JP2013168813A - Image processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, computer program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To apply image processing suitable for photographs on a document to be a copy source when the document is a photograph by using an image forming apparatus including a plurality of printing devices having different printing methods from each other, and easily reprint the photograph by using a printing device suitable for printing photographs.SOLUTION: A control unit 5 determines as to whether or not to perform image processing for photographs on image data read by an image input device 1. If the control unit 5 determines to perform image processing for photographs, an image processing unit 2 applies image processing appropriate to characteristics of a second image output device 4 that is suitable for printing photographs on the image data, and outputs the processed data to the second image output device.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, a computer program, and a storage medium that perform appropriate image processing on photographic image data.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 describes a technique for realizing an optimum image quality for a document image by switching image processing when an input image is determined to be a standard size of a silver halide photograph. Specifically, when the original is determined to be a standard size of a silver halide photograph, the dynamic range is widened by RGBγ correction, sharpening processing (or output as it is) by an RGB filter, and skeleton black processing is performed as UCR processing, The CMYBkγ filter performs sharpening processing according to the frequency characteristics of the image recording unit, CMYBkγ correction performs gradation processing with emphasis on gradation, and halftone processing performs processing with emphasis on gradation.

  In addition, the applicant of the present application has already provided a digital color multifunction peripheral equipped with both an electrophotographic printing apparatus and a sublimation printing apparatus to the market. In this case, character originals and the like can be printed with good reproducibility and at low cost by using an electrophotographic printing apparatus. An image taken with a digital camera, a camera-equipped mobile phone, or the like can be printed as a photograph by using a sublimation printing apparatus (photo print). Since a sublimation printing apparatus can express many gradations with one pixel, an image quality close to that of a photograph can be obtained.

JP-A-8-130642

  However, a conventional digital multi-function peripheral having both an electrophotographic printing apparatus and a sublimation printing apparatus has a function of reading a photograph as a document and printing it as a photograph using a sublimation printing apparatus. It wasn't. For this reason, if the photograph is possessed but the image data is not possessed, the photograph cannot be reprinted. From the user's point of view, it is desired to develop an apparatus that can easily reprint by copying a photo.

  Note that the image processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 is not premised on including a plurality of printing apparatuses. Therefore, this technique cannot be applied to a digital multi-function peripheral equipped with both an electrophotographic printing apparatus and a sublimation printing apparatus.

  In the present invention, for example, an image forming apparatus including both a printing apparatus with excellent character reproduction and low printing cost, such as an electrophotographic printing apparatus, and a sublimation printing apparatus suitable for printing a photograph is mounted. Thus, when the original to be copied is a photograph, the image processing apparatus can perform image processing suitable for the photograph, and can easily reprint the photograph using a sublimation printing apparatus, and the image processing apparatus. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus, a computer program, and a storage medium.

  In order to solve the above problems, an image processing apparatus of the present invention is an image processing apparatus including an image processing unit that performs image processing suitable for each printing apparatus on a plurality of printing apparatuses having different printing methods. A photographic processing determination unit that determines whether or not to perform image processing for a photograph on image data read by the document reading device, and the image processing unit uses the photographic processing determination unit If the image processing is determined to be performed, the image data read by the document reading device is subjected to image processing suitable for a photographic printing device among the plurality of printing devices, and the photographic printing is performed. It is characterized by being output to the device.

  According to the above configuration, the photographic processing determination unit determines whether to perform photographic image processing on the image data read by the document reading device, and determines to perform photographic image processing. Then, the image processing unit performs image processing suitable for a photographic printing apparatus on the image data, and outputs the image data to the photographic printing apparatus.

  Therefore, by mounting such an image processing apparatus of the present invention on an image forming apparatus such as a digital multi-function peripheral having a plurality of printing apparatuses with different printing methods, a photograph as a copy of a photograph can be obtained. This makes it possible to reprint a photo based on the photo.

  In the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the photographic processing determination unit further selects a photographic process based on a size of a sheet on which image data read by the document reading apparatus is selected by a user. It can be configured to determine whether or not to perform image processing.

  There are standard sizes of photographs such as L and 2L. Therefore, when such a standard size of a photo is selected as the paper size, the image data read by the document reader and subjected to image processing is a photo read, and the processing for the photo is performed. It can be determined that it should be done.

  The image processing apparatus of the present invention further includes a document type determining unit that determines an image type of image data read by the document reading device, and the photograph processing determining unit includes the document type determining unit, When it is determined that the image data is image data of a photograph, it can be configured to determine that the processing for the photograph is performed.

  In many image forming apparatuses such as digital multi-function peripherals, an image processing unit is provided with a document type determining unit that determines an image type of image data, and performs image processing according to the image type. Yes. Examples of the image type include a photographic paper photograph area, a halftone dot area, and a character area. It is possible to determine whether or not the image data of the document read by the document reading device is the image data of the photograph using the determination result of the document type determination unit. For example, it is determined that the image data is a photographic paper photographic document or a printed photographic document.

  In the above configuration, when the image data of the document read by the document reader is photographic image data, the photographic processing determination unit determines that the photographic processing is to be performed, and the photographic processing is performed in the image processing unit. Applied.

  Therefore, even when the document is a photograph, the user can obtain a photograph as a copy of the photograph by simply setting the photograph as a document in the document reader without performing any special operation. It becomes possible.

  The image processing apparatus of the present invention further includes a document type determining unit that determines an image type of image data read by the document reading device, and the photo processing determining unit is selected by a user, When the size of the sheet on which the image data read by the document reader is printed is a size for a photograph, and the document type determination unit determines that the image data is image data of a photo, It can be set as the structure determined with performing the process for photographs.

  According to the above configuration, even if the user selects a photo-size sheet, printing is executed only when the document type determination unit determines that the image is a photo. Therefore, even if an unfamiliar user selects a photographic paper as an output paper when performing a normal text document, it is possible to prevent unnecessary printing.

  In order to solve the above problems, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a document reading device that reads an image of a document to generate image data, a printing device that is suitable for printing characters, and a printing device that is suitable for printing photos. And the image processing apparatus of the present invention.

  As a result, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can obtain a photo as a copy of the photo as a document and can reprint the photo based on the photo.

  The image forming apparatus of the present invention may further include a paper size selection unit that allows a user to select a paper size on which the image data read by the document reading device is to be printed.

  According to this, the user can easily select the paper size on which the image data read by the document reading device is printed using the paper size selection unit.

  The image processing apparatus according to the present invention may be realized by a computer. In this case, the computer is operated as the image processing unit, the photo processing determination unit, and the document type determination unit in the image processing apparatus. Thus, an image processing program for realizing the image processing apparatus on a computer and a computer-readable recording medium on which the image processing program is recorded also fall within the scope of the present invention.

  As a result, for example, it can be mounted on an image forming apparatus having both a printing apparatus excellent in character reproduction, such as an electrophotographic printing apparatus, and having a low printing cost and a sublimation printing apparatus suitable for printing a photograph. An image processing apparatus capable of performing image processing suitable for a photograph when the original document to be copied is a photograph and easily performing a reprint of the photograph using a sublimation printing apparatus, and the image processing apparatus are provided. An image forming apparatus, a computer program, and a storage medium can be provided.

1 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus including an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which image data read from an image input apparatus in a copy mode is a first electrophotographic printing apparatus. The flow of image data when the image is input to the image output apparatus and printed is shown. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus including the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, in which the image data read from the image input apparatus is a sublimation type printing apparatus in the copy mode. The flow of image data when the image is printed by being input to the output device is shown. It is a figure of the screen for selecting the size of output paper displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus. (A) (b) is a figure which shows an example of the filter coefficient used in the 1st spatial filter part of the said image processing apparatus, (a) is the smoothing used when performing the process for photographs The filter coefficient of the process, and (b) is the filter coefficient of the smoothing process used when the process for the photograph is not performed. It is a functional block diagram of the modification of the said image processing apparatus, and when performing the process for photography, a color correction part makes a YCC signal into R'G'B 'signal according to the output characteristic of a 2nd image output device. The structure to convert is shown. (A)-(c) is a figure which shows an example of the filter coefficient used in the 2nd spatial filter part of the said image processing apparatus, (a) is with respect to the printed photograph which consists of a halftone dot area | region. (B) is a filter coefficient that performs a strong smoothing process on a halftone dot area when no photographic process is performed, and (c) is weak to a silver salt photograph. It is a filter coefficient which performs a smoothing process. (A) (b) is a figure which shows an example of the filter coefficient used in the 2nd spatial filter part of the modification of the said image processing apparatus, and is the 1st image output apparatus which is an electrophotographic printing apparatus. The corresponding high density region and low density region filter coefficients are shown. (A) (b) is a figure which shows an example of the filter coefficient used in the 2nd spatial filter part of the modification of the said image processing apparatus, and respond | corresponds to the 2nd image output apparatus which is a sublimation type printing apparatus The filter coefficients of the high density region and the low density region are shown. 3 is a flowchart of image processing in the image forming apparatus. It is a figure of the screen which selects the kind of output paper displayed on the operation panel of the said image forming apparatus. It is a figure of the screen which is washed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus provided with the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention to wash whether or not to change the size of a photograph as a document.

  An embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment including the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment is selected when one of a copy mode, a print mode, a facsimile transmission mode, a facsimile reception mode, and an image transmission mode is selected. Is a digital color multi-function peripheral that executes the selected mode.

  The copy mode (copy mode) means a mode for reading image data (reading a document to generate image data) and printing an image of the image data on paper. The print mode means a mode in which an image of image data sent from a computer connected to the image forming apparatus 100 is printed on a recording sheet. The print mode includes a mode in which image data read from a digital camera, a USB memory, an SD card or the like is printed on paper. In the copy mode and the print mode, the user selects either a monochrome mode for outputting a monochrome image or a full color mode for outputting a full color image.

  The facsimile transmission mode means a normal facsimile mode in which image data obtained by reading a document is transmitted to an external device through a telephone line, and an Internet facsimile mode in which the image data is attached to a mail and transmitted over the Internet. The facsimile reception mode means a mode in which image data is received from an external device by facsimile and an image of the received image data is printed on paper.

  The image transmission mode is (1) a mode in which image data generated by scanning a document is attached to an e-mail and transmitted to a specified address (scan to e-mail mode), and (2) generated by scanning a document. Mode for sending image data to a folder designated by the user (scan to ftp mode), (3) Mode for sending image data generated by reading a document to a USB memory mounted on the image forming apparatus (scan to usb) Mode).

  In the present embodiment, the facsimile transmission mode and the image transmission mode are classified as described above from the viewpoint of the image processing operation, but the mode classification is not limited to the above.

  Notable configurations in this image forming apparatus are a printing apparatus that prints an image of image data on paper, an electrophotographic printing apparatus that has excellent character reproduction and low printing costs, and a sublimation type that is suitable for printing photographs. Both of the printing apparatuses are mounted, and when the original is a photograph, the photograph can be printed by using a sublimation printing apparatus to reprint the photograph.

  Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus will be described in detail focusing on this point. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are functional block diagrams of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment provided with the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment. Among these, FIG. 1 shows an image when image data read from the image input device 1 is input to the first image output device 3 which is an electrophotographic printing device and the image is printed in the copy mode. The flow of data is shown. On the other hand, FIG. 2 shows image data when the image data read from the image input apparatus 1 is input to the second image output apparatus 4 which is a sublimation type printing apparatus and the image is printed in the copy mode. The flow is shown.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image input device 1, an image processing unit 2, a first image output device 3, a second image output device 4, a reception device 7, a transmission device 8, and a storage device. 6, a control unit 5, an operation panel 11, a data input terminal 9, and a software processing unit 10. The image processing apparatus of the present invention includes an image processing unit 2 and a control unit 5.

  An image input apparatus (original reading apparatus) 1 is an image reading apparatus that reads an original and generates image data in a copy mode, a facsimile transmission mode, and an image transmission mode. The image input device 1 includes a scanner unit having a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) line sensor, converts light reflected from the document into an electrical signal (analog image signal) that is color-separated into RGB, and this An electric signal is input to the image processing unit 2. Note that the image input apparatus 1 reads a document image in full color regardless of whether the full color mode or the monochrome mode is selected.

  The first image output device (printing device) 3 and the second image output device (printing device) 4 print (form) the image of the image data sent from the image processing unit 2 on a recording sheet such as paper. Is. In the present embodiment, as described above, the first image output device 3 is an electrophotographic printing device, and the second image output device 4 is a sublimation printing device.

  An electrophotographic printing apparatus exposes the surface of a negatively charged photoreceptor using a laser or LED (light emitting diode), and attaches toner on the surface of the photoreceptor to form a toner image. After the image is transferred to the paper, it is fixed by heating and pressure. In this method, since the gradation of one pixel is not sufficient, it is necessary to reproduce the gradation by dividing it into a plurality of pixels in the halftone generation unit 40 described later of the image processing unit 2.

  On the other hand, a sublimation printing apparatus forms an image by heating and sublimating ink and attaching it to paper. In this method, by controlling the amount of heat applied, many gradations can be expressed by one pixel, and an image quality close to that of a photograph can be obtained.

  The electrophotographic method is inferior to the sublimation type in terms of image quality when printing a photograph, but it is superior in terms of character reproduction and printing cost. On the other hand, the sublimation type is inferior in terms of printing cost, but the image quality is superior when a photograph is printed. In the image forming apparatus 100, the image output apparatus to be used can be switched according to the user's intention, and a higher-quality printed matter can be provided to the user.

  The first image output device 3 forms an image based on the image data supplied from the image processing unit 2 in a copy mode when the document is not a photograph, a print mode when the document is not a photograph print, and a facsimile reception mode.

  The second image output device 4 forms an image based on the image data supplied from the image processing unit 2 in a copy mode when the document is a photograph and a print mode when the document is a photograph print. The process of switching the image output device to be used depending on whether the document is a photograph or a photograph print is performed by the control unit 5 described later. As will be described in detail later, the control unit 5 determines whether or not to perform a photographic process on the image data, and when performing the process, the operation of the image processing unit 2 in a predetermined block is changed to a photographic process. The second image output device 4 is selected as the image output device to be used.

  The image processing unit 2 performs image processing on image data (image signal). In the present embodiment, the image processing unit 2 includes a hardware unit 2A configured by an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and a software unit 2B configured by a computer equipped with a CPU. Note that all the functions of the software unit 2B can be mounted on the ASIC. Conversely, all the functions of the hardware unit 2A can be configured by a computer.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing unit 2 includes an A / D (analog / digital) conversion unit 21, a shading correction unit 22, an input processing unit 23, a document type automatic discrimination unit 24, a YCC conversion unit 25, a first space. Filter unit 26, RGB conversion unit 27, region separation processing unit 29, compression unit 30, region separation signal compression unit 31, decoding unit 32, region separation signal decoding unit 33, image quality adjustment unit 34, color correction unit 35, black generation / Under color removal unit 36, second spatial filter unit 37, first scaling unit 38, first output tone correction unit 39, halftone generation unit 40, unsharp mask processing unit 41, second scaling unit 42, Each block of the 2-output gradation correction unit 43 is provided. Among these, the unsharp mask processing unit 41, the second scaling unit 42, and the second output tone correction unit 43 are configured by the software unit 2B, and the remaining blocks are mounted on the hardware unit 2A. . The processing content of each block included in the image processing unit 2 will be described later.

  The image processing unit 2 performs image processing on the image data sent from the image input apparatus 1 in the copy mode, the facsimile transmission mode, and the image transmission mode. When performing image processing in the copy facsimile mode, the image transmission mode, and the Internet facsimile mode of the facsimile transmission mode, the image processing unit 2 performs one of the processes for the photo on the image data sent from the image input device 1. The first spatial filter unit 26 performs processing for reducing noise.

  Further, in the copy mode, the image processing unit 2 responds to the characteristics of the image data sent from the image input device 1 according to the selected one of the first image output device 3 and the second image output device 4. Apply image processing. Image processing according to the characteristics of the second image output device 4 is one of the processes for photography. The image processing unit 2 outputs the image data subjected to the image processing to the selected one of the first image output device 3 and the second image output device 4.

  In the print mode, image processing is performed on the image data temporarily stored in the storage device 6 from the software processing unit 10. Even in the print mode, image processing is performed according to the characteristics of the selected one of the first image output device 3 and the second image output device 4. In the print mode, the second image output device 4 is selected when the photo print is selected on the operation panel 11, and the first image output device 3 is selected otherwise.

  In the facsimile reception mode, image processing is performed on the image data received by the receiving device 7 from the external device. The image processing unit 2 transmits the image data subjected to the image processing to the image output device 3 in the facsimile reception mode, and transmits the image data subjected to the image processing to the transmission device 8 in the facsimile transmission mode.

  In the scan to e-mail mode of the image transmission mode, the image processing unit 2 transmits the image data subjected to the image processing to a mail processing unit (not shown), and performs the image processing in the scan to ftp mode. The transmitted image data is transmitted to a predetermined folder, and the image data subjected to image processing is transmitted to a USB memory connected to the data input terminal 9 in the scan to usb mode.

  The receiving device 7 is connected to a telephone line or the Internet, and receives image data from an external device by facsimile communication. The transmission device 8 is connected to a telephone line or the Internet, and is a device that transmits image data input by the image input device 1 to an external device by facsimile communication.

  The storage device 6 is a device for temporarily storing image data handled by the image processing unit 2 and is, for example, a hard disk.

  The data input terminal 9 is an apparatus for inputting image data to be printed in the print mode. It has an interface for connecting a data storage device such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or an SD (Secure Digital Memory Card) card, acquires image data stored in the data storage device, and sends the image data to the software processing unit 10 give.

  The software processing unit 10 is a device that performs image processing on the image data sent from the data input terminal 9, and is composed of, for example, a computer equipped with a CPU. The digital image stored in the digital camera, USB memory, or SD card connected to the USB terminal of the data input terminal 9 is read and image processing is performed. The software processing unit 10 includes a document type automatic determination unit 24, a YCC conversion unit 25, a first spatial filter unit 26, an RGB conversion unit 27, a color correction unit 35, a second spatial filter unit 37, an unmentioned document type automatic determination unit 24, which will be described later. Processing equivalent to that of the sharp mask processing unit 41, the second scaling unit 42, and the second output tone correction unit 43 is realized. The image data processed by the software processing unit 10 is sent to the second image output device 4 which is a sublimation type printing device. In the software processing unit 10, the processing of the document type automatic determination unit 24 may not be performed.

  The operation panel 11 is an input interface of the image forming apparatus 100. In the present embodiment, the operation panel 11 is provided as a touch panel, and displays a GUI (graphical user interface) and an operation guide for inputting various commands to the image forming apparatus 100. The operation panel 11 displays buttons corresponding to the output paper size as shown in FIG. The user can select a paper size for outputting an image by operating a button.

  The control unit (photo processing determination unit) 5 is a computer including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and comprehensively controls various blocks provided in the image forming apparatus 100. is there. The control unit 5 also has a function of controlling data transfer between the blocks provided in the image forming apparatus 100.

  Here, as described above, in the Internet facsimile mode of the copy mode, the image transmission mode, and the facsimile transmission mode, the control unit 5 performs a photographic process on the image data sent from the image input apparatus 1. In the case of performing the process for photography, the first spatial filter unit 26 performs a process of reducing noise.

  Further, in the copy mode and the print mode, the control unit 5 selects the second image output device 4 as the image output device to be used and performs processing of a predetermined block in the image processing unit 2 when performing processing for photographs. The operation is switched so as to correspond to the characteristics of the second image output device 4. In the case where the processing for photography is not performed, the first image output device 3 is selected as the image output device to be used, and the operation of a predetermined block in the image processing unit 2 is set to the characteristics of the selected first image output device 3. Switch to be compatible.

  As a method for determining whether or not the control unit 5 performs the processing for the photo, for example, there is a method for allowing the user to designate “photo print”. This urges the user to select “photo print” using the operation panel 11 when he / she wants to print a photo. When the user selects “photo print” from the operation panel 11, the control unit 5 determines to perform the photo process.

  There is also a method for allowing the user to specify an “output paper size”. This prompts the user to select an output paper size using the operation panel 11. For photo printing, standard size paper such as L size or 2L size is used. For document printing, standard size of recording paper such as A plate such as A4, A3, B plate such as B5, B4, etc. Paper is used.

  Therefore, the control unit 5 performs the processing for the photo when the user selects the standard size of the photo, such as the L plate, the 2L plate, or the four cuts, based on the output paper size selected from the operation panel 11. Is determined. On the other hand, when A-type or B-type paper is selected as the output paper size, the control unit 5 regards document printing (no photo processing is performed) and does not perform photo processing. judge.

  In the following description, it is assumed that printing using the first image output device 3 is the default in the image forming apparatus 100, and printing using the second image output device 4 is a change from the default. Use expressions such as “switch” and “change”.

  Further, when the user is prompted to input “output paper size”, “output paper type” may be designated. This prompts the user to select the type of output paper using the operation panel 11. When copying a document used in a normal office or the like, plain paper with low gloss is used, and when copying a photograph, paper with a thick paper and high gloss is used. Therefore, the control unit 5 displays a screen for selecting “plain paper” or “photo paper” as shown in FIG. If the user is not familiar with the output paper size, the user may be confused about the output paper size selection operation. However, first, by prompting the user to select the type of output paper, the user's intention can be reflected and the input operation can be performed quickly.

  When “Photo Paper” is selected as “Output Paper Type” on the screen of FIG. 10, a standard size of a photo such as L size or 2L size is displayed. The user may select the intended paper size from the displayed options. In addition, when “plain paper” is selected on the screen of FIG. 10, standard sizes of recording paper such as A plate such as A4 and A3 and B plate such as B5 and B4 are displayed. Similarly to the above, the user may select the intended paper size from the displayed options.

  Further, instead of the method of designating the copy mode and the output paper size, the document size set on the document table may be read. When a standard size of a photograph is detected as an original, such as an L version or a 2L version, it is determined that the processing for the photograph is performed. The document size can be detected by providing a plurality of sensors (for example, phototransistors) on the document table.

  Further, the control unit 5 determines that the photographic process is to be performed when it is determined as a photographic paper photographic document or a printed photographic document using the determination result by the automatic document type determination unit 24 of the image processing unit 2. May be. Further, combining the selection of the output paper size and the determination result by the automatic document type determination unit 24, the determination result of the original type is a photographic paper photo original or a printed photo original, and the original size is L version, 2L version, etc. When the standard size of the photograph is selected, it may be determined that the processing for the photograph is performed. Alternatively, when it is determined that the document type is a photographic paper photographic document or a printed photographic document, the user is made to indicate whether or not printing is performed by the second image output device 4 which is a sublimation type printing device. Also good.

  Next, details of processing executed in each block of the image processing unit 2 will be described. The image processing unit 2 includes blocks that may or may not operate depending on the selected mode (copy mode, print mode, facsimile transmission mode, facsimile reception mode, or image transmission mode). . If not, the block will pass the input signal. Even in the same mode, there is a block that operates or does not operate or changes the processing contents depending on whether or not the processing for the photograph is performed.

  In the following, referring to both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, it is a case where the copy mode is selected as the content of the processing executed in each block included in the image processing unit 2, and the processing for photography The case where the processing is performed (FIG. 2) and the case where the processing for the photograph is not performed (FIG. 1) will be described with emphasis on blocks having different processing contents. Note that the processing contents of the blocks that are not specifically described as being different in processing are the same when the photo processing is performed (FIG. 2) and when the photo processing is not performed (FIG. 1).

  The A / D (analog / digital) converter 21 converts the color image signal (RGB analog signal) sent from the image input apparatus 1 into digital image data (RGB digital signal). The shading correction unit 22 excludes processing for removing various distortions generated in the illumination system, the imaging system, and the imaging system of the image input device 1 from the image data sent from the A / D conversion unit 21. The input processing unit 23 performs gradation conversion processing such as γ correction processing on each of the RGB image data sent from the shading correction unit 22.

  An automatic document type discrimination unit (original type discrimination unit) 24 is read by the image input device 1 based on RGB signal image data (RGB density signal) that has been subjected to processing such as γ correction by the input processing unit 23. The type of the original is determined. Here, as the type of document to be determined, there are a character document, a printed photograph document, a character printed photograph document in which characters and a printed photograph are mixed, and the like.

As a determination method by the automatic document type determination unit 24, for example, a method described in JP-A-2002-232232 can be used. The procedure is described below.
(1) The minimum density value and the maximum density value in an n × m (for example, 7 × 15) block including the target pixel are calculated.
(2) The maximum density difference is calculated using the calculated minimum density value and maximum density value.
(3) The total density busyness (for example, the sum of values calculated in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction), which is the sum of absolute values of density differences between adjacent pixels, is calculated.
(4) A comparison between the calculated maximum density difference and the maximum density difference threshold and a comparison between the calculated total density busyness and the total density busyness threshold are performed.
When the maximum density difference <the maximum density difference threshold and the total density busyness <the total density busyness threshold, it is determined that the pixel of interest belongs to the background / photographic paper photograph area.
When the above condition is not satisfied, it is determined that the target pixel belongs to the character / halftone dot region.
(5) When a pixel pixel of interest determined to belong to the background / photographic paper photograph area satisfies the maximum density difference <background / photographic paper photograph determination threshold, it is determined to be a background pixel, and when the above condition is not satisfied, It is determined that the pixel is a photographic paper photograph (continuous tone area) pixel.
(6) A pixel-of-interest pixel determined to belong to a character / halftone area is determined to be a character pixel when the condition of the sum density density busyness <maximum density difference is multiplied by a character / halftone determination threshold value is satisfied. When the above condition is not satisfied, it is determined that the pixel is a halftone pixel.
(7) Count the number of pixels classified into the background area, the photographic paper photograph area, the character area, and the halftone dot area, and count the respective count values and the predetermined background area, the photographic paper photograph area, the halftone dot area, and the character. The type of the entire document is determined by comparison with a threshold value for the area. For example, assuming that the detection accuracy is higher in the order of characters, halftone dots, and photographic paper photographs, the ratio of the text original and halftone areas is 20% of the total number of pixels when the ratio of the character areas is 30% or more of the total number of pixels. In the above case, when the ratio of the halftone original (printed photo original) and the photographic paper photo area is 10% or more of the total number of pixels, it is determined that the image is a photographic paper photo original. Further, when the ratio of the character area and the ratio of the halftone dot area are equal to or greater than the threshold value, respectively, it is determined that the character / halftone original (character-printed photo original).

  Further, the document type automatic determination unit 24 performs automatic color determination (ACS), which is a process for determining whether the read document is a color document or a monochrome document based on the image data. It is also possible to determine whether or not the document is a blank document (whether or not it is a plain document). The automatic document type discrimination unit 24 sends the RGB signal image data input from the input processing unit 23 to the YCC conversion unit 25 and the region separation processing unit 29.

  The YCC conversion unit 25 and the RGB conversion unit 27 operate only when the control unit 5 determines to perform a photographic process (see FIG. 2). The YCC conversion unit 25 outputs the image data composed of the RGB signals input from the document type automatic determination unit 24 to the first spatial filter unit 26 as it is when the photographic process is not performed (see FIG. 1).

  On the other hand, when processing for a photograph, the YCC conversion unit 25 converts the image data composed of RGB signals input from the document type automatic discrimination unit 24 into the image of the YCC signal composed of the luminance signal Y, the color difference signals Cb, and Cr. Convert to data. The conversion can be performed using, for example, a matrix arithmetic expression of Formula 1 shown below.

However, it is 0 when the value calculated by the above matrix arithmetic expression is 0 or less, and 255 when it is 255 or more. The YCC conversion unit 25 outputs the converted image data of the YCC signal to the first spatial filter unit 26 (see FIG. 2).

  The first spatial filter unit 26 uses different filter coefficients depending on whether or not the photographic process is performed. When the processing for photography is not performed, smoothing processing is performed on the RGB signals using the filter coefficients shown in FIG. 4B to suppress the occurrence of interference fringes (moire) (first spatial filter processing A ). The first spatial filter unit 26 outputs the smoothed image data (RGB signal) to the RGB conversion unit 27 (see FIG. 1).

  On the other hand, when performing processing for a photograph, the first spatial filter unit 26 converts the chromaticity signal out of the image data of the YCC signal (Y: luminance signal, CC: chromaticity signal) converted into the YCC color space. Smoothing processing is performed using filter coefficients as shown in FIG. 4A (first spatial filter processing B). By using such a filter coefficient, the chromaticity signal can be smoothed without blurring the luminance signal, and noise can be reduced without deteriorating the apparent sharpness. The first spatial filter unit 26 outputs the smoothed image data (YCC signal) to the RGB conversion unit 27 (see FIG. 2).

The RGB conversion unit 27 outputs the image data (RGB signal) input from the first spatial filter unit 26 to the compression unit 30 as it is when the photographic process is not performed (see FIG. 1).
On the other hand, when processing for a photograph is performed, the RGB conversion unit 27 converts image data composed of YCC signals into image data composed of RGB signals. This conversion can be performed using, for example, the following matrix calculation formula (see FIG. 2). The RGB conversion unit 27 outputs the converted image data (RGB signal) to the compression unit 30.

Since processing is performed based on the YCC signal in the JPEG format, when the image data is temporarily stored in the JPEG format, the RGB conversion unit 27 converts the image data composed of the YCC signal into image data composed of the RGB signal. Without being sent to the compression unit 30.

  The compression unit 30 performs a process of encoding the image data (RGB signal) sent from the RGB conversion unit 27. Note that the encoding is performed based on, for example, a JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) system.

  The area separation processing unit 29 determines in what image area the pixel corresponds to each pixel of the input image based on the RGB image data input from the document type automatic determination unit 24 when the process for photography is not performed. It is discriminated whether it is classified, and a region separation signal indicating the discrimination result is generated (see FIG. 1). The image areas discriminated by the area separation processing unit include a black character area, a color character area, a halftone dot area, and the like. Note that the region separation processing may be in a form in which the image region is determined for each block including a plurality of pixels, instead of determining the image region for each pixel.

  As the region separation process, the above methods (1) to (6) can be used. When the document type is determined, it is only necessary to be able to determine the document type. For example, (1) the resolution of the image data is reduced, and (2) a threshold that can be reliably determined as a threshold for determining each region. Use the data with reliable region separation. The region separation processing unit 29 generates and outputs a region separation signal to the region separation signal compression unit 31 (see FIG. 1). In the case of performing the process for a photograph, since it is already known that the document is a photograph, the region separation processing unit 29 does not perform the region separation process (see FIG. 2).

  The region separation signal compression unit 31 performs compression processing on the region separation signal generated for each pixel. The compression processing in the region separation signal compression unit 31 is performed based on, for example, an MMR (Modified Modified Reed) method and an MR (Modified Reed) method, which are lossless compression methods (see FIG. 1).

  The control unit 5 temporarily stores the encoded code (encoded image data) output from the compression unit 30 and the region separation signal code (compressed region separation signal) output from the region separation signal compression unit 31. The data is stored in the device 6 and managed as filing data. Then, in the copy mode, the control unit 5 reads the encoded code and the region separation signal code corresponding to the encoded code from the storage device 6 and passes them to the decoding unit 32 and the region separation signal decoding unit 33, respectively.

  The control unit 5 associates the storage address or data name of the encoded code with the storage address of the region separation signal code and enters them in the management table. That is, the control unit 5 controls reading or writing of the encoded code and the region separation signal code using the management table.

  The decoding unit 32 expands the encoded code into RGB image data by performing a decoding process on the encoded code.

  The region separation signal decoding unit 33 performs a decoding process on the region separation signal code. The decoded region separation signal is delivered to the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36, the second spatial filter unit 37, and the halftone generation unit 40. In the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36, the second spatial filter unit 37, and the halftone generation unit 40, the image processing content is switched according to the type of the image area (see FIG. 1).

  The image quality adjustment unit 34 detects the background of the RGB image data sent from the decoding unit 32 and performs background removal correction. Further, the image quality adjustment unit 34 adjusts RGB balance (color adjustment, overall color adjustment such as reddish blue), brightness, and vividness based on setting information input from the operation panel 11 by the user.

  The color correction unit 35 and the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36 change the color correction table to be used and whether to perform the black generation / undercolor removal parameter depending on whether or not the photographic process is performed. To do.

  When the full color mode is selected, the color correction unit 35 performs color correction processing for converting RGB image data into CMY image data, and performs processing for improving color reproducibility on the image data. In the color correction process, an LUT (lookup table) in which input values (RGB) and output values (CMY) are associated with each other is created in advance as a color correction table. This is realized by looking up the output value.

  When the process for photography is not performed, the color correction unit 35 uses a color correction table corresponding to the output characteristics of the first image output device 3 (color correction process A). On the other hand, when performing the process for photographs, the color correction unit 35 uses a color correction table corresponding to the output characteristics of the second image output device 4 (color correction process B). The color correction unit 35 outputs the corrected image data to the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36.

  When the full color mode is selected and the photo processing is not performed, the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36 converts the CMY signal into C′M′Y using Equation 3 below. Convert to 'K signal (black generation / under color removal processing A). The black generation / undercolor removal unit 36 outputs the converted C′M′Y′K signal to the second spatial filter unit 37. (See FIG. 1).

For α and β, the first image output device 3 is actually used to output images with various values and obtain appropriate values. In the electrophotographic method, the value is switched by a region separation signal. For example, for a character region, for example, α = 1 and β = 1 are set, and a black generation amount is increased to reduce a CMY usage amount. As a result, the amount of CMY is reduced by reducing the amount of CMY and the color blur is reproduced, and the character is reproduced more clearly.

  The first image output device 3 that is an electrophotographic printing device uses K toner and converts it to CMYK signals. However, the second image output device 4 that is a sublimation type printing device uses only color ink. Since it is used, the black generation and under color removal processing is unnecessary. Therefore, when performing a process for a photograph, the black generation / under color removal unit 36 performs processing with α = 0 and β = 0 by using Equation 4 shown below (black generation / under color removal processing B). The black generation / under color removal unit 36 outputs the color-corrected CMY signal as it is to the second spatial filter unit 37 as a C′M′Y ′ signal (see FIG. 2). In this case, the processing in the halftone generation unit 40 is through (no processing is performed).

Further, as a configuration of the modified example, when the color correction unit 35 performs processing for a photograph, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the R′G′B ′ signal is converted into an R′G′B ′ signal according to the output characteristics of the second image output device 4. You may make it convert. In this case, the processes of the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36, the first output tone correction unit 39, and the halftone generation unit 40 in the subsequent stage are through.

As another configuration, the color correction unit 35 may perform color correction processing by a color masking method instead of using a color correction table. In the case of the color masking method, an L ^* a ^* b ^* value (CIE 1976 L ^* a ^* b ^* signal (CIE: Commission International de l'Eclairage: International Illumination) of the color output when a certain CMY signal is given to the image output device. Committee: L ^* : Lightness, a ^* , b ^* : Chromaticity))) RGB data when the scanner reads a color patch with the same L ^* a ^* b ^* and CMY data given to the image output device A large number of sets are prepared, and the coefficients of the transformation matrix from a11 to a33 in Equation 5 shown below are calculated from these combinations. Color correction processing is performed using these coefficients. In order to increase the accuracy, it is only necessary to add a second or higher order term.

The second spatial filter unit 37 applies enhancement processing or smoothing processing to the image data of the C′M′Y′K signal or the C′M′Y ′ signal output from the black generation / undercolor removal unit 36 using a digital filter. Perform spatial filter processing.

  The second spatial filter unit 37 changes the filter processing to be used depending on whether or not to perform photo processing. When the photo processing is not performed, the second spatial filter unit 37 further performs filter processing based on the region separation signal. To change.

  Since the electrophotographic printing apparatus does not have a sufficient number of gradations for one pixel, a gradation reproduction process for reproducing gradations using a plurality of pixels such as a systematic dither method is performed (second spatial filter processing A). ). In this case, when the input image is composed of halftone dots and has periodicity, interference fringes are generated due to interference with the period of the dither matrix. Therefore, the second spatial filter unit 37 performs a strong smoothing process as shown in FIG. 6B on the halftone dot area to suppress the generation of interference fringes when the process for photography is not performed.

  On the other hand, in the case of a sublimation type printing apparatus, many gradations can be expressed by one pixel, and gradations are expressed for each pixel, so that interference fringes hardly occur. Therefore, a weak smoothing process as shown in FIG. 6A is performed on a printed photograph made up of a halftone dot region, and halftone components are removed while preventing excessive blurring. Further, for silver salt photographs (photographic paper photographs, photographs composed of continuous gradations), a smoothing process weaker than that shown in FIG. 6A is performed (second spatial filter). Process B).

  Further, the second spatial filter unit 37 may switch the filter process according to the density (pixel value) of the image data. For example, a filter process having a smoothing characteristic in a high density region, a filter process having an emphasis characteristic and a smooth characteristic in a low density region, and a filter having a smoothing characteristic in a region between high density and low density. The filter processing having processing, emphasis characteristics, and smoothing characteristics is performed by obtaining a coefficient corresponding to the density, multiplying and adding the coefficients (smooth characteristics in the high density area and in the low density area). Filter processing having a characteristic in which the emphasis characteristic and the smoothing characteristic are mixed (see JP 2009-118338 A). Thereby, the noise of a shadow part can be reduced. Also, when performing processing for photography, a filter coefficient having a smoothing characteristic that is weaker than the electrophotographic printing is used as the smoothing characteristic. Since the photo document does not have periodicity due to the dither matrix and does not generate moire, it should not be overblurred. FIGS. 7A and 7B show examples of filter coefficients in the high density region and the low density region corresponding to the first image output device 3 that is an electrophotographic printing device. FIGS. 7A and 7B show a second image that is a sublimation type printing device. Examples of filter coefficients in the high density region and the low density region corresponding to the output device 4 are shown in FIGS.

  The first scaling unit 38 performs image enlargement or reduction processing based on a scaling command (information indicating the magnification of the print image) input by the user via the operation panel 11. The scaling process is performed using a commonly known interpolation method such as Niares, Neighbor, Bilinear, and Bicubic. When the processing for photography is not performed, the first scaling unit 38 processes whether the scaling is reduction or enlargement.

  On the other hand, when performing processing for a photograph, the first scaling unit 38 performs processing when the scaling is reduction, and when it is enlargement, the first scaling unit 38 directly outputs the image data to the first output tone correction unit 39. The scaling process is performed by the second scaling unit 42 in the subsequent stage. Thereby, the image size to be subjected to unsharp mask processing can be reduced, and the processing speed can be increased. In the first scaling unit 38 or the second scaling unit 42 in the subsequent stage, the image data is subjected to scaling processing so that the output image data has the selected output paper size such as L version, 2L version, and the like.

  The first output tone correction unit 39 performs, for example, output γ correction processing for outputting the image data output from the first scaling unit 38 to a recording medium such as paper when the processing for photography is not performed. Then, output tone correction is performed according to the output characteristics of the first image output device 3 (output tone correction processing A). When performing processing for a photograph, the first output tone correction unit 39 outputs the image data as it is to the halftone generation unit 40 without performing the processing, and the second output tone correction unit 43 in the subsequent stage. Output tone correction is performed according to the output characteristics of the second image output device 4 (output tone correction processing B).

The halftone generation unit 40 executes a halftone generation process necessary for printing an image in the first image output device 3 by using an error diffusion method or a dither method when the process for photography is not performed. The gradation reproduction process is performed using a plurality of pixels as in the above-described systematic dither method. At this time, based on the result of the region separation processing, the region separated as the character region is binary on a high-resolution screen suitable for reproduction of high-frequency components, particularly in order to improve the reproducibility of black characters or color characters. Or multi-value processing. A region separated as a halftone dot region by the region separation processing unit is binarized or multi-valued on a screen that emphasizes gradation. With respect to the region separated as the photographic region by the region separation processing unit, binarization or multi-value processing is performed on the screen with an emphasis on gradation reproducibility. The halftone generation unit 40 outputs the image data subjected to the halftone generation process to the first image output device 3 (see FIG. 1).
In the case of performing a photographic process, the halftone generation unit 40 outputs the image data input from the first output tone correction unit 39 to the unsharp mask processing unit 41 as it is (see FIG. 2).

  The unsharp mask processing unit 41, the second scaling unit 42, and the second output tone correction unit 43 operate only when processing for a photograph is performed (see FIG. 2).

  The unsharp mask processing unit 41 performs enhancement processing on the input image data by software. The unsharp mask process is a process of obtaining a difference between image data and smoothed image data, and adding the difference to the original image data when the obtained difference is equal to or greater than a threshold value. In this way, since the difference between the image data and the smoothed image data is used, only the pixels having a large difference from the surrounding pixels are emphasized, and the contour is emphasized except for noise having a small difference from the surrounding pixels. Processing can be performed. Since the unsharp mask processing unit 41 becomes complicated when implemented by hardware, it is configured by software here. The unsharp mask processing unit 41 outputs the processed image data to the second scaling unit 42 (see FIG. 2).

  The second scaling unit 42 performs an image enlargement process based on a scaling command (information indicating the magnification of the print image) input by the user via the operation panel 11. When the enlargement process is unnecessary, the input image data is output as it is to the second output tone correction unit 43 (see FIG. 2).

  The second output tone correction unit 43, such as an output γ correction process for outputting to the recording medium such as paper, the image data output from the first scaling unit 38 when performing the process for the photograph, Output tone correction is performed according to the output characteristics of the second image output device 4 (output tone correction processing B). The image data subjected to the halftone generation process is output to the first image output device 3 (see FIG. 2).

  FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of image processing in the image forming apparatus. First, after clearing a flag indicating whether or not to perform photographic processing (S1), the control unit 5 determines whether or not to perform photographic processing. As described above, when the standard size of the photo is selected as the output paper size, when the photo print is selected, or when the detected document size is the standard size of the photo, the control unit 5 Is determined to be performed, and it is determined that the second image output device 4 which is a sublimation type printing device is used (S2). If it is determined that the processing for photography is performed, 1 is set to the flag (S3).

  The image processing unit 2 performs pre-stage processing such as shading correction, input processing, and document type automatic discrimination processing on the image data input from the image input device 1 (S4), and then checks the flag (S5). If 1, the process proceeds to S6, where YCC conversion processing, first spatial filter processing B (S7), and RGB conversion processing performed only when the read original is a photograph are performed (S8). In this case, since it is already known that the document is a photograph, the area separation process in S10 is bypassed and the compression process is performed (S11).

  On the other hand, if the flag is not 1 in S5, the image processing unit 2 performs the first spatial filter processing A (S9) and the region separation processing (S10) for suppressing interference fringes on the image data, and then performs compression processing. (S11).

  The image processing unit 2 performs composite processing (S12) and image quality adjustment processing (S13) on the compressed image data, and then checks the flag again (S14). If the flag is 1, the process proceeds to S19. Then, after performing the color correction process B, the black generation / under color removal process B (S20), and the second spatial filter process B (S21) suitable for the sublimation type printing apparatus, the zooming is necessary. If the image is to be reduced, a scaling process is performed (S18).

  On the other hand, if the flag is not 1 in S14, the process proceeds to S15, and color correction processing A, black generation / under color removal processing A (S16), and second spatial filter processing suitable for the electrophotographic printing apparatus are performed. After performing A (S17), if scaling is specified, scaling processing is performed (S18).

  Thereafter, the flag is checked again (S22). If the flag is 1, the process proceeds to S21, and sharp mask processing and output gradation correction processing B (S23) suitable for the sublimation type printing apparatus are performed. After that, the image data is output to the second image output device 4 and printing is executed (S26). If scaling is necessary and it is enlargement, scaling processing (S22) is performed between S21 and S23.

  On the other hand, if the flag is not 1 in S22, the process proceeds to S24 to perform the output tone correction processing A and halftone generation processing (S25) suitable for the electrophotographic printing apparatus, and then the first image. The image data is output to the output device 3 and printing is executed (S26).

  As another embodiment of the present invention, when copying a photo, the user may select a sublimation printer or an electrophotographic method to print. As for the size of the output paper, the user is presented with the options shown in FIG. When A-series and B-series sheets are selected as output sheets, the first image output apparatus 3 that is a printing apparatus capable of outputting in the A-series and B-series is used even if the size of the original is a photographic standard size. Print.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11, by prompting the user to specify whether to copy in the standard photo size (same size) or to enlarge the output paper size (copy to paper size). , It is possible to copy a photo on a paper larger than a normal photo standard size such as A4 size. The processing in this case is the same as the copy processing in the first image output device 3 described above except for specifying the output paper size and selecting the same size and enlargement. In this case, it is preferable to use glossy paper as output paper in order to obtain an image quality close to that of a photograph. Further, when L size paper or 2L size paper is selected as the output paper, the same processing as the printing in the second image output device 4 is performed.

  The flowchart in this case is the same as the flowchart of FIG. 9 except for the specification of the output paper size in advance and the selection of the same size and enlargement, and the description is omitted.

  The image processing unit 2 described above may be configured by hardware logic as described above, or may be realized by software using a CPU as follows.

  That is, the image processing unit 2 includes a CPU (central processing unit) that executes instructions of a control program that realizes each function, a ROM (read only memory) that stores the program, and a RAM (random access memory) that expands the program. And a storage device (recording medium) such as a memory for storing the program and various data. An object of the present invention is to provide a recording medium in which a program code (execution format program, intermediate code program, source program) of a control program of the image processing unit 2 which is software for realizing the above-described functions is recorded so as to be readable by a computer. This can also be achieved by supplying the image processing unit 2 and reading and executing the program code recorded on the recording medium by the computer (or CPU or MPU).

  Examples of the recording medium include a tape system such as a magnetic tape and a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk / hard disk, and an optical disk such as a CD-ROM / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R. Card system such as IC card, IC card (including memory card) / optical card, or semiconductor memory system such as mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM.

  The image processing unit 2 may be configured to be connectable to a communication network, and the program code may be supplied via the communication network. The communication network is not particularly limited. For example, the Internet, intranet, extranet, LAN, ISDN, VAN, CATV communication network, virtual private network, telephone line network, mobile communication network, satellite communication. A net or the like is available. Also, the transmission medium constituting the communication network is not particularly limited. For example, even in the case of wired such as IEEE 1394, USB, power line carrier, cable TV line, telephone line, ADSL line, etc., infrared rays such as IrDA and remote control, Bluetooth ( (Registered trademark), 802.11 wireless, HDR, mobile phone network, satellite line, terrestrial digital network, and the like can also be used. The present invention can also be realized in the form of a computer data signal embedded in a carrier wave in which the program code is embodied by electronic transmission.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means appropriately changed within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

1 Image input device (document reading device)
2 Image processing unit 3 First image output device (printing device)
4 Second image output device (printing device)
5 Control unit (Photo processing determination unit)
6 Storage Device 7 Receiving Device 8 Transmitting Device 9 Data Input Terminal 10 Software Processing Unit 11 Operation Panel 24 Original Type Automatic Discrimination Unit (Original Type Discrimination Unit)
35 color correction unit 36 black generation / under color removal unit 37 second spatial filter unit 100 image forming apparatus

Claims (8)

An image processing apparatus including an image processing unit that performs image processing suitable for each printing apparatus with respect to a plurality of printing apparatuses having different printing methods,
A photo processing determination unit for determining whether or not to perform image processing for a photo on the image data read by the document reader;
When the image processing unit determines that the image processing for the photograph is to be performed by the photograph processing determination unit, the image processing unit uses the image processing unit of the plurality of printing devices for the image data read by the document reading device. An image processing apparatus that performs image processing suitable for the printing apparatus and outputs the image to a photographic printing apparatus.   The photo processing determination unit determines whether or not to perform photo image processing based on a size of a sheet on which image data read by the document reading device selected by a user is printed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. A document type determining unit for determining an image type of image data read by the document reading device;
2. The photo processing determination unit according to claim 1, wherein when the document type determination unit determines that the image data is image data of a photo, the photo processing determination unit determines to perform a photo process. Image processing device. A document type determining unit for determining an image type of image data read by the document reading device;
The photo processing determination unit is a photo size selected for printing of image data read by the document reading device selected by a user, and the document type determination unit includes the document type determination unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the image data is image data of a photograph, it is determined that the process for the photograph is performed. A document reading device that reads an image of a document and generates image data;
A printing device suitable for printing characters,
A printing device suitable for printing photos;
An image forming apparatus comprising: the image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a paper size selection unit that allows a user to select a paper size on which the image data read by the original reading device is to be printed.   An image processing program for operating the image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the computer functions as each unit of the image processing apparatus.   A recording medium storing the image processing program according to claim 7 in a computer-readable manner.