JP2016009292A - Image processor and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To more shorten a processing time than the case of regenerating intermediate data in the case of re-outputting raster image data.SOLUTION: An intermediate data generation part 12 generates intermediate data constituted of a plurality of objects from PDL data. A warning processing part 16 executes warning processing for identifying an object as the target of overprint. An intermediate data storage part 14 stores at least either the intermediate data before warning processing is executed or intermediate data to which warning processing has been executed. A raster generation part 18 generates and outputs raster image data having the presence of warning processing from the intermediate data to which warning processing has been executed, and when receiving a re-output instruction, generates and outputs the raster image data by using the intermediate data stored in the intermediate data storage part 14.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a program.

  In general, print data sent from a processing device such as a personal computer or workstation to a printing device is described in PDL (Page Description Language) such as Post Script (registered trademark) or PDF (Portable Data Format). Has been. PDL data (print data) is converted into raster format (for example, bitmap format) image data (hereinafter referred to as “raster image data”) by a data processing device called RIP (Raster Image Processor). The printing apparatus prints the raster image data. In addition to the method of directly converting PDL data into raster image data, there is also a method of converting PDL data into intermediate language format data (hereinafter referred to as “intermediate data”) and converting the intermediate data into raster image data. Are known.

  On the other hand, when calibration is performed prior to actual printing, raster-format image data is displayed on a monitor, or a printed matter for calibration is created based on raster-format image data.

  By the way, overprinting (also referred to as “nose”), knockout (also referred to as “kenuki”), and the like are known as processing when another image is superimposed on the background image. The color value of the part where both objects are superimposed is a value that reflects the color values of both images in overprinting, and the color value of the superimposed image (ie, the upper image) is not reflected in knockout. .

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228561 discloses an apparatus that outputs the upper image with a warning color in order to indicate to the user an image for which overprinting is designated at the time of calibration. As a result, when printing is performed for a calibration operation, an overprinted image becomes clear, so that an accurate calibration operation is expected.

JP 2004-151766 A

  By the way, in the method of generating intermediate data from PDL data and generating raster image data from the intermediate data, warning image processing is performed on the image to be overprinted to generate raster image data with a warning. May be output. In the warning process, for example, an image to be overprinted is filled with a warning color. Calibration is performed using raster image data with a warning, and then raster image data with the warning canceled is generated and printed. The raster image data from which the warning is released is raster image data in a state where the warning color is not filled, for example, raster image data that has been overprinted. However, in order to generate and output the raster image data from which the warning is released, it is necessary to generate intermediate data again from the PDL data and to generate raster image data again from the intermediate data. Thus, in order to re-output the raster image data, it is necessary to execute the intermediate data generation process and the raster image data generation process again. For example, in order to generate and output raster image data with a warning and then generate and output raster image data without a warning, a total of two intermediate data generation processes and two raster image data generations Processing needs to be executed. For this reason, the processing time required to output raster image data without warning increases. The same applies to the case of re-outputting the raster image data with a warning, and it is necessary to execute the intermediate data generation process and the raster image data generation process again.

  An object of the present invention is to shorten the processing time when re-outputting raster image data as compared with the case where intermediate data is generated again.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided intermediate data generation means for receiving image data described in a page description language and generating intermediate data composed of a plurality of objects to be drawn from the image data, and overprinting in the intermediate data Storage of at least one of warning processing means for executing warning processing for identifying the target object, intermediate data before the warning processing is executed, and intermediate data on which the warning processing is executed The storage control means to be stored in the means, and the raster image data with warning processing is generated from the intermediate data on which the warning processing has been executed and output, and when a re-output instruction for raster image data is received, it is stored in the storage means Raster generating means for generating and outputting raster image data using intermediate intermediate data, and image processing It is the location.

  In the invention according to claim 2, the storage control unit stores the intermediate data before the warning process is executed in the storage unit, and the raster generation unit receives a re-output instruction of the raster image data. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein raster image data is generated and output using intermediate data before the warning process stored in the storage unit is executed.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the raster generating means receives an output instruction without warning processing, the raster image without warning processing is obtained from intermediate data before the warning processing stored in the storage means is executed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein data is generated and output.

  In the invention according to claim 4, when the warning processing means receives an output instruction with warning processing, the warning processing means executes warning processing on the intermediate data before the warning processing stored in the storage means is executed. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the raster generation unit generates and outputs raster image data with warning processing from the intermediate data on which the warning processing is executed.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the storage control unit stores the intermediate data on which the warning process has been executed in the storage unit, and the raster generation unit receives the instruction to re-output the raster image data. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein raster image data is generated and output using intermediate data on which warning processing stored in the means is executed.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, when the raster generating means receives an output instruction without warning processing, the warning data is stored before the warning processing is executed from the intermediate data on which the warning processing is stored. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the image processing apparatus generates intermediate data, generates raster image data without warning processing from intermediate data before the warning processing is executed, and outputs the generated raster image data.

  In the invention according to claim 7, when the raster generating means receives an output instruction with warning processing, raster image data with warning processing is obtained from intermediate data that has been subjected to warning processing stored in the storage means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the image processing apparatus generates and outputs the generated image.

  The invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that the warning processing means converts, as warning processing, an object that is an object of overprinting in the intermediate data into a graphic warning object represented by a specific color. An image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

  In the invention according to claim 9, as the warning process, the warning processing means generates a warning object of a graphic represented by a specific color from an object to be overprinted in the intermediate data, and generates the intermediate data as the intermediate data. Raster image data with a warning process is generated by adding the warning object and drawing the warning object so as to overlap the object to be overprinted. An image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the warning processing means generates a warning object of a graphic represented in a specific color from an object that is the target of overprinting in the intermediate data as warning processing, and uses the warning data as intermediate data. The warning object is added, and the storage control means stores the intermediate data with the warning object added in the storage means as intermediate data on which warning processing has been executed, and the raster generation means has no warning processing. When the output instruction is received, raster image data without warning processing is generated and output by drawing an object other than the warning object based on the intermediate data to which the warning object is added. An image processing apparatus according to claim 6.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an intermediate data generating unit that receives image data described in a page description language and generates intermediate data composed of a plurality of objects to be drawn from the image data. A warning processing means for executing a warning process for identifying an object to be overprinted, intermediate data before the warning process is executed, and intermediate data at least one of the intermediate data on which the warning process is executed Storage control means for storing data in the storage means, and when the raster image data with warning processing is generated from the intermediate data on which warning processing has been executed and output, and when a re-output instruction for raster image data is received, the storage means Raster generating means for generating and outputting raster image data using intermediate data stored in Is a program to function as.

  According to the first and eleventh aspects of the present invention, when raster image data is re-outputted, the processing time is shortened compared to a case where intermediate data is generated again from image data.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, when raster image data is re-outputted, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data before the warning process is generated again from image data.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, it is possible to generate raster image data without warning processing without generating intermediate data again from image data before warning processing is executed. In addition, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data before the warning process is generated again from the image data.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to generate raster image data with warning processing without generating intermediate data again from image data before warning processing is executed. In addition, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data before the warning process is generated again from the image data.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when raster image data is re-outputted, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data is generated from the image data and warning processing is executed on the intermediate data. .

  According to the invention of claim 6, even if the intermediate data before the warning process is not stored, the intermediate data before the warning process is not generated again from the image data. Raster image data without warning processing can be generated. In addition, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data before the warning process is generated again from the image data.

  According to the seventh aspect of the invention, it is possible to generate raster image data with warning processing without generating warning data again by generating intermediate data before the warning processing is executed again from the image data. In addition, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data is generated from image data and warning processing is executed on the intermediate data.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the object to be overprinted is represented separately from other objects.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, even when an object to be overprinted is defined in the intermediate data, the object is displayed separately from other objects.

  According to the invention of claim 10, even if the intermediate data before the warning process is not stored, the intermediate data before the warning process is not generated again from the image data, Raster image data without warning processing can be generated. In addition, the processing time is shortened compared to the case where intermediate data before the warning process is generated again from the image data.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of intermediate data (run list). It is a flowchart which shows a warning process. It is a figure which shows the structure of intermediate data without warning, and the structure of intermediate data with warning. It is a figure which shows raster image data typically. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the data in 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of data at the time of re-output with a warning function off. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the data at the time of re-output with a warning function ON. It is a block diagram which shows the image processing apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the data in 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of data at the time of re-output with a warning function off. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the data at the time of re-output with a warning function ON. It is a figure which shows image data typically. It is a block diagram which shows the image processing apparatus which concerns on a comparative example. It is a figure which shows the structure of the intermediate data which concerns on a modification.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 1 shows an example of an image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The image processing apparatus 10 receives print data from a host 30 such as a personal computer or a workstation, and converts the print data into raster image data handled by the printer 40.

  The print data is data in which a drawing command group for drawing an image of one or more pages to be printed is described in a page description language (PDL). Examples of the page description language include various languages such as Post Script (registered trademark) and PDF. Hereinafter, the print data described in the page description language is referred to as “PDL data”.

  The image of the page to be printed is composed of objects that are image elements. An object is an image drawn by one drawing command of PDL, for example. The PDL data may include a drawing command for the same area. In the PDL data, attribute information of the object is described. The object attribute information is information indicating various attributes of the object. For example, the object attributes include a color space expressing the color of the object, the type of the object, how the object is superimposed on the underlying object (overprint, knockout, etc.), and the like. Examples of the object type include a figure, a character, and an image (a continuous tone image such as a photograph).

  The intermediate data generation unit 12 converts the PDL data into intermediate data that is an intermediate data format between the PDL data and the raster image data. The intermediate data generation unit 12 generates intermediate data by interpreting the PDL data including the drawing command.

  As an example, there is a method of expressing an object described in PDL as a set (list) of a plurality of rectangular minute objects surrounded by a side parallel to a raster scanning line in raster image data and a side perpendicular thereto. This method is called a “Run List” format, and a rectangular minute object is called a “Run Object”. In the intermediate data in the run list format, the objects included in the image are expressed as a set (list) of run objects, and the image of one page is expressed as a set of run lists of each run object in the page. In the run list format, each run object of the intermediate data includes information indicating the shape and size of the run object (for example, the run object, that is, a pair of coordinates of two vertices on a rectangular diagonal line), and the pixel of the run object. Value attribute. The pixel value attribute is, for example, a pixel value (for example, a density value) when the run object is a character or a graphic, and an image drawn on the run object (in this example, the image body is different from the image). Address, etc.).

  In the intermediate data in the run list format, as attribute information of one object in which run objects are bundled, information indicating the type of the object (graphic, character, continuous tone image, etc.) Information indicating how to overlap (overprint, knockout, etc.), information specifying the bounding box (Bbox) of the object, and the like are included. Note that attribute information such as the type of object and the presence or absence of overprinting may be included in the data of individual run objects in the object. The bounding box (Bbox) is a rectangular area that encloses an object (each side is parallel to the vertical and horizontal directions of the page). For example, information specifying the bounding box (for example, coordinates of the upper left and lower right vertices of the bounding box) is set in the PDL data as the attribute information of the object. Such bounding box information in the PDL data may be taken into the intermediate data.

  The run list format is merely an example of the format of the intermediate data, and other formats such as a display list may be used as the format of the intermediate data. The intermediate data is the geometric information (that is, the object defined by the data format of the intermediate data and may not be the same as the object of the PDL data) for each object included in the page (that is, Any information that defines the shape, size, and position of the object in the page) and the color value (pixel value) may be used. Whatever format is used, since the intermediate data format is closer to the raster format than PDL, the calculation of geometric information of overlapping portions of objects is executed at a higher speed than directly handling PDL.

  The format of the intermediate data is not limited to the above run list format. An existing intermediate data format or an intermediate data format to be developed in the future may be used. In this embodiment, as an example, intermediate data in a run list format is handled.

  The intermediate data storage unit 14 stores intermediate data. As will be described later, the intermediate data is subjected to an overprint warning process by the warning processing unit 16. In the first embodiment, the intermediate data storage unit 14 stores intermediate data before the overprint warning process is executed. Hereinafter, the intermediate data before overprint warning processing described later is referred to as “intermediate data without warning”.

  The warning processing unit 16 performs overprint warning processing on the intermediate data. The overprint warning process is a process for identifying an object to be overprinted. That is, the overprint warning process is a process for distinguishing and expressing an object that is a target of overprinting from an object that is not a target of overprinting. Hereinafter, the intermediate data on which the overprint warning process has been executed is referred to as “intermediate data with warning”.

  As an example, the overprint warning process is a process of filling an object to be overprinted with a warning color. The procedure of this overprint warning process will be described. This procedure is executed for each page of the intermediate data. First, the warning processing unit 16 detects a plurality of superimposed objects from the intermediate data. Since the intermediate data includes geometric information of each object in the page, a plurality of overlapping objects are detected by comparing the geometric information. For example, when the object is rectangular, a plurality of superimposed rectangular objects are detected from the coordinates of the two vertices of the upper left corner and the lower right corner of each rectangular object. Next, the warning processing unit 16 determines whether or not the way of superimposing a plurality of superimposed objects is overprinting. Since the intermediate data includes information indicating how to superimpose objects, it is determined by referring to that information whether overprinting is performed. When overprinting is designated as a method of superimposing, the warning processing unit 16 fills the superimposed object with a warning color. For example, the warning processing unit 16 converts the superimposed object into a graphic object (hereinafter referred to as “warning object”) filled with a warning color. Thereby, intermediate data with a warning is generated. The warning object is, for example, vector data. The warning processing unit 16 may convert both the upper and lower objects into warning objects, or may convert only the upper object into warning objects. Alternatively, the warning processing unit 16 may trim the outlines of a plurality of objects to be overprinted with a warning color. The warning color may be a predetermined color or a color designated by the user.

  As another example of the overprint warning process, the warning processing unit 16 extracts a plurality of objects to be overprinted from the intermediate data and generates intermediate data with a warning composed of the extracted plurality of objects. May be. In this case, the warning processing unit 16 may or may not paint the plurality of extracted objects with the warning color.

  The raster generation unit 18 generates raster image data (for example, bitmap format image data) from the intermediate data. The conversion to raster image data may use the same technique as the existing technique. When the intermediate data is defined in the run list format, the raster generating unit 18 may draw each run object on the bitmap in order from the top of the page run list.

  In the present embodiment, when an output instruction without warning is received, the raster generation unit 18 performs raster image data that has not been subjected to warning processing from intermediate data without warning (hereinafter referred to as “raster image data without warning”). Generate. On the other hand, when an output instruction with a warning is received, the raster generation unit 18 generates raster image data (hereinafter referred to as “raster image data with a warning”) that has been subjected to a warning process from the intermediate data with a warning. The output instruction with no warning or with warning is given by the user using the host 30, for example. For example, when performing calibration, the user may give an output instruction with a warning. On the other hand, when performing actual printing, the user may give an output instruction without warning.

  When generating raster image data without warning, the raster generating unit 18 calculates pixel values (color values) of pixels corresponding to a portion where a plurality of run objects overlap in accordance with designation of overprinting or knockout at the time of drawing. That's fine. Such calculation may be the same as the existing technology. When overprinting is designated, the raster generator 18 changes the color of the overlapping portion of the upper and lower objects to the color that combines the color of the upper object and the color of the lower object. The color of the overlapping part of the upper and lower objects is a color obtained by mixing the colors of these two objects. On the other hand, when knockout is designated, the raster generator 18 completely ignores the color of the lower object, and changes the color of the overlapping portion to the color of the upper object.

  In the raster image data with warning, for example, an object to be overprinted is represented with a warning color. Alternatively, the upper object is filled. Or only objects that are overprinted are represented.

  The output unit 20 outputs raster image data without warning or raster image data with warning to the printer 40. Alternatively, the output unit 20 may display raster image data without warning or raster image data with warning on a monitor installed in the host 30 or the like.

  The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data without warning or the raster image data with warning on a recording medium such as paper by controlling the printing mechanism according to the raster image data without warning or the raster image data with warning. . The printing mechanism is configured by an existing print engine such as an electrophotographic system or an inkjet system.

  FIG. 2 shows an example of intermediate data in the run list format. This intermediate data is intermediate data without warning for one page. For example, objects A, B, C, D,... Are defined in the intermediate data. The raster generator 18 draws each object on the bitmap in the order of objects A, B, C, D,.

  The type of the object A (Image Obj) is a continuous tone image such as a photograph. As attributes of the object A, the width (Width), height (Height), bounding box (Bbox) of the object A, how to overlap the object A (overprint presence / absence), the position of the object A in the page, and the like are defined. Yes. For the object A, the overprint is “present” (true).

  The type of the object B (Text Obj) is a character. As attributes of the object B, the length of the object B (Length), a character string (String), a bounding box (Bbox), how to overlap the object B (whether overprinting), the position of the object B in the page, and the like are defined. ing. For the object B, the overprint is “present” (true).

  The type of the object C (Line Art Obj) is a figure (line diagram). As attributes of the object C, the length of the object C (Length), the bounding box (Bbox), the color (Color), how to overlap the object C (overprint presence / absence), the position of the object C in the page, and the like are defined. Yes. The graphic object is filled with a color specified as an attribute in the raster image data. For the object C, the overprint is “None” (false).

  The type of the object D (Smooth Shade Obj) is a shaded figure. As attributes of the object D, the width (Width), height (Height), bounding box (Bbox), how to overlap the object D (whether or not overprinting), the position of the object D in the page, and the like are defined. . For the object D, the overprint is “present” (true).

  Next, details of the processing by the warning processing unit 16 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The warning processing unit 16 executes warning processing for each intermediate data for one page, for example. First, the warning processing unit 16 acquires a run object from intermediate data without warning for one page (S01). When overprinting is specified for the run object, that is, when overprinting is set to “present” (S02, Yes), the warning processing unit 16 converts the object into graphic data (vector data). (S03). Then, the warning processing unit 16 fills the object converted into graphic data with a warning color (S04). In this way, the object to be overprinted is converted into a warning object. On the other hand, when the overprint is not designated for the run object, that is, when the overprint is set to “none” (S02, No), the warning processing unit 16 outputs the object as it is (S05). When the processes of steps S01 to S05 are executed for all the run objects of the intermediate data without warning for one page (S06, Yes), the warning process for the intermediate data without warning ends. Thereby, intermediate data with a warning is generated. In this case, the warning processing unit 16 executes warning processing for the intermediate data without warning on the next page. On the other hand, when there is a run object for which the processes of steps S01 to S05 have not been executed (S06, No), the process returns to step S01. In this case, the warning processing unit 16 executes warning processing for the next run object.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of intermediate data without warning and intermediate data with warning. The intermediate data without warning is the same as the intermediate data shown in FIG. The objects A and D have the overprint set to “present” (true). Therefore, in the intermediate data with warning, the objects A and D are converted into graphic data. Specifically, an object A (Image Obj) that is a continuous tone image and an object D (Smooth Shade Obj) that is a shaded graphic are converted into a graphic object (Line Art Obj), and warnings are given as attributes thereof. A color is defined. The warning object A1 is obtained by converting the object A, and the warning object D1 is obtained by converting the object D. The object C has the overprint set to “none” (false). Therefore, the object C is not subjected to the conversion process, and the intermediate data with warning is defined as the object C in the intermediate data without warning. Since the object B (Text Obj) is a character, even if the overprint is set to “present”, the object B (Text Obj) is not converted into a graphic and is defined as intermediate data with a warning as it is. In the example shown in FIG. 4, all superimposed objects (both upper and lower objects) are filled with a warning color. As another example, an upper object of a plurality of superimposed objects may be converted into a graphic object and filled with a warning color.

  As another example, intermediate data with a warning including only an object to be overprinted may be generated. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the warning processing unit 16 extracts the objects A, B, and D from the intermediate data without warning, and generates intermediate data with warning including only the objects A, B, and D.

  FIG. 5 shows an example of raster image data without warning and raster image data with warning. Raster image data 50 without warning is generated by rendering the objects defined in the intermediate data without warning in order on the bitmap by the raster generator 18. As an example, it is assumed that overprinting is designated for the objects 62 to 66 among the objects 60 to 66. That is, it is assumed that the overprint setting for the objects 62 to 66 is “present”. In this case, in the warning-free raster image data 50, the objects 62 to 66 that have been overprinted are represented.

  The raster image data with warning 50A is image data generated from intermediate data with warning in which an object to be overprinted is filled with a warning color. Accordingly, in the warning raster image data 50A, the objects 62 to 66 are filled with the warning color.

  The warning raster image data 50B is image data generated from the warning intermediate data in which only the object to be overprinted is defined. Accordingly, only the objects 62 to 66 are represented in the warning raster image data 50B. The objects 62 to 66 may be filled with a warning color or overprinted.

  Next, the process performed by the image processing apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIG. As an example, it is assumed that an instruction with a warning is given by the user using the host 30. First, the intermediate data generation unit 12 receives PDL data from the host 30, and generates intermediate data in a run list format ("run list" in the figure) from the PDL data. Since this intermediate data is data before warning processing by the warning processing unit 16, it corresponds to intermediate data without warning. The intermediate data generation unit 12 stores the intermediate data without warning in the intermediate data storage unit 14. In this sense, the intermediate data generation unit 12 has a function as a storage control unit. On the other hand, the warning processing unit 16 performs overprint warning processing on the intermediate data without warning. As a result, intermediate data with warning ("run list with warning" in the figure) is generated. The raster generator 18 generates raster image data with warning from the intermediate data with warning. The output unit 20 outputs the raster image data with warning to the printer 40. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper. For example, calibration is performed by referring to this printed matter by the user. For example, since an object to be overprinted is filled with a warning color, the object to be overprinted becomes clear and an accurate calibration work is expected. Since the object to be warned (the object to be overprinted) is converted to graphic data (vector data), the object to be warned is maintained as Image (continuous tone image) or Shade (shaded figure). Compared with the case where it does, the load of the raster production | generation part 18 is reduced. Thereby, the processing time of the raster generation unit 18 is shortened, and as a result, the entire processing time is shortened.

  Next, processing for reprinting with the warning function turned off will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, solid arrows indicate the flow of data. For example, when the user confirms a printed matter based on the raster image data with warning and the user determines that there is no problem in printing without changing the original, the printing is performed with the warning function turned off. The actual printing corresponds to reprinting. In this case, for example, an instruction without warning is given by the user using the host 30. When reprinting with the warning function turned off, the raster generation unit 18 acquires warning-free intermediate data from the intermediate data storage unit 14 and generates warning-free raster image data from the warning-free intermediate data. The warning-free raster image data is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 20. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to raster image data without warning on paper. As a result, the object to be overprinted is printed in an overprinted state.

  As described above, when reprinting with the warning function turned off, the warning-free raster image data is generated using the warning-free intermediate data stored in the intermediate data storage unit 14. This eliminates the need for processing by the intermediate data generation unit 12 when reprinting. Therefore, compared with the case where intermediate data is generated again from PDL data, the processing time by the intermediate data generation unit 12 becomes unnecessary, so that the entire processing time is shortened.

  Next, processing for reprinting with the warning function turned on will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 8, solid arrows indicate the flow of data. For example, when the user confirms again the printed matter based on the raster image data with warning, the warning function is turned on and reprinting is executed. In this case, for example, an instruction with a warning is given by the user using the host 30. When reprinting with the warning function turned on, the warning processing unit 16 acquires the intermediate data without warning from the intermediate data storage unit 14, and executes overprint warning processing for the intermediate data without warning. As a result, intermediate data with warning ("run list with warning" in the figure) is generated. Then, the raster generator 18 generates raster image data with warning from the intermediate data with warning. The warning raster image data is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 20. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper.

  As described above, when reprinting with the warning function turned on, intermediate data with warning is generated using the intermediate data without warning stored in the intermediate data storage unit 14, and further, the intermediate data with warning is generated from the intermediate data with warning. Raster image data with warning is generated. This eliminates the need for processing by the intermediate data generation unit 12 when reprinting. Therefore, compared with the case where intermediate data is generated again from PDL data, the processing time by the intermediate data generation unit 12 becomes unnecessary, so that the entire processing time is shortened. For example, when reconfirming, the entire processing time is shortened.

  When re-outputting the raster image data with warning, the warning processing unit 16 may change the warning color and generate intermediate data with warning. Thereby, the same warning target object is represented by different warning colors in the raster image data with warning output earlier and the raster image data with warning output later. For example, the warning color used in the previous output may be easily recognized by changing the warning color when the warning target object is difficult for the user to recognize.

Second Embodiment
FIG. 9 shows an example of an image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The image processing apparatus 10A has the same configuration as the image processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. However, in the image processing apparatus 10A, the intermediate data storage unit 14 stores intermediate data with a warning.

  Next, processing performed by the image processing apparatus 10A will be described with reference to FIG. As an example, it is assumed that an instruction with a warning is given by the user using the host 30. First, the intermediate data generation unit 12 receives PDL data from the host 30, and generates intermediate data in a run list format ("run list" in the figure) from the PDL data. This intermediate data corresponds to intermediate data without warning. The warning processing unit 16 performs an overprint warning process on the intermediate data without warning. As a result, intermediate data with warning ("run list with warning" in the figure) is generated. The warning processing unit 16 stores the intermediate data with warning in the intermediate data storage unit 14. In this sense, the warning processing unit 16 has a function as a storage control unit. The raster generator 18 generates raster image data with warning from the intermediate data with warning. The output unit 20 outputs the raster image data with warning to the printer 40. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper. As a result, the object to be overprinted is clarified and printed. Also in the second embodiment, since the warning target object is converted into graphic data (warning object), the load on the raster generation unit 18 is reduced. Thereby, the processing time of the raster generation unit 18 is shortened, and as a result, the entire processing time is shortened.

  Next, processing for reprinting with the warning function turned off will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 11, solid arrows indicate the flow of data. For example, when the user confirms a printed matter based on the raster image data with warning and the user determines that there is no problem in printing without changing the original, the printing is performed with the warning function turned off. In this case, for example, an instruction without warning is given by the user using the host 30. When reprinting with the warning function turned off, the intermediate data generation unit 12 generates intermediate data ("run list" in the figure) from the PDL data. This intermediate data corresponds to intermediate data without warning. The raster generator 18 generates raster image data without warning from the intermediate data without warning. The warning-free raster image data is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 20. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to raster image data without warning on paper. As a result, the object to be overprinted is printed in an overprinted state.

  Next, processing for reprinting with the warning function turned on will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 12, solid arrows indicate the flow of data. For example, when the user confirms again the printed matter based on the raster image data with warning, the warning function is turned on and reprinting is executed. In this case, for example, an instruction with a warning is given by the user using the host 30. When reprinting with the warning function turned on, the raster generation unit 18 acquires the intermediate data with warning from the intermediate data storage unit 14, and generates raster image data with warning from the intermediate data with warning. The warning raster image data is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 20. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper.

  As described above, when reprinting is performed with the warning function turned on, the raster image data with warning is generated using the intermediate data with warning stored in the intermediate data storage unit 14. This eliminates the need for processing by the intermediate data generation unit 12 and the warning processing unit 16 when performing reprinting. Therefore, compared with the case where intermediate data is generated again from PDL data and intermediate data with warning is generated again from the intermediate data, the processing by the intermediate data generating unit 12 and the warning processing unit 16 is not necessary, so that the entire processing is performed. Time is shortened.

  In addition, since the object to be warned is converted into graphic data (vector data), the object with the warning is compared with the case where the object to be warned is maintained as Image (continuous tone image) or Shade (shaded figure). The amount of data is reduced. As a method for reprinting with the warning function turned on, it is conceivable to store the raster image data with warning generated in the first printing process in the storage unit and print the raster image data with warning. . Since the raster image data with warning is, for example, data in the bitmap format, the data amount is larger than the intermediate data with warning. Therefore, according to the second embodiment, the amount of data to be stored can be smaller than when raster image data with warning is stored in the storage unit.

  Here, the data amount of the intermediate data in the run list format will be described with reference to FIG. When rendering raster image data, pixel values (color values) of all the pixels included in the drawing area of the object are required, and the data amount of the raster image data is the data amount corresponding to the total number of pixels. For example, when drawing a rectangular object 68, a pixel value of the number of pixels corresponding to the width (Width) × height (Height) is required, and the amount of data is the data for the number of pixels corresponding to the width × height. Amount. Also for the objects 62 and 64, the pixel values of all the pixels included in the drawing area are required. On the other hand, for the graphic object defined in the intermediate data in the run list format, the entire area of the graphic object is filled with the specified color (Color) in the raster image data. Therefore, if a pixel value (color value) for one pixel is defined, a graphic object is drawn in the raster image data.

  In the first and second embodiments, a warning target object is converted into a graphic object (warning object), and the graphic object is drawn in a specified color (Color). Therefore, for a warning object, if a pixel value for one pixel is defined in the intermediate data, the warning object is drawn in the raster image data. Therefore, by storing the intermediate data with warning as in the second embodiment, the amount of data to be stored can be reduced as compared with the case of storing raster image data with warning.

<Other embodiments>
The first embodiment and the second embodiment may be combined. In this case, the intermediate data generation unit 12 stores the intermediate data without warning in the intermediate data storage unit 14, and the warning processing unit 16 stores the intermediate data with warning in the intermediate data storage unit 14. In this sense, the intermediate data generation unit 12 and the warning processing unit 16 have a function as a storage control unit. With this process, the intermediate data storage unit 14 stores both the intermediate data without warning and the intermediate data with warning. When reprinting with the warning function turned off, the raster generation unit 18 acquires warning-free intermediate data from the intermediate data storage unit 14 and generates warning-free raster image data from the warning-free intermediate data. The warning-free raster image data is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 20, and the printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the warning-free raster image data on paper. When reprinting with the warning function turned on, the raster generation unit 18 acquires the intermediate data with warning from the intermediate data storage unit 14, and generates raster image data with warning from the intermediate data with warning. The raster image data with warning is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 20, and the printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper. As a result, in both reprinting when the warning function is off and reprinting when the warning function is on, it is not necessary to perform processing by the intermediate data generation unit 12, and accordingly, the entire processing time is shortened. Further, by storing the intermediate data, the amount of data to be stored can be smaller than storing raster image data.

<Comparative example>
FIG. 14 shows an image processing apparatus 100 according to a comparative example. The RIP processing unit 102 generates intermediate data from the PDL data, and further generates raster image data from the intermediate data. When an instruction with a warning is given, the RIP processing unit 102 executes a warning process on the object to be overprinted. Thereby, raster image data with a warning is generated. The raster image data with warning is stored in the raster image data storage unit 104. On the other hand, the raster image data with warning is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 106. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper.

  When reprinting with the warning function turned off, the RIP processing unit 102 generates intermediate data without warning from the PDL data, and generates raster image data without warning from the intermediate data without warning. This warning-free raster image data is output to the printer 40 via the output unit 106. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to raster image data without warning on paper. Thus, when reprinting is performed in the comparative example, it is necessary to generate intermediate data again. On the other hand, in the first embodiment, since it is not necessary to generate intermediate data again, the processing time is shortened compared to the comparative example.

  On the other hand, when reprinting with the warning function turned on, the output unit 106 acquires raster image data with warning from the raster image data storage unit 104, and outputs the raster image data with warning to the printer 40. The printer 40 prints an image corresponding to the raster image data with warning on paper. As described with reference to FIG. 13, the intermediate data has a smaller data amount than the raster image data. Therefore, by storing the intermediate data with warning as in the second embodiment, the amount of data to be stored can be reduced compared to the case of storing raster image data with warning as in the comparative example.

<Modification>
FIG. 15 shows intermediate data according to the modification. The intermediate data without warning shown in FIG. 15 is the same as the intermediate data without warning shown in FIGS. In FIG. 15, some descriptions other than the object are deleted for convenience of explanation.

  In the modification, the warning processing unit 16 adds the warning object to the original intermediate data without converting the warning target object (overprint target object) into the warning object.

  A specific example will be described. For example, objects A and D are objects to be overprinted. The warning processing unit 16 adds a warning object A1 after the object A in the run list. As described with reference to FIG. 4, the warning object A1 is graphic data and is an object that is filled with a warning color. Thus, by adding the warning object A1 next to the object A in the run list, the warning object A1 is drawn next to the object A by the raster generator 18. Since the object A and the warning object A1 have the same shape and position, the warning object A1 is drawn next to the object A, so that the warning object A1 is drawn over the object A. . As a result, the warning object A1 is displayed without displaying the object A in the raster image data with warning. As a result, the object A is represented as if it was filled with a warning color. Similarly, a warning object D1 is added after the object D in the run list. As a result, the warning object D1 is drawn on the object D in an overlapping manner. Therefore, in the raster image data with warning, the object D is not displayed but the warning object D1 is displayed. As a result, the object D is represented as if it was filled with a warning color.

  When the modification is applied to the first embodiment, when the warning function is on, the raster generation unit 18 has a warning from the intermediate data with warning according to the modification (intermediate data with the warning objects A1 and D1 added). Raster image data is generated. When the warning function is off, the raster generating unit 18 acquires warning-free intermediate data from the intermediate data storage unit 14, and generates warning-free raster image data from the warning-free intermediate data.

  When the modification is applied to the second embodiment, the intermediate data with warning according to the modification is stored in the intermediate data storage unit 14. When the warning function is on, the raster generation unit 18 acquires the intermediate data with warning according to the modification from the intermediate data storage unit 14, and generates raster image data with warning from the intermediate data with warning. When the warning function is off, the raster generating unit 18 acquires the intermediate data with warning according to the modification from the intermediate data storage unit 14, and deletes the warning object from the intermediate data with warning. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the raster generator 18 deletes the warning objects A1 and D1 from the intermediate data with warning. As a result, warning-free intermediate data (intermediate data in which objects A, B, C, D,... Are defined) is generated. The raster generation unit 18 generates raster image data without warning from the intermediate data without warning. As another example, the raster generating unit 18 ignores the warning objects A1 and D1 included in the intermediate data with warning, and warns from the objects A, B, C, D,. None raster image data may be generated. Also in this case, since the warning objects A1 and D1 are not drawn, raster image data without warning is generated. By applying the modification to the second embodiment, it is not necessary to generate the warning-free intermediate data again from the PDL data, so the entire processing time is shortened by the processing by the intermediate data generation unit 12.

  The image processing apparatuses 10 and 10A described above are realized by cooperation of hardware resources and software as an example. Specifically, the image processing apparatuses 10 and 10A include a processor such as a CPU (not shown). The processor reads out and executes a program stored in a storage device (not shown), thereby realizing the functions of the units of the image processing apparatuses 10 and 10A. The program is stored in the storage device via a storage medium such as a CD or DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. Alternatively, each unit of the image processing apparatuses 10 and 10A may be realized by hardware resources such as a circuit.

  10, 10A image processing apparatus, 12 intermediate data generation unit, 14 intermediate data storage unit, 16 warning processing unit, 18 raster generation unit, 20 output unit, 30 host, 40 printer.

Claims (11)

Intermediate data generation means for receiving image data described in a page description language and generating intermediate data composed of a plurality of objects to be drawn from the image data;
Warning processing means for executing warning processing for identifying an object to be overprinted in the intermediate data;
Storage control means for storing in the storage means at least one of the intermediate data before the warning process is executed and the intermediate data for which the warning process is executed;
Raster image data with warning processing is generated and output from the intermediate data on which warning processing has been executed, and when a raster image data re-output instruction is received, the raster data is stored using the intermediate data stored in the storage means. Raster generating means for generating and outputting image data;
An image processing apparatus. The storage control means stores the intermediate data before the warning process is executed in the storage means,
When the raster generation means receives a re-output instruction of raster image data, the raster generation means generates and outputs raster image data using intermediate data stored in the storage means before the warning process is executed.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. The raster generating means, when receiving an output instruction without warning processing, generates and outputs raster image data without warning processing from intermediate data before the warning processing stored in the storage means is executed,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2. When the warning processing means receives an output instruction with warning processing, the warning processing means executes warning processing on intermediate data before the warning processing stored in the storage means is executed,
The raster generating means generates and outputs raster image data with warning processing from the intermediate data on which the warning processing is executed,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2. The storage control means stores the intermediate data on which the warning process has been executed in the storage means,
When the raster generation means receives a re-output instruction for raster image data, the raster generation means generates and outputs raster image data using intermediate data that has been subjected to warning processing stored in the storage means.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. When the raster generation means receives an output instruction without warning processing, the raster generation means generates intermediate data before the warning processing is executed from the intermediate data that has been subjected to the warning processing stored in the storage means, and the warning Generate and output raster image data without warning processing from intermediate data before processing is executed,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 5. When the raster generation means receives an output instruction with warning processing, the raster generation means generates and outputs raster image data with warning processing from the intermediate data that has been subjected to the warning processing stored in the storage means.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 5. The warning processing means converts, as warning processing, an object to be overprinted in the intermediate data into a graphic warning object represented by a specific color,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is an image processing apparatus. The warning processing means generates a warning object of a graphic represented in a specific color from an object that is a target of overprinting in the intermediate data as warning processing, adds the warning object to the intermediate data,
Raster image data with warning processing is generated by drawing the warning object overlaid on the object to be overprinted.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is an image processing apparatus. The warning processing means generates a warning object of a graphic represented in a specific color from an object that is a target of overprinting in the intermediate data as warning processing, adds the warning object to the intermediate data,
The storage control means stores the intermediate data to which the warning object is added in the storage means as intermediate data on which warning processing has been executed,
The raster generation means, when receiving an output instruction without warning processing, draws raster image data without warning processing by drawing an object other than the warning object based on the intermediate data to which the warning object is added. Generate and output,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 6. Computer
Intermediate data generation means for receiving image data described in a page description language and generating intermediate data composed of a plurality of objects to be drawn from the image data;
Warning processing means for executing warning processing for identifying an object to be overprinted in the intermediate data;
Storage control means for storing in the storage means at least one of the intermediate data before the warning process is executed and the intermediate data for which the warning process is executed;
Raster image data with warning processing is generated and output from the intermediate data on which warning processing has been executed, and when a re-output instruction for raster image data is received, the raster data is stored using the intermediate data stored in the storage means. Raster generating means for generating and outputting image data;
Program to function as.