JP4476172B2 - Image processing apparatus, image processing method, image processing program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, an image processing program, and a recording medium that process an image.

In the conventional image processing, the image is classified into a foreground and a background, and selection (mask) data capable of selecting the foreground or the background is generated, and each of them is compressed and encoded. Further, when reproducing an image, the foreground, background and selection data that have been compression-encoded are decompressed and decoded, and the foreground or background is selected based on the selection data.
JP 2004-032554 A JP 2001-223903 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-261833

  However, as described above, in the conventional image processing, in order to classify the image into the foreground, the background, and the selection data, an area related to a specific color or brightness (for example, black characters) is included in the foreground, for example, When reproducing an image, there is a problem that an area related to a specific color or lightness is not reproduced with a single color or lightness related to the specific color or lightness, but is reproduced with an aggregate of other colors or lightness, for example. there were.

  For example, when a device that performs image processing is a printer (or a multifunction device) or the like and an area related to a specific color or brightness is black characters, the printer reproduces and outputs an image (that is, during printing). However, there is a problem that black characters included in an image cannot be output with black toner alone, and output with an aggregate of other toners (cyan, magenta, yellow). Therefore, there has been a problem that black characters and the like included in the printed image appear blurred.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and when reproducing an image, a region related to a specific color or lightness (for example, black characters) included in the image is a single color related to the specific color or lightness. Alternatively, an object is to process an image so that it can be reproduced with lightness (black or lightness zero).

  Accordingly, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides an image processing apparatus for processing an image, wherein a multi-value image acquisition unit that acquires a multi-value image and an attribute of each pixel of the multi-value image are set in a foreground. Pixel attribute classification means for classifying the first attribute, or the second attribute related to a specific color or brightness, or the third attribute related to the background, and a first image including pixel values of pixels belonging to the first attribute A first image generating means for generating; a second image generating means for generating a second image capable of specifying a position of a pixel belonging to the second attribute; and a third image including a pixel value of a pixel belonging to the third attribute. Selection data that can select a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel, or a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. Selection data generation means for generating the first image First image compression means for compressing data, second image compression means for compressing data relating to the second image, third image compression means for compressing data relating to the third image, and the selection data And selection data compression means for compression.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides first compressed data compressed by the first image compression means, second compressed data compressed by the second image compression means, and the third image compression. The data compression means further includes a data integration means for integrating the third compressed data compressed by the means and the fourth compressed data compressed by the selection data compression means in a form that can be output in an overlapping manner.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention is characterized by further comprising integrated data storage means for storing data integrated in the data integration means.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides a first image invisible that determines a pixel value of a pixel that does not belong to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated by the first image generation unit. Area pixel value determining means; and third image invisible area pixel value determining means for determining pixel values of pixels not belonging to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated by the third image generating means; , Further comprising.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention is characterized in that the first image invisible region pixel value determining means belongs to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated by the first image generating means. A pixel value of a non-existing pixel is set to a uniform pixel value, and the third image invisible region pixel value determining unit sets the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated by the third image generating unit. The pixel value of pixels that do not belong is set to a uniform pixel value.

  In order to solve the above problem, according to the present invention, the first image invisible region pixel value determining unit belongs to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated by the first image generating unit. A first surrounding area determining unit that determines an area around the pixel or the pixel group; and a pixel value relating to the pixel or the pixel group belonging to the first attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determining unit. Based on the pixel value calculated by the pixel value calculation means and the pixel value calculated by the pixel value calculation means, the pixel value of the pixel or pixel group that does not belong to the first attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination means is set. A third pixel non-visible region pixel value determining means belonging to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated by the third image generating means. The area around a pixel or group of pixels A third surrounding area determining means for determining a pixel value, a third pixel value calculating means for calculating a pixel value relating to a pixel or a pixel group belonging to the third attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determining means, Third pixel value setting means for setting a pixel value of a pixel or pixel group that does not belong to the third attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination means based on the pixel value calculated by the pixel value calculation means; It is characterized by having.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention includes a first image reduction means for reducing the resolution of the first image, and a third image reduction means for reducing the resolution of the third image. Furthermore, it is characterized by having.

  In order to solve the above problem, according to the present invention, the pixel attribute classification unit identifies a character area of the multi-valued image, and sets an attribute of a pixel included in the character area as a first attribute related to a foreground. A first attribute determining unit; a third attribute determining unit that sets a pixel attribute included in a region other than the character region of the multi-valued image as a third attribute related to a background; and And second attribute determination means for setting a pixel having a specific color or brightness as a second attribute related to the specific color or brightness among the pixels as the attribute pixels.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides the pixel attribute classification means, wherein a pixel attribute having a relatively low brightness among the pixels of the multi-valued image is a first attribute related to a foreground, Among the pixels of the multi-valued image, the attribute of the pixel having relatively high brightness is set as the third attribute related to the background, and the pixel having a specific color or brightness among the pixels set as the pixel of the first attribute, It is set as the 2nd attribute which concerns on a specific color or brightness.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is characterized in that the specific color or lightness is black or lightness zero.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a first compressed data compressed by the first image compressing means, a second compressed data compressed by the second image compressing means, and a third image compressing means. Compressed data acquisition means for acquiring compressed third compressed data and fourth compressed data compressed by the selected data compression means; first compressed data expansion means for expanding the first compressed data; and the second Second compressed data decompressing means for decompressing compressed data; third compressed data decompressing means for decompressing the third compressed data; fourth compressed data decompressing means for decompressing the fourth compressed data; and A pixel transparent means for transparentizing pixels other than the pixel belonging to the second attribute among the pixels, and a pixel single for coloring the pixel belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image with a single color. An image superimposing unit that superimposes the coloring unit, the first image, and the second image subjected to the transparent processing in the pixel transparent unit and the single color processing in the pixel monochromatic unit; Pixel selection means for selecting pixels of three images and pixels of the image superimposed by the image superimposing means based on selection data capable of selecting pixels belonging to the third attribute and pixels other than the pixels And further comprising.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a first compressed data compressed by the first image compressing means, a second compressed data compressed by the second image compressing means, and a third image compressing means. Compressed data acquisition means for acquiring compressed third compressed data and fourth compressed data compressed by the selected data compression means; first compressed data expansion means for expanding the first compressed data; and the second Second compressed data decompressing means for decompressing compressed data; third compressed data decompressing means for decompressing the third compressed data; fourth compressed data decompressing means for decompressing the fourth compressed data; and A pixel transparent means for transparentizing pixels other than the pixel belonging to the second attribute among the pixels, and a pixel single for coloring the pixel belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image with a single color. An image superimposing unit that superimposes the coloring unit, the third image, and the second image subjected to the transparent processing in the pixel transparent unit and the single color processing in the pixel monochromatic unit; Pixel selection means for selecting a pixel of one image and a pixel of the image superimposed by the image superimposing means based on selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. And further comprising.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention further includes output means for outputting an image based on the selection result selected by the pixel selection means.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides any one or more of the data or the selection data to be compressed by the first, second, third image compression means, or selection data compression means. It has the division means which divides | segments.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention is characterized in that it further includes a combining unit that combines the data divided by the dividing unit or the selection data.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides an image processing apparatus for processing an image, wherein a multi-value image acquisition unit that acquires a multi-value image and an attribute of each pixel of the multi-value image are set in a foreground. Pixel attribute classifying means for classifying the first attribute, or third attribute for the background, first image generating means for generating a first image including pixel values of pixels belonging to the first attribute, and the third attribute A third image generating means for generating a third image including a pixel value of a pixel belonging to the attribute, a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel can be selected, or a pixel belonging to the third attribute and the pixel Selection data generation means for generating selection data capable of selecting pixels other than pixels, first image compression means for compressing data relating to the first image, and third means for compressing data relating to the third image Image compression means and selection to compress the selection data Data compression means, and a dividing means for dividing any one or more of the data or the selection data to be compressed by the first or third image compression means or the selection data compression means. It is characterized by.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides the first compressed data compressed by the first image compressing means, the third compressed data compressed by the third image compressing means, and the selected data compressing means. Compressed data acquisition means for acquiring compressed fourth compressed data; first compressed data expansion means for expanding the first compressed data; third compressed data expansion means for expanding the third compressed data; Fourth compression data expansion means for expanding the four compression data, and pixel selection means for selecting based on selection data capable of selecting the pixels of the first image and the pixels of the third image. It is characterized by.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides an image processing method in an image processing apparatus for processing an image, a multi-value image acquisition step for acquiring a multi-value image, and an attribute of each pixel of the multi-value image A pixel attribute classification stage for classifying a pixel into a first attribute related to the foreground, a second attribute related to a specific color or brightness, or a third attribute related to the background, and a pixel value of a pixel belonging to the first attribute A first image generation stage for generating a first image; a second image generation stage for generating a second image capable of specifying a position of a pixel belonging to the second attribute; and a pixel value of the pixel belonging to the third attribute. A third image generation stage for generating a third image including the image, and a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel can be selected, or a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel can be selected A selection data generation stage for generating selection data; A first image compression stage for compressing data relating to the first image; a second image compression stage for compressing data relating to the second image; and a third image compression stage for compressing data relating to the third image. And a selection data compression step for compressing the selection data.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides first compressed data compressed in the first image compression stage, second compressed data compressed in the second image compression stage, and the third image compression. The method further comprises a data integration step of integrating the third compressed data compressed in the step and the fourth compressed data compressed in the selected data compression step in a form that can be output in an overlapping manner.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides a first image invisible that determines a pixel value of a pixel that does not belong to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated in the first image generation step. A region pixel value determining step, and a third image invisible region pixel value determining step for determining a pixel value of a pixel that does not belong to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated in the third image generating step; , Further comprising.

  In order to solve the above problem, according to the present invention, the first image invisible region pixel value determination step belongs to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated in the first image generation step. A pixel value of a non-existing pixel is set to a uniform pixel value, and the third image invisible region pixel value determining step sets the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated in the third image generating step. The pixel value of pixels that do not belong is set to a uniform pixel value.

  In order to solve the above problem, according to the present invention, the first image invisible region pixel value determining step belongs to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated in the first image generating step. A first surrounding region determining step for determining a region around the pixel or the pixel group, and a pixel value relating to the pixel or pixel group belonging to the first attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determining step Based on the pixel value calculation stage and the pixel value calculated in the pixel value calculation stage, the pixel value of the pixel or pixel group that does not belong to the first attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination stage is set. A third pixel invisible region pixel value determining step belonging to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated in the third image generating step. The area around a pixel or group of pixels A third surrounding area determining step for determining a pixel value, a third pixel value calculating step for calculating a pixel value relating to a pixel or a pixel group belonging to the third attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determining step, A third pixel value setting step for setting a pixel value of a pixel or a pixel group not belonging to the third attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determination step based on the pixel value calculated in the pixel value calculation step; It is characterized by having.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention includes a first image lowering step for reducing the resolution of the first image, and a third image lowering step for reducing the resolution of the third image. Furthermore, it is characterized by having.

  In order to solve the above problem, in the present invention, in the pixel attribute classification step, the character area of the multi-value image is identified, and the attribute of the pixel included in the character area is a first attribute related to the foreground. The attribute of a pixel included in an area other than the character area of the multi-valued image is a third attribute related to the background, and a pixel having a specific color or brightness is specified as a pixel of the first attribute. The second attribute is related to color or brightness.

  In order to solve the above problem, according to the present invention, in the pixel attribute classification step, the attribute of a pixel having relatively low brightness among the pixels of the multi-valued image is set as a first attribute related to the foreground. In an attribute determination step, a third attribute determination step in which the attribute of a pixel having a relatively high brightness among the pixels of the multi-valued image is set as a third attribute related to the background, and the first attribute determination step And a second attribute determining step in which a pixel having a specific color or lightness among the pixels having one attribute is used as a second attribute related to the specific color or lightness.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is characterized in that the specific color or lightness is black or lightness zero.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides first compressed data compressed in the first image compression stage, second compressed data compressed in the second image compression stage, and the third image compression. The third compressed data compressed in the stage, the compressed data acquisition stage for acquiring the fourth compressed data compressed in the selected data compression stage, the first compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the first compressed data, A second compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the second compressed data; a third compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the third compressed data; a fourth compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the fourth compressed data; A pixel transparency step of making a pixel other than the pixel belonging to the second attribute transparent among pixels of the image, and a pixel coloring the pixel belonging to the second attribute with a single color among the pixels of the second image An image superimposition step of superimposing the color image step, the first image, and the second image that has been subjected to the transparency process in the pixel transparency step and the single color process in the pixel single color step; and Pixel selection for selecting a pixel of the third image and a pixel of the image superimposed in the image superimposing step based on selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel And a stage.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides first compressed data compressed in the first image compression stage, second compressed data compressed in the second image compression stage, and the third image compression. The third compressed data compressed in the stage, the compressed data acquisition stage for acquiring the fourth compressed data compressed in the selected data compression stage, the first compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the first compressed data, A second compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the second compressed data; a third compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the third compressed data; a fourth compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the fourth compressed data; A pixel transparency step of making a pixel other than the pixel belonging to the second attribute transparent among pixels of the image, and a pixel coloring the pixel belonging to the second attribute with a single color among the pixels of the second image An image superimposition step of superimposing the color image step, the third image, and the second image subjected to the transparency process in the pixel transparency step and the single color process in the pixel single color step; and Pixel selection for selecting a pixel of the first image and a pixel of the image superimposed in the image superimposing step based on selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel And a stage.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention further includes an output stage for outputting an image based on the selection result selected in the pixel selection stage.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention provides any one or more of the data or the selection data to be compressed in the first, second, third image compression stage, or selection data compression stage. It has the division | segmentation step which divides | segments.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention is characterized in that it has a combining step for combining the data divided in the dividing step or the selection data.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is an image processing program that causes a computer to execute the above image processing method.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a computer-readable recording medium recording the image processing program.

  According to the present invention, when an image is reproduced, an area related to a specific color or lightness (for example, black characters) included in the image is a single color or lightness related to the specific color or lightness (black or lightness zero). The image can be processed so that it can be reproduced.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, there are codes used in a plurality of examples, but unless otherwise specified, the codes indicate only those in the examples in which the codes are used. is there.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram (part 1) of the image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a multi-value image acquisition unit 10, a pixel attribute determination unit 11, a first image generation unit 12, a second image generation unit 13, and a third image generation unit. 14, first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15, third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 16, first image lowering resolution means 17, third image lowering resolution means 18, One image compression means 19, second image compression means 20, third image compression means 21, selection data generation means 22, selection data compression means 23, data integration means 24, and data storage means 25. Including.

  The multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires a multi-value image (original image) that is an object of image processing. The pixel attribute determining unit 11 changes the attribute of each pixel of the multi-valued image acquired by the multi-valued image acquiring unit 10 into a first attribute related to the foreground, a second attribute related to black characters, or a third attribute related to the background. Classify (or determine).

  The first image generation unit 12 generates a first image including pixel values of pixels classified as having the first attribute (that is, belonging to the first attribute). For example, the first image generation unit 12 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image on the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10. The pixel value of the pixel classified as the first attribute is set to the pixel at the same position as the pixel on the newly generated image. Therefore, the first image is a multi-valued image.

  The first image non-affiliated pixel value determining means 15 is a pixel of a pixel for which no pixel value is set (that is, a pixel having an attribute other than the first attribute) among the first images generated by the first image generating means 12. Set the value. For example, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determination unit 15 uses the same (uniform) pixel value of pixels for which no pixel value is set in the first image generated by the first image generation unit 12 (uniform). For example, a dark color) is set. By setting the same pixel value, it is possible to increase the compression efficiency in the later-described compression. Of the first image generated by the first image generation means 12, pixels (or a set of pixels) for which pixel values are not set are finally output (displayed) by superimposing the images. Since it becomes invisible, it can also be called an invisible region.

  The second image generation means 13 generates a second image that can specify the position of a pixel classified as having the second attribute (that is, belonging to the second attribute). For example, the second image generation unit 13 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10. The pixel value of a pixel on the newly generated image at the same position as the pixel classified as the second attribute is set to ON (for example, 1), and the pixel values of pixels other than the pixel are set to OFF ( For example, it is set to 0). Therefore, the second image is a binary image.

  The third image generation unit 14 generates a third image including pixel values of pixels classified as having the third attribute (that is, belonging to the third attribute). For example, the third image generation unit 14 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10. The pixel value of the pixel classified as the third attribute is set to the pixel at the same position as the pixel on the newly generated image. Therefore, the third image is a multi-valued image.

  The third image non-belonging pixel value determining unit 16 is a pixel of a pixel (that is, a pixel having an attribute other than the third attribute) for which a pixel value is not set among the third images generated by the third image generating unit 14. Set the value. For example, the third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining unit 16 sets the pixel values of pixels for which no pixel value is set among the third images generated by the third image generating unit 14 to the same (uniform) pixel value ( For example, a bright color) is set. By setting the same pixel value, it is possible to increase the compression efficiency in the later-described compression. Of the third image generated by the third image generation means 14, pixels (or a set of pixels) for which pixel values are not set are finally output (displayed) by superimposing images or the like. Since it becomes invisible, it can also be called an invisible region.

  The first image lowering means 17 lowers the resolution of the first image. The first image reducing means 17 can reduce the image size of the first image by reducing the resolution of the first image.

  The third image lowering means 18 lowers the resolution of the third image. The third image resolution reducing means 18 can reduce the image size of the third image by reducing the resolution of the third image.

  The selection data generation means 22 generates selection data that can select a pixel classified into the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. In other words, the selection data generation unit 22 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image on the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10. The pixel value of a pixel on the newly generated image at the same position as the pixel classified as the first attribute is set to ON (for example, 1), and the pixel values of pixels other than the pixel are set to OFF (for example, , 0). Therefore, the selection data is a binary image.

  The first image compression means 19 compresses (compresses and encodes) the first image. Since the first image is a multi-valued image (color image), the first image compression means 19 compresses the first image using, for example, the JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) method, the JPEG2000 method, or the like.

  The second image compression means 20 compresses the second image. Since the second image is a binary image (black and white image), the second image compression means 20 is, for example, an MR (Modified Read) method, an MMR (Modified Modified Read) method, or a JBIG (Joint Bi-level Image Experts Group). ) Method, JBIG2 method, etc., to compress the second image.

  The third image compression means 21 compresses the third image. Since the third image is a multi-valued image, the third image compression means 21 compresses the third image using, for example, the JPEG method or the JPEG2000 method.

  The selection data compression unit 23 compresses the selection data. Since the selection data is a binary image, the selection data compression unit 23 compresses the selection data using, for example, the MR method, the MMR method, the JBIG method, the JBIG2 method, or the like.

  The data integration unit 24 superimposes and displays (outputs) the data (four types of data) compressed by the first image compression unit 19, the second image compression unit 20, the third image compression unit 21, and the selection data compression unit 23. Integrate in possible forms. Here, integrating in a form that can be displayed in a superimposed manner means that, for example, four types of data that are compressed data are added with information relating to the order in which the data is displayed in a superimposed manner, and the four types that are added with the information Or associating data. For example, the superposition order may be the third image, the first image selected by the selection data, and the second image, but the order is not limited to this. The data storage unit 25 stores and saves the data integrated by the data integration unit 24.

  In FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a first image compression unit 19 that compresses the first image, a second image compression unit 20 that compresses the second image, and a third image compression that compresses the third image. Although the configuration including the four compression means of the means 21 and the selection data compression means 23 for compressing the selection data has been shown, as described above, for example, the first image and the third image can be compressed by the same compression method. Since the second image and the selection data can be compressed by the same compression method, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a compression unit (part 1) for compressing the first image and the third image, the second image, and the selection. A configuration including two compression means, ie, a compression means (part 2) for compressing data, may be used.

  Hereinafter, an example of the concept of the original image separation processing will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of an original image separation process.

  In step S10, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 substitutes each pixel of the original image acquired by the multi-valued image acquiring unit 10 with, for example, brightness (when the image is expressed in RGB (Red Green Blue), with a G component) The pixels brighter than the threshold are classified as background (third attribute), and the pixels darker than the threshold are classified as foreground (first attribute).

  In step S11, the pixel attribute determining means 11 is a pixel having a pixel value very close to black among the pixels classified as the foreground (first attribute) (for example, all the colors of R, G, and B are below a certain threshold value). And reclassify the pixel into a black character (second attribute).

  Based on each attribute, that is, the first image generated by the first image generation unit 12 based on the first attribute is, for example, A in FIG. 2, and the second image generation unit 13 generates based on the second attribute. The second image is, for example, C in FIG. 2, and the third image generated by the third image generating unit 14 based on the third attribute is, for example, B in FIG.

  In step S12, the selection data generation means 22 refers to the position of the belonging pixel (the pixel in which the pixel value is set in the first image) of the first image generated by the first image generation means 12, and Selection data in which the pixel value of a pixel at the same position as the pixel is set to ON (for example, 1) and the pixel value of a pixel other than the pixel is set to OFF (for example, 0) is generated. The selection data generated by the selection data generation means 22 is, for example, D in FIG.

  In step S13, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15 sets the pixel value of the non-visible region of the first image, and the third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 16 is invisible for the third image. Set the pixel value of the region. The first image in which the pixel value of the invisible region is set in the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining unit 15 is, for example, E in FIG. The third image in which the pixel value is set is, for example, F in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, by separating an area related to a specific color or lightness (for example, black characters) included in the original image from the original image as an independent image (layer), the specific color or lightness is obtained. Such single color or lightness (black or zero lightness) can be reproduced (output).

  An example of image separation processing in the image processing apparatus 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing image separation processing in the image processing apparatus.

  In step S <b> 20, the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires a multi-value image (original image) to be subjected to image processing. Progressing to step S21 following step S20, the pixel attribute determination means 11 sets the attribute of each pixel of the multi-valued image as the first attribute related to the foreground, the second attribute related to black characters, or the third attribute related to background. Classified (or determined). An example of pixel attribute determination processing by the pixel attribute determination unit 11 is shown in FIG.

  Proceeding to step S22 following step S21, the first image generating means 12 generates a first image including pixel values of pixels classified as the first attribute. Progressing to step S23 following step S22, the first image non-affiliated pixel value determination unit 15 includes pixels (for which pixel values are not set among the first images generated by the first image generation unit 12 in step S22). That is, the pixel value of the pixel other than the first attribute is set.

  Proceeding to step S24 following step S23, the second image generating means 13 generates a second image capable of specifying the position of the pixel classified as the second attribute. Proceeding to step S25 following step S24, the third image generating means 14 generates a third image including pixel values of pixels classified as the third attribute. Progressing to step S26 following step S25, the third image non-affiliated pixel value determination unit 16 includes a pixel (for which a pixel value is not set among the third images generated by the third image generation unit 14 in step S25). That is, the pixel value of a pixel having an attribute other than the third attribute is set.

  Progressing to step S27 following step S26, the first image lowering means 17 lowers the resolution of the first image. Progressing to step S28 following step S27, the resolution of the third image is reduced.

  Progressing to step S29 following step S28, the selection data generation means 22 generates selection data. Progressing to step S30 following step S29, the first image compression means 19 compresses the first image.

  Progressing to step S31 following step S30, the second image compression means 20 compresses the second image. Progressing to step S32 following step S31, the third image compression means 21 compresses the third image.

  Progressing to step S33 following step S32, the selection data compression means 23 compresses the selection data. Progressing to step S34 following step S33, the data integration means 24 includes a first image compressed in step S30, a second image compressed in step S31, a third image compressed in step S32, and a step The selection data compressed in S33 is integrated in a form that can be displayed in an overlapping manner.

  Progressing to step S35 following step S34, the data storage means 25 stores the data integrated in step S34.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 3, the processing order of generating each image and selection data is not necessarily the processing order shown in FIG. 3. Further, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 3, the processing order of compression of each image and selection data is not necessarily the processing order shown in FIG.

  Hereinafter, an example of the pixel attribute determination process by the pixel attribute determination means 11 is shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of pixel attribute determination processing by the pixel attribute determination means.

  In step S <b> 40, the pixel attribute determination unit 11 acquires brightness information related to the brightness of the pixel from the pixel to be processed. Progressing to step S41 following step S40, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 determines whether or not the brightness information acquired in step S40 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If the pixel attribute determining unit 11 determines that the brightness information acquired in step S40 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (YES in step S41), the process proceeds to step S42, where the brightness information acquired in step S40 is determined in advance. If it is determined that it is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (NO in step S41), the process proceeds to step S43.

  In step S42, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 classifies the pixel to be processed as the third attribute (background), and the process proceeds to step S46. On the other hand, in step S43, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 classifies the pixel to be processed as the first attribute (foreground), and the process proceeds to step S44.

  In step S44, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 acquires the pixel value of the pixel classified as the first attribute in step S43, and determines whether the pixel value is close to black. If the pixel attribute determining unit 11 determines that the pixel value is close to black (YES in step S44), the process proceeds to step S45, and if it is determined that the pixel value is not close to black (NO in step S44). The process proceeds to step S46.

  For example, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 compares the acquired pixel value with a predetermined threshold value, and determines that the pixel value is close to black when the pixel value is equal to or less than the threshold value. To do.

  In step S46, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 reclassifies the pixel classified as the first attribute in step S43 into the second attribute (black character), and proceeds to step S46.

  In step S46, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 determines whether or not the pixel attribute determining process from step S40 has been performed on all pixels of the original image to be processed. If the pixel attribute determining unit 11 determines that the pixel attribute determining process from step S40 has been performed on all pixels of the original image to be processed (YES in step S46), the pixel attribute determining unit 11 ends the pixel attribute determining process, and If it is determined that the pixel attribute determination process from step S40 has not been performed for all pixels of the original image (NO in step S46), the process returns to step S40.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 determines (or classifies) the attribute of the pixel based on, for example, information related to the brightness of the pixel.

  As shown in the first embodiment, the image processing apparatus 1 separates a specific color or brightness area (for example, black characters) included in the original image from the original image as an independent image. It is possible to reproduce (output) a single color or lightness (black or lightness zero) related to the color or lightness.

  Further, as shown in the first embodiment, the image processing apparatus 1 classifies the original image into four independent layers (images and / or data), and a compression method (for example, lossless compression method) suitable for each layer. Alternatively, the file size of the original image can be reduced while maintaining the image quality.

  In the first embodiment described above, the pixel attribute determination unit 11 determines (or classifies) the attribute of the pixel based on information relating to the brightness of the pixel. However, the pixel attribute determination unit 11 may perform region determination or the like and determine (or classify) the pixel attribute based on the region determination or the like. Hereinafter, in the second embodiment, an example in which the pixel attribute determining unit 11 performs region determination and the like and determines (or classifies) the attribute of the pixel based on the region determination or the like will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of an example of a pixel attribute determination unit. As shown in FIG. 5, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 includes a first attribute determining unit 41, a second attribute determining unit 42, and a third attribute determining unit 43.

  The first attribute determination means 41 identifies the character area of the original image (multi-valued image) and sets the attribute of the pixel included in the character area as the first attribute (foreground).

  The third attribute determination unit 43 sets the attribute of the pixel included in the area other than the character area of the original image as the third attribute (background).

  The second attribute determining unit 42 reclassifies pixel values equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold among the pixels set by the first attribute determining unit 41 as the first attribute to the second attribute (black character).

  The pixel attribute determination unit 11 shown in the second embodiment performs region determination, and determines (or classifies) the pixel attribute based on the region determination or the like. In addition, as a method of area determination, for example, a technique described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-288589 or Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 06-20092 may be used.

  In the first embodiment described above, for example, the first image non-affiliated pixel value determination unit 15 includes pixels (non-affiliation pixels) for which no pixel value is set among the first images generated by the first image generation unit 12. The pixel value was set to the same (uniform) pixel value (for example, dark color). However, for example, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determination unit 15 applies the non-affiliation pixel in the vicinity of the pixel (belonging pixel) in which the pixel value is set in the first image generated by the first image generation unit 12. For example, the pixel value may be calculated based on the pixel value of the belonging pixel, and the calculated pixel value may be set.

  Hereinafter, in Example 3, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15 (and the third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 16) The example which sets the pixel value calculated based on the pixel value is shown.

  FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of an example of determining a pixel value of a first image non-affiliated pixel. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram of pixel value determination processing for unaffiliated pixels in the vicinity of the associated pixel.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15 includes a first surrounding area determining means 51, a first belonging pixel pixel value calculating means 52, and a first non-affiliated pixel pixel value setting means. 53.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the first surrounding area determination unit 51 includes several pixels including the belonging pixels in the first image generated by the first image generation unit 12 (for example, 6 × 6 pixels or 8 × 8 pixels) peripheral area is determined.

  The first belonging pixel value calculation unit 52 calculates a pixel value based on the pixel value of the belonging pixel included in the peripheral region determined by the first surrounding region determination unit 51. For example, the first belonging pixel value calculation unit 52 calculates the average value of the pixel values of the belonging pixels included in the peripheral region determined by the first surrounding region determination unit 51.

  The first non-affiliated pixel value setting unit 53 uses the pixel value calculated by the first belonging pixel value calculation unit 52 as the pixel value of the non-affiliated pixel included in the peripheral region determined by the first peripheral region determination unit 51. , Set to the unaffiliated pixel.

  FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of an example of determining a pixel value not belonging to the third image. As shown in FIG. 8, like the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15, the third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 16 also includes the third surrounding region determining means 61 and the third belonging pixel pixel value. Calculation means 62 and third non-affiliated pixel pixel value setting means 63 are included.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the third surrounding area determining unit 61 determines a surrounding area of several pixels including the belonging pixels in the third image generated by the third image generating unit 14.

  The third assigned pixel value calculation means 62 calculates a pixel value based on the pixel value of the assigned pixel included in the surrounding area determined by the third surrounding area determination means 61. For example, the third belonging pixel pixel value calculating unit 62 calculates the average value of the pixel values of the belonging pixels included in the peripheral region determined by the third surrounding region determining unit 61.

  The third non-affiliated pixel value setting unit 63 uses the pixel value calculated by the third belonging pixel value calculation unit 62 as the pixel value of the non-affiliated pixel included in the peripheral region determined by the third peripheral region determination unit 61. , Set to the unaffiliated pixel.

  As shown in the third embodiment, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15 or the third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 16 determines the pixel values of the non-affiliated pixels around the belonging pixel as the belonging pixels. By using the pixel value calculated based on the pixel value (for example, the average value of the pixel values of the belonging pixels), for example, even when the image is compressed by an irreversible compression method such as the JPEG method, It is possible to solve the problem that pixel values are mixed into surrounding pixels and the mixing is noticeable when an image is reproduced (that is, the image quality can be improved).

  Here, the separation process for separating the original image from the first image, the second image, the third image, and the selection data, and the overlay display process for superimposing these images and the selection data include several types of processing methods. is there. Hereinafter, the separation method of the original image, the type of the overlay display method, and the like will be described using Embodiments 4 to 7.

  FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram (part 1) of an original image separation process and an overlay display process. The image processing apparatus 1 separates the original image into a first image (foreground), a second image (black characters), a third image (background), and selection data as shown in FIG. 9, for example. Compress with the compression method suitable for each. Further, the image processing apparatus 1 expands each compressed image and selection data, and displays the expanded images and selection data in a superimposed manner as shown in FIG. The configuration, processing, and the like of the image processing apparatus 1 in FIG. 17 relating to image decompression and overlay display are shown in Examples 8 to 11 to be described later. 17 and / or the configuration shown in FIG. 21 of the tenth embodiment are included in the same image processing apparatus 1 as the image processing apparatus 1 having the configuration shown in FIG. 1 of the first embodiment. May be included in different image processing apparatuses 1.

  FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of the superimposed display of each image and selection data shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram (part 1) of overlay display.

  When the original image is separated as shown in FIG. 9, the image processing apparatus 1 displays each image and selection data so as to overlap each other as shown in FIG. 10, for example. Note that the image processing apparatus 1 has the position of the first image, which is the uppermost layer, and the selected image, as shown in FIG. 10, and the position of the second image, which is one layer lower than the image. (Or layers) may be switched and displayed.

  The separation process of the original image shown in the fourth embodiment is the same as the separation process of the original image shown in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram (part 2) of the original image separation process and the overlay display process. The image processing apparatus 1 separates the original image into a first image (foreground), a second image (black characters), a third image (background), and selection data as shown in FIG. 11, for example. Compress with the compression method suitable for each.

  Here, the selection data generation unit 22 in the fifth embodiment includes a pixel classified into the second attribute and a pixel classified into the third attribute, a pixel other than the pixel (a pixel classified into the first attribute), Selection data that can be selected is generated.

  That is, the selection data generation unit 22 in the fifth embodiment newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires the multi-value image. The pixel value of the pixel on the newly generated image at the same position as the pixel classified as the second attribute and the pixel classified as the third attribute on the value image is set to ON (for example, 1). The pixel value of the pixel other than the pixel (the pixel classified as the first attribute) is set to OFF (for example, 0).

  Therefore, the selection data generation unit 22 in Example 5 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires the multi-value image. The pixel value of the pixel on the newly created image at the same position as the pixel classified as the first attribute on the value image is set to OFF (for example, 0), and the pixel value of the pixel other than the pixel is set Can also be set to ON (for example, 1).

  The image processing apparatus 1 expands each compressed image and selection data, and superimposes and displays the expanded images and selection data as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 12 shows a schematic diagram of the superimposed display of each image and selection data shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram (part 2) of superimposed display. When the original image is separated as shown in FIG. 11, the image processing apparatus 1 displays each image and selection data so as to overlap each other as shown in FIG. 12, for example.

  FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram (part 3) of the separation process and the overlay display process of the original image. The image processing apparatus 1 separates the original image into a first image (foreground), a second image (black characters), a third image (background), and selection data as shown in FIG. Compress with the compression method suitable for each.

  Here, the selection data generation unit 22 in the sixth embodiment generates selection data that can select a pixel classified into the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel.

  That is, the selection data generation unit 22 in Example 6 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires the multi-value image. The pixel value of a pixel on a newly created image at the same position as the pixel classified as the third attribute on the value image is set to ON (for example, 1), and the pixel value of a pixel other than the pixel is set Is set to OFF (for example, 0).

  The image processing apparatus 1 expands each compressed image and selection data, and superimposes and displays the expanded images and selection data as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 14 shows a schematic diagram of the superimposed display of each image and selection data shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram (part 3) of superimposed display.

  When the original image is separated as shown in FIG. 13, the image processing apparatus 1 displays each image and selection data so as to overlap each other as shown in FIG. 14, for example. Note that the image processing apparatus 1 has the positions of the image obtained by combining the third image that is the uppermost layer and the selection data and the second image that is one layer lower than the image shown in FIG. (Or layers) may be switched and displayed.

  FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram (part 4) of the original image separation process and the overlay display process. The image processing apparatus 1 separates the original image into a first image (foreground), a second image (black characters), a third image (background), and selection data as shown in FIG. 15, for example. Compress with the compression method suitable for each.

  Here, the selection data generation unit 22 in the seventh embodiment includes a pixel classified as the first attribute, a pixel classified as the second attribute, and a pixel other than the pixel (pixel classified as the third attribute). And selection data that can be selected is generated.

  That is, the selection data generation unit 22 in the seventh embodiment newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires the multi-value image. Set the pixel value of the pixel on the newly generated image at the same position as the pixel classified as the first attribute and the pixel classified as the second attribute on the value image to ON (for example, 1) The pixel value of a pixel other than the pixel (a pixel classified as the third attribute) is set to OFF (for example, 0).

  Therefore, the selection data generation unit 22 in Example 7 newly generates an image having the same width and height as the multi-value image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10, and the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 acquires the multi-value image. The pixel value of a pixel on the newly created image at the same position as the pixel classified as the third attribute on the value image is set to OFF (for example, 0), and the pixel value of a pixel other than the pixel is set Can also be set to ON (for example, 1).

  The image processing apparatus 1 expands each compressed image and selection data, and displays the expanded images and selection data in a superimposed manner as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 16 shows a schematic diagram of the superimposed display of each image and selection data shown in FIG. FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram (part 4) of overlay display. When the original image is separated as shown in FIG. 15, the image processing apparatus 1 displays each image and selection data in a superimposed manner as shown in FIG. 16, for example.

  Hereinafter, the configuration, processing, and the like of the image processing apparatus 1 related to image decompression and overlay display will be described using Example 8 to Example 11.

FIG. 17 is a configuration diagram (part 2) of the image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 17, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a data acquisition unit 30, a first image expansion unit 31, a second image expansion unit 32, a third image expansion unit 33, and a selection data expansion unit 34. includes a transparent means 35, a monochromatic color unit 36, the unit 37 ₁ superimposed image, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, and the output unit 39, a.

  The data acquisition unit 30 acquires data (integrated data) stored in the data storage unit 25. The first image expansion unit 31 expands the compressed first image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  The second image expansion unit 32 expands the compressed second image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30. The third image decompression unit 33 decompresses the compressed third image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  The selection data decompression unit 34 decompresses the compressed selection data included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  The transparency means 35 makes the pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute out of the pixels of the second image expanded by the second image expansion means 32 transparent (to be displayed or printed transparently). The monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image expanded by the second image expansion means 32 with a single color (for example, black).

Means 37 ₁ superimposed image, a third image which is elongated in the third image decompression unit 33, are transparent pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute in the transparency unit 35, the second attribute in the monochromatic color means 36 The second image in which the pixels belonging to 1 are colored with a single color is superimposed (or superimposed to create a superimposed image).

Pixel value selecting means 38 ₁ is extended in the selected data decompression unit 34, and a pixel other than the pixels and pixel belonging to the first attribute using the selected data selectable, is extended in the first image expanding means 31 a first image is selected and an image superposition created in means 37 ₁ superimposed image. That is, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, the selection data, a pixel ON is set, select the first image (pixel value of the pixel), the selection data, the pixel OFF is set, selecting created superimposed image (pixel value of the pixel) in means 37 ₁ superimposed image.

The output means 39, on the basis of the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ is processed result of (a selection result), and displays an image or outputs print or to.

  In FIG. 17, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a first image expansion unit 31 that expands a compressed first image, a second image expansion unit 32 that expands a compressed second image, and a compressed first image. Although the configuration including four decompressing means, that is, the third image decompressing means 33 for decompressing three images and the selection data decompressing means 34 for decompressing the compressed selection data has been shown, for example, the compressed first image and compression If the compressed third image is compressed by the same compression method, it can be expanded by the same expansion method. For example, the compressed second image and the compressed selection data are compressed by the same method. The image processing apparatus 1 can expand the compressed first image and the compressed third image by the expansion means (part 1) and the compressed second image. And decompression to decompress the compressed selection data Means (part 2) may be configured to include two extension means. The same applies to the following (for example, FIG. 21 described later).

  The concept of image overlay output (reproduction) processing is shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a conceptual diagram (part 1) of the image overlay output process. In FIG. 18, the description starts assuming that each image and selection data are already expanded by the respective units shown in FIG. 17.

  In step S50, the monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image with a single color (for example, black).

  Progressing to step S51 following step S50, the transparentizing means 35 transparentizes pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image. Note that the processing order of step S50 and step S51 may be reversed.

Proceeds Following step S51 in step S52, means 37 ₁ superimposed image, the third image is a monochromatic color at step S50, superimposing a second image that is transparent at step S51, the. Image as a result of means 37 ₁ superimposed image is superimposed (superimposed image) is, for example, G in FIG. 18.

Proceeds to step S53 following step S52, the pixel value selection unit 38 ₁ uses the pixel belonging to the first attribute, and pixels other than the pixel, selection data which can select a first image, step S52 And the superimposed image created in step. That is, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, the selection data, a pixel ON is set, select the first image (pixel value of the pixel), the selection data, the pixel OFF is set, The superimposed image (pixel value of the pixel) created in step S52 is selected.

Proceeds Following step S53 in step S54, the output unit 39, based on the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ is processed result of (a selection result) in step S53, and displays the image, and outputs print or to . The image output by the output means 39 is, for example, H in FIG.

  An example of the image overlay output process in the image processing apparatus 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating image overlay display processing in the image processing apparatus.

  In step S <b> 70, the data acquisition unit 30 acquires the data stored in the data storage unit 25. Progressing to step S71 following step S70, the first image expansion means 31 expands the compressed first image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition means 30.

  Progressing to step S72 following step S71, the second image expansion means 32 expands the compressed second image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition means 30. Progressing to step S73 following step S72, the third image expansion means 33 expands the compressed third image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition means 30.

  Proceeding to step S74 following step S73, the selection data decompression means 34 decompresses the compressed selection data included in the data acquired by the data acquisition means 30.

  Progressing to step S75 following step S74, the transparentizing means 35 transparentizes the pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image expanded in step S72. Progressing to step S76 following step S75, the monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixel belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image expanded in step S72 with a single color (for example, black).

Proceeds following step S76 to step S77, the unit 37 ₁ superimposed image, a third image which is extended in Step S73, the transparent pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute in step S75, the first at step S76 A second image in which pixels belonging to the two attributes are colored in a single color is superimposed to create a superimposed image.

The process proceeds to step S78 following the step S77, the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ is extended at step S74, the non-pixel and pixel belonging to the first attribute of the selected data can be selected and a pixel, to be processed Get the pixel value of the pixel.

The process proceeds to step S79 following step S78, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, the pixel values of the pixels acquired in step S78 determines whether a specific value (e.g., ON). Pixel value selecting means 38 _1, the pixel values of the pixels acquired in step S78 is, If it is determined that the specific value (e.g., ON) (YES in step S79), the process proceeds to step S81, the pixels acquired in Step S78 If it is determined that the pixel value is not a specific value (eg, ON) (NO in step S79), the process proceeds to step S80.

In step S80, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, processing the same position as the pixel of the address selection data, the pixel value of the superimposed image generated in step S77, the selected as the pixel value of the position, in step S82 move on.

On the other hand, in step S81, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, processing the same position as the pixel of the address selection data, the pixel value of the first image extended in step S71, selects a pixel value of the position, step Proceed to S82.

At step S82, the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ determines whether or not executing the pixel value selection processing from step S78 for all the pixels of the selected data. Pixel value selecting means 38 ₁ determines that performing the pixel value selection processing from step S78 for all the pixels in the selection data (YES in step S82), the process proceeds to step S83, the step for all pixels of the selected data If it is determined that the pixel value selection process from S78 has not been executed (NO in step S82), the process returns to step S78.

At step S83, the output unit 39, based on the pixel value selecting means 38 ₁ is the processing result of the pixel value selection was performed, and displays an image or outputs print or to.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 19, the processing order of decompressing each image and selection data is not necessarily the processing order shown in FIG. Further, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 19, the processing order of transparency of the second image and monochromatic coloring is not necessarily the processing order shown in FIG. The same applies to the flowcharts shown below.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 separates an area (for example, black characters) relating to a specific color or brightness included in the original image from the original image as an independent image (layer). It can be reproduced (output) with a single color or lightness (black or lightness zero) relating to the color or lightness. Therefore, for example, when a reproduced image is printed, black characters included in the image can be output with black toner alone.

  Example 8 corresponds to Example 4 and the like.

  In the eighth embodiment, an example in which the selection data can select a pixel classified into the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel is shown. However, in the ninth embodiment, the selection data has the second attribute. An example in which a classified pixel and a pixel classified into the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel (a pixel classified into the first attribute) can be selected will be described.

Thus, the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ of Example 9, selected data decompression unit 34 is extended in the second attribute to the classified pixels and classified pixels and non-pixel pixel in the third attribute (first using the selected data with selectable classified pixels) and the attribute selection and first image that has been extended in a first image decompression unit 31, and an image superposition created in means 37 ₁ superimposed image, the To do. That is, the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ of Example 9, the pixels on the selected data, the ON is set, has been superimposed image (pixel values of the pixels) created in means 37 ₁ superimposed image select For the pixels set to OFF in the selection data, the first image (the pixel value of the pixel) is selected.

  The concept of image overlay output (reproduction) processing is shown in FIG. FIG. 20 is a conceptual diagram (part 2) of the image overlay output process. In FIG. 20, the description starts assuming that each image and selection data have already been expanded by each unit shown in FIG. 17 of the eighth embodiment.

  In step S90, the monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image with a single color (for example, black).

  Progressing to step S91 following step S90, the transparentizing means 35 transparentizes pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image. Note that the processing order of step S90 and step S91 may be reversed.

Proceeds following step S91 to step S92, means 37 ₁ superimposed image, the third image is a monochromatic color at step S90, superimposing a second image that is transparent at step S91, the. Image as a result of means 37 ₁ superimposed image is superimposed (superimposed image) is, for example, I in FIG. 20.

The process proceeds to step S93 following step S92, the pixel value selection unit 38 ₁ uses the pixel belonging to the first attribute, and pixels other than the pixel, selection data which can select a first image, step S92 And the superimposed image created in step. That is, the pixel value selection section 38 _1, the selection data, a pixel ON is set, has been superimposed to select the image (pixel values of the pixels) generated in step S92, the selection data, OFF is set For the pixel being selected, the first image (the pixel value of the pixel) is selected.

Proceeds following step S93 to step S94, the output unit 39, based on the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ is processed result of (a selection result) in step S93, and displays the image, and outputs print or to . The image output by the output means 39 is, for example, J in FIG.

  In the case of the ninth embodiment, the flowchart of the image overlay display process in the image processing apparatus 1 and the description thereof are the same as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. I ’ll just omit it here.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 separates an area (for example, black characters) relating to a specific color or brightness included in the original image from the original image as an independent image (layer). It can be reproduced (output) with a single color or lightness (black or lightness zero) relating to the color or lightness. Therefore, for example, when a reproduced image is printed, black characters included in the image can be output with black toner alone.

  The ninth embodiment corresponds to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a configuration diagram (part 3) of the image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 21, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a data acquisition unit 30, a first image expansion unit 31, a second image expansion unit 32, a third image expansion unit 33, and a selection data expansion unit 34. includes a transparent means 35, a monochromatic color unit 36, the unit 37 ₂ superimposed image, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, and an output unit 39, a.

  The data acquisition unit 30 acquires data stored in the data storage unit 25. The first image expansion unit 31 expands the compressed first image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  The second image expansion unit 32 expands the compressed second image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30. The third image decompression unit 33 decompresses the compressed third image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  The selection data decompression unit 34 decompresses the compressed selection data included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  The transparency means 35 makes the pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute out of the pixels of the second image expanded by the second image expansion means 32 transparent (to be displayed or printed transparently). The monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image expanded by the second image expansion means 32 with a single color (for example, black).

Means 37 ₂ superimposed images, a first image which is extended in a first image decompression unit 31, are transparent pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute in the transparency unit 35, the second attribute in the monochromatic color means 36 And the second image in which the pixels belonging to are colored in a single color are superimposed.

Pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the selection data decompression unit 34 is extended in, using the selected data can be selected and pixels other than the pixel belonging to the third attribute is extended in the third image expanding means 33 a third image, selecting, and overlay images created in means 37 ₂ superimposed images. That is, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the selection data, a pixel ON is set, select the third image (pixel value of the pixel), the selection data, the pixel OFF is set, selecting created superimposed image (pixel values of the pixels) in the unit 37 ₂ superimposed images.

The output means 39, on the basis of the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ is processing result of (a selection result), and displays an image or outputs print or to.

  The concept of image overlay output (reproduction) processing is shown in FIG. FIG. 22 is a conceptual diagram (part 3) of the image overlay output process. In FIG. 22, the description starts assuming that each image and selection data has already been expanded by each unit shown in FIG. 21.

  In step S100, the monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image with a single color (for example, black).

  Progressing to step S101 following step S100, the transparentizing means 35 transparentizes pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image. Note that the processing order of step S100 and step S101 may be reversed.

Proceeds following step S101 to step S102, unit 37 ₂ superimposed images, a first image is a monochromatic color at step S100, superimposing a second image that is transparent in step S101, the. Image as a result of means 37 ₂ superimposed image is superimposed (superimposed image) is, for example, M in FIG. 22.

The process proceeds to step S103 following step S102, the pixel value selection section 38 _2, using the pixels belonging to the third attribute, and pixels other than the pixel, the selection data can be selected, and a third image, the step S102 And the superimposed image created in step. That is, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the selection data, a pixel ON is set, select the third image (pixel value of the pixel), the selection data, the pixel OFF is set, The superimposed image (pixel value of the pixel) created in step S102 is selected.

Proceeds following step S103 to step S104, the output unit 39, based on the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ is processing result of (a selection result) in step S103, and displays an image, and outputs print or to . The image output by the output means 39 is, for example, N in FIG.

  Hereinafter, another example of the image overlay output process in the image processing apparatus 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 23 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating the image overlay display process in the image processing apparatus.

  In step S110, the data acquisition unit 30 acquires the data stored in the data storage unit 25. Progressing to step S111 following step S110, the first image expansion means 31 expands the compressed first image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition means 30.

  Progressing to step S112 following step S111, the second image expansion means 32 expands the compressed second image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition means 30. Progressing to step S113 following step S112, the third image decompression unit 33 decompresses the compressed third image included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  Progressing to step S114 following step S113, the selection data decompression unit 34 decompresses the compressed selection data included in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30.

  Progressing to step S115 following step S114, the transparentizing means 35 transparentizes the pixels other than the pixel belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image expanded in step S112. Progressing to step S116 following step S115, the monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image expanded in step S112 with a single color (for example, black).

Proceeds after step S116 to step S117, the unit 37 ₂ superimposed images, a first image which is extended in step S111, the transparent pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute in step S115, the in step S116 A second image in which pixels belonging to the two attributes are colored in a single color is superimposed to create a superimposed image.

The process proceeds to step S118 subsequent to step S117, the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ is extended in step S114, the non-pixel and pixel belonging to a third attribute of the selected data can be selected and a pixel, to be processed Get the pixel value of the pixel.

The process proceeds to step S119 following step S118, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the pixel values of the pixels acquired in step S118 determines whether a specific value (e.g., ON). Pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the pixel values of the pixels acquired in step S118 is, If it is determined that the specific value (e.g., ON) (YES in step S119), the process proceeds to step S121, the pixel acquired in step S118 If it is determined that the pixel value is not a specific value (eg, ON) (NO in step S119), the process proceeds to step S120.

In step S120, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the processing the same position as the pixel of the address selection data, the pixel value of the superimposed image generated in step S117, the selected as the pixel value of the position, in step S122 move on.

On the other hand, in step S121, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the processing the same position as the pixel of the address selection data, the pixel value of the third image extended in step S113, is selected as the pixel value of the position, step The process proceeds to S122.

In step S122, the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ determines whether performing the pixel value selection processing from step S118 for all the pixels of the selected data. Pixel value selecting means 38 ₂ determines that performing the pixel value selection processing from step S118 for all the pixels in the selection data (YES in step S122), the process proceeds to step S123, steps to all pixels in the selected data If it is determined that the pixel value selection process from S118 has not been executed (NO in step S122), the process returns to step S118.

At step S123, the output unit 39, based on the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ is the processing result of the pixel value selection was performed, and displays an image or outputs print or to.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 separates an area (for example, black characters) relating to a specific color or brightness included in the original image from the original image as an independent image (layer). It can be reproduced (output) with a single color or lightness (black or lightness zero) relating to the color or lightness. Therefore, for example, when a reproduced image is printed, black characters included in the image can be output with black toner alone.

  Example 10 corresponds to Example 6 and the like.

  In the tenth embodiment, the example in which the selection data can select the pixel classified into the third attribute and the pixel other than the pixel has been shown. However, in the eleventh embodiment, the selection data has the first attribute as the first attribute. An example in which a classified pixel and a pixel classified into the second attribute and a pixel other than the pixel (a pixel classified into the third attribute) can be selected will be described.

Thus, the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ of Example 11, the selection data is extended in expansion means 34, a pixel other than the classified pixels and pixel classified pixels and the second attribute to the first attribute (Third using the attribute to the classified pixels) and a selectable selection data, selection and third images is extended in the third image decompression unit 33, and an image superposition created in means 37 ₂ superimposed images, the To do. That is, the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ of Example 11, the pixels on the selected data, the ON is set, has been superimposed image (pixel values of the pixels) created in means 37 ₂ superimposed image select For the pixels set to OFF in the selection data, the third image (the pixel value of the pixel) is selected.

  The concept of image overlay output (reproduction) processing is shown in FIG. FIG. 24 is a conceptual diagram (part 4) of the image overlay output process. In FIG. 24, the description starts assuming that each image and selection data has already been expanded by each unit shown in FIG. 21 of the tenth embodiment.

  In step S130, the monochromatic coloring means 36 colors the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image with a single color (for example, black).

  Progressing to step S131 following step S130, the transparentizing means 35 transparentizes pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image. Note that the processing order of step S130 and step S131 may be reversed.

Proceeds following step S131 to step S132, unit 37 ₂ superimposed images, a first image is a monochromatic color at step S130, superimposing a second image that is transparent in step S131, the. Image as a result of means 37 ₂ superimposed image is superimposed (superimposed image) is a K in FIG. 24, for example.

The process proceeds to step S133 following step S132, the pixel value selection section 38 _2, using the pixels belonging to the third attribute, and pixels other than the pixel, the selection data can be selected, and a third image, the step S132 And the superimposed image created in step. That is, the pixel value selection unit 38 _2, the selection data, a pixel ON is set, has been superimposed to select the image (pixel values of the pixels) generated in step S132, the selected data, OFF is set For the pixel being selected, the third image (the pixel value of the pixel) is selected.

Proceeds following step S133 to step S134, the output unit 39, based on the pixel value selection section 38 ₂ is processing result of (a selection result) in step S133, and displays an image, and outputs print or to . The image output by the output means 39 is, for example, L in FIG.

  In the case of the eleventh embodiment, the flowchart of the image overlay display processing in the image processing apparatus 1 and the description thereof are obtained by replacing ON and OFF in the flowchart shown in FIG. It ’s only good, so I ’ll omit it here.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 separates an area (for example, black characters) relating to a specific color or brightness included in the original image from the original image as an independent image (layer). It can be reproduced (output) with a single color or lightness (black or lightness zero) relating to the color or lightness. Therefore, for example, when a reproduced image is printed, black characters included in the image can be output with black toner alone.

  Note that Example 11 corresponds to Example 7.

  In the embodiment described above, an example in which the monochromatic coloring means 36 performs monochromatic coloring or the transparentizing means 35 performs transparency on the second image expanded by the second image expanding means 32 is shown. It was. As another example, in the configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, a unit corresponding to the single color coloring unit 36 is provided, and the single color coloring unit is applied to the second image generated by the second image generation unit 13 in FIG. A unit corresponding to 36 may perform monochromatic coloring. Similarly, the configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 is provided with means corresponding to the transparent means 35, and the second image generated by the second image generation means 13 in FIG. Corresponding means may perform transparency.

  In the case of such a configuration, the second image compression means 20 is made transparent by the means corresponding to the transparency means 35 except for the pixels belonging to the second attribute, and the second image compression means 20 is the second equivalent by the means corresponding to the monochromatic coloring means 36. The second image in which the pixels belonging to the attribute are colored in a single color is compressed. In addition, the data integration means 24, as shown in FIG. 10 of the fourth embodiment, FIG. 12 of the fifth embodiment, FIG. 14 of the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 16 of the seventh embodiment, each image and / or selection. Superimpose and integrate data.

  In the embodiments to be described, the embodiments up to the embodiment 16 relate to the division of data or selection data. In the first embodiment described above, the data for the first to third images and the selection data are each stored for one page.

  When these compressed data are expanded and displayed on the screen, the entire display area must be expanded even if the display area is a small part of the page. An area that is not related to the screen display should not need to be expanded here, and an extra processing time is required.

  In addition, a large amount of memory is required for decompression, and it is possible that an inexpensive display device cannot display due to insufficient memory. The same applies when printing. In printing, it is expected that a part of the image is sequentially converted into data for printing. In that case, it is necessary to hold the data obtained by expanding the entire page even in the sequential processing. There is a possibility of running out of memory.

  Therefore, in the following embodiment, an embodiment will be described in which the first to third image data / selection data is divided into a plurality of pieces within a page and then compressed and held. When held in such a form, when displaying a part of a page, it is not necessary to decompress data in an irrelevant area, saving processing time for display and saving memory for holding decompressed data. . At the time of printing, it is not necessary to have a large decompression memory, and printing with an inexpensive apparatus becomes possible.

  The division may be performed for all image data or selection data, but only a part has a certain effect. For example, only the first image data and the selection data are divided and held, while the second and third image data are held without being divided. In this case, the memory for decompressing the data of the second and third images is required for the entire page, but the memory for holding the data of the first image and the selection data may be a part, and the memory is used as a whole. There is a saving effect on quantity.

  Now, Example 13 will be described. In this embodiment, a case where only the first image and selection data are divided and held will be described.

  FIG. 25 is a configuration diagram (part 4) of the image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 25, the configuration of the image processing apparatus in the present embodiment is obtained by adding the first image dividing unit 201 and the selection data dividing unit 202 to the configuration of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. It has become. The first image dividing unit 201 and the selection data dividing unit 202 correspond to the dividing unit.

  The first image dividing unit 201 divides the first image, and the selection data dividing unit 202 divides the selection data.

  The division may be any of the first to third selection data. You can go to all or just one. If a large number of divisions are performed, the memory used for displaying an image can be saved as much, but the processing tends to be complicated, so that division according to the display system is desirable.

  Hereinafter, an example of the concept of the dividing process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 26 is a conceptual diagram of the dividing process.

  In step S151, the pixel attribute determination unit 11 classifies each pixel of the original image acquired by the multi-value image acquisition unit 10 into brightness or character area identification. In step S152, the pixel attribute determining unit 11 selects a pixel having a pixel value very close to black among the pixels classified as the foreground (first attribute), and reclassifies the pixel as a black character (second attribute). .

  In step S153, the selection data generation unit 22 refers to the position of the belonging pixel of the first image generated by the first image generation unit 12, and turns on the pixel value of the pixel at the same position as the belonging pixel (for example, 1). And selection data in which pixel values of pixels other than the pixel are set to OFF (for example, 0) are generated. The selection data generated by the selection data generation means 22 is, for example, D in FIG.

  In step S154, the first image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 15 sets the pixel value of the invisible region of the first image, and the third image non-affiliated pixel pixel value determining means 16 is invisible for the third image. Set the pixel value of the region.

  Thereafter, the first image is divided by the first image dividing means 201 as shown in H of FIG. Further, the selection data is also divided by the selection data dividing means 202 as shown in G of FIG. After this division, compression is performed on each.

  Hereinafter, an example of the image division processing in the image processing apparatus 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating image separation processing in the image processing apparatus. This flowchart is obtained by adding a division process to the flowchart of FIG.

  In FIG. 27, the dividing process is performed in steps S211 and S215. In step S215, the first image is divided. In step S215, the selection data is divided. Both processes are performed before compression.

  FIG. 28 shows a schematic diagram of the superimposed display of each image and selection data shown in FIG. FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram (part 5) of superimposed display. The image processing apparatus 1 displays each image and selection data in a superimposed manner as shown in FIG. 28, for example. In addition, the part shown with the dotted line shows the boundary part which performed the division | segmentation typically. This boundary line does not appear when the image is reproduced, and the reproduction state is the same as when the image is not divided.

  Next, an example in which an image is held in a divided state and no second image will be described. Division is also effective when such black characters are expressed by a combination of selection data and the first image.

  FIG. 29 is a configuration diagram (part 5) of the image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 29, the configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 25 except that the second image generation unit 13 and the second image compression unit 20 are used. It has become.

  Hereinafter, an example of the concept of the division process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 30 is a conceptual diagram of the dividing process. In this embodiment, no color division is performed, and a black region for expressing the color “B” exists in the first image (foreground) as shown in the figure. On the other hand, the second image does not exist, and the shape of “B” is placed on the selection data. Since this form of expression is in line with the prior art, it can be realized with a slight improvement from existing resources.

  In step S301, the pixel attribute determination unit 11 classifies each pixel of the original image acquired by the multi-valued image acquisition unit 10 into brightness or character area identification. In step S302, the belonging pixel position is referred to. In step S303, invisible pixels are determined.

  Thereafter, the first image is divided by the first image dividing means 201 as shown in H of FIG. Further, the selection data is also divided by the selection data dividing means 202 as shown in G of FIG. After this division, compression is performed on each.

  An example of image division processing in the image processing apparatus 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing image separation processing in the image processing apparatus. Since this flowchart is obtained by removing the process related to the second image from the flowchart of FIG. 27, description thereof is omitted.

  In this flowchart, the dividing process is performed in steps S410 and S413. Both processes are performed before compression.

  This embodiment is an embodiment for displaying the data created in the thirteenth embodiment. The operation follows that in Example 8. FIG. 32 is a block diagram of the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment. This figure shows a configuration in which a first image integration unit 211 and a selection data integration unit 212 are added to the configuration shown in FIG. The first image integration unit 211 and the selection data integration unit 212 correspond to a combination unit.

  The first image integration unit 211 combines the divided first images, and the selection data integration unit 212 combines the divided selection data.

  FIG. 33 is a conceptual diagram (part 5) of the image overlay output process. In step S501, the first image integration unit 211 expands the divided first images by a necessary amount in the display target area, and combines them. In step S505, the selection data integration unit 212 expands the divided selection data as much as necessary in the display target area, and performs combination.

On the other hand, the second image is monochromatically colored in step S502 and is made transparent in step S503. The second image is overlaid with the third image in step S504. In step S506, the pixel value selection unit 38 ₁ includes a pixel belonging to the first attribute, using the selected data can be selected and pixels other than the pixel, the first image, superimposed image generated in step S504 And select.

The output means 39, on the basis of the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ is processed result of (a selection result) in step S507, the display image or outputs print or to.

  Next, image overlay display processing in the image processing apparatus will be described. FIG. 34 is a flowchart (part 3) illustrating the image overlay display process. This flowchart is obtained by adding first image integration (combination) processing (step S607) and selection data integration (combination) processing (step S608) to the flowchart of FIG.

  In this way, by performing the decompression and combination as much as necessary, it is not necessary to process the portion unrelated to the display, leading to saving of processing time and saving of used memory. The division may be performed on the second and third images.

  This embodiment is an embodiment for displaying the data created in the fourteenth embodiment. The operation follows that in Example 8. FIG. 35 is a block diagram of the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment. This figure is a diagram showing the configuration of FIG. 32 excluding the second image expansion means 32, the transparency means 35, and the monochromatic coloring means 36. FIG. This is due to the absence of the second image.

  FIG. 36 is a conceptual diagram (part 6) of the image overlay output process. In step S <b> 701, the first image integration unit 211 expands the divided first images by a necessary amount in the display target area, and combines them. In step S702, the selection data integration unit 212 expands the divided selection data as much as necessary in the display target area, and performs combination.

In step S703, the pixel value selection unit 38 ₁ includes a pixel belonging to the first attribute, using the selected data can be selected and pixels other than the pixel, selects a first image and the third image.

The output means 39, on the basis of the pixel value selection section 38 ₁ is processed result of (a selection result) in step S704, it displays an image or outputs print or to.

  Next, image overlay display processing in the image processing apparatus will be described. FIG. 37 is a flowchart (part 4) illustrating the image overlay display process. This flowchart is a flowchart obtained by removing or changing the process related to the second image from the flowchart of FIG. Specifically, the processes excluded from the flowchart of FIG. 34 are the processes of steps S604, 609, 610, and 611. The changed process is the process of step S614, and this process is a process of selecting the pixel value of the third image in step S810.

  In this way, by performing the decompression and combination as much as necessary, it is not necessary to process the portion unrelated to the display, leading to saving of processing time and saving of used memory. The division may be performed on the second and third images.

  In the embodiment described above, for example, as shown in FIG. 1 of the first embodiment, FIG. 17 of the eighth embodiment, FIG. 21 of the tenth embodiment, etc., each configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present invention is, for example, an IC. However, in the present embodiment, an example in which all or a part of the above-described components are mounted as software on the image processing apparatus 1 is shown.

  FIG. 38 is a configuration diagram (part 8) of the image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 38, the image processing apparatus 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a memory 102, a hard disk 103, an input / display device 104, a drive device 105, an interface device 106, and a reading device. 108 and a printing apparatus 109.

  The input / display device 104 includes an operation panel or the like, and is used for inputting various operation signals to the image processing apparatus 1 and for displaying various information by the image processing apparatus 1. The interface device 106 is an interface that connects the image processing apparatus 1 to a network or the like.

  Each functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 1 in the above-described embodiment or a program corresponding to each process (hereinafter referred to as an image processing program) is installed in the image processing apparatus 1 from the beginning, for example, a CD-ROM or an SD memory It is provided to the image processing apparatus 1 by a recording medium 107 such as a card or downloaded through a network. The recording medium 107 is set in the drive device 105, and the image processing program is installed in the hard disk 103 from the recording medium 107 via the drive device 105.

  The memory 102 reads and stores an image processing program or the like from the hard disk 103 when the image processing apparatus 1 is activated, for example. The CPU 101 executes processing according to an image processing program or the like read and stored in the memory 102, and the processing result of the image processing (for example, each compressed image, compressed selection data, or reproduced image) is displayed on the hard disk 103. Alternatively, it is stored in the memory 102, displayed on the input / display device 104 as necessary, or printed on the printing device 109.

  The hard disk 103 stores processing results of image processing, data relating to images, image processing programs, and the like. The reading device 108 is a scanner or the like, for example, and reads set paper or the like and stores image data or the like in the hard disk 103. Further, as described above, for example, the printing apparatus 109 prints a processing result of image processing in response to a request.

  The image processing apparatus 1 may be a printer or an information processing apparatus such as a PC (Personal Computer). When the image processing apparatus 1 is a PC, for example, the input / display device 104 shown in FIG. 38 is divided into an input device and a display device. For example, the input device includes a keyboard and a mouse. The display device includes a display or the like. Of course, the PC does not include the reading device 108 or the printing device 109 as a configuration.

  An image processing program installed on a PC is created by a PC user or the like using an input device or the like, and an original image stored in the hard disk 103 or the like is a processing target, and a processing result (for example, a reproduced image) is displayed. Etc.

  As described above, according to the present invention, when an image is reproduced, an area related to a specific color or lightness (for example, a black character) included in the image is a single color or lightness related to the specific color or lightness ( The image can be processed so that it can be reproduced in black or zero brightness). In other words, according to the present invention, when a reproduced image is printed, black characters included in the image can be output with black toner alone.

  Further, according to the present invention, the file size of the original image can be compressed.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.・ Change is possible.

It is a block diagram (the 1) of an image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram of the separation process of an original image. It is a flowchart which shows the image separation process in an image processing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the pixel attribute determination process by a pixel attribute determination means. It is a block diagram of an example of a pixel attribute determination means. It is a block diagram of an example of 1st image non-affiliation pixel pixel value determination. It is a conceptual diagram of the pixel value determination process of the unaffiliated pixel in the vicinity of an affiliation pixel. It is a block diagram of an example of a 3rd image non-affiliation pixel pixel value determination. It is the conceptual diagram (the 1) of the separation process of an original image, and a superimposition display process. It is a schematic diagram (No. 1) of superimposed display. It is the conceptual diagram (the 2) of the separation process of an original image, and a superimposition display process. It is a schematic diagram (No. 2) of superimposed display. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram (part 3) of an original image separation process and an overlay display process. It is a schematic diagram (No. 3) of the superimposed display. FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram (part 4) of an original image separation process and an overlay display process. It is a schematic diagram (the 4) of a superposition display. It is a block diagram (the 2) of an image processing apparatus. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram (part 1) of image overlay output processing; 5 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating image overlay display processing in the image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram (the 2) of the superimposition output process of an image. It is a block diagram (the 3) of an image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram (the 3) of the superimposition output process of an image. 6 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating an image overlay display process in the image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram (the 4) of the superimposition output process of an image. It is a block diagram (the 4) of an image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram of a division | segmentation process (the 1). It is a flowchart which shows the image division process in an image processing apparatus. It is a schematic diagram (the 5) of a superposition display. It is a block diagram (the 5) of an image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram of a division | segmentation process (the 2). It is a flowchart which shows the image division process in an image processing apparatus. It is a block diagram (the 6) of an image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram (the 5) of the superimposition output process of an image. 10 is a flowchart (part 3) illustrating an image overlay display process in the image processing apparatus. It is a block diagram (the 7) of an image processing apparatus. It is a conceptual diagram (the 6) of the superimposition output process of an image. 12 is a flowchart (part 4) illustrating image overlay display processing in the image processing apparatus. It is a block diagram (the 8) of an image processing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Multi-value image acquisition means 11 Pixel attribute determination means 12 First image generation means 13 Second image generation means 14 Third image generation means 15 First image non-affiliation pixel value determination means 16 Third image non-affiliation pixel value determination Means 17 First image lowering means 18 Third image lowering means 19 First image compressing means 20 Second image compressing means 21 Third image compressing means 22 Selected data generating means 23 Selected data compressing means 24 Data integrating means 25 Data storage means 30 Data acquisition means 31 First image decompression means 32 Second image decompression means 33 Third image decompression means 34 Selection data decompression means 35 Transparency means 36 Monochromatic coloring means 37 Image superposition means 38 Pixel value selection means 39 Output Means 41 First attribute determination means 42 Second attribute determination means 43 Third attribute determination means 51 First surrounding area determination Stage 52 first affiliation pixel pixel value computing unit 53 first non-affiliated pixel pixel value setting means 61 third peripheral region determining means 62 third belong pixel pixel value calculating means 63 a third non-affiliated pixel pixel value setting means 101 CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 102 Memory 103 Hard disk 104 Input / display apparatus 105 Drive apparatus 106 Interface apparatus 107 Recording medium 108 Reading apparatus 109 Printing apparatus 201 First image division means 202 Selection data division means 211 First image integration means 212 Selection data integration means

Claims (31)

An image processing apparatus for processing an image,
Multi-value image acquisition means for acquiring a multi-value image;
Pixel attribute classification means for classifying the attribute of each pixel of the multi-valued image into a first attribute related to the foreground, a second attribute related to a specific color or brightness, or a third attribute related to the background;
First image generating means for generating a first image including pixel values of pixels belonging to the first attribute;
Second image generation means for generating a second image capable of specifying the position of the pixel belonging to the second attribute;
Third image generating means for generating a third image including pixel values of pixels belonging to the third attribute;
A selection data generating means for generating selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel, or a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel;
First image compression means for compressing data relating to the first image;
Second image compression means for compressing data relating to the second image;
Third image compression means for compressing data relating to the third image;
Selection data compression means for compressing the selection data;
An image processing apparatus comprising: First compressed data compressed by the first image compression means;
Second compressed data compressed by the second image compression means;
Third compressed data compressed by the third image compression means;
Fourth compressed data compressed by the selected data compression means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a data integration unit that integrates the images in a form that can be output in a superimposed manner. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising integrated data storage means for storing data integrated by the data integration means. A first image invisible region pixel value determining means for determining a pixel value of a pixel that does not belong to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated by the first image generating means;
Third image invisible region pixel value determining means for determining a pixel value of a pixel that does not belong to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated by the third image generating means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The first image non-visible region pixel value determining means,
Among the pixels of the first image generated by the first image generation means, set the pixel value of the pixels not belonging to the first attribute to a uniform pixel value,
The third image non-visible region pixel value determining means,
5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein among the pixels of the third image generated by the third image generation means, the pixel values of the pixels not belonging to the third attribute are set to a uniform pixel value. . The first image non-visible region pixel value determining means,
A first surrounding region determining unit that determines a region surrounding a pixel or a pixel group belonging to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated by the first image generating unit;
First pixel value calculation means for calculating a pixel value relating to a pixel or pixel group belonging to the first attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination means;
First pixel value setting means for setting a pixel value of a pixel or pixel group that does not belong to the first attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination means based on the pixel value calculated by the pixel value calculation means And having
The third image non-visible region pixel value determining means,
Third surrounding area determination means for determining an area surrounding a pixel or pixel group belonging to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated by the third image generation means;
Third pixel value calculation means for calculating a pixel value relating to a pixel or a pixel group belonging to the third attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination means;
Third pixel value setting means for setting a pixel value of a pixel or pixel group that does not belong to the third attribute in the area determined by the surrounding area determination means based on the pixel value calculated by the pixel value calculation means The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising: First image lowering means for reducing the resolution of the first image;
A third image lowering means for reducing the resolution of the third image;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The pixel attribute classification means includes
A first attribute determining means for identifying a character area of the multi-valued image and setting a pixel attribute included in the character area as a first attribute related to a foreground;
A third attribute determining means for setting a pixel attribute included in a region other than the character region of the multi-valued image as a third attribute related to the background;
Among the pixels that the first attribute determination means uses as the pixels of the first attribute, a second attribute determination means that sets a pixel having a specific color or brightness as a second attribute related to the specific color or brightness;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The pixel attribute classification means includes
Among the pixels of the multi-valued image, the attribute of the pixel having relatively low brightness is set as the first attribute related to the foreground,
Among the pixels of the multi-valued image, the attribute of the pixel having a relatively high brightness is a third attribute related to the background,
8. The pixel having a specific color or brightness among the pixels having the first attribute is set as a second attribute related to the specific color or brightness. Image processing device. The image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the specific color or lightness is black or lightness zero. First compressed data compressed by the first image compressing means, second compressed data compressed by the second image compressing means, third compressed data compressed by the third image compressing means, and the selected data compression Compressed data acquisition means for acquiring fourth compressed data compressed by the means;
First compressed data decompression means for decompressing the first compressed data;
Second compressed data decompression means for decompressing the second compressed data;
Third compressed data decompression means for decompressing the third compressed data;
Fourth compressed data decompression means for decompressing the fourth compressed data;
Pixel transparency means for making pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image transparent;
Pixel monochromatic coloring means for coloring pixels belonging to the second attribute out of the pixels of the second image with a single color;
Image superimposing means for superimposing the first image and the second image that has been subjected to the transparency processing in the pixel transparency means and the monochrome color processing in the pixel monochrome coloring means;
A pixel for selecting the pixel of the third image and the pixel of the image superimposed by the image superimposing means based on selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. A selection means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: First compressed data compressed by the first image compressing means, second compressed data compressed by the second image compressing means, third compressed data compressed by the third image compressing means, and the selected data compression Compressed data acquisition means for acquiring fourth compressed data compressed by the means;
First compressed data decompression means for decompressing the first compressed data;
Second compressed data decompression means for decompressing the second compressed data;
Third compressed data decompression means for decompressing the third compressed data;
Fourth compressed data decompression means for decompressing the fourth compressed data;
Pixel transparency means for making pixels other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute among the pixels of the second image transparent;
Pixel monochromatic coloring means for coloring pixels belonging to the second attribute out of the pixels of the second image with a single color;
Image superimposing means for superimposing the third image and the second image that has been subjected to transparency processing in the pixel transparency means and monochrome color processing in the pixel monochrome coloring means;
A pixel for selecting a pixel of the first image and a pixel of the image superimposed by the image superimposing means based on selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. A selection means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising an output unit that outputs an image based on a selection result selected by the pixel selection unit. The first, second, third image compressing means, or selected data compressing means comprises a dividing means for dividing any one or more of the data to be compressed or the selected data. Item 14. The image processing device according to any one of Items 1 to 13. 15. The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a combining unit that combines the data divided by the dividing unit or the selection data. An image processing method in an image processing apparatus for processing an image,
A multi-valued image acquisition stage for acquiring a multi-valued image;
A pixel attribute classification step for classifying the attribute of each pixel of the multi-valued image into a first attribute related to the foreground, a second attribute related to a specific color or brightness, or a third attribute related to the background;
A first image generation step of generating a first image including pixel values of pixels belonging to the first attribute;
A second image generation step of generating a second image capable of specifying the position of the pixel belonging to the second attribute;
A third image generation step of generating a third image including pixel values of pixels belonging to the third attribute;
A selection data generation step for generating selection data that can select a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel, or a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel; and
A first image compression stage for compressing data relating to the first image;
A second image compression stage for compressing data relating to the second image;
A third image compression stage for compressing data relating to the third image;
A selection data compression stage for compressing the selection data;
An image processing method comprising: First compressed data compressed in the first image compression step;
Second compressed data compressed in the second image compression step;
Third compressed data compressed in the third image compression step;
Fourth compressed data compressed in the selected data compression step;
17. The image processing method according to claim 16 , further comprising a data integration step of integrating the images in a form that can be superimposed and output. A first image invisible region pixel value determining step of determining a pixel value of a pixel that does not belong to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated in the first image generating step;
A third image non-visible region pixel value determining step of determining a pixel value of a pixel not belonging to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated in the third image generating step;
The image processing method according to claim 16 or 17 , further comprising: The first image non-visible region pixel value determining step includes:
Among the pixels of the first image generated in the first image generation step, set the pixel value of the pixel not belonging to the first attribute to a uniform pixel value,
The third image non-visible region pixel value determining step includes:
19. The image processing method according to claim 18 , wherein among the pixels of the third image generated in the third image generation step, pixel values of pixels not belonging to the third attribute are set to uniform pixel values. . The first image non-visible region pixel value determining step includes:
A first surrounding region determining step of determining a region surrounding the pixel or pixel group belonging to the first attribute among the pixels of the first image generated in the first image generating step;
A first pixel value calculating step for calculating a pixel value relating to a pixel or a pixel group belonging to the first attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determining step;
A first pixel value setting step of setting a pixel value of a pixel or a pixel group that does not belong to the first attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determination step based on the pixel value calculated in the pixel value calculation step And having
The third image non-visible region pixel value determining step includes:
A third surrounding region determining step of determining a region surrounding a pixel or pixel group belonging to the third attribute among the pixels of the third image generated in the third image generating step;
A third pixel value calculating step for calculating a pixel value relating to a pixel or a pixel group belonging to the third attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determining step;
A third pixel value setting step for setting a pixel value of a pixel or a pixel group that does not belong to the third attribute in the region determined by the surrounding region determination step based on the pixel value calculated in the pixel value calculation step The image processing method according to claim 18, further comprising : A first image lowering step for reducing the resolution of the first image;
A third image lowering step of reducing the resolution of the third image;
The image processing method according to claim 18 , further comprising: The pixel attribute classification step includes:
Identifying the character area of the multi-value image, the attribute of the pixel included in the character area as a first attribute related to the foreground,
The attribute of the pixel included in the region other than the character region of the multi-valued image is a third attribute related to the background,
Of the pixels with the pixel of the first attribute, the pixels having a particular color or brightness, of the particular claims 16 to 21 any one of claims, characterized in that a second attribute of the color or brightness Image processing method. The pixel attribute classification step includes:
A first attribute determining step in which, among the pixels of the multi-valued image, an attribute of a pixel having relatively low brightness is a first attribute related to the foreground;
A third attribute determining step in which, among the pixels of the multi-valued image, an attribute of a pixel having relatively high brightness is a third attribute related to the background;
A second attribute determination step in which a pixel having a specific color or brightness among the pixels set as the first attribute pixel in the first attribute determination step is a second attribute related to the specific color or brightness;
The image processing method according to claim 16, further comprising : The image processing method according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the specific color or lightness is black or lightness zero. The first compressed data compressed in the first image compression stage, the second compressed data compressed in the second image compression stage, the third compressed data compressed in the third image compression stage, and the selection A compressed data acquisition stage for acquiring the fourth compressed data compressed in the data compression stage;
A first compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the first compressed data;
A second compressed data decompression step for decompressing the second compressed data;
A third compressed data decompression step for decompressing the third compressed data;
A fourth compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the fourth compressed data;
A pixel transparency step of making pixels of the second image other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute transparent,
A pixel monochrome coloring step of coloring pixels belonging to the second attribute out of pixels of the second image with a single color;
An image superimposing step of superimposing the first image with the second image subjected to the transparent processing in the pixel transparentizing step and the single color processing in the pixel single color processing step;
A pixel that selects the pixel of the third image and the pixel of the image superimposed in the image superimposing step based on selection data that can select a pixel belonging to the third attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. A selection stage;
The image processing method according to claim 16 , further comprising: The first compressed data compressed in the first image compression stage, the second compressed data compressed in the second image compression stage, the third compressed data compressed in the third image compression stage, and the selection A compressed data acquisition stage for acquiring the fourth compressed data compressed in the data compression stage;
A first compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the first compressed data;
A second compressed data decompression step for decompressing the second compressed data;
A third compressed data decompression step for decompressing the third compressed data;
A fourth compressed data decompression stage for decompressing the fourth compressed data;
A pixel transparency step of making pixels of the second image other than the pixels belonging to the second attribute transparent,
A pixel monochrome coloring step of coloring pixels belonging to the second attribute out of pixels of the second image with a single color;
An image superimposing step of superimposing the third image with the second image subjected to the transparent processing in the pixel transparentizing step and the single color coloring processing in the pixel single color coloring step;
A pixel for selecting the pixel of the first image and the pixel of the image superimposed in the image superimposing step based on selection data capable of selecting a pixel belonging to the first attribute and a pixel other than the pixel. The selection stage;
The image processing method according to claim 16 , further comprising: 27. The image processing method according to claim 25 , further comprising an output step of outputting an image based on the selection result selected in the pixel selection step. The method includes a division step of dividing any one or more of the data or the selection data to be compressed in the first, second, and third image compression steps or the selection data compression step. Item 28. The image processing device according to any one of items 16 to 27 . 29. The image processing apparatus according to claim 28 , further comprising a combining step of combining the data divided in the dividing step or the selection data. An image processing program for causing a computer to execute the image processing method according to any one of claims 18 to 29 . A computer-readable recording medium on which the image processing program according to claim 30 is recorded.

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