JP2024101657A - Image processing device and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] An image including a code image is formed. [Solution] A designation of a first formation size as the formation size of an image is accepted. Input image data representing images of Q input pages (Q is an integer equal to or greater than 2) is accepted. The Q input pages include a first input page including a first code image and a second input page not including a code image. A formation execution unit is caused to execute image formation of the input image data. The formation execution unit is caused to execute image formation of the first input page at a second formation size larger than the first formation size, and the formation execution unit is caused to execute image formation of the second input page at the first formation size. [Selected Figure] Figure 1

Description

This specification relates to technology for forming images.

Various images are printed by the printer. The images printed may include barcodes. The images may also be reduced in size before printing. If the entire image, including the barcode, is reduced uniformly, it may not be possible to read the barcode from the printed image. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which only the barcode is printed at the same size, and other areas are reduced to a desired size.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-177348

When reducing areas other than the barcode to the desired size, the barcode and other images may overlap. This problem is not limited to barcodes, but is common to the formation of images that contain various code images that indicate information.

This specification discloses a technique for properly forming images, including code images.

The technology disclosed in this specification can be realized as the following application examples:

[Application Example 1] An image processing device comprising: a first reception unit that receives a designation of a first formation size as an image formation size; a second reception unit that receives input image data representing images of Q input pages (Q is an integer equal to or greater than 2), the Q input pages including a first input page including a first code image and a second input page not including a code image; and a formation processing unit that causes a formation execution unit to execute image formation of the input image data, the formation processing unit causing the formation execution unit to execute the image formation of the first input page at a second formation size larger than the first formation size, and causing the formation execution unit to execute the image formation of the second input page at the first formation size.

According to this configuration, the image processing device causes the formation execution unit to perform image formation of the first input page including the first code image at a second formation size larger than the first formation size, so that the image processing device can cause the formation execution unit to perform appropriate image formation of the input page including the code image.

The technology disclosed in this specification can be realized in various forms, such as an image processing method and an image processing device, a computer program for realizing the functions of the method or device, a recording medium (e.g., a non-transitory recording medium) on which the computer program is recorded, etc.

FIG. 1 illustrates an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a printing process. 1A is a diagram showing an example of an input page, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of an output page in the case where the target layout settings are faithfully followed. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of one-page layout processing. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a size index value. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a relocation process. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output page. 13 is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the relocation process. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output page. 13 is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the relocation process. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output page. 10 is a flowchart showing another embodiment of a printing process. 1A is a diagram showing an example of an input page, FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of an output page generated by one-page layout processing, FIG. 1C is a diagram showing an example of an output page, and FIG. 1D is a diagram showing an example of a corrected output page. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a code expansion determination process. (A) is an explanatory diagram of the size of a code image. (B) is a diagram showing a portion of output page Po6 that includes code image ICf. (C)-(F) are diagrams showing an example of maximum size calculation. (G) is a diagram showing an example of enlarged code image ICf. 10 is a flowchart showing another embodiment of a printing process. 10 is a flowchart showing another embodiment of a printing process. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output page.

A. First embodiment:
A1. Device configuration:
1 is a diagram showing an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 is a multifunction peripheral having a printing function. The image forming apparatus 100 has a data processing apparatus 190, a display unit 140, an operation unit 150, a communication interface 170, and a formation execution unit 300. The data processing apparatus 190 has a processor 110 and a storage device 115. These elements are connected to each other via a bus. The storage device 115 includes a volatile storage device 120 and a non-volatile storage device 130.

The processor 110 is a device configured to process data. The processor 110 may be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a SoC (System on a chip). The volatile storage device 120 is, for example, a DRAM, and the non-volatile storage device 130 is, for example, a flash memory. The non-volatile storage device 130 stores data of a program 131.

The display unit 140 is a device configured to display images, such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The operation unit 150 is a device configured to receive operations by a user, such as a button, a lever, or a touch panel overlaid on the display unit 140. The user can input various instructions to the image forming apparatus 100 by operating the operation unit 150. The communication interface 170 is an interface for communicating with other devices. The communication interface 170 includes, for example, one or more of a USB interface, a wired LAN interface, an IEEE802.11 wireless interface, and an industrial camera interface (e.g., CameraLink, CoaXPress, etc.).

The formation execution unit 300 is a device that executes image printing, which is an example of image formation. In this embodiment, the formation execution unit 300 is a so-called inkjet printer. The formation execution unit 300 is configured to print an image using one or more types of ink (e.g., four colors of ink: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) according to print data. Note that the formation execution unit 300 may be a device that prints images using other methods (e.g., a laser printer). The data processing device 190 is an example of an image processing device that executes image processing for printing by the formation execution unit 300.

A2. Printing process:
2 is a flowchart showing an example of a printing process. The processor 110 of the image forming apparatus 100 (FIG. 1) executes the printing process in accordance with the program 131 in response to an image formation instruction. In S110, the processor 110 acquires the image formation instruction. In this embodiment, the image formation instruction includes input image data, a layout setting, and a sheet size setting.

The input image data is image data that represents each image of Q input pages (Q is an integer equal to or greater than 1) to be printed. The data format of the input image data may be any format. In this embodiment, the data format of the input image data is a data format described in a page description language (also called the PDL (Page Description Language) format). As the PDL format, various formats may be adopted, such as PDF (Portable Document Format), XPS (XML Paper Specification), PCL (Printer Control Language), GDI (Graphics Device Interface), and PostScript (registered trademark).

The layout setting indicates the total number N of input pages to be arranged on one sheet (e.g., paper), i.e., one output page (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1). Such a layout setting is also called "N in 1 printing" or "N up printing." Hereinafter, the total number of input pages to be arranged on one output page is referred to as the layout number.

The sheet size setting indicates the size of the sheet to be used for printing. The sheet size is selected from multiple sheet sizes available to the printing execution unit 300 (e.g., A4, A5, letter size, etc.).

The method of acquiring the image formation instruction may be any method. In this embodiment, the user operates a terminal device (e.g., a personal computer, a smartphone, etc.) (not shown) that can communicate with the communication interface 170 of the image forming apparatus 100 to input various settings for printing to the terminal device. For example, the user inputs to the terminal device an instruction to select image data to be printed from one or more image data stored in the terminal device, an instruction to select the number of layouts N, and an instruction to select a sheet size. An application (e.g., an application for printing) running on the terminal device prepares input image data using the selected image data. The application may use the selected image data as input image data as it is. Alternatively, the application may use the selected image data to generate input image data suitable for the image forming apparatus 100. The application transmits the input image data and data indicating various settings to the image forming apparatus 100 via the communication interface 170. The processor 110 acquires the data indicating the image formation instruction via the communication interface 170.

The processor 110 may also obtain image formation instructions according to information input by the user to the operation unit 150. Image data to be printed may be selected from image data stored in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130) of the image forming device 100 or another device connected to the communication interface 170 (e.g., a USB flash memory, a digital camera, etc.). The processor 110 may use the selected image data as is as input image data. Alternatively, the processor 110 may use the selected image data to generate input image data.

In either case, the processor 110 accepts the input image data and various print settings included in the image formation instruction. S110 includes S110a, S110b, and S110c. In S110a, the processor 110 accepts the input image data. In S110b, the processor 110 accepts the layout setting (specifically, the specification of the number of layouts N). In S110c, the processor 110 accepts the sheet size setting (specifically, the specification of the sheet size). The processor 110 proceeds with the printing process using the accepted input image data and the accepted print settings.

Note that the print settings (e.g., print settings by the user) may be omitted from the image formation instruction. When the print settings are omitted, the processor 110 may use the predetermined standard print settings. For example, when the setting of the number of layouts N is omitted, the processor 110 may use the standard number of layouts (e.g., 1). When the setting of the sheet size is omitted, the processor 110 may use the standard sheet size (e.g., A4). The standard print settings may be predetermined fixed settings. In this way, the processor 110 may accept the designation of the predetermined fixed settings. Alternatively, the processor 110 may accept the standard print settings determined by the user in advance. The processor 110 may execute a process of accepting the designation of the standard print settings (e.g., one or both of a process corresponding to S110b and a process corresponding to S110c) before obtaining the image formation instruction.

In this way, in the print process, the processor 110 uses the print settings specified by the image formation instruction or the standard print settings. Hereinafter, the print settings used in the print process are referred to as the target print settings, or simply the target settings. The layout settings and sheet size settings used in the print process are referred to as the target layout settings and the target sheet size settings, respectively. A set of multiple target settings used in the print process is referred to as the target setting set. The number of layouts N determined by the target layout settings is referred to as the target layout number N. The sheet size determined by the target sheet size settings is referred to as the target sheet size SS. In this embodiment, the target layout number N is 2 or more. Hereinafter, the description will be given assuming that the target layout number N is 4 and the target sheet size SS is "A4".

3A is a diagram showing an example of an input page. In this embodiment, the input image data represents eight input pages Pi1-Pi8. Each input page represents a rectangular area having two sides (including the lower side PS) parallel to the first direction Dxi and two sides parallel to the second direction Dyi perpendicular to the first direction Dxi. The third input page Pi3 includes a first code image ICa, the sixth input page Pi6 includes a second code image ICb, and the eighth input page Pi8 includes a third code image ICc. The code images ICa, ICb, and ICc may each be various code images representing information. The code image may be, for example, a one-dimensional code image (e.g., a barcode) or a two-dimensional code image (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)). In this embodiment, the code image included in the input page is a QR code. Note that in the figure, details of parts other than the code image of each page are omitted.

3B is a diagram showing an example of output pages when it is assumed that the input pages Pi1-Pi8 are printed faithfully according to the target layout setting. Each output page Po1, Po2 represents a rectangular area having two sides parallel to the first direction Dxo and two sides parallel to the second direction Dyo perpendicular to the first direction Dxo. As shown in the figure, the four input pages Pi1-Pi4 are allocated to the first output page Po1, and the following four input pages Pi5-Pi8 are allocated to the second output page Po2. Compared to the case where one input page is allocated to one output page, the input pages Pi1-Pi8 (and thus the code images ICa, ICb, ICc) are reduced in the output pages Po1, Po2. The processor 110 may cause the formation execution unit 300 to print the code image at a larger size to facilitate the decoding of the code image (i.e., to improve readability).

At S112 (FIG. 2), the processor 110 stores data representing the image formation instructions (including the input image data and data indicating various target settings) in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130).

At S120, the processor 110 executes a one-page layout process. The one-page layout process is a process of allocating N input pages onto one output page according to a target setting set.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of one-page layout processing. In S310, the processor 110 selects the first input page of unprocessed input pages as the page of interest. The input image data of the page of interest has already been stored in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130) in S112 (FIG. 2). In S320, the processor 110 obtains the input image data of the page of interest from the storage device 115, and generates raster data for printing by rasterizing the obtained input image data at a pixel density suitable for Nup printing. In this embodiment, the raster data for printing is color bitmap data of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) represented by the processing resolution (resolution is also called pixel density). In this embodiment, the processing resolution is set to the printing resolution of the formation execution unit 300 (units are, for example, ppi (pixels per inch)). Note that the raster data for printing may be expressed in other color spaces (for example, the color space of the colors of the printing materials usable for printing (here, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black)).

Here, the size of the input page in the printed state is called the formation size. Also, the formation size when the input page is laid out on the output page according to the target layout number N and the target sheet size SS is called the target formation size or the first formation size. The formation size can be expressed by an actual length (for example, the length (unit: mm) of the side PS parallel to the first direction Dxi of the input page (Figure 3 (A))).

The target formation size indicates the formation size when Nup printing is performed on a sheet of the target sheet size SS. The correspondence between the combination of the target layout number N and the target sheet size SS and the target formation size is predetermined. In S320, the processor 110 determines the target formation size to be the formation size that corresponds to the combination of the target layout number N and the target sheet size SS. The processor 110 then rasterizes the page of interest at the target formation size. That is, the processor 110 generates raster data for the page of interest so that the page of interest is printed at the target formation size. For example, the processor 110 rasterizes the page of interest at a pixel density that represents the page of interest at the target formation size at the printing resolution. In this way, the processor 110 can generate raster data for any formation size by rasterizing the input page at a pixel density determined by the printing resolution and the formation size.

The formation size can be expressed by the length reduction ratio. Here, a length reduction ratio of 100% indicates the predetermined standard formation size of an input page when one input page is assigned to one sheet (i.e., one output page). The standard formation size is the formation size when printing is performed according to the standard settings (also called default settings) without changing the settings related to the formation size. The standard formation size may be, for example, the maximum size of an input page when the entirety of one input page is placed within the printable area of one sheet. Such a standard formation size is called the "1up formation size". When 4up printing is performed, the length reduction ratio may be 50% (the area is reduced to 25%). In order to provide a gap between the four input pages, the length reduction ratio may be set to a value smaller than 50% (for example, 48%). Hereinafter, the length reduction ratio is simply called the reduction ratio. Also, the length reduction ratio based on the target setting set is called the target reduction ratio RL1. The target formation size indicates the formation size of the input page that has been reduced at the target reduction ratio RL1.

In S330, the processor 110 stores the raster data generated in S320 in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130).

In S350, the processor 110 determines whether the total number L of raster data already generated by the process in FIG. 4 (i.e., the number L of processed input pages) is the same as the number N of target layouts. If the total number L of generated raster data is less than N and there are unprocessed input pages remaining (S350: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S310 and processes the next input page.

If the N pieces of raster data have already been generated by the process of FIG. 4 (S350: Yes), in S360, the processor 110 uses the N pieces of raster data to generate output page data, which is raster data for one output page. The output page data represents N input pages arranged on one output page according to the target layout settings. For example, output page data representing the output page Po1 in FIG. 3B is generated. The N pieces of raster image data have already been stored in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130) in S330. The processor 110 generates the output page data by acquiring the N pieces of raster image data from the storage device 115 and combining the acquired N pieces of raster image data.

Note that in S350, even if the total number L of generated raster data is less than N, if there are no unprocessed input pages remaining (i.e., all input pages have been processed), the processor 110 sets the determination result to "Yes." Then, in S360, the processor 110 generates output page data for one output page using L pieces of raster data. The L input pages are arranged on one output page according to the number N of target layouts.

In S370, the processor 110 stores the output page data in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130). The processor 110 then ends the process of FIG. 4, i.e., the process of S120 in FIG. 2.

In S130, the processor 110 detects the code image from the output page. In this embodiment, the processor 110 detects the code image by analyzing the output page data. Alternatively, the processor 110 may detect the code image by analyzing L raster data of L input pages (referred to as current input pages) that are assigned to the current output page. The processor 110 may also detect the code image by analyzing L image data representing the L current input pages among the input image data.

The code image may be detected by any method. For example, the processor 110 may detect the code image by template matching using a template image that represents a characteristic portion of the code image. A template image representing three finder patterns may be used to detect a QR code. A template image representing guard bars that form the ends of a barcode may be used to detect a one-dimensional barcode. The processor 110 may also detect the code image using a machine learning model (e.g., an object detection model such as YOLO) that has been trained to detect various code images.

In S140, the processor 110 determines whether or not a code image is detected. If a code image is not detected (S140: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S280. If one or more code images are detected (S140: Yes), in S150, the processor 110 calculates a size index value for each code image when image formation of the input page is performed at the target formation size. The size index value is an index value that indicates the actual size of the code image in the printed state.

Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a size index value. The figure shows a code image ICa (here, a QR code) included in the first output page Po1. The QR code is a rectangular image. The QR code represents three finder patterns FP and multiple modules Md (also called cells). The modules Md are the smallest elements and are white or black rectangular areas. In the figure, one module Md is shown, and multiple modules are not shown. The arrangement pattern of the multiple modules represents various information.

When a reduced code image ICa is printed, it may be difficult to decipher the printed code image ICa. For example, the printing resolution of the formation execution unit 300 may be insufficient, and the formation execution unit 300 may not be able to properly print the module Md of the reduced code image ICa. Also, the pixel resolution of a reading device such as a digital camera may be insufficient, and the reading device may not be able to properly read the module Md of the reduced code image ICa.

The difficulty of deciphering a code image can be estimated using the size of the smallest element that constitutes the code image. The smaller the smallest element, the more difficult it is to decipher the code image. When the code image represents a QR code, the smallest element is a module Md. For example, the size of the module Md can be the width Sm in the direction parallel to the specific side QS1 of the code image ICa (units are, for example, mm). The width Sm can be calculated by dividing the length W (units are, for example, mm) of the specific side QS1 by the total number Nm of modules Md aligned parallel to the specific side QS1. The length W of the specific side QS1 can be calculated using the processing resolution (units are, for example, ppi (pixels per inch)) of the output page data representing the output page Po1 and the length (units are, for example, the number of pixels) of the specific side QS1 on the output page Po1. The total number Nm of modules Md aligned parallel to the specific side QS1 differs depending on the version of the QR code. The version V of a QR code is an integer between 1 and 40 inclusive. The total number Nm of modules Md is expressed as 21 + 4 * V. Every time the version V increases by 1, the number of modules Md per side increases by 4. Note that a QR code is a square code. The length H of side QS2 perpendicular to specific side QS1 is the same as the length W of specific side QS1. In addition, the total number of modules Md aligned parallel to side QS2 is the same as the total number Nm.

At S150 (FIG. 2), the processor 110 obtains the total number Nm by analyzing image data representing a current input page including a code image from among the input image data. The processor 110 may obtain the total number Nm by counting the number of modules Md parallel to the particular side QS1. The QR code may include an area representing version V (e.g., where version V is 7 or greater). The processor 110 may obtain version V by analyzing such an area and use version V to calculate the total number Nm. The processor 110 may obtain the total number Nm by analyzing output page data or raster data representing an input page instead of input image data.

Processor 110 calculates the length W (in mm) of specific side QS1 ( FIG. 5 ) using the processing resolution (in ppi) of the output page and the length (in number of pixels) of specific side QS1 of the code image on the output page. The length (in number of pixels) of specific side QS1 on the output page is obtained by analyzing the output page data or raster data representing the input page. Alternatively, processor 110 may obtain the length (in number of pixels) of specific side QS1 on the output page by analyzing input image data.

The processor 110 calculates the width Sm (in mm) of the module Md by dividing the length W by the total number Nm. In this embodiment, the width Sm is an example of a size index value.

Note that Nc code images (Nc is an integer equal to or greater than 1) can be detected from one output image. The processor 110 calculates the size index value (width Sm in this embodiment) of each of the Nc code images.

In S160 (FIG. 2), the processor 110 determines whether each of the Nc size index values is less than a reference threshold value. The reference threshold value is determined experimentally in advance so that the code image is easy to decipher when the size index value is equal to or greater than the reference threshold value, and is difficult to decipher when the size index value is less than the reference threshold value. The reference threshold value for width Sm is set to, for example, 0.5 mm.

If each of the Nc size index values of the Nc code images is greater than or equal to the reference threshold (S160: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S280.

If one or more size index values are less than the reference threshold (S160: Yes), in S270, the processor 110 executes a rearrangement process. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the rearrangement process. In S410, the processor 110 selects the earliest input page (referred to as the earliest too-small page) that includes a code image (also called an undersized code image) showing a size index value less than the reference threshold from among the L currently input pages included in the current output page. The processor 110 then allocates the input pages ahead of the earliest too-small page among the L currently input pages onto one output page according to the target setting set.

3(A) and 3(B), the code images ICa and ICc indicate size index values less than the reference threshold, and the second code image ICb indicates a size index value equal to or greater than the reference threshold. When the current output page is the first output page Po1, the third input page Pi3 is selected as the earliest too-small page. The processor 110 allocates the input pages Pi1 and Pi2 ahead of the earliest too-small page Pi3 on one output page according to the target layout number N. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an output page. The first output page Po1 indicates an updated output page generated by the process of S410 (FIG. 6) based on the first output page Po1 in FIG. 3(B). The two input pages Pi1 and Pi2 are allocated on the first output page Po1 according to the target setting set (here, 4in1).

As described above, the raster data for the L currently input pages at the target formation size has already been generated in S120 of FIG. 2 (specifically, S320 and S330 of FIG. 4). The processor 110 obtains raster data for input pages ahead of the foremost small page from the storage device 115 (e.g., non-volatile storage device 130) and generates output page data by combining the obtained raster data.

At S420 (FIG. 6), the processor 110 stores the output page data generated at S410 in the memory device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile memory device 130).

In S430, the processor 110 determines an enlarged formation size that is larger than the target formation size. In this embodiment, the enlarged formation size is the "1up formation size" (i.e., the standard formation size for printing one input page on one output page of the target sheet size SS). The processor 110 obtains input image data of the first smallest page from the storage device 115, and generates raster data by rasterizing the obtained input image data at the enlarged formation size. In S440, the processor 110 stores the raster data generated in S430 in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130).

In S470, the processor 110 obtains the raster data generated in S430 from the storage device 115, and uses the obtained raster data to generate output page data, which is raster data for one output page. The second output page Po2 in FIG. 7 is an example of an output page representing the most-foreground-small page Pi3. The formation size (i.e., the enlarged formation size) of the most-foreground-small page Pi3 is the same as the formation size when the most-foreground-small page Pi3 is printed with a 1-in-1 layout setting.

In S480 (FIG. 6), the processor 110 stores the output page data in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130). The processor 110 then ends the process in FIG. 6, i.e., the process of S270 in FIG. 2. Note that in the rearrangement process, input pages after the earliest smallest page among the L currently input pages are not assigned to an output page. After S270, the processor 110 proceeds to S280.

In S280, the processor 110 determines whether all input pages have been allocated to output pages. If unallocated input pages remain (S280: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S120 and processes the remaining input pages.

The third output page Po3 in FIG. 7 shows an example of an output page generated in S120 after the allocation of the most-earliest-small page Pi3 on the second output page Po2 (FIG. 2: S270). The four input pages Pi4-Pi7 following the most-earliest-small page Pi3 are allocated to the third output page Po3 according to the target setting set (here, 4in1). The size index value of the code image ICb of the sixth input page Pi6 is equal to or greater than the reference threshold (S160: No). The other input pages Pi4, Pi5, and Pi7 do not contain code images. Therefore, the processor 110 maintains the third output page Po3 (FIG. 7) as it is. In the next S120, an unallocated input page (here, the eighth input page Pi8) is allocated to one output page according to the target setting set (not shown). Here, the size index value of the code image ICc of the eighth input page Pi8 is less than the reference threshold (S160: Yes). In this case, in S270, the processor 110 generates an output page representing the eighth input page Pi8 of the enlarged size. The fourth output page Po4 in FIG. 7 is an example of an output page representing the eighth input page Pi8.

If all input pages have been assigned to output pages (S280: Yes), in S290, the processor 110 obtains output page data for all output pages from the storage device 115, and causes the printing execution unit 300 to print all output pages using the obtained output page data. In this embodiment, output pages Po1-Po4 in FIG. 7 are printed. Note that the processor 110 may start image printing using the generated output page data before the assignment of all input pages is complete.

There may be various methods for causing the formation execution unit 300 to execute printing. In this embodiment, the processor 110 uses the output page data to generate print data for controlling the formation execution unit 300. The process of generating print data may include various processes. In this embodiment, the process of generating print data includes a color conversion process for converting the color space of the output page data from the RGB color space to the color space of the printing material (here, the CMYK color space), a halftone process of the color-converted output page data, and a process of generating print data from the image data generated by the halftone process. The processor 110 outputs the print data to the formation execution unit 300. The formation execution unit 300 prints the image of the output page according to the print data. Then, the process of FIG. 2 ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, the processor 110 of the data processing device 190 executes the following process. In S110 of FIG. 2, the processor 110 accepts various print settings (S110b, S110c). In S320 (FIG. 4), the processor 110 determines the target formation size (i.e., the first formation size) as the formation size associated with the set of print settings accepted in S110 (which in this embodiment includes the target layout setting and the target sheet size setting). The processor 110 then generates raster data for the target page so that the target page is printed in the first formation size. In this way, the set of print settings accepted in S110 is an example of a designation of the first formation size as the formation size of an image.

In S110a (FIG. 2), the processor 110 accepts input image data. As shown in FIG. 3(A), the input image data represents images of Q input pages (Q is an integer equal to or greater than 1). Here, the total number of input pages, Q, may be 2 or greater. The Q input pages may include an input page that includes a code image (e.g., the third input page Pi3) and an input page that does not include a code image (e.g., the first input page Pi1).

In S120-S290 (FIG. 2), the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the input image data. As described in S320 of FIG. 4 and FIG. 7, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the first input page Pi1 that does not include a code image at the first formation size (i.e., the target formation size). In this way, the processor 110 can cause the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation suitable for the accepted set of print settings (i.e., the designation of the first formation size). Also, as described in S430 of FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the third input page Pi3 that includes a code image at the enlarged formation size (referred to as the second formation size), which is a formation size larger than the first formation size. In this way, the processor 110 can cause the formation execution unit 300 to execute appropriate image formation of the input page that includes a code image. For example, it can improve the ease of deciphering code images contained on printed input pages.

Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation at the second formation size (e.g., formation of the third input page Pi3) so that the entire input page is enlarged. If only the code image in the input page is enlarged, the enlarged code image may overlap other elements (e.g., characters, etc.) in the input page. In this embodiment, the possibility of such a problem is reduced.

In addition, in this embodiment, the entire input page is enlarged, and the code image contained in the input page is enlarged as is. Another possible method for generating a large code image is, for example, to decode the code image and encode the decoded information to generate a large code image. In this embodiment, the encoding process is not performed, which simplifies the printing process.

Also, in this embodiment, as described in S160 and S270 (FIG. 2), the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to perform image formation of an input page including a code image showing a size index value less than the reference threshold at the second formation size. The size index value is an index value of the size of the code image as described in S150 (FIG. 2). The size index value used in S150 and S160 indicates the size of the code image when it is assumed that image formation of the input page is performed at the first formation size (i.e., the target formation size). The reference threshold is an example of a reference size for decoding a code image.

The Q input pages may include two types of input pages including code images, such as the third input page Pi3 and the sixth input page Pi6 in FIG. 3A. Here, the third input page Pi3 is configured so that the size index value of the code image ICa is smaller than the reference threshold value. The sixth input page Pi6 is configured so that the size index value of the code image ICb is equal to or larger than the reference threshold value. Then, as shown in FIG. 7, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the third input page Pi3 at the second formation size. In this way, the processor 110 can improve the ease of deciphering the formed code image. Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the sixth input page Pi6 at the first formation size. In this way, when the size index value is equal to or larger than the reference threshold value, the processor 110 can cause the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation suitable for the accepted set of print settings (i.e., the designation of the first formation size).

In this embodiment, S110 (FIG. 2) also includes S110c. In S110c, the processor 110 accepts a sheet size setting. As described in S320 (FIG. 4), the processor 110 determines a target formation size (i.e., a first formation size) using a target setting set including a target sheet size SS (also referred to as a first sheet size SS). That is, the designation of the first formation size includes the designation of the first sheet size as the size of the sheet on which the image is to be formed. As described in S430 (FIG. 6), the enlarged formation size (i.e., a second formation size) is a predetermined standard formation size for printing one input page on a sheet of the first sheet size SS. In this way, the processor 110 can cause the formation execution unit 300 to perform appropriate image formation of the input page including the code image. For example, the third input page Pi3 (FIG. 7) including the code image is printed at the maximum size on the output page Po2. Therefore, the ease of deciphering the code image ICa can be appropriately improved. In addition, preparation of sheets of a size different from the first sheet size SS can be omitted.

In this embodiment, S110 (FIG. 2) may include S110b. In S110b, the processor 110 accepts a layout setting. When a layout setting is accepted (i.e., when the layout number N is specified), as described in S320 (FIG. 4), the processor 110 determines a target formation size (i.e., a first formation size) using a target setting set including the target layout number N. That is, the specification of the first formation size includes a layout setting of N pages (N is an integer equal to or greater than 2) as a setting of the total number of input pages to be arranged on one output page. When the layout number N is specified, the processor 110 can use an appropriate first formation size based on the target layout number N.

B. Second embodiment:
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing another embodiment of the rearrangement process. The process of FIG. 8 is executed in S270 (FIG. 2) instead of the process of FIG. 6. The flowchart of FIG. 8 is obtained by replacing S430 of FIG. 6 with S430b. The difference between S430b and S430 is that the enlarged forming size determined in S430b is a reference forming size corresponding to the reference threshold value. The reference forming size is a forming size such that the size index value (here, the width Sm of the module Md) of the code image in the printed state becomes the reference threshold value when the image formation of the input page is performed at the reference forming size. The method of determining the reference forming size may be various methods. For example, the processor 110 calculates the reference forming size by multiplying the target forming size corresponding to the target setting set by the ratio (>1) of the reference threshold value to the size index value calculated in S150 (FIG. 2). In S430b, the processor 110 obtains input image data of the foremost small page from the storage device 115, and generates raster data by rasterizing the obtained input image data at the reference forming size. The output page data generated in S470 represents one foremost small page of the enlarged forming size (i.e., the reference forming size) arranged on one output page.

Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of an output page. Figure 9 shows an example when input pages Pi1-Pi8 in Figure 3(A) are processed. The difference from the result in Figure 7 is that the formation sizes of input pages Pi3 and Pi8 in Figure 9 are smaller than the formation sizes of input pages Pi3 and Pi8 in Figure 7, respectively. Note that the size index values of code images ICa and ICc on output pages Po2 and Po4 in Figure 9 are the same as the reference threshold value.

In this manner, in this embodiment, the processor 110 determines the second formation size such that the size index value of the code image to be formed is the reference threshold value when it is assumed that the image formation of the input page Pi3 is performed at the enlarged formation size (i.e., the second formation size). As described above, the size index value is an index value of the size of the code image, and the reference threshold value is an example of a reference size for decoding the code image. That is, the processor 110 determines the second formation size such that the size of the code image is the reference size when it is assumed that the image formation of the input page is performed at the second formation size. Thus, the processor 110 can improve the ease of decoding the formed code image. The processor 110 can also cause the formation execution unit 300 to perform image formation at a formation size close to the target formation size (i.e., the first formation size).

The second formation size used in this embodiment may be smaller than the second formation size used in the embodiments of Figures 6 and 7. Therefore, in this embodiment, the consumption of printing materials (ink, toner, etc.) used to form an image can be reduced.

In this embodiment, the processor 110 places the input page of the enlarged size in the upper left part of the output page (for example, input pages Pi3 and Pi8 are placed in the upper left part of output pages Po2 and Po4). The arrangement of the input page of the enlarged size on the output page may be in various other arrangements. For example, the input page of the enlarged size may be placed in the center of the output page.

C. Third embodiment:
Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing another embodiment of the rearrangement process. The process of Fig. 10 is executed in S270 (Fig. 2) instead of the process of Fig. 6 or Fig. 8. In the flowchart of Fig. 10, S430 of Fig. 6 is replaced with S430c, and S450c and S460c are added between S440 and S470. In this embodiment, when the size index value of the code image based on the target setting set (i.e., N up printing) is less than the reference threshold, the processor 110 proceeds with Min1 printing of the layout number M, which is smaller than the target layout number N.

In S430c, the processor 110 selects, from among the multiple layout numbers available for printing "N up", a number that is one step smaller than the target layout number N as the layout number M for rearrangement. For example, it is assumed that "1 up", "2 up", "4 up", and "8 up" are available for printing "N up". If the target layout number N is "4", the processor 110 sets the layout number M for rearrangement to "2", which is one step smaller than "4". The processor 110 determines the enlarged formation size to a formation size that is previously associated with the layout number M for rearrangement and other print settings (in this embodiment, the target sheet size SS). The processor 110 then obtains input image data of the first smallest page from the storage device 115, and generates raster data by rasterizing the obtained input image data at the enlarged formation size.

In S440, the processor 110 stores the generated raster data in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130).

In S450c, the processor 110 determines whether the total number R of raster data already generated by the process of FIG. 10 (i.e., the number of processed input pages R) is the same as the number of layouts for rearrangement M. If the total number R of generated raster data is less than M and unprocessed input pages remain (S450c: No), in S460c, the processor 110 obtains input image data for the next input page from the storage device 115 and generates raster data by rasterizing the obtained input image data at an enlarged formation size. Then, in S440, the processor 110 stores the generated raster data in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130).

If M pieces of raster data have been generated by the process of FIG. 10 (S450c: Yes), the processor 110 executes S470 and S480, and ends the process of FIG. 10. The output page data generated in S470 represents M input pages (including the smallest page) arranged on a single output page according to the layout number M for rearrangement.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of an output page. Figure 11 shows an example in which input pages Pi1-Pi8 in Figure 3(A) are processed. The first output page Po1 is the same as the first output page Po1 in Figure 7. The second output page Po2 has two input pages Pi3 and Pi4 arranged according to the number of layouts for rearrangement M (here, M = 2). Raster data of the enlarged formation size of the fourth input page Pi4 is generated in S460c (Figure 10).

The third output page Po3 is generated as follows. In S120 after the allocation of the input pages Pi3 and Pi4 on the second output page Po2 (FIG. 2: S270), the processor 110 allocates the four input pages Pi5-Pi8 on the third output page Po3 according to the target setting set (number of target layouts N=4) (not shown). Here, the size index value of the code image ICc of the eighth input page Pi8 is less than the reference threshold (S160: Yes). In the following S270, i.e., S410 in FIG. 10, the processor 110 allocates the three input pages Pi5, Pi6, and Pi7 ahead of the foremost small page Pi8 on the single third output page Po3 according to the target setting set (number of target layouts N=4). In this way, the processor 110 generates output page data representing the third output page Po3 in FIG. 11.

After generating output page data for the third output page Po3 (S410, S420 (FIG. 10)), in S430c-S480, the processor 110 generates output page data for an output page including the most front small page Pi8. In S430c, the processor 110 generates raster data by rasterizing the most front small page Pi8 at the enlarged formation size. In the following S450c, the number of processed input pages R (here, 1) is less than the number of layouts M (here, 2). The processor 110 judges whether or not there are any unprocessed input pages remaining. In the example of FIG. 11, after rasterizing the most front small page Pi8, there are no unprocessed input pages remaining. The processor 110 sets the judgment result of S450c to Yes and proceeds to S470. In S470, the processor 110 arranges the R input pages on one output page according to the number of layouts M for rearrangement. In the example of FIG. 11, one eighth input page Pi8 is allocated on the fourth output page Po4 according to the number of layouts for rearrangement M (here, M=2).

As described above, in this embodiment, as explained in S320 (FIG. 4), the processor 110 determines the first formation size (i.e., the target formation size) using a target setting set including the target layout number N. That is, the designation of the first formation size includes a layout setting of N pages (N is an integer of 2 or more) as a setting of the total number of input pages to be arranged on one output page. As explained in S430c (FIG. 10), the processor 110 determines the enlarged formation size as the formation size for the layout setting of M pages (M is an integer of 1 or more and less than N). That is, the processor 110 determines the enlarged formation size (i.e., the second formation size) as a formation size that is previously associated with the layout number M (M<N) for rearrangement and other print settings (in this embodiment, the target sheet size SS). In this way, the processor 110 can determine an appropriate second formation size using the layout number M for rearrangement.

When the number of target layouts N is 2 or more, the number of layouts M for rearrangement may be various integers less than the number of target layouts N. The processor 110 may set the number of layouts M for rearrangement to a number that is T steps (T is an integer of 1 or more) less than the number of target layouts N among the multiple layout numbers available. For example, when the number of target layouts N is "8", the processor 110 may set the number of layouts M for rearrangement to a value that is two steps less than "8" (e.g., 2). The number of steps between the number of target layouts N and the number of layouts M for rearrangement may be determined in advance. The processor 110 may also determine the number of layouts M for rearrangement in accordance with a user's instruction. In any case, it is preferable that the number of layouts M for rearrangement is 2 or more. When the number of layouts M for rearrangement is 2 or more, the number of sheets (e.g., paper) used for printing can be saved compared to when M=1.

D. Fourth embodiment:
Fig. 12 is a flow chart showing another embodiment of the printing process. There are two differences from the embodiment of Fig. 2. The first difference is that when a single output page contains multiple code images, it is determined whether the code image is small or not based on the minimum size of the code image. The second difference is that when the blank area adjacent to the code image is sufficiently large, the code image is enlarged within the blank area instead of the rearrangement process. In Fig. 12, the same steps as those in Fig. 2 are given the same reference numerals and the description is omitted. Also, as in the above embodiment, the number of target layouts N is 4, and the target sheet size SS is "A4".

Figure 13 (A) is a diagram showing an example of an input page. In this embodiment, the input image data represents input pages Pi9-Pi13 in Figure 13 (A) in addition to input pages Pi1-Pi8 in Figure 3 (A). The ninth input page Pi9 includes two code images ICd and ICe. Here, the fourth code image ICd is smaller than the fifth code image ICe. The thirteenth input page Pi13 includes the sixth code image ICf. A large blank area BL is formed around the sixth code image ICf.

As described below, when the blank area adjacent to the undersized code image is small, output page data is generated by a rearrangement process (S270 in FIG. 12) in the same manner as in the above embodiments. The rearrangement process of any embodiment selected from the above embodiments (FIGS. 6, 8, 10) can be applied to S270 in this embodiment. Hereinafter, the rearrangement process of FIG. 6 or FIG. 8 will be applied. Then, output pages Po1-Po4 of FIG. 7 or FIG. 9 will be generated as output pages representing input pages Pi1-Pi8. Below, the parts of the printing process of this embodiment that differ from the above embodiments will be described with reference to input pages Pi9-Pi13 in FIG. 13(A).

S110, S112, S120, S130, and S140 in FIG. 12 are the same as S110, S112, S120, S130, and S140 in FIG. 2, respectively. If no code image is detected from the output page (S140: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S280.

If one or more code images are detected on the output page (S140: Yes), in S170d, the processor 110 selects the smallest size code image from the one or more detected code images. The size of the code image used is not the size of the module Md (Figure 5), but the size of the code image on the output page (e.g., the length of a specific side QS1 (Figure 5)) (unit: number of pixels).

Figure 13 (B) is a diagram showing an example of an output page generated in the one-page layout process (Figure 4) of S120 (Figure 12). Output page Po5 represents four input pages Pi9-Pi12 arranged according to the target layout setting (here, 4up). In S130, two code images ICd and ICe are detected from this output page Po5. In S170d, processor 110 selects the smallest code image ICd from the detected code images ICd and ICe.

In S180d, the processor 110 calculates the possible reduction ratio RLa using the smallest code image. As described in S320 (FIG. 4), the reduction ratio indicates the formation size of the input page. The possible reduction ratio RLa is a reduction ratio such that, when the image formation of the input page is performed at the formation size indicated by the possible reduction ratio RLa, the size index value of the code image in the printed state (here, the width Sm of the module Md (FIG. 5)) becomes a reference threshold value. When a reduction ratio smaller than the possible reduction ratio RLa is used, the size index value becomes less than the reference threshold value. The formation size indicated by the possible reduction ratio RLa indicates the reference formation size described in S430b of FIG. 8. The processor 110 calculates the possible reduction ratio RLa by dividing the reference formation size by the "1up formation size".

When output page Po5 in Figure 13 (B) is the current output page, the possible reduction ratio RLa is calculated from the smallest code image ICd.

In S190d (FIG. 12), the processor 110 determines whether the target reduction ratio RL1 is less than the possible reduction ratio RLa. As described below, the condition "RL1<RLa" used in S190d is substantially the same as the condition "size index value<reference threshold value" used in S160 (FIG. 2). As described in S320 (FIG. 4), the target reduction ratio RL1 is a reduction ratio based on the target setting set (in this embodiment, the number of target layouts N and the target sheet size SS). If RL1<RLa, the size index value of the code image when the image formation of the input page is performed at the target formation size is less than the reference threshold value.

If the target reduction rate RL1 is equal to or greater than the possible reduction rate RLa (S190d: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S280. If an unallocated input page remains in S280 (S280: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S120. Here, it is assumed that the possible reduction rate RLa calculated from the output page Po5 in FIG. 13(B) is greater than the target reduction rate RL1 (S190d: No). In this case, the processor 110 allocates the unallocated input page (here, the 13th input page Pi13) to one output page according to the target setting set (here, 4up) in the next S120. FIG. 13(C) is a diagram showing an example of the output page that is generated.

If output page Po6 is the current output page, in S130 (FIG. 12), the processor 110 detects the sixth code image ICf (S140: Yes). In S170d, the processor 110 selects the sixth code image ICf. In S180d, the processor 110 uses the sixth code image ICf to calculate the possible reduction ratio RLa. Here, it is assumed that the target reduction ratio RL1 is less than the possible reduction ratio RLa (S190d: Yes).

If RL1<RLa (S190d: Yes), in S200d, the processor 110 executes a code enlargement determination process. The code enlargement determination process is a process for determining whether or not the blank area adjacent to the code image is large enough to enlarge the code image. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the code enlargement determination process. The processor 110 executes a loop process S505 (including S510-S550) between start L1s and end L1e for each of all code images detected from the current output page.

In S510, the processor 110 selects an unprocessed code image as a target code image, which is the code image to be processed.

In S520, the processor 110 calculates the size of the target code image reduced by the possible reduction ratio RLa calculated in S180d (FIG. 12). FIG. 15(A) is an explanatory diagram of the size of a code image. The sixth code image ICf is shown in the figure. The lengths Wj and Hj indicate the lengths of the sides QS1 and QS2 of the code image ICf, respectively (in units of pixels). These lengths Wj and Hj indicate the size on the output page when image formation of the input page Pi13 (FIG. 13(A)) containing the code image ICf is performed at "1up formation size (reduction ratio = 100%)". Hereinafter, the lengths Wj and Hj are referred to as 1up lengths Wj and Hj.

The processor 110 calculates the 1up length Wj, Hj by analyzing the input image data. For example, the processor 110 analyzes the image data representing the input page (for example, the input page Pi13 in FIG. 13A) including the target code image among the input image data. The processor 110 obtains the second ratio, which is the ratio of the length of the specific side QS1 of the target code image to the length of the side PS of the input page, by this analysis. The processor 110 calculates the 1up length Wj (unit: number of pixels) of the specific side QS1 by multiplying the length (unit: number of pixels) of the side PS of the input page on the output page when the layout number N=1 by the second ratio. In this embodiment, Hj=Wj. The processor 110 calculates the length Wja, Hja of the code image reduced at the possible reduction ratio RLa by multiplying the 1up length Wj, Hj by the possible reduction ratio RLa. The size index value of the code image ICf formed by these lengths Wja, Hja is the same as the reference threshold value. Hereinafter, the lengths Wja and Hja will be referred to as the possible reduced lengths Wja and Hja. Also, the target code image reduced at the possible reduction ratio RLa will be referred to as the possible reduced code image.

The processor 110 may execute the loop process S505 (i.e., S520) in FIG. 14 for multiple code images. In this embodiment, the processor 110 applies the same possible reduction ratio RLa to multiple code images. The size of the module Md (FIG. 5) is expected to be approximately the same among multiple code images represented by input image data used in one image formation instruction. Even if the possible reduction ratio RLa is applied to a code image different from the code image from which the possible reduction ratio RLa was derived, the size index value of the code image formed according to the possible reduction ratio RLa (i.e., the possible reduced code image) is expected to be the same as the reference threshold value.

At S530 (FIG. 14), the processor 110 detects blank areas adjacent to the target code image by analyzing the current output page data. FIG. 15(B) is a diagram showing a portion of the output page Po6 that includes the code image ICf. The processor 110 detects a continuous portion made up of multiple pixels having a predetermined background color (white in this embodiment) that is connected to the code image ICf as the blank area BL. Outside the blank area BL, object areas OP representing various objects (e.g., characters, illustrations, photographs, etc.) are arranged.

15B, the blank portion BL surrounds the code image ICf. That is, the blank portion BL is in contact with the entire contour of the code image ICf. The input page may represent various images. For example, the blank portion may be in contact with only a portion of the contour of the code image. Each of a plurality of blank portions that are separated from each other may be in contact with only a portion of the contour of the code image. In S530 (FIG. 14), the processor 110 may detect a blank portion that is in contact with only a portion of the contour of the code image. When a plurality of blank portions that are in contact with the code image are detected, the processor 110 may select one blank portion as follows. The processor 110 calculates the contact length, which is the length of the portion of the contour of the code image that is in contact with the blank portion, for each blank portion. Then, the processor 110 may select the blank portion with the longest contact length. The processor 110 may detect a blank portion that surrounds the code image without detecting a blank portion that is in contact with only a portion of the contour of the code image.

In S540 (FIG. 14), the processor 110 calculates the maximum size of the code image that can be enlarged within the range of the blank space. FIGS. 15(C) to 15(F) are diagrams showing examples of calculating the maximum size. Each diagram shows a code image ICf and a blank space BL adjacent to the code image ICf.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15(C), the processor 110 forms an enlarged area A1 by enlarging the code image ICf. The enlarged area A1 is an area having a shape similar to that of the code image ICf. The code image ICf and the enlarged area A1 differ in size, but have the same shape and orientation. In this embodiment, the shape of the enlarged area A1 is a rectangle, the same as the shape of the code image ICf. The outline of the enlarged area A1 is composed of two sides L1 and L3 parallel to side QS1 of the code image ICf, and two sides L2 and L4 parallel to side QS2 of the code image ICf.

If the entire contour of the code image ICf is separated from the object portion OP, the processor 110 enlarges the enlarged area A1 around the entire contour of the enlarged area A1. In the example of FIG. 15(C), the processor 110 moves each of the sides L1-L4 outward. Here, the processor 110 may maintain the position of the center of gravity of the enlarged area A1 at the same position as the position of the center of gravity of the code image ICf.

Figure 15(D) shows an enlarged area A1 enlarged from the enlarged area A1 of Figure 15(C). In Figure 15(D), part of the contour of the enlarged area A1 (here, side L2) is in contact with the object portion OP. The processor 110 further enlarges the enlarged area A1 so that the enlarged area A1 does not overlap with the interior of the object portion OP. In the example of Figure 15(D), the processor 110 moves sides L1, L3, and L4 outward without moving side L2. As a result, the center of gravity of the enlarged area A1 moves from the position of the center of gravity of the code image ICf (not shown).

Figure 15(E) shows an enlarged area A1 enlarged from the enlarged area A1 in Figure 15(D). In Figure 15(E), multiple parts of the contour of the enlarged area A1 (here, edges L1, L2, and L3) are in contact with the object portion OP. Enlargement of the enlarged area A1 from this state is prohibited by the object portion OP.

In this way, the processor 110 expands the enlarged area A1 until further expansion of the enlarged area A1 is prohibited by the object part OP. Hereinafter, the enlarged area A1 whose further expansion is prohibited due to contact with the object part OP is referred to as the maximum contact area A1c.

There may be various methods for determining the maximum contact area A1c. For example, the processor 110 may determine the maximum contact area A1c by gradually enlarging (e.g., one pixel at a time) the outline of the enlarged area A1 within the blank portion BL while maintaining the shape of the enlarged area A1. The processor 110 may adopt such a maximum contact area A1c as the area of the code image that can be enlarged within the blank portion (referred to as the maximum code area).

When forming a code image, it may be recommended to provide a blank area adjacent to the code image, called a quiet zone. For example, when forming a QR code, it is recommended to provide a quiet zone surrounding the QR code. It is preferable that the processor 110 places the quiet zone QZ at the end of the maximum contact area A1c, and adopts the area inside the quiet zone QZ as the maximum code area.

Figure 15 (F) shows an example of the maximum code area A1m obtained from the maximum contact area A1c in Figure 15 (E). The processor 110 places a quiet zone QZ at the end of the maximum contact area A1c (Figure 15 (E)) and adopts the remaining area excluding the quiet zone QZ as the maximum code area A1m. The preferred size of the quiet zone is predetermined for each type of code image. For example, it is recommended that the width of the quiet zone of the QR code (for example, the width QW of the quiet zone QZ in Figure 15 (E)) be four times or more the width Sm of one module Md (Figure 5). The processor 110 may determine the size of the quiet zone based on the width Sm of the module Md of the code image when the code image is enlarged to the same size as the maximum contact area. In Figures 15(E) and 15(F), the processor 110 determines the width QW of the quiet zone QZ to be four times the width Sm of the module Md of the code image ICf that has been enlarged to the same size as the maximum contact area A1c.

Figure 15 (F) shows the lengths Wb and Hb of the maximum code area A1m. Length Wb is the length of sides L1 and L3, and length Hb is the length of sides L2 and L4. Hereinafter, lengths Wb and Hb are referred to as maximum lengths Wb and Hb. Maximum lengths Wb and Hb are examples of the maximum size of a code image.

In S550 (FIG. 14), the processor 110 determines whether the possible reduced code image (S520) can be placed within the blank area. In this embodiment, the placement condition for a Yes determination result is that the maximum length Wb is greater than or equal to the corresponding possible reduced length Wja, and the maximum length Hb is greater than or equal to the corresponding possible reduced length Hja. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the lengths Wja, Hja, Wb, and Hb in FIG. 15(A) and FIG. 15(F) satisfy the placement condition. If the placement condition is satisfied (S550: Yes), the processor 110 proceeds to S510 and executes the loop process S505 for the next code image.

If the placement conditions are met for all code images (S550: Yes), in S560, the processor 110 sets the determination result of the code enlargement determination process to "sufficient space" and terminates the process of FIG. 14, i.e., the process of S200d in FIG. 12. If the output page Po6 in FIG. 13(C) is the current output page, the placement conditions (S550 (FIG. 14)) of all code images (here, one code image ICf) are met, and the determination result is set to "sufficient space".

If the placement conditions are not met for one or more code images (FIG. 14: S550: No), the processor 110 ends the loop process S505, and sets the determination result to "insufficient space" in S570. The processor 110 then ends the process in FIG. 14, i.e., the process in S200d in FIG. 12.

After S200d (FIG. 12), in S210d, the processor 110 judges whether the judgment result of the code enlargement judgment process is "sufficient white space". If the judgment result is "insufficient white space" (S210d: No), in S270, the processor 110 executes the rearrangement process and proceeds to S280. Here, the input pages Pi3 and Pi8 in FIG. 3(A) are processed in S270. That is, for the code images ICa and ICc of the input pages Pi3 and Pi8, the judgment result of S190d in FIG. 12 is Yes, and the arrangement condition of S550 in FIG. 14 is not satisfied (FIG. 12: S210d: No). In this case, in S270, the processor 110 generates an output page representing the input pages Pi3 and Pi8 of the enlarged formation size. As described above, the rearrangement process of FIG. 6 or FIG. 8 is applied to S270 in this embodiment. Then, output pages Po1-Po4 in FIG. 7 or FIG. 9 are generated.

If the result of the code enlargement determination process is "sufficient white space" (S210d: Yes), in S220d, the processor 110 enlarges each of the undersized code images included in the current output page within the range of the white space. FIG. 15(G) is a diagram showing an example of an enlarged code image ICf. The lengths Wjc and Hjc indicate the lengths of the sides QS1 and QS2 of the enlarged code image ICf, respectively (units are the number of pixels). As will be described later, image formation of an input page including the enlarged code image ICf is performed at the target formation size. The lengths Wjc and Hjc are determined so that the size index value of the enlarged code image ICf is equal to or greater than the reference threshold value when such image formation is performed. In this embodiment, the processor 110 performs the minimum enlargement. That is, the processor 110 determines the lengths Wjc and Hjc so that the size index value of the enlarged code image ICf is the same as the reference threshold value. Alternatively, the processor 110 may set the lengths Wjc and Hjc to the maximum lengths Wb and Hb of the maximum code region A1m.

Here, the ratio of the length Wjc, Hjc of the enlarged code image to the 1up length Wj, Hj (Figure 15 (A)) is called the code reduction rate RLc. The code reduction rate RLc is greater than the target reduction rate RL1. In other words, the code image is enlarged.

In S220d, the processor 110 modifies the image data representing the input page including the undersized code image, among the input image data, so as to represent an enlarged code image. The processor 110 uses the modified input image data to rasterize the modified input page at the target formation size. This generates modified raster data representing the modified input page. Here, it is assumed that the total number of input pages included in the current output page is U (U is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to N). The processor 110 generates modified raster data for all input pages including the undersized code image, among the U input pages. The processor 110 then generates modified output page data using the U pieces of raster data including the modified raster data.

Figure 13 (D) shows an example of a corrected output page generated in S220d (Figure 12). This corrected output page Po6m is an example of a corrected output page that corresponds to output page Po6 in Figure 13 (C). As shown, output page Po6m represents corrected input page Pi13m arranged according to the layout settings. The code image ICf included in corrected input page Pi13m is larger than the code image ICf in Figure 13 (C).

Thus, the output page data generated in S220d (FIG. 12) represents U input pages arranged on a single output page according to the target configuration set. The output page data also represents an enlarged code image.

Note that in S220d, the method of generating the modified raster data representing the modified input page may be various. For example, the processor 110 may generate the modified raster data by modifying the raster data of the input page to represent the enlarged code image. The processor 110 may also generate the modified output page data by modifying the output page data to represent the enlarged code image.

In S230d, the processor 110 stores the modified output page data generated in S220d in the memory device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile memory device 130). The processor 110 then proceeds to S280.

If unassigned input pages remain (S280: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S120. If all input pages have been assigned to output pages (S280: Yes), in S290, the processor 110 causes the printing execution unit 300 to print all output pages.

As described above, the Q input pages represented by the input image data may include an input page including multiple code images, such as the ninth input page Pi9 in FIG. 13A. The multiple code images include a minimum code image that is a code image of the smallest size among the multiple code images (for example, the multiple code images ICd, ICe of the ninth input page Pi9 include the minimum code image ICd). In S170d-S190d, S280, and S290 in FIG. 12, the processor 110 executes the following processing. If the possible reduction ratio RLa of the minimum code image ICd of the input page Pi9 is equal to or smaller than the target reduction ratio RL1 (S190d: No), the processor 110 maintains the output page Po5 (FIG. 13B) including the input page Pi9 without changing it. That is, in S290, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the input page Pi9 at the first formation size. As described above, the condition "RL1<RLa" in S190d is substantially the same as the condition "size index value<reference threshold value" used in S160 (FIG. 2). That is, when the size of the smallest code image ICd is equal to or larger than the reference size for decoding the smallest code image ICd, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the input page Pi9 at the first formation size. In this way, the processor 110 can use the smallest code image among the multiple code images to determine whether or not image formation of the input page should be executed at the first formation size. The processor 110 can make this determination more quickly than when calculating the possible reduction ratio RLa of all code images.

The above process (i.e., image formation at the first formation size) for the ninth input page Pi9 (FIG. 13B) is executed in specific cases including when other input pages Pi10-Pi12 included in output page Po5 do not include a code image smaller than code image ICd and when the judgment result of S190d is No (i.e., the size index value of the smallest code image ICd is equal to or greater than the reference threshold value). If other input pages included in output page Po5 include a code image smaller than code image ICd, processor 110 may use the smaller code image to judge whether image formation of input page Pi9 should be executed at the first formation size.

The Q input pages represented by the input image data may include an input page that includes a code image and a blank area adjacent to the code image, such as the 13th input page Pi13 in FIG. 13(A) (the 13th input page Pi13 includes a code image ICf and a blank area BL). Here, it is assumed that the target reduction ratio RL1 is less than the possible reduction ratio RLa of the code image ICf (S190d: Yes). In this case, the size index value of the code image ICf is less than the reference threshold value.

As described in Figures 15(A)-15(F), in S200d of Figure 12, the processor 110 determines whether a code image ICf having a size index value equal to or greater than the reference threshold value can be formed by executing a partial enlargement process. Here, the partial enlargement process is a process for enlarging the code image ICf within the range of the blank portion BL. The size index value is the size index value when it is assumed that image formation of the input page Pi13 is performed at the target formation size (i.e., the first formation size). The determination result of "sufficient blank space" indicates that a code image ICf having a size index value equal to or greater than the reference threshold value can be formed.

If the determination result in S200d is "sufficient white space" (S210d: Yes), the processor 110 generates an image of the corrected input page Pi13m (FIG. 13(D)) by executing a partial enlargement process of the code image ICf in S220d. The corrected input page Pi13m represents the code image ICf that has been enlarged so as to be formed at a size indicating a size index value equal to or greater than the reference threshold value. In S290 (FIG. 12), the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to form an image of the corrected output page Po6m including the corrected input page Pi13m that has been allocated according to the target setting set. That is, the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to form an image of the corrected input page Pi13m at the target formation size (i.e., the first formation size).

In this way, the processor 110 can form a code image that indicates a size index value equal to or greater than the reference threshold value by forming an image of the input page at the first forming size.

E. Fifth Example:
Figures 16 and 17 are flow charts showing another embodiment of the printing process. The difference from the embodiment in Figure 2 is that the number of target layouts N is 1. In this case, the method of enlarging the code image by reducing the number of layouts N cannot be used. In this embodiment, the code image is enlarged by increasing the sheet size. In Figures 16 and 17, the same steps as those in Figure 2 are given the same reference numerals, and the explanation will be omitted.

In S110, the processor 110 obtains an image formation instruction. Here, the target layout number N is "1", the target sheet size SS is "A5", and the input image data represents input pages Pi1-Pi8 in FIG. 3(A). S112 is the same as S112 in FIG. 2.

In S114e, the processor 110 selects the first input page of the unprocessed input pages as the page of interest. In S116e, the processor 110 generates raster data by rasterizing the input image data of the page of interest at the target formation size (i.e., the first formation size). In this embodiment, the target formation size is the "1up formation size (target reduction ratio RL1 = 100%)" for the target sheet size SS. The processor 110 uses the generated raster data to generate output page data (where one page of interest is assigned to one output page). In S118e, the processor 110 stores the output page data generated in S116e in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130).

S130, S140, S150, and S160 are the same as S130, S140, S150, and S160 in FIG. 2, respectively. If no code image is detected from the output page (S140: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S280 (FIG. 17). If all size index values of all detected code images are equal to or greater than the reference threshold (S160: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S280 (FIG. 17). In S280, the processor 110 determines whether all input pages have been allocated to output pages. If unallocated input pages remain (S280: No), the processor 110 proceeds to S114e (FIG. 16) and processes the remaining input pages.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example of output pages. Here, input pages other than the third input page Pi3 are assumed to be allocated to output pages of the target sheet size SS (i.e., S140: No or S160: No in Figure 16).

If the size index value is 1 or more and is less than the reference threshold value (FIG. 16: S160: Yes), in S164e, the processor 110 generates raster data by rasterizing the input image data of the target page at a second formation size larger than the first formation size. In this embodiment, the second formation size is a "1up formation size (target reduction ratio RL1 = 100%)" for a sheet size (called an enlarged sheet size) larger than the target sheet size SS. The enlarged sheet size may be any sheet size larger than the target sheet size SS among multiple sheet sizes available for printing. In this embodiment, the correspondence between the enlarged sheet size and the target sheet size SS is predetermined. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the formation execution unit 300 (FIG. 1) can use "A4" and "A5". And, it is assumed that the enlarged sheet size of "A4" is associated with the target sheet size SS of "A5". The processor 110 uses the generated raster data to generate output page data (where one page of interest is assigned to one output page).

In the example of FIG. 18, it is assumed that the size index value of the code image ICa of the third input page Pi3 is less than the reference threshold value (FIG. 16: S160: Yes). In S164e, the processor 110 rasterizes the third input page Pi3 at the standard formation size for allocating it to an output page Po3m of "A4" which is larger than "A5".

In S166e, the processor 110 stores the output page data generated in S164e in the storage device 115 (e.g., the non-volatile storage device 130). The processor 110 then proceeds to S280 (Figure 17).

If all input pages have been assigned to output pages in S280 (S280: Yes), in S290, the processor 110 causes the printing execution unit 300 to print all output pages. Then, the printing process in Figs. 16 and 17 ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, in S110c (FIG. 16), the processor 110 accepts the sheet size setting. Then, in S114e-S290 (FIGS. 16 and 17), the processor 110 causes the formation execution unit 300 to execute image formation of the input image data. As described in S116e, the processor 110 determines the target formation size (i.e., the first formation size) using a target setting set including the target sheet size SS (i.e., the first sheet size). That is, the designation of the first formation size includes the designation of the size of the sheet on which the image is to be formed. The first input page Pi1 in FIG. 18 is an example of an input page that is printed in the first formation size without including a code image. As described in S164e (FIG. 16), the second formation size, which is larger than the first formation size, is a predetermined standard formation size for printing one input page on a sheet of the second sheet size, which is larger than the target sheet size SS (also called the first sheet size). The third input page Pi3 in FIG. 18 is an example of an input page that includes a code image and is printed at the second printing size. In this way, the processor 110 can cause the printing execution unit 300 to execute appropriate image printing of the input page that includes the code image. Also, in this embodiment, the third input page Pi3 that includes the code image is printed at the maximum size on the output page Po3m of the second sheet size. Therefore, the ease of deciphering the code image ICa can be appropriately improved.

F. Variations:
(1) The printing process is not limited to the printing process in the above embodiment, but may be various other processes.
For example, in the printing process of FIG. 12, S170d may be omitted, and in S180d, the processor 110 may calculate the possible reduction ratios RLa of all code images detected from the current output page. In S190d, the processor 110 may determine No when the target reduction ratio RL1 is equal to or greater than all possible reduction ratios RLa of all code images. Also, the processor 110 may determine Yes when one or more possible reduction ratios RLa are greater than the target reduction ratio RL1. This configuration reduces the possibility of an inappropriate determination. For example, the version of the QR code may differ between multiple code images. The density of the module Md (FIG. 5) of the large code image may be higher than the density of the module Md of the small code image. In this case, the width Sm of the module Md of the large code image is smaller than the width Sm of the module Md of the small code image. In such a case, the processor 110 can perform an appropriate determination by using all possible reduction ratios RLa of all code images in S190d.

(2) In the printing process of FIG. 12, if the determination result of S190 is Yes, the processor 110 may proceed to S270. In other words, S200d, S210d, S220d, and S230d may be omitted.

(3) The determination process S400d (comprised of S170d, S180d, and S190d) using the minimum code image in FIG. 12 may be applied to the other embodiments described above. For example, in the printing process in FIG. 2 and FIG. 16, S400d in FIG. 12 may be executed instead of S150 and S160.

(4) The partial enlargement process (S220d) of FIG. 12 may be applied to the other embodiments described above. For example, in the printing process of FIG. 2, S500d (comprised of S200d, S210d, S220d, S230d, and S270) of FIG. 12 may be executed instead of S270.

In addition, in the printing process of FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, if the determination result of S160 is Yes, the processor 110 may execute S600d (consisting of S200d, S210d, S220d, and S230d) of FIG. 12. Here, if the determination result of S210d is No, the processor 110 may execute S164e and S166e of FIG. 16.

(5) In S164e of FIG. 16, the processor 110 may determine the enlarged sheet size according to the user's instructions.

(6) The printing process in FIGS. 16 and 17 is a process when the number of target layouts N is 1. The data processing device 190 may be implemented with both this printing process and a printing process when the number of target layouts N is 2 or more (for example, the printing process in FIG. 2). The printing process in FIG. 12 may be executed when the number of target layouts N is 2 or more. The data processing device 190 may be implemented with both the printing process in FIG. 12 and the printing processes in FIGS. 16 and 17. The printing process in FIG. 12 may also be executed when the number of target layouts N is 1.

(7) The code image included in the input page is not limited to a QR code and may represent various other codes. For example, the code image may represent a one-dimensional barcode. In this case, the size index value (S150 (FIGS. 2 and 16)) may be the width of the narrow bar. The possible reduction ratio RLa (S180d (FIG. 12)) may be determined so that the width of the narrow bar becomes the reference threshold. In the code enlargement determination process (FIG. 12: S200d), it is preferable to take into account the quiet zones at both ends of the one-dimensional barcode. In either case, the reference threshold is experimentally determined in advance to a value suitable for the type of code image. In the code enlargement determination process, it is preferable to take into account the quiet zone suitable for the type of code image.

(8) The input page may include multiple types of code images. For example, the input page may include a one-dimensional barcode and a QR code. The method of calculating the size index value of the code image (S150 (FIGS. 2 and 16)) may differ depending on the type of code image. The reference threshold value (S160 (FIGS. 2 and 16)) to be compared with the size index value, i.e., the reference size for decoding the code image, may differ depending on the type of code image. When the input page includes multiple types of code images, the reference threshold value may be different for each code image. The reference threshold value may be the same for multiple code images of the same type.

(9) The printing process is not limited to the above embodiment and modified example, and may be various other processes. For example, in the printing process of FIG. 2 and FIG. 16, S150 and S160 may be omitted. That is, if a code image is detected (S140: Yes), the processor 110 may proceed to S270 and S164e regardless of the size of the code image. In addition, the processor 110 may start image formation using the generated output page data before the allocation of all input pages is completed.

(10) Layout settings may be omitted from the changeable print settings (i.e., S110b (FIGS. 2, 12, and 16) may be omitted). In this case, the number of target layouts N may be a fixed value (e.g., 1). In this case, the processor 110 may execute the print process of FIG. 12 or FIG. 16, for example.

The sheet size setting may be omitted from the changeable print settings (i.e., S110c (FIGS. 2, 12, and 16) may be omitted). In this case, the target sheet size SS may be a fixed size (e.g., A4). In this case, the processor 110 may execute the print process of FIG. 2 or FIG. 12, for example.

(11) The data format of the output page data may be another format (e.g., PDL format) instead of the bitmap format. If the output page data is PDL format data, the processor 110 may generate PDL format output page data that describes the formation of the input page at a specific formation size instead of rasterizing the input page at a specific formation size (first formation size or second formation size).

(12) The data format of the input image data may be another format (e.g., bitmap format) instead of the PDL format. If the input image data is bitmap data, the processor 110 may perform a resolution conversion process to a resolution associated with a specific formation size instead of a process of rasterizing the input page at a specific formation size (first formation size or second formation size).

(13) The formation execution unit 300 may be configured in various ways to print an image. For example, the formation execution unit 300 may include multiple trays that hold sheets for printing. The sheets may be of different sizes in the multiple trays. The formation execution unit 300 may include a cutter that cuts the sheets. For example, the trays may hold A4 size sheets, and the cutter may cut the A4 size sheets in half to generate A5 size sheets.

The data format of the print data may be any data format suitable for the formation execution unit 300. For example, the print data may be RGB bitmap data. The print data may also be bitmap data in the color space of the printing material (e.g., CMYK color space).

(14) The image processing device that executes the print process may be a personal computer, a smartphone, a digital camera, a scanner, or any other device, instead of the data processing device 190 incorporated in the image forming device 100 (FIG. 1). The image processing device may include both a processing device that executes the print process (i.e., data processing for printing) and a formation execution unit configured to print an image. The image forming device 100 in FIG. 1 is an example of an image processing device that includes both a processing device that executes the print process (specifically, the data processing device 190) and a formation execution unit (specifically, the formation execution unit 300). In addition, multiple devices (e.g., computers) that can communicate with each other via a network may share part of the functions of the print process by the image processing device and provide the function of the print process as a whole (a system including these devices corresponds to an image processing device).

In each of the above embodiments, a part of the configuration realized by hardware may be replaced by software, and conversely, a part or all of the configuration realized by software may be replaced by hardware. For example, the code image detection function (S130) in FIG. 2 may be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit.

In addition, when some or all of the functions of the present disclosure are realized by a computer program, the program can be provided in a form stored in a computer-readable recording medium (e.g., a non-transitory recording medium). The program can be used in a state stored in the same or a different recording medium (computer-readable recording medium) from when it was provided. "Computer-readable recording medium" is not limited to portable recording media such as memory cards and CD-ROMs, but can also include internal storage devices within a computer, such as various ROMs, and external storage devices connected to a computer, such as a hard disk drive.

The above examples and modifications can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, the above examples and modifications are provided to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure and do not limit the present invention. The present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and equivalents thereof are included in the present invention.

100...image forming device, 110...processor, 115...storage device, 120...volatile storage device, 130...non-volatile storage device, 131...program, 140...display unit, 150...operation unit, 170...communication interface, 190...data processing device, 300...formation execution unit

Claims (9)

An image processing device,
a first reception unit that receives a designation of a first formation size as a formation size of an image;
a second reception unit that receives input image data representing images of Q input pages (Q is an integer equal to or greater than 2), the Q input pages including a first input page including a first code image and a second input page not including a code image;
a formation processing unit that causes a formation execution unit to execute image formation of the input image data;
Equipped with
The forming processing section includes:
causing the forming execution unit to perform the image forming of the first input page in a second forming size larger than the first forming size;
causing the forming execution unit to perform the image forming of the second input page in the first forming size;
Image processing device. 2. The image processing device according to claim 1,
the Q input pages further include a third input page including a second code image;
the first input page is configured such that a size of the first code image is smaller than a first reference size for decoding the first code image, assuming that the imaging of the first input page is performed at the first imaging size;
the third input page is configured such that, assuming that the imaging of the third input page is performed at the first imaging size, a size of the second code image is equal to or greater than a second reference size for decoding the second code image;
the forming processing unit causes the forming execution unit to perform the image forming of the third input page in the first forming size;
Image processing device. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1,
The Q input pages further include a fourth input page, the fourth input page being an input page including a plurality of code images;
the plurality of code images includes a minimum code image that is a code image with a minimum size among the plurality of code images,
The forming processing unit causes the forming execution unit to perform the image formation of the fourth input page at the first forming size in a specific case including a case in which a size of the minimum code image is equal to or larger than a third reference size for decoding the minimum code image, assuming that the image formation of the fourth input page is performed at the first forming size.
Image processing device. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1,
the forming processing unit determines the second forming size such that a size of the first code image is a first reference size for decoding the first code image, assuming that the image forming of the first input page is performed at the second forming size;
Image processing device. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1,
the Q input pages further include a fifth input page which is an input page including a third code image and a blank portion adjacent to the third code image,
the fifth input page is configured such that, assuming that the imaging of the fifth input page is performed at the first imaging size, a size of the third code image is smaller than a fourth reference size for decoding the third code image;
When it is assumed that the image formation of the fifth input page is performed at the first formation size, if the third code image having a size equal to or larger than the fourth reference size can be formed by performing a partial enlargement process of enlarging the third code image within the range of the blank portion,
generating a modified image of the fifth input page representing the third code image enlarged to a size equal to or larger than the fourth reference size by executing the partial enlargement process of the third code image;
causing the forming unit to perform the image forming of the modified image of the fifth input page at the first forming size;
Image processing device. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1,
the designation of the first forming size includes designation of a first sheet size as a size of a sheet on which an image is to be formed;
the second forming size being a predetermined standard forming size for printing one input page on a sheet of the first sheet size, or a predetermined standard forming size for printing one input page on a sheet of a second sheet size that is larger than the first sheet size;
Image processing device. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1,
The designation of the first forming size includes a layout setting of N pages (N is an integer equal to or greater than 2) as a setting of the total number of input pages to be arranged on one output page,
The second forming size is a forming size for layout setting of M pages (M is an integer equal to or greater than 1 and less than N).
Image processing device. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1, further comprising:
The formation execution unit is provided.
Image processing device. A computer program comprising:
a first reception function for receiving a designation of a first forming size as a forming size of an image;
a second reception function that receives input image data representing images of Q input pages (Q is an integer equal to or greater than 2), the Q input pages including a first input page including a first code image and a second input page not including a code image;
A forming processing function for causing a forming execution unit to perform image forming of the input image data;
This is realized on a computer.
The forming process function includes:
causing the forming execution unit to perform the image forming of the first input page in a second forming size larger than the first forming size;
causing the forming execution unit to perform the image forming of the second input page in the first forming size;
Computer program.

Images