JP5210349B2 - Image processing method, image processing apparatus, program, and ink-jet printer - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing method, an image processing apparatus, a program, and an ink-jet printer, and more specifically, for example, when performing color printing at a high resolution on a medium such as recording paper by numerical control. The present invention relates to a suitable image processing method, image processing apparatus, program, and ink-jet printer.

  In this specification, the term “media” refers to various recording media such as plain paper, various resin media such as PVC, polyester, and various materials such as aluminum, iron, and wood. It is assumed that the material is included, and includes a medium having a predetermined color, a transparent medium, a medium having various thicknesses, and a medium having various thicknesses.

  Further, in this specification, the “ink-jet method” is conventionally known, including various continuous methods such as a binary deflection method or a continuous deflection method, and various on-demand methods such as a thermal method or a piezoelectric element method. This means a printing method based on the ink jet technology based on the various methods described above.

  Conventionally, in a computer such as a personal computer (PC), characters (fonts) and images (images for printing, etc.) are represented by vector data described by mathematical formulas (hereinafter referred to as “vector” in this specification). "Format data" is referred to as "vector data").

  However, it is connected to a central processing unit (CPU) that controls the overall operation of the computer, and displays on a display device or a display device having a screen such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel that performs various displays based on the control of the CPU In a printing apparatus that prints a displayed screen or the like, vector data cannot be displayed or printed as it is.

  Therefore, in order to display characters or images indicated by vector data on a display device or to print them on a printing device, the vector data is converted into raster format data (hereinafter referred to as a data format) so that the display device or the printing device can interpret and handle it. In this specification, “raster data” is referred to as “raster data”).

For example, an RIP (Raster) having the above-described rasterization function is also used in an ink jet printer in which the entire operation is controlled by a microcomputer and predetermined printing is performed by an ink jet method.
Vector data is developed into a bitmap, that is, raster data, which shows a digital image as a sequence of colored points (pixels) by Image Processor. In this way, the RIP, which is a rasterizer having a rasterizing function, develops vector data into raster data, thereby realizing printing of characters and images indicated by the vector data in an ink-jet printer.

  Here, the conventional color printing process in the ink jet printer will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is an explanatory view schematically showing a conventional printing process in an ink jet printer, and FIG. 2 shows a conventional RIP realized by a microcomputer of the ink jet printer. A flowchart showing the process is shown.

First, an operator uses a DTP (DeskTop) on a computer such as a personal computer.
A publishing system software (for example, Adobe Illustrator (trademark) or the like) is used to create a digital image displayed on a display, for example, as shown in FIG. The process color print data indicating the digital image created by the operator in this way is vector data.

  Furthermore, the operator performs outline extraction processing using DTP software based on the generated process color print data, and white vector data indicating a print area with white ink as a base for printing. Create ink print data.

  That is, the operator creates two data in advance, process color print data and white ink print data. The process color print data and the white ink print data are each transferred to the RIP at a predetermined timing (see arrows (A) and (B) shown in FIG. 1).

  On the other hand, in RIP, first, in step S202, a process of reading white ink print data created by an operator is performed (see arrow (B) shown in FIG. 1).

  Then, based on various settings necessary for printing performed by the operator using an operator of the ink jet printer, etc., processing for reading basic print setting data indicating the contents of the settings is performed (step S204).

  Furthermore, based on various settings necessary for printing the printing background with white ink performed by an operator using an operator of an ink jet printer, etc., processing for reading the setting data for ground printing indicating the contents of the setting Is performed (step S206).

  Subsequently, in step S208, the white ink print data acquired in step S202 is rasterized (developed). As a result, the white ink print data, which was vector data, becomes white ink print data converted into raster data.

  In step S210, a process of converting the raster ink-converted white ink print data into white ink print native data that can be interpreted by the ink jet printer is performed.

  The native data for white ink printing generated by the processing in step S210 is output to the ink jet printer (see step S212 and the arrow (C) shown in FIG. 1). As a result, in the ink jet printer, printing based on native data for white ink printing, that is, white ink is injected into the white ink printing area indicated by the white ink printing data, and printing is performed by solid printing of white ink. The substrate for printing is printed on the medium (see FIG. 1).

  When printing based on the white ink print data is completed, processing for moving the medium in a predetermined direction and returning it to the origin position is performed based on the setting data for base printing acquired in step S206 (steps S214 and S214). (See FIG. 1).

  When the process of step S214 is completed, the process proceeds to step S216, and the process color print data created by the operator is read (see arrow (A) in FIG. 1).

  Then, based on various settings necessary for the process color printing performed by the operator using an operator of the ink jet printer, etc., a process of reading color printing setting data indicating the contents of the settings is performed (step S218).

  In step S220, the process color print data obtained in step S216 is rasterized (developed). As a result, the process color print data, which was vector data, becomes process color print data converted into raster data.

  In step S222, the process color printing data converted into raster data is converted into native data for process color printing which can be interpreted by the ink jet printer.

  The native data for process color printing generated by the process in step S222 is output to the ink jet printer (see step S224 and the arrow (D) shown in FIG. 1). As a result, in an ink-jet printer, printing based on native data for process color printing, that is, inks of various colors according to the image indicated by the process color printing data are ejected onto the printing base with white ink. Thus, the image indicated by the process color print data is printed on the medium (see FIG. 1).

  As described above, in the conventional printing process using an ink jet printer, an operator not only creates process color print data indicating a predetermined image as data for printing, but also the process color print data. Based on the above, it is necessary to create white ink print data for the printing base (see arrows (A) and (B) in FIG. 1), and the process color print data and the white ink print data are stored in advance. There was a problem that it had to be created.

  In addition, for printing based on the process color print data and white ink print data, which are two data created by the operator (see FIG. 1), various settings necessary for the print must be made separately. (Refer to step S206 and step S218), the operator is required to have the skill to adjust the RIP settings for each of the process color print data and the white ink print data, and the printing work is complicated. there were.

  The prior art that the applicant of the present application knows at the time of filing a patent is as described above and is not an invention related to a known literature, so there is no prior art information to be described.

  The present invention has been made in view of the various problems of the prior art as described above, and the object of the present invention is to realize high-performance data processing and various problems in printing. An image processing method, an image processing apparatus, a program, and an ink jet printer capable of solving the above problem are provided.

To achieve the above object, according to the first aspect of the present invention, vector data representing a predetermined image is rasterized and converted to native data that is a data format that can be processed by an output destination printing apparatus. A first step of rasterizing process color printing vector data representing a predetermined image and converting it into native data for process color printing, and a white ink printing vector representing the predetermined image Data for both process color printing and white ink printing from the second stage of rasterizing the data and converting it into native data for white ink printing, and the native data for process color printing and the native data for white ink printing The third stage of generating mixed native data including the above, and printing the mixed native data And a fourth step of outputting a location, the second phase, a new plane made a bit position where the bit in one of a plurality of planes that constitute the native data process color printing is standing On the other hand, native data for white ink printing is generated by performing an offset process or a magnification adjustment process for brazing .

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus for printing that rasterizes vector data representing a predetermined image and converts the data into native data that is a data format that can be processed by an output destination printing apparatus. And rasterizing the process color printing vector data representing a predetermined image and converting it into native data for process color printing, and rasterizing the white ink printing vector data representing the predetermined image. The second conversion means for converting into native data for white ink printing, and mixed native data including both process color printing and white ink printing data from the process color printing native data and the white ink printing native data Generation means for generating data and the mixed native data are output to the printing apparatus. And a force means, second conversion means, for the new plane made a bit position where the bit in one of a plurality of planes that constitute the native data process color printing is set, the offset processing Alternatively, native data for white ink printing is generated by performing magnification adjustment processing for brazing .

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ink-jet printer that performs printing based on the mixed native data generated by the printing image processing method according to the first aspect, wherein the ink -A jet printer is an ink jetting ink jet system that ejects ink onto a medium. An ink head having an ink head unit that is ejected from the ink head unit while relatively moving on the medium. Printing is performed on the medium, and at least the white ink printing ink head unit of the plurality of ink head units constituting the ink head matches the longitudinal direction of the medium. Are mixed with the remaining ink head units in the direction of Legislative and controls the ink head with the ink head unit according to the data, and control means for performing a process color printing and white ink printing, is obtained to have a.

  The invention according to claim 4 of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the image processing method for printing according to claim 1.

  The invention according to claim 5 of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as the printing image processing apparatus according to claim 2.

The image processing method, the image processing apparatus, the program, and the ink jet printer according to the present invention have excellent effects of realizing high-performance data processing and solving various problems in printing. Play.

It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the process of the conventional printing in an ink jet printer. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the conventional RIP implement | achieved by the micro computer of an ink jet printer. 1 is a schematic configuration explanatory diagram showing an example of an ink jet printer that realizes a first embodiment of an image processing method according to the present invention; FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the principal part of FIG. 3 typically corresponding to the Z arrow directional view of FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a printing process in the ink jet printer shown in FIG. 3. 4 is a flowchart showing RIP processing realized by a microcomputer of the ink jet printer shown in FIG. 3. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example (setting item 1-13) required for printing. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the production | generation process of the native data for white ink printing in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the production | generation process of the native data for white ink printing in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the processing of the native data for white ink printing in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process of RIP in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. (A) is explanatory drawing which showed the structure of the ink head in the 5th Embodiment of this invention corresponding to FIG. 3, (b) is the printing in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows this process. It is a flowchart which shows the process of RIP in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the production process of the mixed native data for printing in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other structure of the ink head of an ink jet printer. (A) (b) It is explanatory drawing which shows other embodiment of this invention. (A) is explanatory drawing which shows the conventional method, (b) is explanatory drawing which shows other embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of an image processing method, an image processing apparatus, a program, and an ink jet printer according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  Here, FIG. 3 shows a schematic configuration explanatory view showing an example of an ink jet printer that realizes the first embodiment of the image processing method according to the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the main part of FIG. 3 corresponding to the Z arrow view.

  A medium used in the ink jet printer has a predetermined length in the width direction of the medium (in this specification, the width direction of the medium is appropriately referred to as “main scanning direction”). And is transported in a direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction, that is, in the longitudinal direction of the medium. The direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction (that is, the medium conveying direction and the medium longitudinal direction) is hereinafter referred to as “sub-scanning direction” (see FIG. 4).

The ink jet printer 100 includes a fixed base member 112 that extends in the main scanning direction, and a side member 114L that is disposed at right and left ends of the base member 112 and orthogonal to the base member 112. 114R, five ink cartridges 116 that are disposed in the side member 114R and store liquid inks of different colors, and extended from each of the five ink cartridges 116, and each ink cartridge 116. The five ink tubes 118 for transporting and supplying the ink stored in the ink to the corresponding five ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 (described later) and five A tubular ink tube guide 120 that supports the ink tube 118 by being inserted therein;
A central wall 122 that connects the left and right side members 114L and 114R, and a plate-shaped ink tube guide that protrudes in parallel to the base member 112 from the wall surface of the central wall 122 and supports the ink tube guide 120. A receiving member 123, a wire 124 movably arranged in the main scanning direction parallel to the wall surface of the central wall 122, an ink head holder 130 fixedly arranged on the wire 124, and a side member And a control group 132 arranged on 114R.

  The overall operation of the ink jet printer 100 is controlled by a micro computer 200 (described later).

  Here, the ink head holder 130 includes five ink head units that eject inks of different colors respectively conveyed and supplied by five ink tubes 118 onto a medium by an ink jet method. An ink head 10 having 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 is mounted.

  The ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 constituting the ink head 10 have the same configuration, and are sequentially arranged in the ink head holder 130 along the main scanning direction. Specifically, in FIGS. 3 and 4, the ink head unit 12 is arranged on the leftmost side in the main scanning direction, and the ink head unit 20 is arranged on the rightmost side in the main scanning direction. In the order from the left side to the right side, the ink head unit 14 is disposed adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 12 and adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 14. The ink head unit 16 is disposed, and the ink head 18 is disposed adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 16. The ink head 20 is disposed adjacent to the 8 right side.

  That is, the five ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 constituting the ink head 10 are arranged in a line in a direction that coincides with the main scanning direction without shifting back and forth in the sub scanning direction. They are arranged sequentially (see FIG. 4).

  Although not shown in detail, on the lower surfaces of the five ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 constituting the ink head 10, ejection ports for ejecting ink to the medium The ink jet nozzles of the ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 are disposed so as to face the media, respectively. Has been.

  Further, as described above, the liquid inks contained in each of the five ink cartridges 116 are inks of different colors. Specifically, the ink cartridge 116 and the ink tube 118 are used. The ink head unit 12 is supplied with black (black) ink, the ink head unit 14 is supplied with blue (cyan) ink, and the ink head unit 16 is supplied with red ( The ink head unit 18 is supplied with yellow ink, and the ink head unit 20 is supplied with white ink.

  When ink is ejected from the ink jet nozzles of the ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 to the medium by the ink jet method, the ejected ink droplets are ejected on the medium. A dot is formed by falling on the medium and predetermined printing is performed on the medium.

  Here, the ink head holder 130 fixedly disposed on the wire 124 is wound by a driving device (not shown) such as a motor and moved in the main scanning direction. Along with the movement, it moves in the main scanning direction along the wall surface of the central wall 122.

  Therefore, the ink head 10 fixedly disposed on the ink head holder 130 also moves on the medium in the main scanning direction as the ink head holder 130 moves. That is, it moves in the main scanning direction from the side member 114R side to the side member 114L side, and also moves in the return direction in the main scanning direction from the side member 114L side to the side member 114R side.

  The operator group 132 is disposed on the side member 114R, and includes a display device that displays a predetermined menu on the screen, an input device that can select a desired position on the screen of the display device, and the like. It is configured to input a desired instruction of the user who uses the ink jet printer 100.

  Note that the contents of various settings performed by operating the operator group 132 are processed by the micro computer 200, and predetermined areas of the RAM 206 described later as information used for RIP processing realized by the micro computer 200. Is remembered.

  Here, the micro computer 200 controls the entire operation of the ink jet printer 100 including the drive control of the motor that winds the wire 124 described above.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the micro computer 200 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 202 that executes processing in accordance with a program stored in a read-only memory (ROM) 204 described later, and the present invention executed by the CPU 202. Operation of the ink jet printer 100 that stores various data used when the ink jet printer 100 is operated under the control of the CPU 202 and the ROM 204 in which a program storage unit that stores an image processing program or the like is set. And a random access memory (RAM) 206 in which an area as a working area is set.

  That is, the CPU 202 executes various processes in the RIP process realized by the microcomputer 200 including image processing according to the present invention, which will be described later, that is, a process for executing a program for realizing a process for covering all the printing procedures. Is what you do.

  In the above configuration, a case where printing is performed on a medium according to the first embodiment of the present invention using the ink jet printer 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a printing process in the ink jet printer 100, and FIG. 6 shows an RIP realized by the micro computer 200 of the ink jet printer 100. A flowchart showing the processing is shown.

First, an operator uses a DTP software (for example, Adobe) on a computer such as a personal computer.
Illustrator ™ and the like. ) To create a digital image that is displayed on a display, for example, as shown in FIG. The process color print data indicating the digital image created by the operator in this way is vector data.

  Further, the operator uses the operator 132 of the ink jet printer 100 to make various settings necessary for printing. FIG. 7 shows an example of setting items necessary for printing (setting items 1 to 13). The operator arbitrarily sets various items according to the image indicated by the process color print data. Is. In this embodiment, “Fix dot” is set as the dot size, and print basic setting data indicating the content of the setting is generated.

  Further, the operator uses the operator 132 of the ink jet printer 100 to make various settings necessary for printing the image indicated by the process color print data. In this embodiment, it is assumed that “print the base for printing with white ink first” is set, and color printing setting data indicating the contents of the setting is generated.

  In the RIP, first, in step S602, the process color print data created by the operator is read (see arrow (E) shown in FIG. 5).

  Then, a process of reading basic print setting data indicating the contents of the settings made by the operator is performed (step S604). In this embodiment, setting processing for performing printing (fixed dots of 1 bit / dot) with one kind of set dot of any size according to the content indicated by the read print basic setting data is performed. This is done in RIP.

  Further, processing for reading color printing setting data indicating the contents of the settings necessary for the process color printing performed by the operator is performed (step S606). In this embodiment, according to the content indicated by the read color printing setting data, setting processing for printing the background for printing with white ink is performed in the RIP first. In addition, to generate native data for white ink printing using the setting process as a trigger, and after printing based on the native data for white ink printing, the medium is returned to the origin to perform printing based on the process color print data. The setting process is automatically performed in the RIP.

  In step S608, the process color print data acquired in step S602 is rasterized (developed). As a result, the process color print data, which was vector data, becomes process color print data converted into raster data.

  In step S610, the process color printing data converted into raster data is converted into native data for process color printing that can be interpreted by the ink jet printer 100. That is, the native data for process color printing generated by the process of step S610 has a data format corresponding to the ink jet printer 100 that is the output destination of the native data for process color printing.

  Subsequent to the process of step S610, in step S612, based on the process color printing native data generated by the process of step S610, the white ink printing for white ink indicating the printing area by the white ink serving as the base for printing. Processing to create native data is performed. Here, the native data for white ink printing created by the RIP has a data format corresponding to the ink jet printer 100 that is the output destination of the native data for white ink printing. It can be interpreted by the printer 100.

  Here, the generation process of native data for white ink printing in step S612 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the data configuration of native data for process color printing generated by the process of step S610.

  The process color printing native data 30 has a data format that can be interpreted and handled by the ink-jet printer 100, and includes a plurality of raw 30-1, 30-2, 30-3,... 30-n ( “N” is a positive integer and is equal to the total number of raw.). One raw is composed of four planes: a black ink plane 30B, a blue ink plane 30C, a red ink plane 30M, and a yellow ink plane 30Y.

  When one pixel 32 is constituted by 1 bit of each of the four planes in the same column, and the native data 30 for process color printing of the pixel 32 is “0” in binary (when the bit is not set) In this case, the pixel 32 is not printed. On the other hand, when the native data 30 for process color printing of the pixel 32 is “1” in binary (when the bit is set), the corresponding data among black ink, blue ink, red ink, and yellow ink corresponds. According to the color, printing (fixed dot of 1 bit / dot) is performed on the pixel 32 with one type of dot of an arbitrary size set.

  Based on the process color printing native data 30 having such a data structure, a bit is generated in any one of the black ink plane 30B, the blue ink plane 30C, the red ink plane 30M, and the yellow ink plane 30Y in one pixel 32. Is set (that is, in the case of “1” in the binary system), the bit of the corresponding white ink plane 40W is set up (that is, “1” in the binary system). Native data 40 for white ink printing is created (see FIG. 8).

  As shown in FIG. 8, the native data 40 for white ink printing created in this way includes a plurality of raw 30-30, 30-2, 30-3,... 30 constituting native data 30 for process color printing. The total number of raw 40-1, 40-2, 40-3,... 40-n that matches −n (“n” is a positive integer and matches the total number of raw). ing.

  One raw of the native data 40 for white ink printing is composed of five planes: a black ink plane 40B, a blue ink plane 40C, a red ink plane 40M, a yellow ink plane 40Y, and a white ink plane 40W. Here, all the bits of the four planes of the black ink plane 40B, the blue ink plane 40C, the red ink plane 40M and the yellow ink plane 40Y other than the white ink plane 40W of the native data 40 for white ink printing are all It is “0” in binary.

  The white ink printing native data (refer to the white ink printing native data 40 shown in FIG. 8) generated by the processing in step S612 is output to the ink jet printer 100 (step S614 and FIG. 5). Arrow (F) shown).

  Then, in the ink jet printer 100, the wire 124 is moved by winding the wire 124, and the ink head 10 mounted on the ink head holder 130 is fed by the movement of the wire 124. It reciprocates along the main scanning direction on the medium supplied on the base member 112 by an apparatus (not shown). At this time, the ink head 10 that reciprocates in the main scanning direction ejects the white ink conveyed by the ink tube 118 from the ink head unit 20 toward the medium, and the ejected white ink flies. The drop falls to a predetermined position on the media.

  As a result, in the ink-jet printer 100, the white ink is ejected to the printing area of the white ink indicated by the native data for white ink printing, that is, the native data for white ink printing. A base for printing is printed on the medium by solid printing (see FIG. 5).

  When printing based on the native data for white ink printing is completed, the medium is moved along the sub-scanning direction in accordance with the procedure automatically set based on the color printing setting data acquired in step S606. Then, processing for returning to the origin position is performed (see step S616 and FIG. 5).

  Subsequently, the process color printing native data (see the process color printing native data 30 shown in FIG. 8) generated by the process of step S610 is output to the ink jet printer 100 (step S618 and FIG. Arrow (G) shown in FIG.

  Then, in the ink jet printer 100, the ink head 10 that reciprocates along the main scanning direction on the medium in accordance with the movement of the wire 124 is transferred to the black, blue, red, Yellow ink is ejected from the respective ink head units 12, 14, 16, and 18 toward the medium, and the ejected droplets of each color ink drop to a predetermined position on the medium.

  As a result, in the ink-jet printer 100, printing based on native data for process color printing, that is, inks of various colors are ejected onto a printing base with white ink according to the image indicated by the process color printing data. Then, the image indicated by the process color print data is printed on the medium (see FIG. 5).

  As described above, in the first embodiment according to the present invention, for the white ink printing that indicates the printing area by the white ink that is the base for printing based on the native data for process color printing inside the RIP. Since the native data is generated (see step S612 in FIG. 6 and FIG. 8), data necessary for printing for the background of the color printing of the image indicated by the process color printing data is automatically generated. .

  This eliminates the need for the operator to create white ink print data based on the process color print data as described in the “Background Art” section (see FIG. 1) as data for printing. When printing, the burden on the operator who creates in advance two data, process color print data and white ink print data, is reduced.

  Further, in the present invention, in accordance with the contents indicated by the color printing setting data read in the process of step S606, the background for printing is printed with white ink before the process of returning the medium to the origin after the background printing. Setting processing for this is automatically performed in the RIP.

  This eliminates the need for the operator to separately make various settings necessary for printing based on the process color print data and printing for the background, thereby simplifying the printing operation. In addition, according to the present invention, the skill for adjusting the RIP setting for each data for printing based on the process color print data and the background printing is not particularly required, and the print result is obtained regardless of the proficiency level of the operator. Can maintain high quality and achieve high operability.

  In addition, according to the present invention, data necessary for printing for the base of color printing of the image indicated by the process color print data is automatically generated, the RIP function can be expanded, and highly functional data processing is realized. Has been.

  Next, a second embodiment of the image processing method according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the following third, fourth, and fifth embodiments including the second embodiment, the same or equivalent configurations as those in the first embodiment are used in the first embodiment. Detailed description of the configuration and operation will be omitted by using reference numerals.

  In the second embodiment and the first embodiment described above, the processing for creating the native data for white ink printing (step S612 in FIG. 6) in the first embodiment described above is set. In contrast to the case where printing is performed with one type of dot of any size (fixed dot of 1 bit / dot) (see FIG. 8), white ink printing in the second embodiment is performed. Are different from each other in that the processing for creating the native data for printing corresponds to the case where printing (variable dots of 2 bits / dot) is performed with three types of dots of different sizes.

  Therefore, in the flowchart showing the RIP process shown in FIG. 6, the details of the process in each step other than the process in step S604 and the process in step S612 described later correspond to those in the first embodiment. Therefore, the detailed explanation is omitted by using the explanation.

  That is, in the second embodiment, when various settings necessary for printing (see FIG. 7) are made by the operator using the operator 132 of the ink jet printer 100, the dot size is set to “variable. Dot "is set, and basic print setting data indicating the contents of the setting is generated.

  Then, in the process of step S604 shown in FIG. 6, a process of reading the print basic setting data indicating the contents of the setting performed by the operator is performed, and three types of different sizes are provided according to the contents indicated by the read print basic setting data. A setting process for printing with dots (variable dots of 2 bits / dot) is performed in the RIP.

  Following step S610, in step S612, the data format corresponding to the ink jet printer 100, which is the output destination, is generated based on the native data for process color printing generated in step S610. And processing for creating native data for white ink printing that the ink jet printer 100 can interpret.

  First, FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the data structure of native data for process color printing generated by the processing of step S610. A plurality of native data 50 for process color printing are included. , 50-n ("n" is a positive integer and matches the total number of raw). One raw is composed of four planes: a black ink plane 50B, a blue ink plane 50C, a red ink plane 50M, and a yellow ink plane 50Y.

  When one pixel 52 is constituted by 2 bits of each of the four planes in the same column, and the process color printing native data 50 of the pixel 52 is “00” in binary, Printing is not performed.

  On the other hand, when the native data 50 for process color printing of the pixel 52 is “01” in the binary system, a small size dot (micro dot) is used. In the case of “10” in the binary system, a middle size dot is used. When the (middle dot) is “11” in binary, a large size dot (large dot) is printed on the pixel 52 with a corresponding color among black ink, blue ink, red ink, and yellow ink. (Variable dots of 2 bits / dot) are performed.

  Based on the native data 50 for process color printing having such a data structure, native data 55 for white ink printing is created by one of the following three methods (i), (ii), and (iii) ( (See FIG. 9). It should be noted that which method (i), (ii), or (iii) is selected may be specified by print basic setting data according to the operator's setting, or the type of image to be printed It may be automatically designated by RIP according to the above.

  (I) A black ink plane 50B, a blue ink plane 50C, a red ink plane 50M, and a yellow ink in the same column for each column of 2 bits forming one pixel 52 of the native data 50 for process color printing When a bit is set in any of the planes 50Y, the corresponding white ink plane 55W in the same row is set to generate the native data 55 for white ink printing.

  (Ii) The black ink plane 50B, the blue ink plane 50C, the red ink plane 50M, and the yellow ink regardless of the 2-bit columns forming one pixel 52 of the native data 50 for process color printing When a bit is set in any of the planes 50Y, a bit of a dot having a size specified by the RIP is set in a bit of the corresponding white ink plane 55W (that is, “01”, “10” in binary). Thus, the native data 55 for white ink printing is created.

  (Iii) The largest size dot among the black ink plane 50B, the blue ink plane 50C, the red ink plane 50M and the yellow ink plane 50Y of one pixel 52 of the native data 50 for process color printing is Native data 55 for white ink printing is created so as to stand on the bit of the corresponding white ink plane 55W.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the native data 55 for white ink printing created by any one of the above three methods (i), (ii), and (iii) includes a plurality of native data 50 for process color printing. The total number of raw 55-1, 55-2, 55-3, ... 55-n ("n" is a positive integer) that matches the raw 50-1, 50-2, 50-3, ... 50-n And the same as the total number of raw.).

  One raw data 55 for white ink printing is composed of five planes: a black ink plane 55B, a blue ink plane 55C, a red ink plane 55M, a yellow ink plane 55Y, and a white ink plane 55W. Here, all the bits of the four planes of the black ink plane 55B, the blue ink plane 55C, the red ink plane 55M and the yellow ink plane 55Y other than the white ink plane 55W of the native data 55 for white ink printing are all It is “0” in binary.

  The white ink printing native data (see the white ink printing native data 55 shown in FIG. 9) generated by the processing in step S612 is output to the ink jet printer 100 in step S614, and step S616 is executed. The process of S618 is sequentially performed, and the image indicated by the process color print data is printed on the printing base with the white ink of the medium (see FIG. 5).

  As described above, also in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment described above, data necessary for printing for the base of color printing of the image indicated by the process color print data is automatically obtained. Thus, the burden on the operator is reduced, the RIP function can be expanded, and high-function data processing is realized. In addition, it is no longer necessary for the operator to make various settings necessary for printing based on process color print data and printing for the background separately, making the printing work easier, regardless of the level of proficiency of the worker, The quality of the printing result can be maintained, and high operability is realized.

  Furthermore, in the second embodiment, even if printing is performed with three types of dots of different sizes (variable dots of 2 bits / dot), it is based on native data for process color printing inside the RIP. Native data for white ink printing can be created, and various types of printing can be supported.

  Next, a third embodiment of the image processing method according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the third embodiment and the first embodiment described above, the process for creating native data for white ink printing (step S612 in FIG. 6) in the first embodiment described above is a process color printing. While the native data 40 for white ink printing is created based on the native data 30 for printing (see FIG. 8), the native data creation processing for white ink printing in the third embodiment is performed. However, they are different from each other in that the native data 40 for white ink printing created based on the native data 30 for process color printing is processed.

  Accordingly, in the flowchart showing the RIP processing shown in FIG. 6, the details of the processing in each step other than the processing in step S612, which will be described later, correspond to those in the first embodiment described above. The detailed description is omitted.

  That is, in the third embodiment, following the process of step S610, in step S612, the ink jet that is the output destination is based on the native data for process color printing generated by the process of step S610. A process for generating native data for white ink printing having a data format corresponding to the printer 100 and interpretable by the ink jet printer 100 is performed.

  At this time, first, as shown in FIG. 8, the native data 40 for white ink printing is created by RIP based on the native data 30 for process color printing, as shown in FIG. (See arrow (H) shown).

  Furthermore, in the third embodiment, in the process of step S612, the created native data 40 for white ink printing is processed to obtain native data 44 for white ink printing (shown in FIG. 10). Arrow (I)).

  More specifically, in the white ink plane 40W of the native data 40 for white ink printing created based on the native data 30 for process color printing, the bits are continuously “0” in binary. Is detected, that is, a portion where bits are not continuously set is detected (see FIG. 10).

  Then, a determination process is performed to determine whether or not the total number of consecutive bits 0 at a detected portion where no consecutive bits are set is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. When it is determined that the bits of a predetermined numerical value or more are continuously “0”, all the bits of the detected portions where the consecutive bits are not set are set, that is, in binary notation. As “1”, native data 44 for white ink printing is created. At this time, if it is determined that the bits greater than or equal to the predetermined numerical value are not continuously “0”, the bit of the corresponding portion is not set.

  The white ink printing native data (refer to the white ink printing native data 44 shown in FIG. 10) generated by the processing in step S612 is output to the ink jet printer 100 in step S614, and step S616 is executed. The process of S618 is sequentially performed, and the image indicated by the process color print data is printed on the printing base with the white ink of the medium (see FIG. 5).

  As described above, also in the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment described above, data necessary for printing for the base of color printing of the image indicated by the process color print data is automatically obtained. Thus, the burden on the operator is reduced, the RIP function can be expanded, and high-function data processing is realized. In addition, it is no longer necessary for the operator to make various settings necessary for printing based on process color print data and printing for the background separately, making the printing work easier, regardless of the level of proficiency of the worker, The quality of the printing result can be maintained, and high operability is realized.

  Furthermore, in the third embodiment, native data for white ink printing created based on native data for process color printing is processed (see arrow (I) shown in FIG. 10). For this reason, for example, even when there is a gradation in a part of the process color print data, a bit is forcibly set in the native data for white ink printing, so that the background printing with the white ink is solid in the gradation area. Can be applied to a wider range of printing.

  Next, a fourth embodiment of the image processing method according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment described above, the process for creating the native data for white ink printing (step S612 in FIG. 6) in the first embodiment described above is the process color printing. While the native data 40 for white ink printing is created based on the native data 30 for printing (see FIG. 8), native data creation processing for white ink printing in the fourth embodiment is performed. However, they are different from each other in that native data for white ink printing is created based on the process color print data.

  Therefore, instead of the flowchart showing the RIP process shown in FIG. 6, in the fourth embodiment, the flowchart showing the RIP process realized by the microcomputer 200 of the ink jet printer 100 shown in FIG. Is executed.

  However, details of the processing of step S1102, step S1104, step S1106, step S1108, step S1110, step S1114, step S1116, and step S1118 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 are the same as those in FIG. 6 of the first embodiment described above. Since it corresponds to each of step S602, step S604, step S606, step S608, step S610, step S614, step S616, and step S618, the detailed description is omitted with the aid of the description.

  That is, in the fourth embodiment, in step S1120, based on the process color print data acquired in step S1102, an object drawn with a color outline having a name is extracted.

  Then, the object extracted in step S1120 is rasterized (developed) as white ink print data of vector data indicating a print area with white ink as a background for printing (step S1122). As a result, the white ink print data, which was vector data, becomes white ink print data converted into raster data.

  In step S1124, the white ink print data converted into raster data is converted into a data format corresponding to the output destination ink jet printer 100. The ink jet printer 100 can interpret the native data for white ink printing. Processing to convert to data is performed.

  In this way, native data for white ink printing created based on the process color print data is output to the ink jet printer 100 by the processing of step S1120 → step S1122 → step S1124 (step S1114).

  As described above, also in the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment described above, data necessary for printing for the base of color printing of the image indicated by the process color print data is automatically obtained. Thus, the burden on the operator is reduced, the RIP function can be expanded, and high-function data processing is realized. In addition, it is no longer necessary for the operator to make various settings necessary for printing based on process color print data and printing for the background separately, making the printing work easier, regardless of the level of proficiency of the worker, The quality of the printing result can be maintained, and high operability is realized.

  Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, native data for white ink printing can be created based on the process color print data (step S1120, step S1122, step S1124), and the image indicated by the process color print data can be generated. Various types of printing according to the type can be supported.

  Next, a fifth embodiment of the image processing method according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The fifth embodiment and the first embodiment described above are the five ink head units 12 constituting the ink head 10 of the ink jet printer 100 in the first embodiment described above. , 14, 16, 18, and 20 are sequentially arranged in a line in a direction that coincides with the main scanning direction without shifting back and forth in the sub-scanning direction (see FIG. 4). In the embodiment, the five ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 constituting the ink head 11 of the ink jet printer 100 are shifted back and forth in the sub-scanning direction to the main scanning direction. They are different from each other in that they are not arranged in a line in the matching direction, and data corresponding to the configuration of the ink head 11 is created and printed.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 12A, the ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 of the ink head 11 of the ink jet printer 100 according to the fifth embodiment are ink heads. The unit 12 is arranged on the leftmost side in the main scanning direction, and the ink head unit 14 is arranged adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 12 in order from the left side to the right side. The ink head unit 16 is disposed adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 14, and the ink head 18 is disposed adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 16. These ink head units 12, 14, 16, and 18 are sequentially arranged in a line in a direction that coincides with the main scanning direction without shifting back and forth in the sub-scanning direction.

  However, the ink head unit 20 that is arranged on the rightmost side in the main scanning direction and is supplied with white ink among the five ink head units is adjacent to the right side of the ink head unit 18. Instead, they are arranged so as to be shifted rearward in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the group of ink head units 12, 14, 16, and 18 arranged in a line in a direction that coincides with the main scanning direction. .

  In the fifth embodiment, the ink jet 11 shown in FIG. 13 is used in place of the flowchart showing the RIP process shown in FIG. 6 using the ink head 11 having such a configuration (see FIG. 12A). A flowchart showing RIP processing realized by the micro computer 200 of the printer 100 is executed.

  However, the details of the processing of step S1302, step S1304, step S1306, step S1308, and step S1310 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 13 are the same as steps S602, S604, and S606 of FIG. 6 of the first embodiment described above. Since it corresponds to each of step S608 and step S610, the detailed description is omitted by using the description.

  That is, in the fifth embodiment, in step S1312, the data format corresponding to the ink jet printer 100 that is the output destination is set based on the native data for process color printing generated by the processing in step S1310. And processing for creating mixed native data for printing that the ink jet printer 100 can interpret.

  The mixed native data for printing created here is data including both the native data 30 for process color printing and the native data 40 for white ink printing shown in FIG. 8 of the first embodiment. In this case, both printing of the base for printing with the white ink and printing of the image indicated by the process color print data are realized.

  Specifically, in step S1312, the black ink plane 30B in one pixel 32 based on native data 30 for process color printing (see FIGS. 8 and 14) having the same data configuration as FIG. If a bit is set in any of the blue ink plane 30C, the red ink plane 30M, and the yellow ink plane 30Y (ie, “1” in binary), the corresponding bit is set (ie, In this way, a white ink plane 60W is created.

  Then, the generated white ink plane 60 </ b> W is synthesized with the native data 30 for process color printing to create mixed native data 60 for printing. Therefore, the created mixed native data 60 for printing is composed of a plurality of raw 30-1, 30-2, 30-3,... 30 constituting the native data 30 for process color printing, as shown in FIG. The total number of raw 60-1, 60-2, 60-3,... 60-n that matches −n (“n” is a positive integer and matches the total number of raw). ing.

  One raw of the mixed native data 60 for printing is composed of five planes: a black ink plane 60B, a blue ink plane 60C, a red ink plane 60M, a yellow ink plane 60Y, and a white ink plane 60W. Here, the four planes of the black mixed ink 60 for printing other than the white ink plane 60W, the black ink plane 60B, the blue ink plane 60C, the red ink plane 60M, and the yellow ink plane 60Y are all process colors. It is a bit corresponding to the native data 30 for printing.

  The mixed native data for printing generated by the processing in step S1312 (see mixed native data for printing 60 shown in FIG. 14) is output to the ink jet printer 100 (step S1314).

  Then, in the ink jet printer 100, the wire 124 is moved by winding the wire 124, and along with the movement of the wire 124, the ink head 11 mounted on the ink head holder 130 (FIG. 12 ( a)) reciprocates along the main scanning direction on the medium supplied onto the base member 112 by a paper feeding device (not shown). At this time, the ink head 10 that reciprocates in the main scanning direction receives the black, blue, red, yellow, and white inks conveyed by the ink tube 118, respectively, in the ink head units 12, 14, 16, and 18. , 20 are ejected from the medium toward the medium, and the ejected ink droplets of the respective colors fall to predetermined positions on the medium.

  Here, in the ink head 11 of the ink jet printer 100, a group of inks in which the ink head units 20 that discharge white ink are arranged in a line in a direction that coincides with the main scanning direction. The head units 12, 14, 16 and 18 are arranged so as to be shifted rearward in the sub-scanning direction.

  As a result, the white ink is ejected from the ink head unit 20 to the printing area of the white ink indicated by the mixed native data for printing on the medium conveyed from the rear side to the front side in the sub-scanning direction. An image indicated by the process color print data is printed with a solid background of white ink, and ink of various colors is ejected onto the medium on which the background is printed based on the mixed native data for printing. Is printed (see FIG. 12B).

  That is, in the process in which the medium is transported from the rear side to the front side in the sub-scanning direction without moving the medium along the sub-scanning direction and returning to the original position, printing for the base and color printing are performed. Done at the same time.

  As described above, also in the fifth embodiment, as in the first embodiment described above, data necessary for printing for the base of color printing of the image indicated by the process color print data is automatically obtained. Thus, the burden on the operator is reduced, the RIP function can be expanded, and high-function data processing is realized. In addition, it is no longer necessary for the operator to make various settings necessary for printing based on process color print data and printing for the background separately, making the printing work easier, regardless of the level of proficiency of the worker, The quality of the printing result can be maintained, and high operability is realized.

  Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, mixed printing for data that includes both the native data 30 for process color printing and the native data 40 for white ink printing in the first embodiment described above. Since the native data 60 is generated, and only the ink head unit 20 has the ink head 11 (see FIG. 12) that is shifted in the direction that coincides with the sub-scanning direction, it is used for the background with white ink. Printing and color printing can be performed at the same time to advance printing without returning the medium to the origin position, thereby shortening the printing time.

  The embodiment described above may be modified as described in the following (1) to (12).

  (1) In the above-described embodiment, the ink heads 10 and 11 have the five ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Of course, the total number of ink head units that eject inks of various colors may be appropriately increased or decreased according to the color required for printing. Further, the color of the ink ejected from the ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 is not limited to the above-described black, blue, red, yellow, and white, and any color necessary for printing. The ink may be ejected.

  For example, when an ink head unit that discharges transparent ink (clear ink) for giving a transparent feeling is provided, and printing is performed with clear ink after color printing, the portion printed with clear ink For example, the effect of silk screen printing can be obtained.

  Further, an ink head unit that discharges liquid laminate ink may be provided. By discharging the laminating ink after the process color printing, it is not necessary to perform a general laminating process using a laminating film after the printing, and it is possible to prevent the printing from fading or being damaged.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, various input settings are performed by the operator group 132 provided in the ink-jet printer 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Various input settings may be made by a control device such as a personal computer connected to the ink jet printer.

  (3) In the above-described embodiment, the liquid ink contained in the ink cartridge 116, that is, the ink supplied to the ink head units 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20, for example, Various inks having a property of solidifying or thickening by irradiated light such as solvent ink and UV ink may be used.

  However, various changes may be made according to the type of ink to be used, such as securing a drying time or mounting a light irradiation means such as an ultraviolet lamp on the ink head holder 130.

  Specifically, in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above, when the printing for the background with the white ink is completed, the medium is returned to the origin position, and then the image is printed on the background. Printed in color (see FIG. 5). Therefore, when solvent ink is used, it is necessary to secure an arbitrary drying time. After a predetermined time has elapsed after the base printing, an image is printed in color on the base based on the process color print data. Control settings to In addition, when UV ink is used, the UV ink is cured if irradiated with ultraviolet rays. Therefore, after the medium is returned to the origin position, the drying time is not secured and the base color is determined based on the process color printing data. Control settings to print an image in color on top.

  Further, in the fifth embodiment (see FIGS. 12 to 14), since the printing for the base with the white ink and the color printing are simultaneously performed with the conveyance of the medium, it is not necessary to ensure the drying time. This is suitable for printing using no UV ink.

  (4) In the third embodiment described above, as shown in FIG. 10, a native for white ink printing can obtain a good printing result even when there is a gradation in part of the process color print data. Although the data is created, the present invention is not limited to this. Of course, the bit is forcibly set to the native data 40 for white ink printing created based on the native data 30 for process color printing. Other methods may be adopted, or various changes may be made so that the native data 40 for white ink printing is processed so as to be compatible with a region different from the gradation.

(5) In the fourth embodiment described above, in the process of step S1120 (see FIG. 11), the process of extracting an object drawn with a color outline having a name is performed based on the process color print data. Of course, this is not limited to this. For example, Adobe
Extraction processing of an object drawn by an outline of a designated color indicating a swatch color of Illustrator (trademark), a color painting having a designated color, a color painting having a name, or the like may be performed. . In short, it is only necessary to extract from the process color print data an object that can be rasterized as white ink print data in the process of step S1122 in accordance with a method according to the type of digital image.

  (6) In the fifth embodiment described above, the mixed native data for printing is generated based on the native data for process color printing by the processing in step S1312, but this is not limitative. Of course, when there is white ink print data indicating the print area of white ink that is the background for printing created by the user, mixed native data for printing is created using the white ink print data You may make it do.

  Specifically, the white ink print data created by the user is rasterized, and the white ink print data converted into raster data is converted into native data for white ink printing. Then, by combining the native data for white ink printing and the native data for process color printing into one, and creating native data in which white ink printing and process color printing planes are mixed, printing Mixed native data may be generated. The generation process is as if the native data 30 for process color printing and the native data 40 for white ink printing shown in FIG. 8 are combined.

  In the fifth embodiment, the ink head unit 20 to which the white ink is supplied is shifted from the ink head units 12, 14, 16, and 18 on the rear side in the sub-scanning direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this. If the ink is applied directly to the media transport direction, various coating agents, or printing media, the ink head 11 is used. In the case where ink is easily peeled off, the configuration of the ink head can be variously changed as shown in FIG.

  (7) In the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments described above, the data necessary for the printing for the base of the color printing of the image indicated by the process color printing data is automatically performed by different methods. Of course, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments are not limited to being applied to different ink jet printers.

  That is, a plurality of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments described above are employed in a single ink jet printer, and can be arbitrarily selected according to the operator's settings. Alternatively, it may be configured to be automatically selected by RIP depending on the type of image to be printed.

  (8) In the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments described above, the printing area for the background with the white ink and the area where the color printing of the image indicated by the process color print data is made to coincide. However, it is of course not limited to this (see FIG. 5), and the base print area and the print area of the image printed thereon may not match (FIG. 16). (See (a) and (b)).

  Specifically, when you want to deliberately shift the print area for the background and the print area of the image printed on it, or when you want to adjust and match them because they do not match as a result of printing An offset item for adjusting the degree of overlap between the two is provided so that it can be used (see FIG. 16A). Also, you can adjust the magnification of the base print area to an arbitrary size so that you can use it when you want to set how much wrinkle the print area of the image printed on it will be. 100%) (see FIG. 16B).

  The change as described above may be specified by print basic setting data, color printing setting data, or the like read into the RIP, or may include native data for white ink printing or mixed native data for printing. Further, the processing to be processed may be realized by the RIP.

  (9) In the above-described embodiment, the base for printing is printed on the medium by solid printing with the white ink ejected from the ink head unit 20 of the ink heads 10 and 11. However (see FIG. 5), the present invention is of course not limited to this. Instead of white ink, printing as a base may be performed with a coating agent. This coating agent is used as an undercoat when printing with UV ink or the like.

  Then, instead of the ink head unit 20 of the above-described embodiment, a head unit capable of applying a coating agent is disposed. In addition, the data necessary for the base printing of the color printing of the image indicated by the process color printing data automatically generated in the above-described embodiment, that is, the native data for white ink printing and the mixed native data for printing Is configured to be used for coating the coating agent, it becomes possible to print an image on a medium that has been undercoated with the coating agent.

  Here, conventionally, when undercoating with a coating agent and printing with an ink-jet printer, an undercoat coating agent is applied to the entire surface of the medium in advance using an air brush or the like, and then the printer is used. Printing was performed (see FIG. 17A).

  On the other hand, according to the present invention, since the coating agent is applied instead of the white ink of the above-described embodiment, the coating agent is used for native data for white ink printing or mixed native data for printing. The area to which the coating agent is applied is based on the above, and coincides with the area where the color printing of the image indicated by the subsequent process color printing data is performed (see FIG. 17B). Therefore, according to the present invention, it is not necessary to apply a coating agent to be an undercoat on the entire surface of the medium, so that the amount of the coating agent used can be reduced and the cost can be suppressed, which is economical. In addition, undercoating and printing can be performed in an ink jet printer, and the printing operation is simple.

  (10) In the above-described embodiment, after the base for printing is printed on the medium by solid ink printing with the white ink ejected from the ink head unit 20 of the ink heads 10 and 11, the base Although the image is printed on the image by color printing (see FIG. 5), it is of course not limited to this. After the image is first printed on the medium by color printing, the white color is printed. Backing printing may be performed by solid ink printing.

  Printing in which the process color is printed as described above and then backed with white ink is suitable for use in a printed material in which the medium is transparent and the transparent medium is visible from the back side of the printing surface on which the ink has fallen. is there.

  More specifically, for example, in the first embodiment described above, in step S606 (see FIG. 6), in accordance with the content indicated by the read color printing setting data, the back printing is performed with white ink after process color printing. Setting processing for this is performed in the RIP. Also, using this setting process as a trigger, the image is reversed left and right (mirror surface) and printed based on the process color print data, then the media is returned to the origin and the left and right reversed (mirror surface) generated for white ink printing A setting process for printing based on native data is automatically performed in the RIP. Then, native data for process color printing is output first, followed by native data for white ink printing so that the process of step S614 and the process of step S618 are interchanged. Backing printing can be realized with ink.

  Further, in the case of the fifth embodiment described above, the mixed native data for printing in step S1314 is merely changed in the same manner as in the case of the first embodiment described above, except for the details of the processing in step S1306. Is output, process color printing and backing printing with white ink can be realized simultaneously.

  Furthermore, if the coating agent is applied in place of the white ink ejected from the ink head unit 20, a top coat can be applied to the image printed with the process color by the coating agent. . Printing using a coating agent is also possible as described above, but the setting in the RIP applies the coating agent based on the generated native data for white ink printing without being reversed horizontally. It is good to do so.

  (11) In the above embodiment, the image processing method according to the present invention is realized in the ink jet printer 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this. The image processing apparatus according to the present invention may be configured separately from the printing apparatus, or may be implemented as a program used in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. Or you may make it implement as a computer-readable storage medium which memorize | stored the said program.

  That is, the present invention converts software and hardware used to output to the printer based on the EPS data prepared by the user, that is, converts the EPS data prepared by the user to native data for output to the printer. In addition, all of the devices used until immediately before transferring the native data to the printer are included. Specifically, software RIP operating on a general PC OS, or software RIP Software that can perform image processing equivalent to the above functions, software or hardware that operates in conjunction with software RIP, and hardware that can perform image processing equivalent to the functions of hardware RIP or hardware RIP Is.

  (12) The above-described embodiment and the modifications shown in (1) to (11) may be combined as appropriate.

  The present invention can be used in various types of printing apparatuses, hardware and software having a rasterizing function, and the like.

10, 11 Ink heads 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 Ink head unit 30 Native data for process color printing 40 Native data for white ink printing 112 Base member 114L, 114R Side member 116 Ink cartridge 118 Ink tube 124 Wire 130 Ink head holder 132 Controller group 100 Ink jet printer 200 Micro computer

Claims (5)

An image processing method for printing that rasterizes vector data representing a predetermined image and converts it into native data that is a data format that can be processed by an output destination printing apparatus,
A first step of rasterizing vector data for process color printing indicating a predetermined image and converting it into native data for process color printing;
A second step of rasterizing white ink printing vector data representing a predetermined image and converting it into white ink printing native data;
A third stage of generating mixed native data including both process color printing and white ink printing data from the process color printing native data and the white ink printing native data;
A fourth step of outputting the mixed native data to a printing device ;
In the second step, offset processing or brazing is performed on a new plane in which a bit is set at a place where a bit is set in any of a plurality of planes constituting the process color printing native data. A printing image processing method for generating the white ink printing native data by performing magnification adjustment processing . A printing image processing apparatus that rasterizes vector data representing a predetermined image and converts it into native data that is a data format that can be processed by an output destination printing apparatus,
First conversion means for rasterizing process color printing vector data representing a predetermined image and converting it into native data for process color printing;
Second conversion means for rasterizing vector data for white ink printing representing a predetermined image and converting it into native data for white ink printing;
Generating means for generating mixed native data including both process color printing and white ink printing data from the process color printing native data and the white ink printing native data;
Output means for outputting the mixed native data to a printing apparatus ;
The second conversion means performs offset processing or brazing on a new plane in which a bit is set at a place where a bit is set in any of a plurality of planes constituting the process color printing native data. An image processing apparatus for printing that generates the white ink print native data by performing the magnification adjustment process . An ink-jet printer that performs printing based on the mixed native data generated by the printing image processing method according to claim 1,
In the ink jet printer, an ink head having an ink head unit for discharging ink onto a medium by an ink jet method is discharged from the ink head unit while relatively moving on the medium. Printing on the medium with the ink
The ink head unit for printing at least white ink among the plurality of ink head units constituting the ink head is in relation to the remaining ink head unit in a direction coinciding with the longitudinal direction of the medium. Are offset and
Control means for controlling the ink head including the ink head unit according to the mixed native data to perform process color printing and white ink printing;
An ink jet printer.   A program for causing a computer to execute the printing image processing method according to claim 1. A program for causing a computer to function as the printing image processing apparatus according to claim 2.