JP3855013B2 - Screen creation method and apparatus, and creation program - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a method for creating a screen.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Counterfeit prevention and anti-counterfeiting measures are important factors in banknotes, stock certificates, securities such as claims, various certificates and printed materials such as important documents. On the printed surface of such a printed matter, the design is composed of extremely fine lines (ink-colored portions in printing) that have room to prevent forgery and alteration.
[0003]
As a representative technique of the method using a thin line, there are a ground pattern and a chromatic pattern. These are basically geometric figures in which a pattern is constituted by a set of curved drawing lines with a fixed drawing line width, and design properties such as the design of printed matter can be added to these geometric figures. Complicating the pattern by using fine lines makes it difficult to extract by a photoengraving apparatus or to be reproduced by a copying machine due to resolution problems in the forgery process, and increases its role as a forgery prevention measure.
In addition, the designability of securities is a very important factor for securities. The design property helps a person to recognize a printed matter as a securities and memorize the properties of the securities that become authentic judgment materials.
Today, with the establishment of computer processing algorithms, software for generating geometric figures composed of thin lines has been developed and commercialized.
[0004]
However, continuous gradation (full-range continuous gradation with an area ratio of 0 to 100%) could not be given to the image line of the geometric figure described above. Therefore, in the securities with the anti-counterfeiting measures having the advanced image line configuration as described above, when using a continuous tone image, it has been necessary to give a continuous tone to an area other than that portion. On the other hand, there was no room to give the above-mentioned geometrical figures for securities that used a lot of continuous tone or were mainly used (for example, stamps, stamps, etc.), and could not take sufficient anti-counterfeiting measures. .
[0005]
In order to attach a continuous tone image to a printed matter, a screen, that is, an image line structure generally translated as a halftone dot, is required. The screen has minute lines (about 100 to 600 per inch) in the shape of circles, ellipses, rhombuses, squares, grain, etc., and the size of the image area ratio per unit area of printed matter By changing it, continuous tone is reproduced. The screen has not only dot-like lines but also line-like lines such as line screens (scanning lines) and crosses (crossing lines), and the line width is changed. Some reproduce continuous tone.
In securities, these lines can be easily created by existing plate making technology or image processing technology, making authenticity determination difficult, and the use of ordinary screens is inappropriate for securities. there were.
[0006]
Accordingly, there has been an increasing demand for a special screen that can express a continuous tone image line and also has a forgery prevention function. This special screen is a screen cell (hereinafter referred to as a cell), that is, a shape per unit (hereinafter referred to as a screen shape) having a change in the area ratio of the image area sufficient to reproduce gradation. This is a screen having a fine image line and design similar to those of scents.
[0007]
Many technologies related to such a screen with a high anti-counterfeiting effect have been proposed, and some software has been commercialized. When a continuous tone is screen-processed using a technique that has already been proposed or commercialized, it is generally performed in accordance with the flow shown in FIG.
[0008]
A person who performs screen processing creates a screen (ss1). The creation of the screen is the design of the screen, that is, the design of the line shape at each line area ratio, and the creation of definition data based on the design result. The definition data is data that defines the shape of the screen in accordance with the agreement required by the screen processing software. As an example of the definition data, a plurality of 1-bit bitmap data representing each drawing shape as shown in FIG. 2 (a), (b), (c), and (d), one There are bitmap data in a multi-bit format, text data meaning a program, and the like.
[0009]
In parallel with the creation of the screen, bitmap data (hereinafter referred to as an original picture) to be screened is created (ss2). The original image is bitmap data having continuous gradation as shown in FIG. When the definition data and the original image are provided to the screen processing software and screen processing is performed, an image whose gradation is reproduced by a screen having a design as shown in FIG. 4 is obtained.
[0010]
In the flow shown in FIG. 1, software is already on the market for ss2 and ss3. However, for ss1, there is no software having a function sufficiently specialized for screen design and definition data creation. At present, the screen design is a trial and error of the creator in the process of creating the definition data.
For example, when creating bitmap data as definition data, an operation along the flow shown in FIG. 5 is required.
[0011]
When creating bitmap data as definition data, the creator of definition data first draws a screen shape, that is, creates an image using image processing software or drawing software (ss1-1). Next, the distribution of the number of pixels with respect to the brightness of the image (hereinafter referred to as a histogram) is confirmed (ss1-2), and the image area ratio is calculated (ss1-3). Based on the results of ss1-2 and ss1-3, the creator of the definition data determines whether the created image is appropriate as the definition data. If it is not suitable, the creator of the definition data modifies the image with intuition and repeats ss1-2 and ss1-3 again.
[0012]
Bitmap data suitable as definition data is, for example, that there is no significant bias (FIG. 6 (a)) or omission (FIG. 6 (b)) in the histogram (remarkable deviation or omission reduces the quality of reproduced gradation), This satisfies the condition that the intended change in the screen shape is consistent with the change in the image area ratio.
[0013]
Thus, in the definition data creation process, the screen shape must be designed in consideration of the gradation reproducibility and the image area ratio. In particular, in the case of securities design, from the viewpoint of line management, since the strict design (minimum line width etc.) of each line is required, the work is very difficult. In addition, there is screen processing software that requires 30 to 60 bitmap data as definition data.
[0014]
Therefore, it takes time to create the definition data, and it is almost impossible to create a screen having a complicated shape comparable to the background pattern and the color pattern. As a method of creating a special screen having such a design property, a trademark, a family crest, a logo mark, a symbol mark, a character, etc., which the applicant already has a design property, correspond to one halftone dot pixel. Have been filed as a method of expressing a continuous tone image. (See Patent Document 1)
However, this method forms a cell using an image having a design property as an input image, and does not create a cell from an empty state.
[0015]
Furthermore, the applicant filed a method for expressing a continuous tone image using a shape reproduced by a function by arranging a trademark having a design property, a family crest, a logo mark, a symbol mark, a character, etc. in a screen cell. Yes. (See Patent Document 2)
However, expressing the screen shape by function is the same, but since this method constructs a complicated function by manual calculation, it is not easy for a general worker to create a specially shaped screen only by parameter operation. There wasn't.
Therefore, in order to easily create a forgery-preventing screen having high designability, software for easily creating a screen is desired.
[0016]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-11-268228
[Patent Document 2]
JP 11-268229 A
[0017]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In view of the above-described problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a screen creation method, a creation device, and a creation program capable of creating a complicated and highly designable screen.
[0018]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention provides a screen for expressing continuous tone,
Using a screen creation device including a setting item setting unit that selects an option for each setting item, and a calculation unit that generates a definition that defines a change in the screen based on the selected option.
In how to create
The screen has a plurality of cells,
The cell has at least one unit;
If the unit is one, the unit has at least two areas; if the unit is plural, the unit has at least one area;
Each early region has one element,
Functions are prepared in advance corresponding to a plurality of options provided for each setting item of the unit, region, and element, and a function group is configured.
In order to design each of the unit, region, and element, selecting any option for each setting item using the setting item setting means;
Using the function corresponding to the selected option of the function group prepared in advance, generating a definition that defines a change in the designed screen by the computing means;
A screen creation method characterized by comprising:
[0019]
In the present invention, the setting item of the unit is a first option for selecting the number of the units obtained by dividing the cell and the shape of the unit;
When having a plurality of the units, as a direction of the unit in the cell, a second option of selecting one of line symmetry, point symmetry, or random;
A method of creating a screen, characterized by comprising:
[0020]
In the present invention, the setting item of the area is a first option for selecting the shape of the area,
A second option for selecting at least the position of the region and the size of the region;
A method of creating a screen, characterized by comprising:
[0021]
In the present invention, the setting item of the element is a first option for selecting a solid shape of the element;
A second option for selecting a range in which the position of the element and the line area ratio that the element brings change;
A method of creating a screen, characterized by comprising:
[0022]
The present invention generates a bird's-eye view that represents a unit and a region to which each coordinate in the cell belongs, and a line area ratio of the cell when each coordinate is an image line portion, in brightness or hue; ,
Displaying the overhead view;
A screen creation method characterized by further comprising:
[0023]
The present invention generates a cross-sectional view of the cell at a predetermined line area ratio representing a change in the line area ratio of the cell;
Displaying the cross-sectional view;
A screen creation method characterized by further comprising:
[0024]
The present invention further includes a step of selecting an output form of the generated refiner,
As the output form,
Text data representing the definition using a predetermined program description language;
1-bit format bitmap data,
Multiple bit format bitmap data,
A method for producing a screen, comprising at least one or all of the following.
[0025]
In the step of selecting the output form, the present invention selects the bitmap data in the multi-bit format,
Setting the number of pixels of the bitmap data to be output;
Converting the set definition device into bitmap data in the multi-bit format configured by the set number of pixels;
A screen creation method characterized by comprising:
[0026]
In the step of converting the bitmap data into the form of the bitmap data,
The screen creation method is characterized in that no bias is observed in the distribution of the number of pixels with respect to brightness in the bitmap data.
[0027]
In the step of selecting the output form, the present invention selects the 1-bit format bitmap data,
Setting the number of pixels of the bitmap data to be output;
Converting the generated refiner into a plurality of bitmap data in the 1-bit format configured by a set number of pixels;
A screen creation method characterized by comprising:
[0028]
The present invention provides an apparatus for creating a screen for expressing continuous tone,
The screen has a plurality of cells,
The cell has at least one unit;
If the unit is one, the unit has at least two regions; if the unit is plural, the unit has at least one region;
Each said region has one element;
Function storage means for storing a function group including functions corresponding to a plurality of options provided for each setting item for the unit, area, and element,
In order to design each of the unit, area, and element, setting item setting means for selecting one of the options for each setting item;
An arithmetic unit that generates a definer that defines a change in the designed screen, using a function corresponding to the option selected by the setting item setting unit among the functions stored in the function storage unit;
It is provided with the screen creation apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned.
[0029]
How to create a screen to express continuous tone,
In a program to be executed by a computer including a setting item setting unit that selects an option for each setting item, and a calculation unit that generates a definition that defines a screen change based on the selected option.
The screen has a plurality of cells,
The cell has at least one unit;
If the unit is one, the unit has at least two areas; if the unit is plural, the unit has at least one area;
Each said region has one element;
Preparing a function corresponding to a plurality of options provided for each setting item of the unit, region, and element in advance, configuring a function group, and storing the function in a function storage unit;
In order to design each of the unit, the region, and the element, selecting any option for each setting item using the setting item setting unit;
Using the function corresponding to the selected option among the function group stored in the function storage means to generate a definition that defines a change in the designed screen by the calculation means;
A screen generation program that causes a computer to execute a screen generation method.
[0030]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0031]
(Screen structure)
FIG. 7A shows an example of a continuous tone image, and FIG. 7B shows an example of an image obtained by screen processing this image. Hereinafter, the structure of the screen as shown in FIG. 7B will be described.
[0032]
(cell)
In the screen, cells are repeatedly arranged as basic units constituting the screen. The cell C shown in FIG. 7B has a square shape, but is not limited to this, and other shapes are possible as long as the shape can fill the plane without gaps, such as a rectangle or a regular hexagon. Can also be included.
[0033]
(unit)
The cell has a single or a plurality of identically shaped units. The units constituting one cell have the same image line configuration.
[0034]
FIG. 8 shows an example of a unit when the cell is a square. FIG. 8A shows an example in which the cell C has one unit, and FIG. 8B shows an example in which the cell C is divided into two by a line connecting the center of the opposite side and has two units. FIG. 8C shows an example in which the cell C is divided into two diagonal lines and has two units (hereinafter referred to as diagonal two divisions), and FIG. 8D shows the center of two pairs of opposite sides of the cell C. An example having four units divided into four by two lines connecting to each other (hereinafter referred to as a four-sided division), and an example in which the cell C is divided into four by two diagonal lines and having four units in FIG. (Hereinafter referred to as a diagonal quadrant), FIG. 8 (f) shows an example in which the cell C is divided into eight by two lines connecting the centers of two pairs of opposite sides and two diagonal lines (hereinafter referred to as eight units). This is referred to as the opposite diagonal 8 division). The cell C in FIG. 7B is an example having the unit shown in FIG.
The cell C has a single unit or a plurality of units, and when the cell has a plurality of units, the units in the cell C may be congruent with each other, and are not limited to the shape and the number of units shown in FIG. .
[0035]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 9, even if each unit is arranged in a different direction, an image line having the same shape can be obtained when the same gradation is screened. 9A shows an example in which four units ui to uiv are arranged in line symmetry, FIG. 9B shows an example in which units are arranged in point symmetry, and FIGS. 9C and 9D show units randomly arranged. An example is shown. Cell C in FIG. 7 (b) corresponds to a unit arranged in the orientation shown in FIG. 9 (b).
When a cell has a plurality of units, the direction in which the units are arranged is not limited to the direction shown in FIG. 9 as long as no gap is generated between the cells.
[0036]
(region)
The unit has a single region or a plurality of regions. One area has one element to be described later.
[0037]
FIG. 10 shows an example in which the unit u6 shown in FIG. 8F is divided by a part of an arc and a part of a hyperbola and has three regions. In this way, the unit is divided by an arbitrary straight line or curve to produce a region. There is no limit to the number of areas that one unit has. For the purpose of creating a screen having a complicated shape, if a cell has one unit, the unit has a plurality of regions. An example of the cell C shown in FIG. 7B is enlarged and shown in FIG. A unit u shown in FIG. 11 is an example divided into two by a straight line L and having regions a1 and a2.
[0038]
(element)
The element causes a screen change in which the line area ratio in the region to which the element belongs changes between 0% and 100%.
[0039]
FIG. 12 shows an example in which the cell C shown in FIG. 7B is overlapped in the z-axis direction from 0% to 100% and is a perspective view. In this perspective view, only two elements of the two regions a1 and a2 of the unit U are drawn for easy viewing. The z axis in FIG. 12 represents the line area ratio. Solids e1 and e2 in the figure are elements, and a cross section of e1 and e2 cut by a plane parallel to the xy plane passing through D corresponds to an image line at the image area ratio D. A cell C shown in FIG. 11 corresponds to a cross section at a line area ratio D in the perspective view shown in FIG.
[0040]
(Screen setting items)
Next, when a screen designer (hereinafter referred to as a designer) creates a screen having the above-described structure by selecting a favorite one from options prepared in advance, items to be set by the designer An example of the options will be described. FIG. 14 shows examples of options that the setting items relating to the unit, area, and element have.
[0041]
(Setting items related to the unit)
The setting items related to the unit are the type and orientation of the unit. Option 1 included in the unit setting item shown in FIG. 14 relates to the type of unit, that is, the shape of the unit and the number of units included in one cell. The example shown in FIG. 14 is shown in FIG. It corresponds to the units u1 to u6 shown.
Option 2 relates to the orientation of the unit and corresponds to the orientation shown in FIG. However, random orientations other than those shown in FIGS. 9C and 9D are possible.
[0042]
(Example of area design method and area setting items)
《Example of area design method》
As described above, the region is generated by dividing a unit by an arbitrary straight line or curve. First, a method of using a part of the outer periphery of a figure as a line for dividing a unit will be described as an example of a region design method.
[0043]
For example, the three areas a1 to a3 as shown in FIG. 10 can be created in the order as shown in FIG. That is, a circle a′1 is set, and a portion where the unit u and the circle a′1 overlap is defined as a region a1 (hereinafter, a portion in which no region is designed in the unit is referred to as a region unset portion). Next, x-shape a′2 drawn by two sets of hyperbola is set, and a portion where the region unset region and x-shape a′2 overlap is defined as region a2. Finally, the area unset portion at the time when the designer finishes setting the figure is the last area, in this example, the area a3.
[0044]
《Setting items related to area》
As an example of designing an area by the method described above, setting items relating to the area shown in FIG. 14 are used. Hereinafter, these setting items will be described with reference to the diagram shown in FIG.
Option 1 included in the area setting item relates to the shape of the figure to be set. The actual shape of the figure listed as option 1 for the area corresponds to the figure as shown in FIGS. The cross shape (FIG. 16C) and the X shape (FIG. 16D) are figures drawn by two sets of hyperbola, and the horizontal line (FIG. 16E) and the vertical line (FIG. 16F). )) Are two straight lines parallel to each other. The graphic as selected by the designer is referred to as an area graphic.
Option 1 is an example, and other figures (for example, a triangle, a regular hexagon, etc.) may be adopted as option 1.
[0045]
Next, the setting item of the area has three options as option 2. These three options are an example of a method for determining the position of a figure, the inclination of a straight line and the curvature of a curve, and the size of the figure.
[0046]
As a method for determining the position of the figure, options relating to the center of the figure are used. However, in the case of a graphic that cannot express the center with a point, such as horizontal and vertical lines, the center line is selected. The center ac or the center line ac selected by the designer is referred to as a region center.
[0047]
As a method for determining the inclination of the straight line and the curvature of the curve of the outer periphery of the figure, options relating to the flatness of the figure are used. The flatness ratio is a ratio of the length aRx in the x direction and the length aRy in the y direction of the figure shown in FIG. 16, aRx / aRy. The flatness selected by the designer is referred to as a region flatness. However, this option does not exist for figures that cannot be applied to flat shapes, such as cruciforms (which cannot apply flatness in the direction of asymptote) and horizontal lines and vertical lines.
[0048]
As a method for determining the size of the figure, options relating to the length in the x direction are used. However, since the cross direction and the horizontal line are infinite in the x direction, different lengths are used as options. That is, the cross shape uses the length in the oblique 45 degree direction and the horizontal line uses the length in the y-axis direction as options. The length aB selected by the designer is referred to as a region diameter.
[0049]
These options 2 regarding the area are the minimum elements for determining the specific position and size of the area. Other options such as rotation or deformation may be added to make the region more complex.
[0050]
(Setting items related to elements)
As an example of a design method related to the element, a solid in a state in which the lines at the respective line area ratios of 0% to 100% are superimposed in the z-axis direction, such as the solids e1 and e2 illustrated in FIG. And
As an example of designing an element using such a solid, setting items relating to the element shown in FIG. 14 are used. Hereinafter, these setting items will be described with reference to FIG.
Option 1 included in the setting item of the element relates to a three-dimensional shape. The actual shape of the figure given as the option 1 for the element corresponds to the solid es in FIGS. Cross sections parallel to the xy plane of the solid es are an ellipse (circle), a rhombus, a cross, an X shape, a horizontal line, and a vertical line. The solid es selected by the designer is referred to as an element solid.
Option 1 regarding the element shown in FIG. 14 is an example, and other solids (for example, a triangular pyramid, a hexagonal pyramid, etc.) may be adopted as option 1. An element can be set regardless of a region. For example, when an ellipse (circle) is selected in the option 1 for the area, the option 1 for the element is not limited to the ellipse, and another shape such as a rhombus or a cross can be selected for the element.
[0051]
Next, the three-dimensional setting item has three options as option 2. These three options are: the position of the solid, the slope of the straight line and the curvature of the curve of the outer periphery of the solid xy section, and the height of the solid and the position on the z-axis that are the range in which the area ratio brought about by the element changes. This is an example of a determination method.
[0052]
As a method for determining the position of the solid on the xy plane, an option relating to the center of the solid xy section is used. However, in the case of a graphic that cannot express the center of the xy cross section with a point, such as a horizontal line and a vertical line, the center line is selected. The center ec or the center line ec selected by the designer is referred to as an element center.
[0053]
As a method for determining the inclination of the straight line and the curvature of the curve of the outer periphery of the three-dimensional xy section, options relating to the flatness of the xy section are used. The flatness ratio is a ratio of the length eRx in the x direction and the length eRy in the y direction of the figure shown in FIG. 17, eRx / eRy. The flatness selected by the designer is referred to as element flatness. However, this option does not exist for figures that cannot be applied to flat shapes, such as cruciforms (which cannot apply flatness in the direction of asymptote) and horizontal lines and vertical lines.
[0054]
As a method for determining the height of the solid and the position on the z-axis, options relating to the range in which the line area ratio changes (hereinafter referred to as the range of the line change) are used. The range of the stroke change represents the start point and the end point of the change of the element based on the stroke area ratio in the entire cell. For example, the element represented by the solid e1 shown in FIG. 12 starts to change from the cell line area ratio 0% (starting point of element change), and the area image line to which the cell line area ratio 50% belongs. The change is finished with the area ratio being 100% (end point of change of the element). In such a case, the range of image line change is set to 0 to 50%. Similarly, the range of the line change of the solid e2 is 50 to 100%.
[0055]
Option 2 for the element is a minimum element for determining a specific position and size of the element. Other options, such as rotation and deformation, may be added to make the element more complex.
[0056]
(apparatus)
As shown in FIG. 18, the screen creation apparatus includes setting item setting means 1, setting result storage means 2, function storage means 3, definition storage means 4, screen shape display means 5, text data conversion output means 6, bit Map data conversion output means 7 and calculation means 8 are provided.
[0057]
The setting item setting means 1 is a means for inputting an option setting result for each setting item shown in FIG. The setting result storage means 2 is a means for storing the setting result set by the setting item setting means 1. The function storage means 3 stores function lists and coordinates prepared in advance for units, areas, and elements. The definition storage unit 4 includes a definition unit constructed by the calculation unit 8 using the function and coordinates stored in the function storage unit 3 according to the setting result stored in the setting result storage unit 2, and the construction This is a means for temporarily storing the numerical value obtained in the process. The screen shape display means 5 is means for displaying the definition stored in the definition storage 4. The text data conversion output means 6 is a means for converting the definition stored in the definition storage means 4 into a general-purpose programming language by the calculation means 8 and outputting it as definition data comprising text data. is there. The bitmap data conversion output means 7 converts the definition stored in the definition storage means 4 into bitmap data (image) in a plurality of bit formats or one bit format by the calculation means 8, This is means for outputting as definition data composed of a plurality of bitmap data.
[0058]
Next, a method for creating a screen using the above-described screen creation apparatus will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.
[0059]
(Outline of processing flow)
FIG. 19 shows an example of a software processing flow. Hereinafter, it is assumed that symbols S1 to S19 in the sentence correspond to the description of the steps shown in the figure. Further, as an example of the setting items necessary for the designer to design the screen and the options that the setting items have, a case where the software has at least the options shown in FIG. 14 will be described.
[0060]
(Unit design)
FIG. 20 shows a detailed flow of the unit design S1. In the unit design S1, the option 1 included in the unit setting item is displayed by the software (S1-1), and the designer selects a desired one from the displayed options 1, and the setting item setting means 1 (S1-2). The software stores the setting result in the setting result storage unit 2 (S1-3).
[0061]
Next, the software determines the option 2 to be displayed from the setting result of the designer, and displays the option 2 (S1-4). For example, when the designer uses the setting items shown in FIG. 14 and the designer selects the opposite two split from the options 1, the software selects an option for selecting either line symmetry, point symmetry, or random as option 2. indicate.
[0062]
The designer selects a favorite one from the displayed options 2 and sets it using the setting item setting means 1 (S1-5). The software stores the setting result in the setting result storage unit 2 (S1-6).
[0063]
The types of options that the software has depend on the degree of software functions, but at least have options regarding the number of cells to be divided, the unit shape, and the unit orientation. Option 1 shown in FIG. 14 is an example of an option in which the number of cells to be divided and the unit shape are already combined when it is assumed that the cell is limited to a square. If you want to design a screen using cells that have a shape other than a square, or if you want to use a more flexible option, you can choose another option, such as the option to set any number of cells to divide, You may prepare the choice which selects a shape, and the choice which selects direction of a unit.
[0064]
(Area and element design screen)
After storing the setting result regarding the unit, the software displays a design screen as shown in FIG. 21 as an example. The design screen assists the designer in selecting and setting a favorite item from the options of setting items related to the area and element. The design screen shown in FIG. 21 includes a part for displaying the setting result by the designer as a numerical value (hereinafter referred to as a setting result display part) G1, a part for displaying an option (hereinafter referred to as option display part) G2, and a later-described part. A portion for displaying an artwork image to be displayed (hereinafter referred to as an artwork image display portion) G3 is provided. Note that the layout and display form in the design screen shown in FIG. 21 are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to this.
[0065]
The setting result display part G1 is a part that displays the setting results by the designer as a list. In FIG. 21, the setting result is displayed as a numerical value, and there are four displayable areas. However, the display form of the setting result and the number of displayable areas are not particularly limited.
[0066]
The option display part G2 serves as both a display of options included in the area setting items and a display of options included in the element setting items. When an area or element is selected from the options displayed on the setting target option display part G2-1, each of the option display parts G2-2 to G2-8 is either an area or an element among the options shown in FIG. Display the choices. The designer performs area design S2 and element design (S3) related to the area based on the options displayed on the option display sections G2-2 to G2-8.
[0067]
(Area design)
FIG. 22 shows an example of a detailed flow of the area design step (S2). In the area design step (S2), the designer first selects whether or not to divide the unit (S2-1). For example, when the unit is divided, the area a1 is selected using the setting item setting means 1 from the options displayed on the area option display part G2-2. In the example of G2-2 shown in FIG. 21, the region a1 is displayed as red (1). This red matches the hue of the artwork image described later. When the unit is not divided, the entire unit is set as one area, and the process proceeds to element design S3.
The designer selects the favorite one of the options 1 displayed by the software on the option 1 display section G2-3 (S2-2) and sets it using the setting item setting means 1 (S2- 3). The software stores the setting result in the setting result storage unit 2 (S2-4).
[0068]
Next, the software determines the option 2 to be displayed from the setting result of the designer, and displays the option 2 on G2-2 to G2-7 (S2-5). For example, when the designer selects a circle from among the options 1 using the setting items shown in FIG. 14, the software selects the option related to the center as the option 2 and the option related to the flatness ratio in the center option display unit G2-6. Are divided into the x direction and the y direction, and the x direction length option display part G2-4 and the y direction length option display part G2-5, and the size-related options are displayed on the area diameter option display part G2-7, respectively. . Alternatively, when the designer selects the horizontal line from among the options 1, the software selects the option relating to the center as the option 2 and the option relating to the size as the area diameter option display part G2. Displayed on -7 respectively.
The designer selects a favorite one from the displayed options 2 and sets it using the setting item setting means 1 (S2-6). The software stores the setting result in the setting result storage unit 2 (S2-7). If necessary, the designer returns to step S2-1 and selects areas a2, a3,... In order and designs a desired number of areas.
[0069]
(Element design)
FIG. 23 shows an example of a detailed flow of the element design step (S3). In the element design step (S3), the designer first selects which area of the element is to be designed from the options displayed in the area option display section G2-2 using the setting item setting means 1 (step S3). S3-1).
Next, the designer selects a favorite one from the choices 1 displayed on the choice 1 display unit by the software (S3-3) and sets it using the setting item setting means (S3-3). The software stores the setting result in the setting result storage unit 2 (S3-4).
[0070]
After storing the setting result of option 1, the software determines option 2 to be displayed from the setting result of the designer, and displays option 2 on G2-2 to G2-6 and G2-8 (S3-5). . For example, when the designer selects a circle from among the options 1 using the setting items shown in FIG. 14, the software selects the option related to the center as the option 2 and the option related to the flatness ratio in the center option display unit G2-6. Are divided into the x direction and the y direction, and the options related to the range of the image area ratio are displayed on the x direction length option display unit G2-4 and the y direction length option display unit G2-5. Displayed at -8 respectively. Alternatively, when the designer selects the horizontal line from among the options 1, the software sets the option regarding the center as the option 2 and the option regarding the range of the line area ratio as the option 2 Each of them is displayed on the change range option display part G2-8.
The designer selects a favorite one from the displayed options 2 and sets it using the setting item setting means 1 (S3-6). The software stores the setting result in the setting result storage unit 2 (S3-7).
[0071]
As described above, the setting is repeated (i−1) times for the region (i is an integer of 1 or more) and i times for the element, and the design of the screen is completed when one unit has i regions.
[0072]
(Calculation of definition)
Next, the software performs the definition calculation S4 shown in FIG. The definition is data representing a screen whose image area ratio changes in the range of 0% to 100%. As shown in FIG. 12, the screen is represented as a three-dimensional object in which the image area ratio changes in the range of 0% to 100% in the z-axis direction, and such a screen is defined as a three-dimensional function. Represented by Shona.
[0073]
《Definitioner》
As an example of the coordinate space range occupied by the definition, x and y are set to −1 to 1 and z is set to 0% to 100%, respectively. Since the definition is calculated or used in the course of the internal calculation processing of the software, the coordinate space range occupied by the definition is not particularly limited. For example, in order to improve versatility with PostScript (registered trademark), which is one of the typical page description languages in the printing field, it is the same as the spot function which is one of the screen definition methods in Postscript (registered trademark). Thus, x, y, and z may be −1 or more and 1 or less, respectively.
[0074]
《Setting result input and unit function input》
The software inputs the screen setting result stored in the setting result storage means 2 (S4-1). Next, the software selects and inputs a function corresponding to the setting result regarding the unit from the functions regarding the unit stored in the function storage unit 3 (S4-2).
As an example of a unit-related function, a case will be described in which the type of unit is represented by an inequality of x and y, and the direction of the unit is represented by an expression for converting coordinates (x, y) to (x ′, y ′).
[0075]
For example, the functions related to the unit of the screen shown in FIG. 12 are expressed by the following equations (1) to (8).
If the space occupied by the cells is -1 <= (x, y) <= 1, 0 <= z <= 100,
When x> 0, y> 0,
x ′ = x (1)
y ′ = y (2)
When x <= 0, y> 0,
x ′ = y (3)
y '=-x (4)
When x <= 0 and y <= 0,
x '=-x (5)
y '=-y (6)
When x> 0 and y <= 0,
x '=-y (7)
y ′ = x (8)
[0076]
《Calculation of function representing area》
The software also inputs a setting result related to the area from the setting result storage means 2, and based on the setting result, each area a_nFor a (n = 1... I-1), a function a'f regarding the shape of the figure_nIs input from the function storage means 3 to the calculation means 8 (S4-3). Function a'f of a'1 shown in FIG.₁For example, the following equation (9), function a'f of a'2₂Is, for example, the following formula (10).
a’f₁(X, y) = x²+ Y²          (9)
a’f₂(X, y) = | x²-Y²| (10)
[0077]
Further, the software inputs the setting result of the second option relating to the area, for example, the option relating to the center, the option relating to the flatness, and the option relating to the size, from the setting result storage unit 2 to the computing unit 8, and Function a'f_nAf representing the region an from_n(S4-4). For example, the setting result regarding the center of a′2 shown in FIG. 15 is (x, y) = (1, 1), the setting result functioning on the flatness ratio is 1, and the setting result regarding the size is 0.5. The function af representing the region a2₂Is, for example, the following equation (11).
| (X-1)²-(Y-1)²| <= 0.25 (11)
[0078]
<< Calculation of a function representing an element 1 >>
After the calculation of the function representing the area, the software inputs the setting result related to the element from the setting result storage means 2 and, based on the setting result, each element e_nFor n = 1... I, the function e′f for the shape of the solid_nIs input from the function storage means 3 to the calculation means 8 (S4-5). Function e'f of e1 shown in FIG.₁Is, for example, the following equation (12).
e’f₁(X, y) = x²+ Y²      (12)
[0079]
Further, the software inputs from the setting result storage unit 2 the second option regarding the element, for example, the setting result of the option regarding the center and the option regarding the oblateness ratio, to the calculation unit 8, and the function e'f regarding the solid shape._nTo the function ef_n(S4-6). For example, when the setting result regarding the center of e1 shown in FIG. 12 is (x, y) = (0.75, 0.5) and the setting result that functions on the flatness ratio is 1, the function ef₁Is, for example, the following equation (13).
ef₁(X, y) = (x−0.75)²+ (Y-0.5)²      (12)
[0080]
<< Calculation of a function representing an element 2 >>
Function ef_nDoes not take into account the range of the stroke change. Considering the range of line change means that the calculation result z of the definition is the setting result, and the minimum z value is the starting point of the element and the maximum z value is the ending point. For that purpose, the function ef_nMaximum value of eMax_nAnd eMin_nIs obtained (S4-7).
[0081]
Function ef_nMaximum value of eMax_nAnd eMin_nThe method for obtaining is not particularly limited. As an example, each coordinate (x_s, Y_t) (S = 1 to j, t = 1 to k) as a matrix U_stAnd the software uses the function ef_nAnd the function ef_nA case where the maximum value and the minimum value are searched from the matrix that is the calculation result of will be described.
[0082]
The software makes a determination in order from the function representing the first set area to the (i-1) th for Ust, and determines what number area Ust is in (S4-8). Further, the function efn set in the corresponding area is calculated.
[0083]
The software temporarily stores the obtained calculation result as a matrix z′st in the setting result storage unit for each region. Next, the maximum value or the minimum value is searched from the matrix z′st for each region by using the search command for the maximum value or minimum value of the programming language describing the software. The maximum value in the region an of the obtained matrix z′st is set to eMaxn, and the minimum value is set to eMinn.
[0084]
<< Calculation of a function representing an element 3 >>
The software stores eMaxn and eMinn in the definition storage unit 4. Finally, the software calculates the function zfn (x, y) representing the element en of the area an by taking the obtained eMaxn and eMinn and the range of the image line change into consideration (S4-8).
[0085]
Assuming that the starting point of element change is eSn and the end point is eEn, a function zn (x, y) representing the element can be expressed, for example, by the following equation (14).
zf_n(x, y) = (ef_n-eMin_n) / (eMax_n-eMin_n) * | eE_n-eS_n| + eS_n      (14)
[0086]
For example, when the setting result regarding the range of the line change of the element e1 shown in FIG. 12 is 0% to 50%, eMax1 is 0.3125, and eMin1 is 0, the function z1 representing the element e1 is, for example, The following equation (15) is obtained.
z₁(x, y) = {(x-0.25)²+ (y-0.5)²} / (0.3125-0) * | 50-0 | +50 (15)
In the above equation (15), eS_nAnd eE_nA numerical value in the case where the image area ratio is expressed as a percentage was used. However, in other numerical values, for example, a spot function in PostScript (registered trademark), a range from -1 to 1 represents a complete black (image area ratio 100%) to white (image area ratio 0%). Such numerical values may be used.
[0087]
As described above, the software combines the function representing the unit, the function representing the area, and the function representing the element into a definition, and stores the obtained definition in the definition storage 4 (S4-9).
[0088]
(Selection of display and display form)
After the software finishes the definition calculation S4, the designer selects whether or not to display the screen in order to check what screen shape is obtained by the obtained definition (S5). . When displaying the screen, it is selected whether the form to be displayed is an artwork image or a preview image (S6).
[0089]
Artwork images are images that aid in screen design. The purpose of the artwork image is to confirm the following two points so that the designer can grasp the positions and shapes of the units, regions, and elements. 1. What is the shape of the area, and what is the designed area? 2. How the elements are generated and changing, i.e. how they are in each density (highlight, middle, shadow).
[0090]
As an example of the artwork image, an image is used in which each region is represented by a difference in hue and a change in element is represented by a difference in brightness. The image in this example has an aspect of an overhead view as used for a map. That is, the region corresponds to a division such as an urban area (for example, red), a mountain field (for example, green), and the sea (for example, blue). If the element is represented by a solid, the change of the element corresponds to the altitude of the land. FIG. 25A shows an example of a diagram in which the color of such an image is represented by a symbol. Of the symbols shown in FIG. 25 (a), black symbols such as black circles or white circles are round symbols such as red, black squares or white squares, and square symbols such as green, horizontal lines or crosses. The portions of the linear symbols such as, for example, have a hue such as blue and represent a region. FIG. 25B shows an example of a diagram showing the brightness of such an image. For example, it is assumed that the lower the lightness, the lower the cell line area ratio, the image line. 25A and 25B is an example of a screen artwork image that reproduces the gradation shown in FIG. 25C, for example.
An example of such an artwork image generation process will be described below.
[0091]
The software creates two matrices related to the calculation result of the definition and the region to which each pixel belongs, by the calculation means 8 through the following steps. First, a number of pixels to be used as an artwork image are allocated to the cell coordinate space, that is, the xy coordinate space used when calculating the definition (S7-1).
[0092]
That is, when the image is regarded as one cell, for example, the cell is -1 <= (x by calculating in which position the center of each pixel constituting the image is located in the coordinate space of the cell. Y) <= 1, the center of the upper left pixel is (−1, 1), the upper right pixel center is (1, 1), and the lower left pixel center is (−1, −1). The center of the lower right pixel is (1, -1). For the inner pixel, first, the cell size (in this case, 2) is divided by the number obtained by subtracting 1 from the number of vertical and horizontal pixels, and the distance between pixels (the distance between the centers of adjacent pixels), (dx , Dy). Based on this (dx, dy), it increases by dx with respect to the x coordinate in order from the left to the right of the image, and decreases by dy with respect to the y coordinate from the top to the bottom of the image. That is, the center coordinate of the pixel right next to the pixel p (px, py) is (px + dx, py), and the center coordinate of the next lower pixel is (px, py-dy).
[0093]
Next, the calculation unit 8 is used to calculate the definition for each pixel. The definition calculation is described below. That is, it is determined which unit (for example, any one of ui to uiv shown in FIG. 9A) each pixel belongs to, and a function representing the direction of the unit is executed. The function representing the direction is generally affine transformation that does not involve enlargement / reduction, such as replacement of x and y, inversion of the sign, and the like, as shown in Examples (1) to (8).
[0094]
Next, the region function is executed to determine which of the regions a1 to ai each pixel belongs to. The region function is an inequality as shown in equation (11).
In the process of generating the artwork image, an integer from 1 to i is returned based on the result obtained in the area determination process, and this integer is temporarily stored in the definition storage means 4 as the matrix 1.
Further, the calculation of the function zfn (x, y) of the element included in the corresponding region is performed, and the calculation of the definition is completed. The calculation result is temporarily stored as the matrix 2 in the definition storage 4 (S7-2).
[0095]
Based on the matrix 1, the hue for coloring the pixel is determined (S7-3). Although the hue of each region is not particularly limited, for example, the following processing is performed assuming that the pixel belonging to the region a1 is red, the region a2 is green, and the region a3 is blue. For each pixel, the software first determines the hue based on the matrix 1, and then determines the lightness of the color for coloring the artwork image based on the matrix 2 (S7-4).
[0096]
Based on the determination result of the definition result of the definition, the brightness for coloring the pixel is determined, and an image is generated (S7-5). For example, when a pixel with a higher stroke area ratio that is a stroke is made brighter, the software uses a RGB color system to represent the color of the pixel. In addition, bitmap data such that the emission intensity of blue is increased is created. That is, when the area a1 is red, the software sets the pixel color to be red at a line area ratio of 1%, that is, RGB = (255, 0, 0), and sets the line area ratio to 50%. The color of the pixel that becomes the image line is light red, that is, RGB = (255, 127, 127), and the color of the pixel that becomes the image line at the image area ratio of 100% is white, that is, RGB = (255, 255, 255). 255). Note that the hue used for the region is not particularly limited.
[0097]
    In the artwork image generation processing, the processing after S7 may be performed using a known technique such as a spot function in PostScript (registered trademark) in the definition.
[0098]
For example, when the same determination method as that for the spot function is used, first, it is premised that the finisher satisfies the conditions of the spot function. The spot function is a three-dimensional function that defines the shape of the screen, and x, y, and z are −1 or more and 1 or less. In the definition method of the screen using the spot function, the relative value of the value returned by the spot function is used, not the value itself returned by the spot function corresponding to the calculation result of the definition. That is, the value returned by the spot function is high so that the pixel having the highest value among the values returned by the spot function becomes a line at a line area ratio of 1% and the pixel having the next highest value becomes 2%. The lines are drawn in order from the pixel.
[0099]
(Preview image generation process S9)
When the designer selects a preview image by selecting the display form of FIG. 19, the software executes a preview image generation process S9.
[0100]
《Necessity of preview image》
By looking at the artwork image displayed by the software, the designer can correctly grasp the shape and positional relationship of the set unit, region, and element. However, only by confirming the artwork image, there is a possibility that the actual image line that reproduces continuous tone using the designed screen and the prediction are greatly different.
[0101]
The reason is that the artwork image does not display the specific shape of the line at each line area ratio. The artwork image is an image for confirming the state of one cell. Therefore, it is not possible to confirm how the shape of the line resulting from the adjoining cells as seen in the line when the gradation is actually reproduced using a screen affects the impression of the entire line. . Further, it is impossible to confirm the change in impression of the image line that can occur when the orientation of the cell, generally called the screen angle, is changed.
[0102]
Therefore, in addition to the artwork image, the software is provided with a function for generating and displaying an image representing the shape of the image line at each image area ratio for final confirmation of the designed screen. The image representing the shape of the image line at each image area ratio is referred to as a preview image, and a series of software functions for displaying preview images under various conditions by software operation is referred to as a preview function.
[0103]
<< Details of preview image generation process >>
An example of a detailed flow of preview image generation S9 is shown in FIG. The software inputs the calculated definition from the definition storage unit 4 to the calculation unit 8 (S9-1), and uses the calculation unit 8 to calculate the definition for the pixel to be used as the preview image. In step S9-2, a plurality of 1-bit images each having a different image area ratio are created (S9-3), and temporarily stored in the definition storage unit 4 (S9-4). For example, each pixel is allocated to the coordinate space used in the calculation of the definition, and the definition is calculated for each pixel. This calculation result is stored as a matrix. Based on this matrix, the color of the pixel is determined so that the pixels below the predetermined image area ratio are black and the others are white, and one 1-bit image is created. Images are created in order from 0 to 100% of the line area ratio and saved.
An example of an image obtained by the calculation is shown in FIG. The numbers beside each image shown in FIG. 28 mean the number of black pixels per 255 pixels in the image.
[0104]
The method for determining the color of the pixel used when creating a 1-bit image is not particularly limited. A known technique may be used as a method for generating a preview image because, for example, a preview image having the same image line shape as that obtained by gradation reproduction by commercially available screen processing software is obtained.
[0105]
For example, when the same algorithm as the gradation image reproduction method using the spot function in PostScript (registered trademark) is used, the three-dimensional function z = f in which x, y, and z are −1 or more and 1 or less as the definition. (X, y) is used, xy coordinates are assigned so that the center of the image is (x, y) = (0, 0), and z at each xy coordinate is obtained. A 1-bit image in which the pixel corresponding to the xy coordinate having the highest value among the obtained z is black and the others are white is created, and this image is the image with the lowest line area ratio. Similarly, a 1-bit image is created in which the pixel with the highest z and the next highest pixel are black and the others are white, and this image is the image with the second lowest image area ratio.
This process is repeated to create a 1-bit image until the image area ratio becomes 100%. Also prepare an image with all pixels white. When there are a plurality of pixels that return the same z, a random number is used to determine which pixel is black first, that is, an image with a low image area ratio.
[0106]
(Preview image display S10)
29 and 30 show examples of preview image display screens when the preview image shown in FIG. 28 is displayed. In order to display the preview image, the software has a preview image display screen W as shown in FIG. The preview image display screen includes a preview display unit G8 that displays the preview image obtained by the preview image generation S9.
[0107]
The software also has a screen angle option and an image area ratio option as preview functions. The designer selects a favorite one from these two options and sets a preview image to be displayed on the G8. The preview image display screen includes a screen angle setting unit G9 that sets the screen angle of the preview image, and an image line area ratio setting unit Sr that sets the image line area ratio of the preview image.
[0108]
The preview image display screen shown in FIGS. 29 and 30 is an example. Therefore, the screen design is not limited to the example shown in the figure.
[0109]
The screen W shown in FIG. 29 is an example in which 0 degree is selected as the screen angle, and the screen W shown in FIG. 30 is an example in which 45 degrees is selected as the screen angle. Further, the screen W shown in FIGS. 29A and 30A is an example in which about 25% is selected as the image area ratio, and FIGS. 29B and 30B. The screen W shown in Fig. 29 is an example in which about 50% is selected for the line area ratio, and the screen W shown in Fig. 29 (c) and Fig. 30 (c) is about 75% selected for the line area ratio. This is an example.
[0110]
A detailed flow of the preview image display S10 is shown in FIG. The software inputs an image having an image area ratio set by the designer (S10-1) from the temporarily stored 1-bit images (S10-2). When the number of generated 1-bit images is small and there is no 1-bit image having the line area ratio selected by the designer, the 1-bit image having the line area ratio closest to the line area ratio selected by the designer Enter. The calculation means 8 repeatedly transfers the image to create an image in which about 5 * 4 cells are arranged (S10-3).
[0111]
Next, the software determines whether or not to rotate the 1-bit image based on the screen angle set by the designer (S10-4) (S10-5), and the calculation means 8 determines that the screen angle set by the designer is If it is not 0 degrees, a rotation process is performed (S10-6). Finally, the image is displayed on the preview display part G8 (S10-7).
[0112]
The example of the preview image and the preview function as described above has three features. The three features are that the shape of the line at each line area ratio can be confirmed, the state where a plurality of cells are arranged instead of a single cell as in the artwork image, and the screen angle. It is possible to confirm the case of changing.
[0113]
(Is the screen shape good? S11)
As shown in step S11 of FIG. 19, the artwork image or preview image is confirmed, and if it is confirmed that the screen shape satisfies the designer, the process proceeds to the next step. If the screen shape is not satisfactory for the designer, the designer returns to the unit setting S1 to the element setting S3 to redo the definition design.
[0114]
(Select output form S12)
The text data conversion output means 6 and the bitmap data conversion output means 7 convert the definer created by the software into definition data that conforms to the rules of the screen processing software that the designer wants to use and outputs the definition data. As shown in FIG. 19, the software has a function of selecting the output form of the definition. That is, as described in the prior art, text data describing functions in a computer language such as PostScript (registered trademark), bitmap data in 1-bit format, or bitmap data in multiple-bit format such as 8-bit The software outputs definition data in a form suitable for the screen processing software that the designer wants to use. The form of the definition data output by the software is an example and is not particularly limited.
[0115]
(Text data generation processing S13)
When the software has a function of outputting text data as the definition data format and the designer selects the text data as the definition data format to be output, the software performs a text data generation process S13. An example of the text data generation process S13 will be described below when the definition data having the form of text data is a function (definitioner) described in a programming language.
[0116]
The software indicates the type and position of each unit of the cell from the text stored in the function storage unit 3 based on the setting result regarding the unit stored in the setting result storage unit 2. Text data (hereinafter referred to as “unit text 1”) and text data indicating the direction (hereinafter referred to as “unit text 2”) are input to the computing means 8. The calculation means 8 inserts the unit text 2 after the unit text 1 for each unit, and completes text data representing all the units included in the cell.
[0117]
Next, text data representing an area an and an element en included in the area an is generated. First, the software inputs text data representing the shape of the region an to the computing unit 8 based on the setting result related to the shape of the region an stored in the setting result storage unit 2. The software inserts the setting result regarding the center, flatness, and size of the area at a predetermined position in the text data as a number (as a part of the text, not as a numerical value) at the predetermined position in the text data, and the text representing the area an Complete the data. Similarly, the software generates text data representing the element en and inserts it after the text data representing the area an. The software performs this from n = 1 to the end, and inserts it after the text data representing the unit to complete the definition data having the form of text data. The software outputs the completed definition data to the text data conversion output means and ends.
[0118]
(Multiple bit format bitmap data generation process S16)
When the software has a function of outputting bitmap data as the definition data format, and the designer selects bitmap data in a multi-bit format (hereinafter referred to as multi-bit definition data) as the definition data format to be output, The software performs a bit map data generation process S16 in a multi-bit format.
[0119]
For example, the image shown in FIG. 32A is an example of multi-bit definition data obtained from the same definition as the preview image shown in FIG. This data is an example in which a pixel colored in black has a lower image area ratio. An example of a method for generating multi-bit definition data in such a case will be described below. Note that the multi-bit definition data is not limited to the image shown in FIG. 32A, but may be an image that is drawn with a lower drawing area ratio, for example, as the pixel is colored white.
[0120]
As an example of multi-bit definition data, a method of generating bitmap data in an 8-bit format (hereinafter referred to as 8-bit definition data) is as follows, for example. First, the software assigns the number of pixels to be used as 8-bit definition data to the xy coordinates used when calculating the coordinate space of the cell, that is, the definition, by the calculation means 8. The setting of the number of pixels of the multi-bit definition data by the designer is performed using the setting item setting means 1 when the designer selects the multi-bit definition data as the output form of the definition at the stage of image format selection S15. Do it.
[0121]
Next, the software inputs the definition from the definition storage unit 4 to the calculation unit 8 and calculates the definition for each pixel. When the calculation result z is obtained from a definition that represents the cell line area ratio (0 or more and 100 or less) when the pixel becomes a line, the black of the pixel is obtained by the following equation (16). (Gray level) g (0 or more and 255 or less) is calculated.
g = 255 * (100-z) / 100 (16)
Based on this, the software colors each pixel to complete the multi-bit definition data. The software outputs the completed multi-bit definition data using the bitmap data conversion output means 7 and ends.
[0122]
A characteristic when screen processing is performed using the definition data obtained by the above-described generation method is that the shape of the obtained image line is in order. This is because pixels having the same definition calculation result have the same gray level, so that accurate circles, rhombuses, straight vertical lines and horizontal lines can be obtained. Therefore, this data is referred to as shape priority data.
[0123]
However, a slight bias or omission may be seen in the histogram of shape priority data. For example, the graph shown in FIG. 32 (b) is a histogram of the multi-bit definition data shown in FIG. 32 (a), and the multi-bit definition data whose example is shown in FIG. It was obtained by the method. If a simple gradation (for example, a belt-like gradation) is reproduced using definition data that shows a large bias or omission in the histogram, the gradation that does not exist in the definition data cannot be reproduced correctly, resulting in a tone step (tone jump). .
[0124]
The variation of the histogram is a phenomenon in the case where there are a plurality of pixels that return the same value when the definitioner is calculated in the cell. If you want to prioritize smooth gradation reproduction of the original image rather than the shape of the obtained image line, after calculating the definition, use the method that is also used in known screen processing technology to calculate the calculation result. adjust.
[0125]
For example, if the calculation result obtained by calculating the definition for each pixel using the calculation means 8 is the same value, the software distributes the numerical values using random numbers. Assuming that there are pixels that return 70, 80, and 90 as the calculation results, of which pixels P return 80₈₀The software generates a random number and P₈₀Order. Next, P₈₀And the difference between the value of and the next larger value (90 in this case) and P₈₀P from the number of₈₀Determine how many changes to be made (in this case, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88)₈₀The calculation result of the finisher will be changed.
The definition data obtained using the changed numerical value is referred to as gradation priority data. The multi-bit definition data shown in FIG. 33A is an example of gradation priority data obtained from the same definer as the multi-bit definition data shown in FIG. In the histogram of gradation priority data, as shown in FIG. 33B, pixels are evenly distributed.
[0126]
The software has a function of outputting both the above-described shape priority data and gradation priority data. That is, at the stage of image format selection S15, the designer selects which definition data is to be output, and the software generates definition data based on this selection.
[0127]
(1-bit format bitmap data generation process S18)
When software has a function of outputting bitmap data as a definition data format, and the designer selects 1-bit format bitmap data as the definition data format to be output, the software selects 1-bit format bitmap data. Generation processing (S18) (hereinafter referred to as 1-bit definition data) is performed.
[0128]
As an example of 1-bit definition data, a creation method for generating an image similar to a preview image, for example, a plurality of images represented by only white and black as shown in FIG. However, the 1-bit definition data is not limited to this example. For example, this example and black and white may be reversed.
[0129]
First, the software assigns the number of pixels to be used as 1-bit definition data to the cell coordinate space, that is, the xy coordinates used when calculating the definition, by the calculation means 8. The number of pixels of the 1-bit definition data is set by the designer using the setting item setting means 1 when the designer selects the 1-bit definition data as the output form of the definer (S15).
[0130]
Next, the software inputs the definition from the definition storage unit 4 to the calculation unit 8 and calculates the definition for each pixel. When using a definer that shows the cell line area ratio (0 or more and 100 or less) when the pixel is a calculation result, first create bitmap data with all pixels white. The file name “0” is output to the bitmap data conversion output means 7. Thereafter, on the basis of the calculation result of the definition, with respect to the line area ratio of 1 to 100%, the pixel that becomes the line at d (d = 1 to 100)% or less in order is set to black, and the calculation means 8 performs bit processing. Map data is created and output to the bitmap data conversion output means 7 with the file name “d”, and the software ends.
[0131]
As an example, the line area ratio is used for the file name of 1-bit definition data, but this is not restrictive. In addition, in order to cope with the case where there are a plurality of pixels in the cell having the same definition result z of the definitioner, as in the case of the multi-bit definition data, a random number is used to change the order of pixels having the same z. A flow for creating bitmap data after attaching the data, that is, a flow for generating gradation priority data may be provided separately.
[0132]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, a screen having a complicated shape can be easily created by a screen structure having a lower layer concept and software using the screen structure.
[0133]
  By applying a lower layer concept (unit) that constitutes a cell, it is possible to design a screen in which image lines in one cell are evenly distributed and reproducibility as a screen is taken into consideration while maintaining design properties.
[0134]
A screen having a high design can be easily created by a simple and clear design method in which one image line (element) is arranged in one space (area) by a screen structure having a lower layer concept.
[0135]
With the choices provided for each item, the screen design can be realized only by selecting the choices, and the screen can be created without special knowledge such as screen processing technology.
[0136]
The present invention can create not only a simple pattern having a halftone dot on a conventional screen, that is, one area in one unit, but also a complicated and designable pattern. By using it for such printed matter, it becomes possible to obtain a further anti-counterfeit effect.
[0137]
In existing screen processing software, definition data is predetermined, and a large number of definition data is required to meet the requirements of screen designers. However, according to the present invention, definition data is prepared in advance. There is no need to do this, and it is possible to create a screen with options.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a flow for screen processing of continuous tone
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an image when a plurality of 1-bit bitmap data is used as definition data.
FIG. 3 shows an example of an original picture
4 is a diagram showing an example of gradation reproduction of the image of FIG. 3 using a design screen.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a flow when creating bitmap data as definition data
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a histogram included in bitmap data that is not suitable as definition data
FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of a continuous tone image, and FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of a screen-processed image.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a unit when the cell is a square.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the orientation of a unit
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example when a unit has three areas;
FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the cell C shown in FIG. 7B.
12 is a three-dimensional view of the cell C shown in FIG. 7 (b).
FIG. 13 is a three-dimensional view of the cell C shown in FIG.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of options included in setting items related to units, areas, and elements;
15 is a diagram showing an example of a method for creating each area of FIG. 10;
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of area setting items
FIG. 17 shows an example of element setting items
FIG. 18 shows a screen creation device.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a flow of processing in screen creation.
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a processing flow in unit design.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of an area and element design screen.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a processing flow in area design.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a flow of processing in element design.
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the flow of processing in the calculation of a definition
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example artwork image
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a flow of processing for generating an artwork image
FIG. 27 shows a flow of preview image generation processing
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of a preview image
FIG. 29 shows an example of a preview image display screen.
FIG. 30 shows an example of a preview image display screen.
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a flow of processing in displaying a preview image
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of shape priority data and its histogram
FIG. 33 shows an example of gradation priority data and its histogram.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Setting item setting means
2 Setting result storage means
3 Function storage means
4 Definition storage means
5 Screen shape display means
6 Text data conversion output means
7 Bitmap data conversion output means
8 Calculation means
a1 area
a2 area
a3 area
a’1 figure
a’2 figure
aB area diameter
ac area center
aRx Length of region graphic in x direction
aRy Length of region graphic in y direction
as area shape
C cell
D Stroke area ratio
e1 element
e2 element
ec Element center
eRx Element solid length in x direction
eRy Length of element solid in y direction
es element solid
G1 Setting result display
G2 option display area
G2-1 Setting target option display section
G2-2 Area option display area
G2-3 Option 1 display
G2-4 x direction length option display
G2-5 y direction length option display part
G2-6 Center option display area
G2-7 Area diameter option display area
G2-8 Line change range option display area
G3 artwork image display
G8 preview image display
G9 Screen angle setting section
G10 Stroke area ratio setting part
L straight line
Ph Number of pixel cells in the horizontal direction in multi-bit format bitmap data
Pv Number of pixel cells in the vertical direction in bitmap data in a multi-bit format
S1 unit design
S1-1 Display of option 1
S1-2 Choice 1 selection
S1-3 Setting result storage
S1-4 Determination of option 2 to be displayed, display of option 2
S1-5 Selection of option 2
S1-6 Store setting results
S2 area design
S2-1 Select whether to divide
S2-2 Display of option 1
S2-3 Selection of option 1
S2-4 Store setting results
S2-5 Determination of option 2 to be displayed, display of option 2
S2-6 Selection of option 2
S2-7 Setting result storage
S3 Element design
S3-1 Select area
S3-2 Display of option 1
S3-3 Selection of option 1
S3-4 Store setting results
S3-5 Determination of option 2 to be displayed, display of option 2
S3-6 Selection of option 2
S3-7 Store setting results
Calculation of S4 Definitioner
S4-1 Setting result input
S4-2 Unit function input
S4-3 Function input representing the figure of the area
S4-4 Deformation of function based on size and flatness
S4-5 Function input representing element solid
S4-6 Deformation of function based on size and flatness
S4-7 Calculation of maximum and minimum values
S4-8 Calculation of functions representing elements
Storage of S4-9 Definitioner
S5 Display presence / absence
S6 Selection of display form
S7 Artwork image generation processing
S7-1 Artwork image pixel allocation
S7-2 Calculation of Definitioner
S7-3 Determination of hue for coloring pixels
S7-4 Determination of brightness for coloring pixels
S7-5 Artwork image generation
S8 Display artwork image
S9 Preview image generation processing
S9-1 Definer input
S9-2 Definer input
S9-3 Creation of 1-bit image
S9-4 1-bit image storage
S10 Preview image display
S10-1 Selection of stroke area ratio
S10-2 Image input
S10-3 Repeated image transfer
S10-4 Selection of rotation angle
S10-5 Select whether the angle is 0 degrees
S10-6 Image rotation
S10-7 Image display
S11 Select whether screen shape is good
S12 Output type selection
S13 Text data generation processing
S14 Text data output
S15 Image format selection
S16 Generation of multiple bit format bitmap data
S17 Multiple bit format bitmap data output
S18 Generation processing of 1-bit format bitmap data
S19 1-bit format bitmap data output
Create SS1 screen
SS1-1 Image creation
SS1-2 Image density distribution measurement
SS1-3 Calculation of stroke area ratio
SS1-4 Select whether the area ratio is appropriate
Creation of SS2 original picture
SS3 screen processing
Sr Line bar area ratio setting slider bar
u unit
u1 unit
u2 unit
u3 unit
u4 unit
u5 unit
u6 unit
ui unit
uii unit
iii unit
uiv unit
W Preview image display screen

Claims (12)

In a method of creating a screen shape with cells per unit shape to express continuous gradation for each gradation,
The screen shape has at least two units arranged in different orientations in the cell;
Each of the plurality of units has at least two regions;
Each element has one element,
Using setting item setting means, for each setting item for designing each of the unit, region, and element, selecting from options corresponding to functions of a function group prepared in advance,
Using a function corresponding to the selected option, and generating information defining the screen shape by combining a function representing the unit, a function representing the region, and a function representing the element by an arithmetic unit;
A step of outputting the information defining the screen shape as definition data in accordance with a rule for screen processing. The unit setting item is a first option for selecting the number of units obtained by dividing the cell and the shape of the unit;
2. The method of creating a screen shape according to claim 1, wherein the direction of the unit in the cell is a second option for selecting one of line symmetry, point symmetry, and random. The area setting item includes a first option for selecting a shape of the area;
The method of creating a screen shape according to claim 1, further comprising: a second option for selecting at least a position of the region and a size of the region. The setting item of the element is a first option for selecting the element shape, and a second option for selecting a range in which the position of the element and the line area ratio caused by the element vary. The method of creating a screen shape according to claim 1. Generating an overhead view of the cell in which the unit, the region, and the element are represented by lightness or hue based on a line area ratio of the cell;
The screen shape creation method according to claim 1, further comprising a step of displaying the overhead view. Generating an image of the cell at a predetermined line area ratio of the cell;
The method for creating a screen shape according to claim 1, further comprising a step of displaying an image of the cell. A step of selecting an output form of the definition data in accordance with a rule for screen processing; text data representing information defining the screen shape using a predetermined program description language as the output form; 7. The screen shape creation method according to claim 1, comprising at least one or all of 1-bit format bitmap data and multi-bit format bitmap data. . In the step of selecting the output form, when the bitmap data in the multi-bit format is selected, the step of setting the number of pixels of the bitmap data to be output and the information defining the generated screen shape are set. The method of generating a screen shape according to claim 7, further comprising: converting the data into the bit map data of the multiple bit format configured by the number of pixels. In the step of converting to the bitmap data, when reproducing the gradation using the created screen shape, the step of creating the bitmap data so that the obtained line shape is prepared, and using the created screen shape And the step of creating bitmap data so that the obtained gradation becomes smooth when the gradation is reproduced,
9. The screen shape creation method according to claim 8, further comprising a step of selecting which of the two steps of creating the bitmap data is used to create the bitmap data . In the step of selecting the output form, when the bitmap data in the 1-bit format is selected, the step of setting the number of pixels of the bitmap data to be output and the information defining the generated screen shape are set. The method of generating a screen shape according to claim 7, further comprising: converting the data into a plurality of bitmap data in the 1-bit format configured by the number of pixels. In an apparatus for creating a screen shape with cells per unit shape for expressing continuous gradation for each gradation,
The screen shape has at least two units arranged in different orientations in the cell;
Each of the plurality of units has at least two regions;
Each element has one element,
Function storage means storing a function group including a function corresponding to an option provided for each setting item of the unit, area, and element, and each unit, area, and element for designing each of the setting items A function that represents the unit using a function corresponding to the option selected by the setting item setting unit among the functions stored in the function storage unit. A calculation means for generating information defining the screen shape by combining a function representing the region and a function representing the element;
An apparatus for creating a screen shape, comprising: means for outputting the information defining the screen shape as definition data in accordance with a rule for screen processing. A method for creating a screen shape with cells as a shape per unit for expressing continuous gradation for each gradation, a setting item setting means for selecting an option for each setting item, and a function corresponding to the option In a screen shape creation program to be executed by a computer comprising stored function storage means and calculation means for generating information defining the screen shape based on the selected option,
The screen shape has at least two units arranged in different orientations in the cell;
Each of the plurality of units has at least two regions;
Each element has one element,
For each setting item for designing each of the unit, region, and element, selecting an option using the setting item setting unit from an option corresponding to a function of a function group prepared in advance,
Calling a function corresponding to the option selected by the setting item setting unit among the functions stored in the function storage unit;
Using the called function to generate information defining the screen shape by combining a function representing the unit, a function representing the region, and a function representing the element by an arithmetic unit;
A screen shape creation program that causes a computer to execute a screen generation method including the step of outputting the information defining the screen shape as definition data in accordance with a rule for screen processing.

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