the subject area A1 including the subject. By generating the three-dimensional printed material P by printing the printing image P1 on the printing substrate based on the height information H, for example, even a fine portion such as a hair constituting the edge portion of the subject is three-dimensional. It is possible to easily express the unevenness of the printed matter P.

  Further, since the height information H for printing is generated based on the multi-value information D in the print image P1 so that the brighter region corresponding to one value is relatively higher, the print image P1 is printed. The height information H corresponding to the light / dark state of each pixel can be set, and based on the height information H, a three-dimensional printed matter P can be generated in consideration of the light / dark state of the printing image P1.

In the printing process of the first embodiment, the print data generated on the recording medium M is once recorded and then transmitted to the printing apparatus 3. For example, the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus 3. After transmission, it may be recorded on the recording medium M.
Further, it is not always necessary to record the print data, and the generated print data may be transmitted to the printing apparatus 3 immediately.

  In the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment, the multi-value processing is performed on the subject area A1 including the subject to generate the multi-value information D. However, the range in which the multi-value processing is performed is the subject area A1. It is not limited to within.

  In the first embodiment, a personal computer is exemplified as the data generation device 2. However, the data generation device 2 is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this, and can be arbitrarily changed. For example, a portable terminal such as a PDA Etc. may be applied.

[Embodiment 2]
FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing system 200 according to the second embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
The printing system 200 according to the second embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the printing system 100 according to the first embodiment except for the details described below, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  As illustrated in FIG. 8, the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment includes an imaging device 21 that functions as a data generation device that performs data generation processing, and a printing device 23.

First, the imaging device 21 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the imaging device 21.
As shown in FIG. 9, the imaging device 21 includes a lens unit 101, an electronic imaging unit 102, a unit circuit unit 103, an imaging control unit 104, an image processing unit 105, a display unit 106, a recording control unit 107, a memory 108, and an operation input. In addition to the unit 109 and the central control unit 110, an image acquisition unit 111, a subject region specifying unit 112, a subject extraction unit 113, a region designation unit 114, and a print data generation unit 115 are provided.

The image acquisition unit 111 acquires the image data of the printing image P1 and displays the image data on the display unit 106 in the same manner as the image acquisition unit 205 provided in the data generation apparatus 2 of the first embodiment.
In other words, the image acquisition unit 111 acquires an image P1 captured by an imaging unit including the lens unit 101, the electronic imaging unit 102, the unit circuit unit 103, and the imaging control unit 104 and recorded on the recording medium M. Specifically, the image acquisition unit 111 uses the image data of the image P1 read from the recording medium M by the recording control unit 107 as image data of the printing image P1 to be printed on the printing substrate by the printing device 23. get.

The subject area specifying unit 112 specifies the subject area A1 including the subject from the print image P1 in the same manner as the subject area specifying unit 206 provided in the data generation apparatus 2 of the first embodiment.
That is, the boundary line L is formed on the print image P1 based on a predetermined operation such as a selection determination button or a touch panel of the operation input unit 109 while the user looks at the print image P1 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 106. When the drawing is performed, the subject area specifying unit 112 specifies the subject area A1 including the subject from the printing image P1 based on the boundary line L drawn on the printing image P1. Note that the method for specifying the subject area A1 is the same as the method in the first embodiment, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.
Also, the method for specifying the subject area A1 when the boundary line L is not formed in a completely closed form is the same as the technique in the first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted.

The subject extraction unit 113 extracts the subject region A1 from the print image P1 and generates a subject cutout image, similarly to the subject extraction unit 207 provided in the data generation apparatus 2 of the first embodiment.
That is, the subject extracting unit 113 uses a predetermined single color background as a predetermined single color background in the print image P1 other than the subject region A1 specified by the subject region specifying unit 112 (partition region). Generate a cropped image. Note that the method of extracting the subject area A1 is the same as the method in the first embodiment, and a detailed description thereof is omitted.
The subject extraction unit 113 indicates the position of the subject area A1 in the print image P1, and generates an extraction image for extracting the subject area A1. Note that the extraction image generation method is the same as the method in the first embodiment, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The area designating unit 114 designates a predetermined area of the print image P1 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user.
That is, the area specifying unit 114 specifies a predetermined area based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user in the subject area A1 specified by the subject area specifying unit 112 in the print image P1. Specifically, the area designating unit 114 is used for determining the selection of the operation input unit 109 by the user within the subject area A1 of the subject clipped image generated by the subject extracting unit 113 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 106. A predetermined area is specified in the subject area A1 based on a setting instruction for coordinates (x, y) of a plurality of points constituting the predetermined area specified based on a predetermined operation such as a button or a touch panel. At this time, the subject area is specified by specifying a range in which a predetermined area can be designated using the selection decision button of the operation input unit 109 or a touch panel by the user, that is, a movable range such as a cursor indicating coordinates (x, y). You may make it restrict | limit within the to-be-photographed object area | region A1 specified by the part 112. FIG.

For example, the area designating unit 114 may designate an area that has at least the three coordinates (x, y) as vertices as a predetermined area based on an instruction to set at least three coordinates (x, y). good. Further, for example, the region designating unit 114 may designate a region surrounded by the coordinates (x, y) of an arbitrary predetermined number of points and the edge portion of the subject region A1, that is, the boundary line L, as the predetermined region. Then, an area within a predetermined range may be designated from the coordinates of an arbitrary point.
Further, a plurality of predetermined areas may be designated in association with the print data height information H, that is, the relative height of ink. For example, the first predetermined area has the highest ink height (or May be designated as a region where the height of the ink is relatively low (or high) as the ordinal number increases.

The print data generation unit 115 generates print data used for printing the printing image P1 by the printing device 23, similarly to the print data generation unit 209 provided in the data generation device 2 of the first embodiment.
That is, the print data generation unit 115 generates print data for printing a predetermined area in the print image P1 at a desired height. Specifically, the print data generation unit 115 generates height information H for printing a predetermined area in the print image P1 relatively higher than other areas other than the predetermined area. If a plurality of predetermined areas are designated in association with the relative height of ink, the print data generation unit 115 sets the first predetermined area to the highest (or lower) ink height. The height information H is generated by relatively decreasing (or increasing) the ink height as the second and third ordinal numbers increase. The print data generation unit 115 generates print data in which the generated height information H is associated with the image data of the print image P1 acquired by the image acquisition unit 111.
The print data generation unit 115 prints the predetermined area at a desired height based on the desired height of the desired predetermined area set based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user. Print data may be generated.

  The lens unit 101, the electronic imaging unit 102, the unit circuit unit 103, the imaging control unit 104, the image processing unit 105, the display unit 106, the recording control unit 107, the memory 108, the operation input unit 109, and the central control unit 110 are described above. It has substantially the same configuration and function as each unit provided in the imaging apparatus 1 of Embodiment 1, and a detailed description thereof is omitted.

Next, the printing apparatus 23 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the printing apparatus 23.
As shown in FIG. 10, the printing apparatus 23 includes a recording control unit 304 in addition to the central control unit 301 and the printing unit 303.

The recording control unit 304 is configured so that the recording medium M is detachable, and controls reading of data from the loaded recording medium M and writing of data to the recording medium M.
That is, the recording control unit 304 reads out and acquires print data including height information H related to the printing process (described later) from the recording medium M that is detached from the imaging device 21 and attached to the recording control unit 304.

  The central control unit 301 and the printing unit 303 have substantially the same configurations and functions as the units provided in the printing apparatus 3 of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

Next, a printing process performed by the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment will be described.
In the printing process according to the second embodiment, first, a data generation process (see FIG. 11) is performed by the imaging device 21.

The data generation process will be described below with reference to FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to the data generation process.

As shown in FIG. 11, the recording control unit 107 performs the processing for the desired image P1 designated by the central control unit 110 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user, as in the data generation process of the first embodiment. Image data (see FIG. 7A) is read from the recording medium M. Then, the image acquisition unit 111 acquires the read image data of the desired image P1 as the image data of the printing image P1 related to the printing process, and then displays the image data, as in the data generation process of the first embodiment. The unit 106 displays the image data of the printing image P1 on the display screen (step S101).
Next, the central control unit 110 applies the print image P1 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 106 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user, similarly to the data generation process of the first embodiment. Then, it is determined whether or not an instruction for setting the coordinates (first coordinate) of the start point of the boundary line L has been input (step S102).
If it is determined in step S102 that an instruction to set the first coordinate of the starting point of the boundary line L has been input (step S102; YES), the subject area specifying unit 112 performs the data generation process of the first embodiment. Similarly, based on the first coordinate setting instruction signal output from the operation input unit 109, the first coordinate that is the starting point of the boundary line L is set in the printing image P1 (step S103).

Next, the central control unit 110 applies the print image P1 displayed on the display screen of the display unit 106 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user, similarly to the data generation process of the first embodiment. Then, it is determined whether or not an instruction for setting the end point coordinates (second coordinates) of the boundary line L has been input (step S104).
If it is determined in step S104 that an instruction to set the second coordinate of the end point of the boundary line L is input (step S104; YES), the subject area specifying unit 112 performs the data generation process of the first embodiment. Similarly, based on the second coordinate setting instruction signal output from the operation input unit 109, the second coordinate serving as the end point of the boundary line L is set in the printing image P1 (step S105).

  Subsequently, the subject region specifying unit 112 connects the coordinates of a plurality of points constituting the boundary line L continuously drawn on the print image P1, as in the data generation process of the first embodiment. A boundary L that is continuous from the start point (first coordinate) to the end point (second coordinate) is designated (step S106).

  Next, the subject region specifying unit 112 specifies the lower image boundary among the plurality of image boundaries of the print image P1 as in the data generation process of the first embodiment (step S107). After that, the subject area specifying unit 112 specifies a plurality of divided areas that are divided by four image boundaries on the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the print image P1 and the boundary line L, as in the data generation process of the first embodiment (step S1). S108). Subsequently, the subject area specifying unit 112 specifies the subject area A1 from the plurality of segment areas of the print image P1 as in the data generation process of the first embodiment (step S109).

Subsequently, the subject extraction unit 113 performs a process of extracting the subject area A1 from the print image P1 according to a predetermined extraction method, similarly to the data generation process of the first embodiment, and the subject area A1 in the print image P1. An alpha map is generated as an image for extraction indicating the position of (step S110).
After that, the subject extracting unit 113 cuts out the subject area A1 from the print image P1 using the generated alpha map, and combines it with a predetermined single color image in the same manner as the data generation processing of the first embodiment. Image data of the cutout image is generated (step S111).

Next, the area designating unit 114 designates a predetermined area based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user in the subject area A1 specified by the subject area specifying unit 112 in the print image P1 (step S1). S212). Specifically, the area designating unit 114 selects a predetermined area designated based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user within the subject area A1 of the subject clipped image displayed on the display screen of the display unit 106. A predetermined area is designated in the subject area A1 based on a setting instruction for coordinates (x, y) of a plurality of points constituting the object.
Subsequently, the print data generation unit 115 generates the height information H for printing a predetermined area in the print image P1 relatively higher than other areas, and then prints the generated height information H and the print information. Print data in which the image data of the image P1 is associated is generated (step S213).
Thereafter, the recording control unit 107 records the print data including the height information H generated by the print data generation unit 115 on the recording medium M (step S114).
Thereby, the data generation process is terminated.

After the data generation processing, as shown in FIG. 8, the recording medium M on which the print data is recorded is removed from the imaging device 21, and the printing apparatus 23 on which the recording medium M is mounted is recorded on the recording medium M. Based on the print data, the printing image P1 is printed on a predetermined printing substrate to generate a three-dimensional printed material P (step S5; see FIG. 5).
Thereby, the printing process is terminated.

As described above, according to the printing system 200 of the second embodiment, the imaging device 21 sets the predetermined area specified based on the predetermined operation of the operation input unit 109 by the user of the printing image P1 to a desired height. That is, the height information H for printing relatively higher than other areas can be generated as print data, and the printing device 23 can print based on the height information H of the print data. The three-dimensional printed matter P can be generated by printing the image P1 on the printing substrate so that the predetermined area is relatively higher than the other areas.
That is, the user can designate in advance a predetermined area to be printed relatively higher than other areas in the image P1 for printing, particularly the subject area A1 including the subject. By generating the three-dimensional printed matter P by printing the printing image P1 on the printing substrate based on the height information H relating to the three-dimensional printing, for example, the hair constituting the edge portion of the subject Even if it is a fine part, the unevenness of the three-dimensional printed matter P can be easily expressed if the user designates the predetermined region in advance.

In addition, by limiting the range in which the predetermined area can be specified within the subject area A1, it is possible to make the operation of specifying the predetermined area by the user using the operation input unit 109 simpler.
That is, when a predetermined area is designated, for example, the user needs to perform a predetermined operation on the selection decision button or touch panel of the operation input unit 109, but the selection decision button or touch panel designates a fine point or area. There is a possibility that the operation cannot be properly performed. Therefore, by limiting the range in which the predetermined area can be specified within the subject area A1, it is possible to simplify the operation of specifying the edge portion of the subject as the predetermined area.

  Further, since the imaging device 21 acquires the captured image P1 as the printing image P1, the height information H for printing a predetermined area of the printing image P1 relatively higher than other areas is obtained. It can be generated as print data. That is, the printing device 23 can generate print data for printing the three-dimensional printed matter P by the imaging device 21 alone. For example, the printing device 23 can be simply exchanged through the recording medium M. Thus, it is possible to generate a three-dimensional printed matter P in which unevenness is appropriately expressed.

In the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment, print data is exchanged between the imaging device 21 and the printing device 23 via the recording medium M. However, the printing system 200 is an example and is not limited thereto. The print data exchange method can be arbitrarily changed as appropriate. For example, as in the first embodiment, the imaging device 21 and the printing device 23 are connected via a predetermined communication network N so that various types of information can be transmitted and received, the print data is transmitted from the imaging device 21, and the print data May be received by the printing device 23.
Here, instead of the configuration in which the print data is transmitted from the imaging device 1 (21) and received by the printing device 3 (23), for example, a predetermined recording device (not shown) is connected to the predetermined communication network N. Alternatively, the print data transmitted from the imaging device 1 (21) may be recorded in the recording device, and the print data may be read and acquired by the printing device 3 (23) at a predetermined timing.

  In the printing system 200 according to the second embodiment, the predetermined area is designated in the subject area A1 including the subject. However, the range that can be designated as the predetermined area is not limited to the subject area A1. For example, a predetermined area may be designated outside the subject area A1.

The present invention is not limited to the first and second embodiments, and various improvements and design changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
For example, in the first and second embodiments, a plate-like substrate having the same thickness over the entire surface is exemplified as the printing substrate, but a three-dimensional structure having irregularities on the formation surface of the printing image P1. The base material B may be used (see FIGS. 12A and 12B). That is, as shown in FIGS. 12 (a) and 12 (b), it matches the position and size of the subject (for example, cat) in the print image P1, and represents the uneven state of the actual outer surface of the subject. Alternatively, a three-dimensional base material B in which irregularities are formed in advance on the formation surface of the printing image P1 according to a predetermined processing method may be used. 12A and 12B show a state in which the printing image P1 has already been printed on the three-dimensional base material B. FIG.
Therefore, the printing apparatus 23 can print the printing image P1 using the three-dimensional base material B as the printing base material, and the three-dimensional printed material compared to the plate-like base material having the same thickness over the entire surface. It is possible to more suitably express the unevenness of P.

Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the luminance value is exemplified as the pixel value. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any value that can be expressed quantitatively based on the RGB value of each pixel. It can be anything.
Further, the image data acquisition, multi-value conversion, and print data generation functions in the first embodiment, and the image data acquisition, boundary designation, and print data generation functions in the second embodiment are the same as those in the printing apparatus 3 (23 In other words, the printing apparatus 3 (23) alone can perform from the generation of the print data to the generation of the three-dimensional printed matter P.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the image acquisition unit 205, the multi-value processing unit 208, the print data generation unit 209, and the like are driven under the control of the central control unit 201 of the data generation device 2. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be realized by executing a predetermined program or the like by the CPU of the central control unit 201.
That is, a program including an acquisition process routine, a multi-value process routine, and a generation process routine is stored in a program memory (not shown) that stores the program. Then, the CPU of the central control unit 201 may function as an acquisition unit that acquires the image P1 printed on the printing substrate by an acquisition process routine. Further, the CPU of the central control unit 201 compares the pixel value of each pixel of the image P1 acquired by the acquisition unit with a predetermined luminance value by the multi-value processing routine, and generates multi-value information D having at least binary values. You may make it function as a multi-value conversion means to produce | generate. Further, the CPU of the central control unit 201 corresponds to one value corresponding to one value of the multi-value information D in the image P1 acquired by the acquisition unit by the generation processing routine to another value smaller than the one value. The height information H for printing relatively high with respect to the other area may be made to function as a generation unit that generates print data.

In the second embodiment, the configuration is realized by driving the image acquisition unit 111, the region specifying unit 114, the print data generation unit 115, and the like under the control of the central control unit 110 of the imaging device 21. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration realized by executing a predetermined program or the like by the CPU of the central control unit 110 may be adopted.
That is, a program memory (not shown) that stores a program stores a program including an acquisition processing routine, a designation processing routine, and a generation processing routine. Then, the CPU of the central control unit 110 may function as an acquisition unit that acquires the image P1 printed on the printing substrate by an acquisition process routine. Further, the CPU of the central control unit 110 may function as a designation unit that designates a predetermined area of the image P1 acquired by the acquisition unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user by a specification processing routine. Further, the CPU of the central control unit 110 may function as a generation unit that generates print data for printing a predetermined area designated by the designation unit at a desired height by a generation process routine.

  Similarly, the other processes may be realized by executing predetermined programs or the like by the CPUs of the central control units 201 and 110 of the data generation device 2 and the imaging device 21.

  Furthermore, as a computer-readable medium storing a program for executing each of the above processes, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM is applied in addition to a ROM or a hard disk. Is also possible. A carrier wave is also used as a medium for providing program data via a predetermined communication line.

Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.
The invention described in the scope of claims attached to the application of this application will be added below. The item numbers of the claims described in the appendix are as set forth in the claims attached to the application of this application.
[Appendix]
<Claim 1>
A data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
Obtaining means for obtaining an image to be printed on the printing substrate;
A multi-value conversion unit that compares the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the acquisition unit with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values;
For printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in an image acquired by the acquiring means relatively higher than another area corresponding to another value smaller than the one value. Generating means for generating height information as the print data;
A data generation device comprising:
<Claim 2>
The multi-value information is information in which the brightness of the image acquired by the acquisition unit is expressed in at least two gradations,
The generation unit generates height information for printing such that a bright region corresponding to the one value is relatively higher based on the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition unit. The data generation apparatus according to claim 1.
<Claim 3>
A region specifying unit for specifying a subject region including the subject from the image acquired by the acquiring unit;
3. The multi-value information is generated by comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the subject area specified by the area specifying means with a predetermined luminance value. 4. The data generator described.
<Claim 4>
The data generation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a recording unit that records the height information generated by the generation unit.
<Claim 5>
5. The data generation according to claim 1, further comprising a transmission unit configured to transmit the height information generated by the generation unit to a printing apparatus via a predetermined communication line. apparatus.
<Claim 6>
A data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
Obtaining means for obtaining an image to be printed on the printing substrate;
Designation means for designating a predetermined area of the image acquired by the acquisition means based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user;
Generating means for generating print data for printing the predetermined area specified by the specifying means at a desired height;
A data generation device comprising:
<Claim 7>
A setting unit configured to set the desired height in a desired region designated by the designation unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user;
7. The data generation apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the generation unit generates print data for printing the predetermined area designated by the designation unit at a desired height set by the setting unit. .
<Claim 8>
A region specifying unit for specifying a subject region including the subject from the image acquired by the acquiring unit;
8. The data generation apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the specifying unit specifies the predetermined region within the subject region specified by the region specifying unit.
<Claim 9>
Further comprising an imaging means,
The data generation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires an image captured by the imaging unit.
<Claim 10>
A printing method for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
An acquisition process for acquiring an image to be printed on a printing substrate;
A multi-value process for comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the acquired image with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values;
Generation processing for generating, as print data, height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the acquired image relatively higher than another area corresponding to another value When,
Based on the generated height information, a printing process for generating the printed matter by printing the image on the printing substrate so that the one area is relatively higher than the other area;
A printing method comprising:
<Claim 11>
A computer of a data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
An acquisition means for acquiring an image to be printed on the substrate for printing;
Multi-value conversion means for generating multi-value information having at least binary values by comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the acquisition means with a predetermined luminance value;
Height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition means relatively higher than the other area corresponding to another value is the print data. Generating means to generate as
A program characterized by functioning as
<Claim 12>
A computer of a data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
An acquisition means for acquiring an image to be printed on the substrate for printing;
A designation unit for designating a predetermined region of the image acquired by the acquisition unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user;
Generating means for generating the print data for printing the predetermined area specified by the specifying means at a desired height;
A program characterized by functioning as
<Claim 13>
A printing system comprising: a data generation device that generates print data; and a printing device that prints a three-dimensional printed material based on the print data,
The data generation device includes:
First acquisition means for acquiring an image to be printed on a printing substrate;
Multi-value conversion means for comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the first acquisition means with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values;
Height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition means relatively higher than the other area corresponding to another value is the print data. And generating means for generating as
The printing apparatus includes:
Second acquisition means for acquiring the height information generated by the generation means;
Based on the height information acquired by the second acquisition means, the printed image is generated by printing the image on the printing substrate so that the one area is relatively higher than the other area. And a printing means.

100, 200 Printing system 1, 21 Imaging device 101 Lens unit 102 Electronic imaging unit 103 Unit circuit unit 104 Imaging control unit 110 Central control unit 111 Image acquisition unit 112 Subject area specifying unit 114 Area designation unit 115 Print data generation unit 2 Data generation Device 201 Central control unit 205 Image acquisition unit 206 Subject area specifying unit 208 Multi-value processing unit 209 Print data generation unit 210 Communication control unit 3, 23 Printing device 302 Communication control unit 303 Printing unit M Recording medium N Communication network

Claims (13)

A data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
Obtaining means for obtaining an image to be printed on the printing substrate;
A multi-value conversion unit that compares the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the acquisition unit with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values;
For printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in an image acquired by the acquiring means relatively higher than another area corresponding to another value smaller than the one value. Generating means for generating height information as the print data;
A data generation device comprising: The multi-value information is information in which the brightness of the image acquired by the acquisition unit is expressed in at least two gradations,
The generation unit generates height information for printing such that a bright region corresponding to the one value is relatively higher based on the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition unit. The data generation apparatus according to claim 1. A region specifying unit for specifying a subject region including the subject from the image acquired by the acquiring unit;
3. The multi-value information is generated by comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the subject area specified by the area specifying means with a predetermined luminance value. 4. The data generator described.   The data generation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a recording unit that records the height information generated by the generation unit.   5. The data generation according to claim 1, further comprising a transmission unit configured to transmit the height information generated by the generation unit to a printing apparatus via a predetermined communication line. apparatus. A data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
Obtaining means for obtaining an image to be printed on the printing substrate;
Designation means for designating a predetermined area of the image acquired by the acquisition means based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user;
Generating means for generating print data for printing the predetermined area specified by the specifying means at a desired height;
A data generation device comprising: A setting unit configured to set the desired height in a desired region designated by the designation unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user;
7. The data generation apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the generation unit generates print data for printing the predetermined area designated by the designation unit at a desired height set by the setting unit. . A region specifying unit for specifying a subject region including the subject from the image acquired by the acquiring unit;
8. The data generation apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the specifying unit specifies the predetermined region within the subject region specified by the region specifying unit. Further comprising an imaging means,
The data generation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires an image captured by the imaging unit. A printing method for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
An acquisition process for acquiring an image to be printed on a printing substrate;
A multi-value process for comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the acquired image with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values;
Generation processing for generating, as print data, height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the acquired image relatively higher than another area corresponding to another value When,
Based on the generated height information, a printing process for generating the printed matter by printing the image on the printing substrate so that the one area is relatively higher than the other area;
A printing method comprising: A computer of a data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
An acquisition means for acquiring an image to be printed on the substrate for printing;
Multi-value conversion means for generating multi-value information having at least binary values by comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the acquisition means with a predetermined luminance value;
Height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition means relatively higher than the other area corresponding to another value is the print data. Generating means to generate as
A program characterized by functioning as A computer of a data generation device that generates print data for printing a three-dimensional printed material,
An acquisition means for acquiring an image to be printed on the substrate for printing;
A designation unit for designating a predetermined region of the image acquired by the acquisition unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user;
Generating means for generating the print data for printing the predetermined area specified by the specifying means at a desired height;
A program characterized by functioning as A printing system comprising: a data generation device that generates print data; and a printing device that prints a three-dimensional printed material based on the print data,
The data generation device includes:
First acquisition means for acquiring an image to be printed on a printing substrate;
Multi-value conversion means for comparing the pixel value of each pixel of the image acquired by the first acquisition means with a predetermined luminance value to generate multi-value information having at least binary values;
Height information for printing one area corresponding to one value of the multi-value information in the image acquired by the acquisition means relatively higher than the other area corresponding to another value is the print data. And generating means for generating as
The printing apparatus includes:
Second acquisition means for acquiring the height information generated by the generation means;
Based on the height information acquired by the second acquisition means, the printed image is generated by printing the image on the printing substrate so that the one area is relatively higher than the other area. And a printing means.