JP2016063316A - Image processing device, image processing method, image processing program, and information processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suppress a decrease in quality associated with attractiveness of printed matter while actualizing a finishing function of punching, stapling, etc.SOLUTION: An image processing device determines whether a plurality of pages included in an object to be printed include different sheet sizes, specifies a first sheet size representing the maximum sheet size among the different sizes when determining that the different sheet sizes are included, and determines whether the sheet sizes of the plurality of pages included in the object to be printed are smaller than a second sheet size which is smaller than the first sheet size and has sides of the same length with short sides of the first sheet size, thereby performing control to print pages determined to have sheet sizes equal to or less than the second sheet size to the second sheet size and control to print pages determined to have sheet sizes larger than the second sheet size to the first sheet size.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

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

  In an image processing apparatus such as an MFP (Multi-Function Printer), it is difficult to realize a finishing function such as punching or stapling when printing a plurality of pages included in a printing target having mixed paper sizes. Therefore, recently, there is a technique for printing by aligning the paper size to a predetermined paper size. For example, in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-199464), a page having a size larger than a predetermined paper size is divided into a plurality of pages so as to fit within the predetermined paper size, and the page is smaller than the predetermined paper size. Has been disclosed that prints an image as it is on a predetermined paper size.

  However, the above-described conventional technique has a problem that the quality related to the appearance of the printed material may be deteriorated. Specifically, the conventional technology prints a page that is larger than a predetermined paper size by dividing it into a plurality of pages so that it fits in the predetermined paper size. The quality related to deteriorates.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to suppress deterioration in quality related to the appearance of printed matter while realizing a finishing function such as punching and stapling.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a paper size determination unit that determines whether or not paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in a print target, When it is determined that the paper sizes are mixed, a specific unit that specifies the first paper size representing the maximum paper size among the mixed paper sizes, and a paper size smaller than the first paper size A print page determination for determining whether or not the paper size of each of the plurality of pages fits in a second paper size representing a paper size having a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size And a page determined to fit within the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target, and the paper size is controlled to be printed with the second paper size. The determined page not fit into 2 paper size and a paper size controller arranged to control the printing by the first paper size.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, there is an effect that it is possible to suppress a decrease in quality related to the appearance of a printed material while realizing a finishing function such as punching or stapling.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of image processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of image processing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of image processing according to the third embodiment.

  Exemplary embodiments of an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, an image processing program, and an information processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited by the following embodiment. It should be noted that the embodiments can be appropriately combined as long as the contents are not contradictory.

(Embodiment 1)
[System Configuration According to Embodiment 1]
The configuration of the image processing system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing system 1 includes a client terminal 3, a client terminal 4, a client terminal 5, a client terminal 6, a client terminal 7, and an image processing apparatus 100. Each device is connected to a network 2 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, a case where five client terminals are included in the image processing system 1 is described as an example, but the number of client terminals may be any number. Hereinafter, a case where the image processing apparatus 100 is used from the client terminal 3 will be described as an example.

  In the configuration described above, the client terminal 3 is an information processing apparatus such as a PC (Personal Computer), a server apparatus, or a tablet terminal, and transmits a command such as a print request to the image processing apparatus 100 in response to a user operation. As for the operation of the image processing apparatus 100, a remote operation performed from the client terminal 3 via the network 2 and a user operation using an operation display unit (operation panel) of the image processing apparatus 100 can be used in combination. is there. In the case of the image processing apparatus 100 that does not have means for connecting to the network 2, the processing is realized by a user operation using the operation display unit.

  The image processing apparatus 100 is an apparatus such as an MFP having at least two functions including at least a printer function among a copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function. When the image processing apparatus 100 receives a print request from the client terminal 3, the maximum paper size and half the maximum paper size with respect to the paper sizes mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target are received. Use the size and print process. Hereinafter, the maximum paper size among the paper sizes mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target is referred to as a “first paper size”, and a paper size that is half the first paper size is referred to as a “second paper size”. There is a case. Specifically, the second paper size is a paper size that is at least smaller than the first paper size and has a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size. For example, if the first paper size is “A3 size”, the second paper size is “A4 size”. In addition, when a sheet of “A size” or “B size” is used, the area of the second sheet size is half of the area of the first sheet size.

  Specifically, when receiving a print request from the client terminal 3, the image processing apparatus 100 determines whether or not the paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target. When the image processing apparatus 100 determines that the paper sizes are mixed, the image processing apparatus 100 specifies the first paper size that represents the maximum paper size among the mixed paper sizes. Subsequently, the image processing apparatus 100 prints a second paper size that is smaller than the first paper size and that has a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size. It is determined whether or not the paper size of each of the plurality of pages included in is stored. At this time, the image processing apparatus 100 performs control so that pages determined to fit within the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target are printed with the second paper size. In addition, the image processing apparatus 100 performs control so that a page determined to have a paper size that does not fit in the second paper size among a plurality of pages included in the print target is printed with the first paper size.

  Thereafter, the image processing apparatus 100 executes print processing according to print settings and control, and outputs a printed matter. At this time, the image processing apparatus 100 discharges the paper by aligning the positions of the short side of the first paper size and the side of the second paper size that is the same length as the short side. For example, if the default state is that the long side of the paper is vertical and the short side of the paper is horizontal, printing on the first paper size is discharged vertically (for example, A3 size is portrait) In this case, the printing on the second paper size is discharged in the landscape direction (for example, A4 size is landscape). By discharging the sheets with the same length of the first paper size and the second paper size aligned, a finishing function such as punching or stapling can be realized.

  That is, the image processing apparatus 100 uses the first paper size that is the maximum paper size and the second paper size that is half the paper size when the paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target. Then, control is performed so that pages that fit in the second paper size are printed in the second paper size, and pages that do not fit in the second paper size are printed in the first paper size. As a result, the image processing apparatus 100 achieves a finishing function such as punching and stapling, as well as quality related to the appearance of the printed material, as compared with the conventional technology that divides a page included in a printing target so as to fit within a predetermined paper size. Can be suppressed.

[Hardware Configuration of Image Processing Apparatus According to First Embodiment]
Next, the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the image processing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image processing apparatus 100 has a configuration in which a controller 10 and an engine unit 60 are connected by a PCI bus. The controller 10 is a controller that controls the entire image processing apparatus 100 and controls drawing, communication, and various inputs. The engine unit 60 is a printer engine or the like that can be connected to a PCI bus, and is, for example, a monochrome plotter, a 1-drum color plotter, a 4-drum color plotter, a scanner, or a fax unit. The engine unit 60 includes an image processing part such as error diffusion and gamma conversion in addition to a so-called engine part such as a plotter.

  The controller 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a north bridge (NB) 13, a system memory (MEM-P) 12, a south bridge (SB) 14, a local memory (MEM-C) 17, and an ASIC 16. And a hard disk drive (HDD) 18, and the north bridge 13 and the ASIC 16 are connected by an AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus 15. The MEM-P 12 further includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12a and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12b.

  The CPU 11 performs overall control of the image processing apparatus 100, has a chip set including the north bridge 13, the MEM-P 12, and the south bridge 14, and is connected to other devices via the chip set. The north bridge 13 is a bridge for connecting the CPU 11, the MEM-P 12, the south bridge 14, and the AGP bus 15, and includes a memory controller, a PCI master, and an AGP target that control reading and writing to the MEM-P 12. .

  The MEM-P 12 is a system memory used as a memory for storing programs and data, a memory for developing programs and data, a drawing memory for printers, and the like, and includes a ROM 12a and a RAM 12b. The ROM 12a is a read-only memory used as a memory for storing programs and data. The RAM 12b is a writable and readable memory used as a program and data expansion memory, a printer drawing memory, and the like. The south bridge 14 is a bridge for connecting the north bridge 13 to a PCI device and peripheral devices. The south bridge 14 is connected to the north bridge 13 via a PCI bus, and a network interface unit and the like are also connected to the PCI bus.

  The ASIC 16 is an IC (Integrated Circuit) for image processing having hardware elements for image processing, and has a role of a bridge for connecting the AGP bus 15, the PCI bus, the HDD 18, and the MEM-C 17. The ASIC 16 includes a PCI target and an AGP master, an arbiter (ARB) that forms the core of the ASIC 16, a memory controller that controls the MEM-C 17, and a plurality of DMACs (Direct Memory) that rotate image data by hardware logic or the like. Access Controller) and a PCI unit that performs data transfer between the engine unit 60 via the PCI bus. An FCU (Facsimile Control Unit) 30, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) 40, and an IEEE 1394 (the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1394) interface 50 are connected to the ASIC 16 via a PCI bus. The operation display unit 20 is directly connected to the ASIC 16.

  The MEM-C 17 is a local memory used as a copy image buffer and a code buffer, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 18 is a storage for storing image data, programs, font data, and forms. It is. The AGP bus 15 is a bus interface for a graphics accelerator card that has been proposed in order to speed up graphic processing. The AGP bus 15 directly accesses the MEM-P 12 at a high throughput, thereby speeding up the graphics accelerator card.

[Functional configuration according to Embodiment 1]
Next, the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the image processing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 3, the image processing apparatus 100 includes a communication unit 101, a storage unit 111, a paper size determination unit 121, a specification unit 122, a print page determination unit 123, a paper size control unit 124, and an image. And a processing unit 125. Some or all of these parts may be realized by software (programs), or may be realized by a hardware circuit.

  The communication unit 101 communicates with an external device. For example, the communication unit 101 communicates with the client terminal 3 via the network 2 and receives a command such as a print request or transmits predetermined data in response to the command. In such a print request, processing conditions for executing the printing process are set. For example, the processing conditions include a print setting indicating whether or not double-sided printing is performed, and a print setting indicating whether or not to use the first paper size and the second paper size when paper sizes are mixed. Etc. are included. The print setting received by the communication unit 101 is stored in the storage unit 111. In addition, the communication unit 101 notifies the paper size determination unit 121 that a print request has been received.

  The storage unit 111 stores device information of the image processing apparatus 100 and print settings for a print request received by the communication unit 101. For example, the storage unit 111 stores paper types that can be output by the image processing apparatus 100 and information on print processing that can be processed, and stores print settings included in the print request received by the communication unit 101.

  The paper size determination unit 121 determines whether or not paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target. More specifically, when a print request is received by the communication unit 101, the paper size determination unit 121 acquires print settings corresponding to the print request from the storage unit 111, and a plurality of pages included in the print target It is determined whether or not paper sizes are mixed. At this time, when the paper size determination unit 121 determines that the paper sizes are not mixed in a plurality of pages, this is notified to the image processing unit 125 and normal printing processing is executed. .

  The specifying unit 122 specifies the first paper size among the mixed paper sizes. More specifically, the specifying unit 122 responds to a print request from the storage unit 111 when the paper size determination unit 121 determines that paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target. Get print settings. At this time, the specifying unit 122 determines whether the acquired print setting includes information that uses the first paper size and the second paper size. Then, the specifying unit 122 specifies the first paper size among the mixed paper sizes when the information for using the first paper size and the second paper size is included in the print setting.

  For example, when the first page is “A4 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the specifying unit 122 sets the first paper size. Is specified as “A3 size”. Here, when the first paper size is “A3 size”, the second paper size is “A4 size”. Note that if the specifying unit 122 determines that the acquired print settings do not include information on the use of the first paper size and the second paper size, the fact is notified to the image processing unit 125. Normal print processing is executed.

  The print page determination unit 123 determines whether or not the paper size of each of the plurality of pages fits in the second paper size. More specifically, the print page determination unit 123 has a paper size that is smaller than the first paper size specified by the specifying unit 122 and has a side that is the same as the short side of the first paper size. It is determined whether the paper size of each of the plurality of pages fits in the second paper size. For example, when the first page is “A4 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the print page determination unit 123 is the second paper size that is “A4 size”. It is determined that the first page and the second page are accommodated.

  Further, the print page determination unit 123 determines whether or not the paper size of each successive page that can be the target of double-sided printing fits on both sides of the second paper size when the print setting for double-sided printing is set. To do. For example, when the first page is “A4 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the print page determination unit 123 is the second paper size that is “A4 size”. It is determined that the first page and the second page fit on both sides.

  The paper size control unit 124 controls to print with the first paper size or the second paper size according to the determination result of whether or not the paper size of each of the plurality of pages fits in the second paper size. More specifically, the paper size control unit 124 selects, from the plurality of pages included in the print target by the print page determination unit 123, a page that is determined to fit within the second paper size. Control to print at paper size. In addition, the paper size control unit 124 prints a page determined by the print page determination unit 123 that the paper size does not fit in the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target with the first paper size. Control to do.

  For example, when the first page is “A4 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the paper size control unit 124 is the second paper size that is “A4 size”. The first page and the second page are controlled to be printed in the second paper size based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123 that the first page and the second page are stored in the first page. Further, the paper size control unit 124 controls to print the third page with the first paper size based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123 that the third page does not fit in the second paper size. .

  In addition, when the double-sided printing setting is set, the paper size control unit 124 determines whether the paper size of each successive page fits on both sides of the second paper size according to the determination result. Set duplex printing on paper size or second paper size. For example, when the first page is “A4 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the paper size control unit 124 sets the first page and the second page as the first page. Control to print on both sides with 2 paper sizes. Specifically, the paper size control unit 124 performs control so that the first page is printed on the front side of the second paper size and the second page is printed on the back side. Further, the paper size control unit 124 controls to print the third page with the first paper size.

  The image processing unit 125 executes print processing according to print settings and outputs a printed matter. More specifically, the image processing unit 125 executes print processing for each of a plurality of pages to be printed using the first paper size or the second paper size in accordance with control by the paper size control unit 124, and outputs a printed matter. To do. For example, when the first page is “A4 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the image processing unit 125 sets 1 to the second paper size (first sheet). A printing process is executed to print the second page on the second paper size (second sheet) and the third page on the first paper size (third sheet). In addition, when the print setting for duplex printing is set, the image processing unit 125 sets the first page on the front surface of the second paper size (first sheet) and the second page on the back surface of the second paper size (first sheet). A print process for printing the third page on the surface of the first paper size (second sheet) is executed.

  Here, the image processing unit 125 uses the first paper size and the second paper size to print the first paper size in the portrait orientation and discharge it in order to realize a finishing function such as punching or stapling. Then, the second paper size is printed in landscape orientation and discharged. That is, the image processing unit 125 executes the printing process after changing the orientation of the second paper size in order to align the short side of the first paper size and the long side of the second paper size, and prints Is output. When the image processing unit 125 receives an instruction to execute normal printing processing from the paper size determination unit 121 or the specifying unit 122, the image processing unit 125 executes normal printing processing according to the print setting.

[Image Processing According to Embodiment 1]
Next, image processing according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 4, a case where double-sided printing is set will be described as an example.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first page is “A6 size”, the second page is “A5 size”, the third page is “B6 size”, the fourth page is “A6 size”, and the fifth page is “A6 size”. A case will be described in which printing processing is performed for a plurality of pages in which the A4 size is “A3 size” and the sixth page is “A3 size”. When the print target is such a paper size, the paper size determination unit 121 determines that the paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages. Then, the specifying unit 122 specifies the first paper size “A3 size” among the mixed paper sizes. Here, the second paper size is “A4 size”, which is half the size of the first paper size “A3 size”.

  Subsequently, the print page determination unit 123 stores the first page “A6 size” of the page to be printed on the front side of the second paper size “A4 size” and the second page “A5 size” of the page to be printed on the back side. It is determined whether or not. Then, the print page determination unit 123 determines that the first page “A6 size” and the second page “A5 size” of the page to be printed fit within the front and back surfaces of the second paper size “A4 size”. . Note that the first page and the second page are pages to be continuously printed that can be targets for double-sided printing. Based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123, the paper size control unit 124 controls to print the first and second pages of the page to be printed on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size. To do. Thus, the image processing unit 125 executes a printing process for printing the first and second pages of the page to be printed on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size. Here, the image processing apparatus 100 outputs the first printed material in which the second paper size is set in the landscape orientation.

  Next, the print page determination unit 123 stores the third page “B6 size” of the page to be printed on the front side of the second paper size “A4 size” and the fourth page “A6 size” of the page to be printed on the back side. It is determined whether or not. Then, the print page determination unit 123 determines that the third page “B6 size” and the fourth page “A6 size” of the page to be printed fit within the front and back surfaces of the second paper size “A4 size”. . Note that the third page and the fourth page are pages to be continuously printed that can be targets for double-sided printing. Based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123, the paper size control unit 124 controls to print the third and fourth pages of the page to be printed on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size. To do. Thus, the image processing unit 125 executes a printing process for printing the third and fourth pages of the page to be printed on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size. Here, the image processing apparatus 100 outputs a second printed material in which the second paper size is set in the landscape orientation.

  Next, the print page determination unit 123 stores the fifth page “A4 size” of the page to be printed on the front side of the second paper size “A4 size” and the sixth page “A3 size” of the page to be printed on the back side. It is determined whether or not. Then, the print page determination unit 123 determines that the fifth page “A4 size” and the sixth page “A3 size” of the page to be printed do not fit on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size “A4 size”. To do. Note that the fifth page and the sixth page are pages to be continuously printed that can be targets for double-sided printing. Based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123, the paper size control unit 124 controls to print the fifth and sixth pages of the page to be printed on the front and back surfaces of the first paper size. To do. Thus, the image processing unit 125 executes a printing process for printing the fifth and sixth pages of the page to be printed on the front and back surfaces of the first paper size. Here, the image processing apparatus 100 outputs a third printed matter in which the first paper size is in the portrait orientation (default orientation).

[Image Processing Flow According to Embodiment 1]
Next, the flow of image processing according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of image processing according to the first embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 5, when a print request is received by the communication unit 101, the paper size determination unit 121 sets paper on a plurality of pages included in a print target based on print settings corresponding to the print request. It is determined whether sizes are mixed (step S101). At this time, when the paper size determination unit 121 determines that paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages (step S101: Yes), the specifying unit 122 determines the first paper size and the second paper size. It is determined whether or not print settings to be used are set (step S102). Then, when the print setting using the first paper size and the second paper size is made (step S102: Yes), the specifying unit 122 specifies the first paper size among the mixed paper sizes. (Step S103).

  If the print setting for double-sided printing is not set (step S104: No), the print page determination unit 123 determines whether the paper size of each of a plurality of pages to be printed fits in the second paper size (step S104). S105). At this time, when the print page determination unit 123 determines that the paper size fits in the second paper size (step S105: Yes), the paper size control unit 124 sets the page determined to fit in the second paper size. To control printing (step S106). On the other hand, when the print page determination unit 123 determines that the paper size does not fit in the second paper size (step S105: No), control is performed to print the page determined not to fit in the first paper size. (Step S107).

  The image processing unit 125 executes printing processing according to the control by the paper size control unit 124 (step S108). If all the pages to be printed have not been processed (step S109: No), the process returns to step S105, and the process for the next page is performed. Then, when the processing for all pages to be printed is completed (step S109: Yes), the processing ends.

  In addition, when double-sided printing is set (step S104: Yes), the print page determination unit 123 sets each of continuous pages to be printed that can be double-sided printing on both sides of the second paper size. It is determined whether or not the paper size can be accommodated (step S110). At this time, if the print page determination unit 123 determines that the paper size of each successive page fits on both sides of the second paper size (step S110: Yes), the paper size control unit 124 determines that it fits. Then, control is performed so that the continuous pages to be printed are printed on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size (step S111). On the other hand, when the print page determination unit 123 determines that the paper size of each successive page does not fit on both sides of the second paper size (step S110: No), the paper size control unit 124 determines that it does not fit. Control is performed so that the continuous pages to be printed are printed on the front and back surfaces of the first paper size (step S112).

  The image processing unit 125 executes printing processing according to the control by the paper size control unit 124 (step S113). If all the pages to be printed have not been processed (step S114: No), the process returns to step S110, and the process for the next continuous page is performed. Then, when the processing of all pages to be printed is completed (step S114: Yes), the processing ends.

  If the paper size determination unit 121 determines that the paper sizes are not mixed on a plurality of pages (step S101: No), the first paper size and the second paper size are not used. Therefore, normal printing processing is executed by the image processing unit 125 (step S115). If the specifying unit 122 determines that the print setting for using the first paper size and the second paper size has not been made (step S102: No), the image processing unit 125 performs normal print processing. It is executed (step S115).

[Effects of Embodiment 1]
The image processing apparatus 100 uses a first paper size that is the largest paper size among the mixed paper sizes and a second paper size that is a paper size that is half the size of the first paper size. Then, control is performed so that a print target page that fits in the second paper size is printed in the second paper size, and a print target page that does not fit in the second paper size is printed in the first paper size. In addition, the image processing apparatus 100 discharges printing in the first paper size in the vertical direction and discharges printing in the second paper size in the horizontal direction. As a result of these, the image processing apparatus 100 relates to the appearance of the printed material while realizing a finishing function such as punching or stapling, as compared with the conventional technique in which a printing target page larger than a predetermined paper size is divided and printed. A reduction in quality can be suppressed.

(Embodiment 2)
In the first embodiment, control is performed so that a print target page that fits in the second paper size is printed in the second paper size, and a print target page that does not fit in the second paper size is printed in the first paper size. The case where control is performed has been described. With respect to such print settings, pages to be printed may be imposed so that the margins of the first paper size and the second paper size used are smaller. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the pages to be printed are impositioned so that the margins of the first paper size and the second paper size are reduced. The system configuration of the image processing system according to the second embodiment and the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[Functional configuration according to Embodiment 2]
The functional configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the image processing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description of the same components may be omitted.

  As illustrated in FIG. 6, the image processing apparatus 200 includes a communication unit 101, a storage unit 111, a paper size determination unit 121, a specification unit 122, a print page determination unit 123, a paper size control unit 224, and an image. And a processing unit 125. Note that part or all of the above-described units may be realized by software (program) or a hardware circuit.

  The paper size control unit 224 imposes pages to be printed so that the margins of the printed pages of the first paper size and the second paper size are smaller. More specifically, the paper size control unit 224 selects, from the plurality of pages included in the print target by the print page determination unit 123, a page that has been determined to fit within the second paper size. Imposition so that the margin of the print page of paper size is smaller. In addition, the paper size control unit 224 prints a page determined by the print page determination unit 123 that the paper size does not fit in the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target, in the first paper size. Imposition so that page margins are less.

  For example, when the first page is “A7 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, and the third page is “A3 size”, the paper size control unit 224 is the second paper size that is “A4 size”. The first page is imposed on the second paper size based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123 that the first page “A7 size” is stored in the first page. Then, the paper size control unit 224 imposes the second page on the second paper size if the second page can be imposed on the margin of the second paper size on which the first page is imposed. The imposition may be performed with priority from the upper or left position of the sheet. In other words, imposition is preferably performed with priority from the upper left position where the margin of the printed page is smaller. Such imposition settings may be included in the print settings. Specifically, after imposing the first page on the upper left, the second page can be imposed on the right side of the first page, and the second page cannot be imposed on the right side of the first page. It will be verified whether it can be imposed at the bottom of the page. Subsequently, since the third page cannot be imposed on the second sheet size for the third page, the sheet size control unit 224 performs control so that the first page and the second page are printed with the second sheet size imposed. Thereafter, the paper size control unit 224 controls the print page determination unit 123 to print the third page that is determined not to fit within the second paper size with the first paper size.

  In addition, when the double-sided printing setting is set, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether the paper size of each successive page fits on both sides of the second paper size according to the determination result. Each of the plurality of pages is imposed so that the margins of the printed pages on both sides of the paper size and the second paper size are smaller. More specifically, the paper size control unit 224 displays the continuous print target pages determined by the print page determination unit 123 by the print page determination unit 123 to fit within the second paper size. Imposition so that the margins of the double-sided printed pages of two paper sizes are smaller. In addition, the paper size control unit 224 uses the print page determination unit 123 to determine the continuous print target pages that have been determined not to fit within the second paper size, and the margins of the double-sided print pages of the first paper size. Imposition to be less.

  The first page is “A7”, the second is “B6”, the third is “A5”, the fourth is “A4”, and the fifth is “A3” I will give you. For example, the paper size control unit 224 determines that the print page determination unit 123 determines that the first page “A7 size” and the second page “B6 size” are accommodated in the second paper size of “A4 size”. Based on the result, the first page is imposed on the surface of the second paper size. Then, the paper size control unit 224 impositions the second page on the surface of the second paper size if the second page can be impositioned on the margin of the surface of the second paper size imposing the first page. To do. Then, the paper size control unit 224 verifies whether or not the third page can be imposed on the margin of the surface of the second paper size. Here, if the third page cannot be imposed on the front margin of the second paper size, the paper size control unit 224 imposes the third page on the rear margin of the second paper size. Subsequently, the paper size control unit 224 verifies whether or not the fourth page can be imposed on the back margin of the second paper size. Here, the paper size control unit 224 imposes the fourth page on the back margin of the second paper size, and therefore imposes the first and second pages on the front surface and the third page on the back surface. Control is performed so that printing is performed with the second paper size. Thereafter, the paper size control unit 224 determines that the second page size does not fit the continuous fourth page “A4 size” and the fifth page “A3 size” based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123. Control is performed so that printing is performed in the first paper size with the fourth page on the front side and the fifth page on the back side.

[Image Processing According to Second Embodiment]
Next, image processing according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 7, a case where double-sided printing is set will be described as an example.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first page is “A7 size”, the second page is “B6 size”, the third page is “B6 size”, the fourth page is “A7 size”, and the fifth page is “ A case will be described in which printing processing is performed for a plurality of pages in which the A4 size is “A3 size” and the sixth page is “A3 size”. When the print target is such a paper size, the paper size determination unit 121 determines that the paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages. Then, the specifying unit 122 specifies the first paper size “A3 size” among the mixed paper sizes. Here, the second paper size is “A4 size”, which is half the size of the first paper size “A3 size”.

  Subsequently, the print page determination unit 123 determines whether the first page “A7 size” of the print target page fits on the front side of the second paper size “A4 size” and the second page “B6 size” of the print target page fits on the back side. Determine whether. Then, the print page determination unit 123 determines that the first page “A7 size” and the second page “B6 size” of the print target page fit on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size “A4 size”. Note that the first page and the second page are pages to be continuously printed that can be targets for double-sided printing. Based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123, the paper size control unit 224 imposes the first page of the page to be printed on the surface of the second paper size. Then, the paper size control unit 224 verifies whether the second page of the print target page can be imposed on the margin of the surface of the second paper size. As a result, the paper size control unit 224 imposes the second page of the page to be printed on the margin of the surface of the second paper size.

  Subsequently, the sheet size control unit 224 can imposition the third page “B6 size” of the page to be printed on the margin of the surface of the second sheet size imposing the first page and the second page. Verify whether or not. Here, since the third page cannot be imposed on the front margin of the second paper size, the paper size control unit 224 can impose the third page on the rear margin of the second paper size. Verify that. Accordingly, the paper size control unit 224 impositions the third page of the page to be printed on the margin on the back surface of the second paper size imposing the first page and the second page. Thereafter, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether or not the fourth page “A7 size” of the page to be printed can be impositioned in the margin on the back surface of the second paper size imposing the first to third pages. Verify that. Accordingly, the paper size control unit 224 impositions the fourth page of the page to be printed on the margin on the back surface of the second paper size imposing the first page to the third page.

  Then, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether the fifth page “A4 size” of the page to be printed can be impositioned in the margin of the back surface of the second paper size imposing the first page to the fourth page. Verify that. Here, the paper size control unit 224 cannot impose the fifth page on the back margin of the second paper size. At this time, the first page and the second page are placed on the front side, and the third page is placed on the back side. And the fourth page are controlled to be printed in the second paper size.

  Thereafter, the print page determination unit 123 fits the fifth page “A4 size” of the page to be printed on the front side of the second paper size “A4 size” and the sixth page “A3 size” of the page to be printed on the back side. Determine whether or not. Then, the print page determination unit 123 determines that the fifth page “A4 size” and the sixth page “A3 size” of the page to be printed do not fit on the front and back surfaces of the second paper size “A4 size”. To do. Note that the fifth page and the sixth page are pages to be continuously printed that can be targets for double-sided printing. Based on the determination result by the print page determination unit 123, the paper size control unit 224 imposes the fifth page of the print target page on the surface of the first paper size, and the sixth page of the print target page. And imposing on the back surface of the first paper size. Here, since the seventh and subsequent pages do not exist, the paper size control unit 224 controls to print at the first paper size with the fifth page on the front side and the sixth page on the back side. .

[Image Processing Flow According to Second Embodiment]
Next, the flow of image processing according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of image processing according to the second embodiment. Note that description of the same steps as those in the flow of image processing according to Embodiment 1 may be omitted. Specifically, step S201 to step S207 are the same as the processing in step S101 to step S107. Steps S210 to S214 are the same as the processes in steps S108 to S112. Steps S217 to S219 are the same as the processes in steps S113 to S115.

  As shown in FIG. 8, after step S206, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether there is an impositionable margin on the surface of the second paper size (step S208). At this time, the paper size control unit 224 performs imposition of the page to be printed (step S209) when there is an impositionable margin on the surface of the second paper size (step S208: Yes). Then, after performing imposition, the paper size control unit 224 executes the processing of step S208 and step S209 until there is no impositionable margin. On the other hand, when the paper size control unit 224 determines that there is no impositionable margin on the surface of the second paper size (step S208: No), the image processing unit 125 performs imposition at this point. The printing process with the second sheet size is executed (step S210).

  In addition, after step S207, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether there is an impositionable margin on the surface of the first paper size (step S208). At this time, the sheet size control unit 224 performs imposition of the page to be printed (step S209) when there is an impositionable margin on the surface of the first sheet size (step S208: Yes). Then, after performing imposition, the paper size control unit 224 executes the processing of step S208 and step S209 until there is no impositionable margin. On the other hand, when the paper size control unit 224 determines that there is no impositionable margin on the surface of the first paper size (step S208: No), the image processing unit 125 performs imposition at this point. The printing process with the first sheet size is executed (step S210). Note that when the first paper size is used in single-sided printing, the page to be printed is larger than the second paper size, so there is a high possibility that multiple pages will not be placed.

  In addition, after step S213, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether there is an impositionable margin on both sides of the second paper size (step S215). At this time, when there is a margin that can be imposed on both sides of the second sheet size (step S215: Yes), the sheet size control unit 224 performs imposition of the page to be printed (step S216). Then, after performing imposition, the paper size control unit 224 executes the processing of step S215 and step S216 until there is no impositionable margin. On the other hand, if the paper size control unit 224 determines that there is no impositionable margin on both sides of the second paper size (step S215: No), the image processing unit 125 performs imposition at this point. The printing process with the second sheet size is executed (step S217).

  In addition, after step S214, the paper size control unit 224 determines whether there is an impositionable margin on both sides of the first paper size (step S215). At this time, if there is a margin that can be imposed on both sides of the first sheet size (step S215: Yes), the sheet size control unit 224 imposes the page to be printed (step S216). Then, after performing imposition, the paper size control unit 224 executes the processing of step S215 and step S216 until there is no impositionable margin. On the other hand, if the paper size control unit 224 determines that there is no margin that can be imposed on both sides of the first paper size (step S215: No), the image processing unit 125 performs imposition at this point. The printing process with the first paper size is executed (step S217).

[Effects of Embodiment 2]
The image processing apparatus 200 uses a first paper size that is the largest paper size among the mixed paper sizes, and a second paper size that is a paper size that is half the first paper size. The page to be printed that fits in the second paper size is imprinted so that the margin of the second paper size is smaller, and the page to be printed that does not fit in the second paper size is printed in the margin of the first paper size Print with imposition so that there is less. In addition, the image processing apparatus 200 discharges printing in the first paper size in the vertical direction, and discharges printing in the second paper size in the horizontal direction. As a result, the image processing apparatus 200 can achieve a finishing function such as punching or stapling, suppress a decrease in quality related to the appearance of the printed matter, and reduce the margins of the printed pages and useless printed pages. .

(Embodiment 3)
Although the embodiments of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention have been described so far, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms other than the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, different embodiments of (1) imposition using the first paper size, (2) configuration, and (3) program will be described.

(1) Imposition using the first paper size FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing according to the third embodiment. In FIG. 9, a case where double-sided printing is set is described as an example.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the first page is “A6 size”, the second page is “A5 size”, the third page is “B6 size”, the fourth page is “A6 size”, and the fifth page is “A6 size”. A case will be described in which printing processing is performed for a page to be printed whose A4 size is “A3 size” on the sixth page. When the print target is such a paper size, the image processing apparatus determines that the paper size is mixed in a plurality of pages to be printed. Then, the image processing apparatus specifies the first paper size “A3 size” among the mixed paper sizes when the setting is made for imposing the page to be printed on the first paper size.

  Subsequently, the image processing apparatus imposes the first page “A6 size” of the page to be printed on the surface of the first paper size “A3 size”. Further, the image processing apparatus sequentially imposes the second page “A5 size”, the third page “B6 size”, and the fourth page “A6 size” of the page to be printed on the surface of the first paper size “A3 size”. To do. Thereafter, the image processing apparatus imposes the fifth page “A4 size” of the page to be printed on the back surface of the first paper size “A3 size”. Here, since there is no impositionable margin on both sides of the first first paper size “A3 size”, the image processing apparatus prints on the front surface of the second first paper size “A3 size”. Impose the sixth page “A3 size” of the target page. As a result, the image processing apparatus executes a printing process in which the first to fifth pages are imprinted on both sides of the first first paper size, and the sixth page is the second first paper. Execute the printing process imposing on the size surface.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of image processing according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the image processing apparatus determines whether or not paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target (step S301). At this time, if the image processing apparatus determines that the paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages (step S301: Yes), whether or not the page to be printed is set to the first paper size is set. Is determined (step S302). The image processing apparatus specifies the first paper size among the mixed paper sizes when the setting for imposing the print target page on the first paper size is made (step S302: Yes) (step S303). ).

  Then, when the duplex printing is not set (step S304: No), the image processing apparatus performs imposition of the page to be printed on the surface of the first paper size (step S305). Subsequently, when there is an impositionable margin on the surface of the first paper size (step S306: Yes), the image processing apparatus has the surface of the next page to be printed on the surface of the first paper size. Attaching is performed (step S305). Thereafter, when there is no impositionable margin on the surface of the first paper size (step S306: No), the image processing apparatus executes the imprinting process imposing on the surface of the first paper size at this point. (Step S307). In addition, when the print processing of all the pages to be printed has not been completed (step S308: No), the image processing apparatus returns to step S305, and prints the page to be printed on the surface of the new first paper size. I will be imposing. On the other hand, the image processing apparatus ends the process when the printing process for all the pages to be printed is completed (step S308: Yes).

  In addition, when the duplex printing is set (step S304: Yes), the image processing apparatus performs imposition of the page to be printed on the surface of the first paper size (step S309). Subsequently, when there is an impositionable margin on the surface of the first paper size (step S310: Yes), the image processing apparatus has the surface of the next page to be printed on the surface of the first paper size. Attaching is performed (step S309). In this way, the image processing apparatus performs imposition of pages to be printed in the order of the front side and the back side of the first paper size until there is no margin that can be imposed on both sides of the first paper size. Thereafter, if there is no impositionable margin on both sides of the first paper size (step S310: No), the image processing apparatus executes the imprinting process imposing on both sides of the first paper size at this point. (Step S311). In addition, when the print processing of all pages to be printed has not been completed (step S312: No), the image processing apparatus returns to step S309 and displays the page to be printed on both sides of the new first paper size. I will add it. On the other hand, when the printing process for all pages to be printed is completed (step S312: Yes), the image processing apparatus ends the process.

  If the image processing apparatus determines that the paper sizes are not mixed (step S301: No), the image processing apparatus executes normal printing processing (step S313). In addition, when the setting for imposing the page to be printed on the first paper size is not made (step S302: No), the image processing apparatus executes a predetermined printing process (step S313). The predetermined print processing refers to image processing according to the first embodiment and image processing according to the second embodiment. That is, in the predetermined printing process, the first paper size and the second paper size are used.

(2) Configuration In addition, information including processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data, parameters, and the like shown in the documents and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. Each component of the illustrated apparatus is functionally conceptual and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. That is, the specific form of the distribution or integration of the devices is not limited to the illustrated one, and all or a part of the distribution or integration is functionally or physically distributed or arbitrarily in any unit according to various burdens or usage conditions. Can be integrated. For example, each function of the image processing apparatus described in the above embodiment may be executed on the client terminal side. Specifically, the client terminal has functions such as a paper size determination unit 121, a specification unit 122, a print page determination unit 123, a paper size control unit 124 (paper size control unit 224), and performs the print setting. Then, a command requesting print processing is transmitted to the image processing apparatus.

  In the image processing according to the first embodiment, a case has been described in which a page to be printed is printed using the first paper size and the second paper size. In the image processing according to the second embodiment, the case has been described in which the first paper size and the second paper size are used to imposition and print a plurality of pages to be printed. In the image processing according to the third embodiment, the case has been described in which the first paper size is used to imposition and print a plurality of pages to be printed. These image processes can be made selectable by the user. For example, the user operates the client terminal 3 or the image processing apparatus (for example, the operation display unit 20) to select which image processing is performed. The image processing information selected by the user is included in the print request and transmitted to the image processing apparatus. Thereby, the image processing apparatus can execute any of the image processing described above. If the image processing described above is not desired to be executed, information indicating that no image processing is to be executed may be included in the print request. At this time, normal printing processing is executed.

  In addition, the above-described image processing can be suitably switched and executed. For example, the user operates the client terminal 3 to give an instruction to automatically switch and execute one of the image processes. As a result, the image processing apparatus selects image processing so that the number of sheets to be used is reduced and the margin is reduced. The image processing apparatus analyzes the number of pages finally generated by each image processing from the combination of paper sizes to be printed, so that the number of sheets to be used is smaller and the margin is smaller. Select and execute a process.

(3) Program The image processing program executed by the image processing apparatus 100 is, as one form, a file in an installable format or an executable format in a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, The program is provided by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). The image processing program executed by the image processing apparatus 100 may be provided by being stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and downloaded via the network. The image processing program executed by the image processing apparatus 100 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. Further, the image processing program executed by the image processing apparatus 100 may be provided by being incorporated in advance in a ROM or the like.

  The image processing program executed by the image processing apparatus 100 has a module configuration including the above-described units (paper size determination unit 121, identification unit 122, print page determination unit 123, and paper size control unit 124). As hardware, a CPU (processor) reads out and executes a program from a storage medium, whereby the above-described units are loaded on the main storage device, and a paper size determination unit 121, a specification unit 122, a print page determination unit 123, a paper size The control unit 124 is generated on the main storage device.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image processing apparatus 101 Communication part 111 Storage part 121 Paper size determination part 122 Specification part 123 Print page determination part 124 Paper size control part 125 Image processing part

JP 2004-199464 A

Claims (8)

A paper size determination unit that determines whether or not paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target;
A specifying unit that specifies a first paper size that represents a maximum paper size among the mixed paper sizes when it is determined that the paper sizes are mixed;
The paper size of each of the plurality of pages is a second paper size representing a paper size that is smaller than the first paper size and has a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size. A print page determination unit that determines whether or not it fits;
Of the plurality of pages included in the print target, control is performed so that a page determined to fit in the second paper size is printed with the second paper size, and the paper size is set to the second paper size. An image processing apparatus comprising: a paper size control unit that controls to print a page that is determined not to fit in the first paper size. The print page determination unit determines whether or not the paper sizes of the plurality of pages fit on both sides of the second paper size when double-sided printing is set;
The paper size control unit performs control so as to perform double-side printing on a page determined to fit on both sides of the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target with the second paper size. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein control is performed so that a page whose paper size does not fit on both sides of the second paper size is printed on both sides with the first paper size.   The paper size control unit imposes a plurality of pages included in the print target so that a margin of a print page of the first paper size and the second paper size is smaller. The image processing apparatus according to 1 or 2.   The said specific | specification part specifies the said 1st paper size when it is the print setting which uses the said 1st paper size and the said 2nd paper size, The any one of Claims 1-3 characterized by the above-mentioned. An image processing apparatus according to 1.   The printing process of the printing target is executed according to the control by the paper size control unit, and the position of the short side of the first paper size and the side of the second paper size that is the side having the same length as the short side 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an image processing unit that discharges the sheets in a uniform manner. Determining whether paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target;
When it is determined that the paper sizes are mixed, a step of specifying a first paper size representing a maximum paper size among the mixed paper sizes;
The paper size of each of the plurality of pages is a second paper size representing a paper size that is smaller than the first paper size and has a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size. Determining whether it fits, and
Controlling to print a page determined to fit within the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target, with the second paper size;
Controlling to print a page of which the paper size does not fit in the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target, so that the page is printed with the first paper size. Image processing method. Determining whether paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target;
When it is determined that the paper sizes are mixed, a step of specifying a first paper size representing a maximum paper size among the mixed paper sizes;
The paper size of each of the plurality of pages is a second paper size representing a paper size that is smaller than the first paper size and has a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size. Determining whether it fits, and
Controlling to print a page determined to fit within the second paper size among the plurality of pages included in the print target, with the second paper size;
For causing the computer to execute a step of controlling a page determined to not fit within the second paper size out of the plurality of pages included in the print target to be printed with the first paper size. Image processing program. A paper size determination unit that determines whether or not paper sizes are mixed in a plurality of pages included in the print target;
A specifying unit that specifies a first paper size that represents a maximum paper size among the mixed paper sizes when it is determined that the paper sizes are mixed;
The paper size of each of the plurality of pages is a second paper size representing a paper size that is smaller than the first paper size and has a side having the same length as the short side of the first paper size. A print page determination unit that determines whether or not it fits;
Of the plurality of pages included in the print target, control is performed so that a page determined to fit in the second paper size is printed with the second paper size, and the paper size is set to the second paper size. A paper size control unit that generates information for controlling to print a page determined to not fit in the first paper size;
An information processing apparatus comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the generated information to an image processing apparatus.

Images