JP2021057735A - Color conversion parameter generation device, color conversion parameter generation method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To prevent unintended color conversion when there are overlapping objects in document image data.SOLUTION: A color conversion parameter generation method includes obtaining scanned image data of a color sample (step S1), obtaining document image data corresponding to the color sample (step S2), determining whether the document image data includes reproduction setting for objects with overlapping the document image data in a color conversion parameter generation device that generate a color conversion parameter related to color conversion for the document image data on the basis of the scanned image data and the document image data (step S4), and performing notification that the document image data includes the reproduction setting (step S5) when the document image data includes the reproduction setting (step S4; YES).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to a color conversion parameter generation device, a color conversion parameter generation method, and a program.

In a general printing apparatus, printing is performed using process colors of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K). Colors of scanned image data (RGB value) and original image data (CMYK value) obtained by reading the color sample in order to aim for color reproduction of the color sample (target output) printed based on the original image data. Therefore, a system for performing color matching by modifying the color conversion table used for color conversion on the original image data is used (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-48900

However, if a printing company or the like has a reproduction setting for overlapping objects such as an overprint or a transparent object in the color sample / manuscript image data brought in when receiving an order from a client, this reproduction setting is set when printing the color sample. There was a problem of not knowing whether it was valid or invalid. Since the print result differs between when the reproduction setting is enabled and when the reproduction setting is disabled, the system performs incorrect color association between the scanned image data of the color sample and the original image data, and color conversion is performed. It is possible to correct the table to the wrong color.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to prevent unintended color conversion when an object overlapping the original image data exists.

In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 1 acquires the scanned image data of the color sample, acquires the original image data corresponding to the color sample, and obtains the scanned image data and the original image data. A color conversion parameter generation device including a control unit that generates color conversion parameters related to color conversion for the original image data based on the above, and the control unit includes a reproduction setting for an object on which the original image data overlaps. When it is determined whether or not the original image data includes the reproduction setting, it is notified that the reproduction setting is included.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the color conversion parameter generation device according to the first aspect, the control unit displays an image based on the original image data when the original image data includes the reproduction setting. The display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image is set to a display mode different from that of other areas.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the color conversion parameter generation device according to the first aspect, the control unit uses the scanned image data and the original image data when the original image data includes the reproduction setting. When the difference is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, an image based on the original image data is displayed on the display unit, and a display mode of a region corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image is displayed in another display mode. The display mode is different from that of the area.

The invention according to claim 4 is the color conversion parameter generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the color conversion parameter is generated, the read image data and the original image data are described. A selection means for selecting whether or not to use the information of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting is provided, and the control unit generates the color conversion parameter based on the selection result in the selection means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the color conversion parameter generation device according to the first aspect, when the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the control unit sets the reproduction setting for the original image data. At least two modified images are generated, the at least two images are displayed on the display unit, and the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the at least two images is different from that of the other areas. And.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the color conversion parameter generation device according to the first aspect, when the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the control unit sets the reproduction setting for the original image data. At least two modified images are generated, the difference from the scanned image data is acquired for each of the at least two images, and the image corresponding to the reproduction setting having the smallest difference is based on the scanned image data. To generate the color conversion parameters.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the color conversion parameter generation device according to the fifth or sixth aspect, the control unit generates at least two images by limiting the range of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting. To do.

According to a eighth aspect of the present invention, in the color conversion parameter generation apparatus according to the seventh aspect, the control unit covers a range of a region including a feature point used for aligning the read image data and the original image data. In a limited way, at least the two images are generated.

The invention according to claim 9 acquires the scanned image data of the color sample, acquires the original image data corresponding to the color sample, and based on the scanned image data and the original image data, the original image data. This is a color conversion parameter generation method in a color conversion parameter generation device including a control unit for generating color conversion parameters related to color conversion for the above, and whether or not the control unit includes a reproduction setting for an object in which the original image data overlaps. This includes a step of determining whether or not the original image data includes the reproduction setting, and a step of notifying the control unit of the inclusion of the reproduction setting when the original image data includes the reproduction setting.

The invention according to claim 10 acquires the scanned image data of the color sample, acquires the original image data corresponding to the color sample, and based on the scanned image data and the original image data, the original image data. A step of determining whether or not the computer of the color conversion parameter generator that generates the color conversion parameter related to the color conversion for the original image data includes the reproduction setting for the object on which the original image data overlaps, and the reproduction setting of the original image data. It is a program for executing the step of notifying that the reproduction setting is included when the above-mentioned reproduction setting is included.

According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent unintended color conversion when there is an object that overlaps with the original image data.

It is a figure which shows the system structure of the image formation system in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of a PC. It is a figure which shows the flow of correction of a color conversion table (target profile). It is a flowchart which shows the 1st color conversion parameter generation processing. (A) is an example of manuscript image data. (B) is an example of a preview screen. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd color conversion parameter generation processing in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the 3rd color conversion parameter generation processing in 3rd Embodiment. This is an example of a preview screen that includes two images with changed reproduction settings. It is a figure for demonstrating the range of the area to be processed in the modification 1 of the 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the feature point used for the alignment in the modification 2 of the 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the 4th color conversion parameter generation processing in 4th Embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the color conversion parameter generation device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows the system configuration of the image forming system 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 includes a PC (Personal Computer) 10, a scanner 20, and a printer 30 as color conversion parameter generation devices. Each device is connected so as to be capable of data communication via a communication network N such as a LAN (Local Area Network).

The PC 10 modifies the target profile used when matching the color of the output product of the printer 30 with the color of the color sample, and provides the printer 30 with the color. The PC 10 transmits a print instruction including image data to be printed to the printer 30.

The scanner 20 reads a color sample and generates scanned image data (RGB values). As the scanner 20, the scanner mounted on the printer 30 may be used.

The printer 30 uses four process colors of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K), and uses color materials such as CMYK toner and ink to print an image on paper. It is an image forming apparatus to form. The printer 30 includes a controller and a printer engine.
Based on the print instruction transmitted from the PC 10, the controller performs arithmetic processing such as color conversion processing, rasterization processing, and screening processing on the image data to be printed, and generates raster data (CMYK values).
The printer engine performs printing processing based on raster data (CMYK values) generated by the controller.

FIG. 2 shows the functional configuration of the PC 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the PC 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 12, an operation unit 13, a communication unit 14, a storage unit 15, and the like.

The control unit 11 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, and the like, and controls each unit in the PC 10. The CPU 111 reads various programs stored in the ROM 112 or the storage unit 15 and expands them in the RAM 113, and executes various processes according to the expanded programs. The ROM 112 is a read-only memory that stores various programs and various data. The RAM 113 temporarily stores programs and data as a work area.

The display unit 12 is configured to include an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitor, and displays various screens according to instructions of display signals input from the control unit 11.

The operation unit 13 is configured to include a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, character input keys, various function keys, and a pointing device such as a mouse, and controls operation signals input by key operations on the keyboard or mouse operations. Output to. Further, the operation unit 13 may be configured by a touch panel laminated on the display unit 12, and may output an operation signal according to the position of the touch operation by the operator's finger or the like to the control unit 11.

The communication unit 14 is configured by a network interface or the like, and transmits / receives data to / from an external device connected via the communication network N.

The storage unit 15 is a storage device that stores various programs and various data.
The color conversion profile is stored in the storage unit 15. The color conversion profile is a profile used for color conversion, and includes a scanner profile, a printer profile, a target profile, and the like.
The scanner profile represents the correspondence relationship (reading characteristics of the scanner 20) between the reading value (RGB value) of the scanner 20 and the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^{* value), and has been acquired in advance.}
The printer profile represents the correspondence relationship (output characteristics of the printer 30) between the image data (CMYK value) and the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^{* value) used at the time of printing in the printer 30, and is acquired in advance.} There is.
The target profile represents the correspondence between the original image data (CMYK value) input to the target printing machine on which the color sample is printed and the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^{* value) obtained from the color sample.} is there. The target profile is updated by being modified.

The control unit 11 acquires the scanned image data (RGB value) obtained by scanning the color sample from the scanner 20.

The control unit 11 acquires the original image data (CMYK value) corresponding to the color sample. The manuscript image data is the image data on which the color sample is printed. As the manuscript image data, for example, a PDF file or the like is used.

The control unit 11 generates color conversion parameters related to color conversion for the original image data based on the scanned image data and the original image data. Specifically, the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter for the target profile.

The control unit 11 determines whether or not the reproduction setting for the object in which the original image data overlaps is included. The reproduction setting for overlapping objects (hereinafter referred to as "superimposition reproduction setting" or simply "reproduction setting") is a setting that defines how to reproduce the color of the part where the objects overlap. is there. Examples of the overlay reproduction setting include settings such as overprint and transparent objects.

Overprint is a setting when overlaying the front object on the back object, and when overprint is enabled (ON), in addition to the color of the front object, the color of the back object is also included. It will be printed. When overprint is disabled (OFF), the color of the object on the back is not included in the overlapping portion of the objects, and only the color of the object on the front is printed.

The transparent object is a setting that makes the front object semi-transparent based on transparency, transparency, etc. when overlapping objects.

When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the control unit 11 notifies that the reproduction setting is included.
Specifically, when the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display an image based on the original image data, and displays a display mode of an area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image. , The display mode is different from that of other areas.

The operation unit 13 is used when selecting whether or not to use the information of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data when generating the color conversion parameter. That is, the operation unit 13 functions as a selection means.

The control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter based on the selection result in the operation unit 13 (selection means). Specifically, when it is selected that the control unit 11 uses the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting, the information of the entire area of the scanned image data and the original image data (the area corresponding to the reproduction setting). Contains information.) Generate color conversion parameters based on. On the other hand, when it is selected not to use the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting, the control unit 11 is based on the information of the area excluding the area corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data. , Generate color conversion parameters.

Next, the flow of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) will be described with reference to FIG.
(1) The CMYK value of each pixel is extracted from the original image data.
(2) The RGB value of each pixel is extracted from the scanned image data obtained by scanning the color sample with the scanner 20.
(3) Since the target profile to be modified is ^{the look-up table (LUT) of CMYK-L *} a ^* b ^* , the RGB values extracted from the scanned image data are used as the scanner profile (RGB-L ^* a ^* b ^* LUT). ) To convert to ^{L *} a ^* b ^{* values.}

(4) Create a table (CMYK-L ^* a ^* b ^* table) in ^{which the CMYK value and the L *} a ^* b ^* value are associated with each other at the corresponding positions of the original image data and the scanned image data. Specifically, feature points such as edges (contours) and corners are extracted from each of the original image data and the scanned image data, and the original image data and the scanned image data are aligned based on the feature points. Then, the combination of the CMYK value of the original image data and the L ^* a ^* b ^* value obtained from the scanned image data is stored in the ^{CMYK-L *} a ^* b ^{* table for each position corresponding to each other.}
(5) Reflect the correction in the CMYK target profile (CMYK-L ^* a ^* b ^{* ) based on the CMYK-L *} a ^* b ^{* table.}

Next, the operation on the PC 10 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a first color conversion parameter generation process executed by the PC 10. This processing is realized by software processing in collaboration with the CPU 111 of the control unit 11 and the program stored in the storage unit 15.

First, the scanner 20 reads a color sample and generates scanned image data (RGB values).
The control unit 11 acquires the read image data (RGB value) obtained by reading the color sample from the scanner 20 via the communication unit 14 (step S1). The control unit 11 stores the acquired read image data in the storage unit 15.

Next, the control unit 11 acquires the original image data (CMYK value) corresponding to the color sample from the external device via the communication unit 14 (step S2). The control unit 11 stores the acquired manuscript image data in the storage unit 15.

Next, the control unit 11 analyzes the original image data (step S3) and determines whether or not the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting (step S4).

When the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting (step S4; YES), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display an image based on the original image data, and the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image. The display mode of is different from that of other areas (step S5). The control unit 11 notifies that there is a superposition reproduction setting by making the area corresponding to the reproduction setting conspicuous on the image displayed on the display unit 12.

For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B shows an example of the preview screen 121 displayed on the display unit 12 when the original image data 40 includes the overprint area 41. The preview screen 121 includes an image display area 50, a check box C1, and an adjustment button B1.
An image (preview image) based on the original image data 40 is displayed in the image display area 50. Further, in the image display area 50, the overprint area (area corresponding to the reproduction setting) 51 in the image is displayed so as to be distinguishable from other areas. For example, the control unit 11 blinks the overprint area (object) 51 or displays it in a color different from the surroundings. Since the purpose here is to notify the existence of the overprint area 51, the color of the overprint area 51 may be different from the actual color (color in the original image data 40). Further, the overprint area 51 may be emphasized and displayed by superimposing a broken line or a thick line on the boundary of the overprint area 51.
The check box C1 is checked when excluding the area corresponding to the reproduction setting from the information (original image data, scanned image data) used for generating the color conversion parameter.
The adjustment button B1 is pressed when instructing the generation of the color conversion parameter.

Next, the user selects whether or not to use the information of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data when the color conversion parameter is generated by the operation from the operation unit 13.
For example, on the preview screen 121 of FIG. 5B, when the user presses the adjustment button B1 without checking the check box C1, the control unit 11 sets the reproduction setting when the color conversion parameter is generated. The information in the corresponding area will be used. On the other hand, when the user presses the adjustment button B1 while the check box C1 is checked on the preview screen 121, the control unit 11 outputs information on the area corresponding to the reproduction setting when the color conversion parameter is generated. Will be excluded.
Based on the selection operation from the operation unit 13, the control unit 11 determines whether or not to use the information of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting when generating the color conversion parameter (step S6).

When the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting is used (step S6; YES), the control unit 11 uses the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data, that is, reads. A color conversion parameter is generated based on the entire area of the image data and the original image data (step S7). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.

When the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting is not used in step S6 (step S6; NO), the control unit 11 excludes the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting from the scanned image data and the original image data. , A color conversion parameter is generated based on information other than the area corresponding to the reproduction setting (step S8). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.

In step S4, if the original image data does not include the overlay reproduction setting (step S4; NO), the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter based on the scanned image data and the original image data (step S4). S9). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.
After step S7, step S8 or step S9, the first color conversion parameter generation process ends.

The modified target profile is transmitted from the PC 10 to the printer 30. When printing related to the original image data is performed by the printer 30, the controller uses the target profile to perform ^{color conversion from the original image data (CMYK value) to a color value (L *} a ^* b ^* value), and uses the printer profile. The color is converted from the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^* value) to the print image data (CMYK value). The printer engine prints based on the print image data (CMYK value), so that the color targeted at the color sample is realized.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting, it is notified that the reproduction setting is included, so that the user can be alerted. This makes it possible to prevent unintended color conversion when there is an object that overlaps the original image data.

Specifically, by displaying an image based on the original image data and setting the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image to a display mode different from other areas, the area corresponding to the reproduction setting. Is displayed so that the user can easily pay attention to the area corresponding to the reproduction setting. By making the user aware of the existence of the reproduction setting, it is possible to prevent the color with the wrong reproduction setting from being acquired from the original image data, and reprinting caused by outputting using the color conversion table corrected by mistake. And there is no readjustment.

In addition, when generating the color conversion parameters, it is possible to select whether or not to use the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data, so that an unintended color can be obtained depending on the setting. Color conversion parameters can be generated by excluding sexual areas.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described.
Since the image forming system in the second embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming system 100 shown in the first embodiment, FIGS. 1 and 2 are referred to, and the configurations are illustrated and described. Omit. Hereinafter, the configuration and processing characteristic of the second embodiment will be described.

The control unit 11 acquires the difference between the scanned image data and the original image data when the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting. As the difference, a color difference can be used.

When the difference between the scanned image data and the original image data is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display an image based on the original image data, and the control unit 11 is an area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image. The display mode is different from that of other areas.

Next, the operation in the PC 10 of the second embodiment will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a second color conversion parameter generation process executed by the PC 10. This processing is realized by software processing in collaboration with the CPU 111 of the control unit 11 and the program stored in the storage unit 15.

Since the processes of steps S11 to S14 are the same as the processes of steps S1 to S4 of the first color conversion parameter generation process (see FIG. 4), the description thereof will be omitted.

In step S14, when the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting (step S14; YES), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display a selection screen prompting the user to select whether the reproduction setting is valid or invalid. .. The user selects whether to enable or disable the reproduction setting by the operation from the operation unit 13 (step S15).

Next, the control unit 11 rasterizes the original image data with the reproduction setting (valid or invalid) selected by the operation from the operation unit 13 and generates a rasterized image (step S16).

Next, the control unit 11 calculates the color difference of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the rasterized image and the scanned image data (step S17). Specifically, the control unit 11 converts the region (CMYK value) corresponding to the reproduction setting of the rasterized image into the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^{* value) using the current target profile (before modification).} .. Further, the control unit 11 converts the region (RGB value) corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data into the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^{* value) by using the scanner profile.} Control unit 11, for each position in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting, the document image and the L ^* a ^* b ^* values obtained from rasterized image data, obtained from the read image data L ^* a ^* b ^* value To calculate the color difference.

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the color difference in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the rasterized image and the scanned image data is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step S18). For example, it is determined whether or not the color difference ΔEab between the rasterized image and the scanned image data is 2 or more. It should be noted that it may be determined whether or not the maximum value of the color difference in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting is equal to or greater than the threshold value, and it is determined whether or not the average value of the color difference in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting is equal to or greater than the threshold value. You may.

When the color difference in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step S18; YES), the control unit 11 determines that the reproduction setting selected in step S15 is incorrect (step S19). Here, the control unit 11 may display on the display unit 12 that the selected reproduction setting may be incorrect.

Next, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display an image based on the original image data (an image based on the selected reproduction setting), and the color difference is equal to or greater than the threshold value in the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image. The display mode of this area is different from that of other areas (step S20). For example, the control unit 11 blinks an area having a color difference equal to or greater than a threshold value among the areas corresponding to the reproduction settings, or displays the area in a color different from the surroundings.

Since the processes of steps S21 to S23 are the same as the processes of steps S6 to S8 of the first color conversion parameter generation process (see FIG. 4), the description thereof will be omitted. However, when the color conversion parameter is generated, the rasterized image rasterized with the reproduction setting selected in step S15 is used as the original image data.

In step S18, if the color difference in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting is less than the threshold value (step S18; NO), the control unit 11 determines that the reproduction setting selected in step S15 is correct (step S24). ). Here, the control unit 11 may display on the display unit 12 that the selected reproduction setting is considered to be correct.

In step S14, if the original image data does not include the overlay reproduction setting (step S14; NO), or after step S24, the control unit 11 determines the color conversion parameter based on the scanned image data and the original image data. Is generated (step S25). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.
When the process proceeds to step S25 after step S24, the rasterized image rasterized with the reproduction settings selected in step S15 is used as the original image data when the color conversion parameters are generated.

After step S22, step S23, or step S25, the second color conversion parameter generation process ends.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, when the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting, the color difference is the threshold value in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image based on the original image data. Since the display mode of the above area is different from that of other areas, the user should be alerted when it is considered that the reproduction setting selected by the user does not match the reproduction setting in the color sample. Can be done. This makes it possible to prevent unintended color conversion when there is an object that overlaps the original image data.

In addition, when generating the color conversion parameters, it is possible to select whether or not to use the information of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data, so that an unintended color can be obtained depending on the setting. Color conversion parameters can be generated by excluding sexual areas.

The difference between the scanned image data and the original image data is not limited to the color difference, and either or both of the scanned image data and the original image data are converted so as to match the color space (color system). The difference between the same color values may be used.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described.
Since the image forming system in the third embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming system 100 shown in the first embodiment, FIGS. 1 and 2 are referred to, and the configurations are illustrated and described. Omit. Hereinafter, the configuration and processing characteristic of the third embodiment will be described.

When the original image data includes the superimposed reproduction setting, the control unit 11 generates at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed for the original image data.
The control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display at least two generated images, and sets the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the at least two images to be a display mode different from the other areas.

In the third embodiment, the user selects the most suitable image (the one whose color is closer to the color swatch) from at least two generated images.

Next, the operation of the PC 10 according to the third embodiment will be described.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a third color conversion parameter generation process executed by the PC 10. This processing is realized by software processing in collaboration with the CPU 111 of the control unit 11 and the program stored in the storage unit 15.

Since the processes of steps S31 to S34 are the same as the processes of steps S1 to S4 of the first color conversion parameter generation process (see FIG. 4), the description thereof will be omitted.

In step S34, when the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting (step S34; YES), the control unit 11 rasterizes the original image data with the reproduction setting enabled (ON), and the first rasterized image. Is generated (step S35).
Further, the control unit 11 renders the reproduction setting invalid (OFF), rasterizes the original image data, and generates a second rasterized image (step S36).

Next, the control unit 11 displays the first rasterized image and the second rasterized image on the display unit 12, and the display mode of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting in each rasterized image is different from that of the other regions. The display mode is set (step S37).

FIG. 8 is an example of the preview screen 122 displayed on the display unit 12. The preview screen 122 includes a first image display area 60, a second image display area 70, and an adjustment button B2.
In the first image display area 60, the first rasterized image obtained by rasterizing the original image data with the reproduction setting set to “valid” is displayed. The overprint area 61 in the first rasterized image has a display mode different from that of other areas by superimposing a broken line on the boundary thereof.
In the second image display area 70, a second rasterized image in which the original image data is rasterized with the reproduction setting set to "invalid" is displayed. The overprint area 71 in the second rasterized image has a display mode different from that of other areas by superimposing a broken line on the boundary thereof.

Further, in the first image display area 60 and the second image display area 70, a rasterized image corresponding to the clicked area can be selected by clicking each area.
The adjustment button B2 is pressed when instructing the generation of the color conversion parameter.

Next, the user selects either the first rasterized image or the second rasterized image by the operation from the operation unit 13 (step S38).
Specifically, on the preview screen 122 shown in FIG. 8, the user can use the first rasterized image in the first image display area 60, the second rasterized image in the second image display area 70, and a color sample (target output object). ), And for the overprint areas 61 and 71, the one that looks closer to the color sample (the one with the smaller color difference) is selected.
For example, by clicking the second image display area 70, a second rasterized image for which the reproduction setting is invalid can be selected, and a frame 80 indicating the selected state is displayed around the second image display area 70. ..

Next, the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter based on the rasterized image (CMYK value) selected by the operation from the operation unit 13 and the scanned image data (RGB value) (step S39). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.

Specifically, in the preview screen 122 shown in FIG. 8, in a state where either the first rasterized image in the first image display area 60 or the second rasterized image in the second image display area 70 is selected. When the user presses the adjustment button B2, the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter.

In step S34, when the original image data does not include the overlay reproduction setting (step S34; NO), the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter based on the scanned image data and the original image data (step S34). S40). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.
After step S39 or step S40, the third color conversion parameter generation process ends.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, when the original image data includes the superimposition reproduction setting, at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed are generated, and among the at least two images. By setting the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting to a display mode different from that of the other areas, it is possible to present at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed to the user. Since the user can determine the reproduction setting in the color sample by comparing these images with the color sample, it is possible to prevent unintended color conversion when there is an object overlapping with the original image data.

Further, as in the second embodiment, a threshold value is required when determining whether or not the reproduction setting is correct based on the color difference between the original image data and the scanned image data. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, by presenting at least two rasterized images with changed reproduction settings to the user, it is possible to compare the relative proximity of the rasterized images to the color sample. , The accuracy in determining the reproduction setting is improved.

[Modification 1]
Next, a modification 1 of the third embodiment will be described.
In the first modification, when the control unit 11 generates at least two images to be displayed on the display unit 12, the control unit 11 generates at least two images by limiting the range of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting. Specifically, the control unit 11 generates at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed with respect to the range of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the original image data.
The rasterization range of the original image data is not limited to the area corresponding to the reproduction setting, and the original image data is rasterized to the range in which a predetermined margin area is added around the area corresponding to the reproduction setting. You may do it.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the reproduction setting is changed and rasterization is performed only in the rectangular area 92 surrounding the range of the area 91 corresponding to the reproduction setting of the original image data 90.

Since the operation in the first modification is basically the same as that of the third color conversion parameter generation process (see FIG. 7), the part different from the third color conversion parameter generation process will be mainly described.
In step S35, the control unit 11 enables (ON) the reproduction setting, rasterizes the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the original image data, and generates the first rasterized image.
In step S36, the control unit 11 invalidates (OFF) the reproduction setting, rasterizes the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the original image data, and generates a second rasterized image.

In step S37, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 12 to display the first rasterized image and the second rasterized image. When the first rasterized image and the second rasterized image are composed of only the regions corresponding to the reproduction settings, it is not necessary to display the regions corresponding to the reproduction settings in an identifiable manner. When the first rasterized image and the second rasterized image are composed of an area corresponding to the reproduction setting and a predetermined margin area, the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in each rasterized image may be displayed. The display mode may be different from that of the area of.

In step S39, the control unit 11 rasterizes the entire area of the original image data according to the rasterized image reproduction setting (valid / invalid) selected in step S38, and reads the rasterized image (CMYK value) for the entire area. A color conversion parameter is generated based on the image data (RGB value).

According to the first modification, at least two images whose reproduction settings are changed are generated by limiting the range of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting of the original image data, so that the rasterization process can be speeded up.

[Modification 2]
Next, a modification 2 of the third embodiment will be described.
In the second modification, when the control unit 11 generates at least two images to be displayed on the display unit 12, the control unit 11 includes a range of a region corresponding to the reproduction setting, and aligns the scanned image data and the original image data. At least two images are generated by limiting the range of the area including the feature points used for (correspondence). The control unit 11 uses feature points on the image data when aligning the scanned image data with the original image data.

FIG. 10 is a cutout of a part 93 of the manuscript image data. For example, at the boundary line of the region 94 corresponding to the reproduction setting, the positions 95 to 98 detected as corners are used as feature points. ^{Such feature points are necessary for associating the L *} a ^* b ^* values obtained from the scanned image data with the CMYK values of the original image data in generating the color conversion parameters.

If the "range of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting" includes the feature points required for alignment, limit the reproduction setting to the "range of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting" of the original image data. You only need to generate at least two modified images.
If the "range of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting" does not include the feature points required for alignment, the range obtained by expanding the "range of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting" to include the feature points is processed. The target range may be limited to the processing target range of the original image data, and at least two images with different reproduction settings may be generated.
The operation in the modification 2 is the same as that in the modification 1 except that the rasterization range is different.

According to the second modification, at least two images whose reproduction settings are changed are generated by limiting the range of the area including the feature points used for the alignment of the original image data with the scanned image data, so that the alignment is accurate. It is possible to speed up the rasterization process while performing the above.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described.
Since the image forming system in the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming system 100 shown in the first embodiment, FIGS. 1 and 2 are referred to, and the configurations are illustrated and described. Omit. Hereinafter, the configuration and processing characteristic of the fourth embodiment will be described.

When the original image data includes the superimposed reproduction setting, the control unit 11 generates at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed for the original image data.
The control unit 11 acquires the difference from the scanned image data for each of at least two images.
The control unit 11 generates color conversion parameters based on the image corresponding to the reproduction setting having the smallest difference from the scanned image data and the scanned image data.

Next, the operation of the PC 10 according to the fourth embodiment will be described.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a fourth color conversion parameter generation process executed by the PC 10. This processing is realized by software processing in collaboration with the CPU 111 of the control unit 11 and the program stored in the storage unit 15.

Since the processes of steps S41 to S46 are the same as the processes of steps S31 to S36 of the third color conversion parameter generation process (see FIG. 7), the description thereof will be omitted.

After step S46, the control unit 11 calculates the color difference of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the first rasterized image and the scanned image data generated by enabling the reproduction setting, and is generated by disabling the reproduction setting. The color difference of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the second rasterized image and the scanned image data is calculated (step S47). The method for calculating the color difference is the same as in step S17 of the second color conversion parameter generation process (see FIG. 6).

Next, the control unit 11 adopts the reproduction setting of the rasterized image having the smaller color difference from the scanned image data in the region corresponding to the reproduction setting (step S48). Here, the control unit 11 may display on the display unit 12 whether the adopted reproduction setting is valid or invalid.

Next, the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter based on the rasterized image (CMYK value) having the smaller color difference and the scanned image data (RGB value) (step S49). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.

In step S44, if the original image data does not include the overlay reproduction setting (step S44; NO), the control unit 11 generates a color conversion parameter based on the scanned image data and the original image data (step S44). S50). The method of modifying the color conversion table (target profile) is as described with reference to FIG. The control unit 11 updates the target profile of the storage unit 15.
After step S49 or step S50, the fourth color conversion parameter generation process ends.

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, when the original image data includes the overlay reproduction setting, at least two images with the reproduction setting changed are generated, and the difference from the scanned image data is the largest. Since the color conversion parameters are generated based on the image corresponding to the small reproduction setting and the scanned image data, it is possible to prevent unintended color conversion when there is an object that overlaps the original image data.

Further, in the fourth embodiment, the color difference between at least two rasterized images whose reproduction settings are changed and the scanned image data is calculated, and the color difference of the color sample is automatically adopted by adopting the reproduction setting having the smallest color difference. You can select a reproduction setting close to, which improves accuracy.

Also in the fourth embodiment, as in the first and second modifications of the third embodiment, when at least two images are generated from the original image data, the range of the region may be limited. Good. However, in step S49, the control unit 11 rasterizes the entire region of the original image data according to the reproduction setting (valid / invalid) of the rasterized image having the smaller color difference from the scanned image data, and the rasterized image for the entire region (valid / invalid). The color conversion parameter is generated based on the CMYK value) and the scanned image data (RGB value).

The description in each of the above embodiments is an example of the color conversion parameter generation device according to the present invention, and is not limited thereto. The detailed configuration and detailed operation of each part constituting the device can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
For example, the characteristic processes in each embodiment may be combined.

Further, each function for carrying out the present invention may be divided into a plurality of devices, or may be mounted in one device. For example, the function executed by the PC 10 in each of the above embodiments may be mounted on the printer 30.

Further, the color system of the original image data (CMYK), the color system of the scanned image data of the scanner 20 (RGB), the color system of the color value (L ^* a ^* b ^* ), and the image used at the time of printing by the printer 30. The data color system (CMYK) and the like are not limited to the above examples.

The computer-readable medium for storing the program for executing each process is not limited to the above example, and a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM can be applied. Further, a carrier wave may be applied as a medium for providing program data via a communication line.

10 PC
11 Control unit 12 Display unit 13 Operation unit 14 Communication unit 15 Storage unit 20 Scanner 30 Printer 50 Image display area 51 Overprint area 60 First image display area 61 Overprint area 70 Second image display area 71 Overprint area 100 Image formation system

Claims (10)

Acquire the scanned image data of the color sample and
Obtain the manuscript image data corresponding to the color sample,
A color conversion parameter generation device including a control unit that generates color conversion parameters related to color conversion for the original image data based on the scanned image data and the original image data.
The control unit
Judging whether or not the reproduction setting for the overlapping object of the original image data is included is determined.
A color conversion parameter generation device that notifies that the original image data includes the reproduction setting when the reproduction setting is included. When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the control unit displays an image based on the original image data on the display unit, and displays a display mode of a region corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image. The color conversion parameter generation device according to claim 1, wherein the display mode is different from that of the area of 1. The control unit
When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the difference between the scanned image data and the original image data is acquired.
When the difference is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, an image based on the original image data is displayed on the display unit, and the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the image is different from that of other areas. The color conversion parameter generation device according to claim 1. A selection means for selecting whether or not to use the information of the region corresponding to the reproduction setting of the scanned image data and the original image data when generating the color conversion parameter is provided.
The color conversion parameter generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit generates the color conversion parameter based on the selection result in the selection means. The control unit
When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed are generated for the original image data.
The color conversion according to claim 1, wherein at least two images are displayed on the display unit, and the display mode of the area corresponding to the reproduction setting in the at least two images is different from the other areas. Parameter generator. The control unit
When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, at least two images in which the reproduction setting is changed are generated for the original image data.
For each of the at least two images, the difference from the read image data is acquired, and the difference is obtained.
The color conversion parameter generation device according to claim 1, wherein the color conversion parameter is generated based on the image corresponding to the reproduction setting having the smallest difference and the read image data. The color conversion parameter generation device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the control unit is limited to a range of a region corresponding to the reproduction setting to generate at least two images. The color conversion parameter generation according to claim 7, wherein the control unit is limited to a range of a region including feature points used for aligning the scanned image data and the original image data, and generates at least two images. apparatus. The scanned image data of the color sample is acquired, the original image data corresponding to the color sample is acquired, and the color conversion parameter related to the color conversion for the original image data is set based on the scanned image data and the original image data. It is a color conversion parameter generation method in a color conversion parameter generation device provided with a control unit to generate.
A step of determining whether or not the control unit includes a reproduction setting for an object in which the original image data overlaps, and
When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, the control unit notifies that the reproduction setting is included, and a step of notifying that the reproduction setting is included.
How to generate color conversion parameters including. The scanned image data of the color sample is acquired, the original image data corresponding to the color sample is acquired, and the color conversion parameter related to the color conversion for the original image data is set based on the scanned image data and the original image data. To the computer of the color conversion parameter generator to generate
The process of determining whether or not the reproduction setting for the overlapping object of the original image data is included, and
When the original image data includes the reproduction setting, a step of notifying that the reproduction setting is included, and a step of notifying that the reproduction setting is included.
A program to execute.

Images