JP6145057B2 - Printing system, method, program, halftone processing condition evaluation method, system, program, halftone processing condition presentation system, method, program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing system, method, program, halftone processing condition evaluation method, system, program, halftone processing condition presentation system, method, and program, and in particular, optimizes the halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing. Related to technology.

  A printing system such as an ink jet recording apparatus performs halftone processing on image data to be printed expressed in multiple gradations, thereby specifying print data (dot arrangement, size, etc.) corresponding to the configuration of the printing unit. Data) is generated.

  For the halftone process, a systematic dither method, an error diffusion method, a density pattern method, a random dot method, or the like can be applied. For example, in the systematic dither method using the Bayer-type threshold matrix, the pixel value of the processing target pixel is compared with the threshold value, and when the pixel value is equal to or larger than the threshold value, the dot is turned on. If the pixel value is less than the threshold value, the dot off is assigned to convert the multivalued image data into binary dot data.

  Patent Document 1 describes a printing system that can select a halftone process suitable for printed matter. The printing system described in this document selects one halftone processing condition from halftone processing conditions (a plurality of signal processing conditions having different dot distribution characteristics) with different dot arrangement rules, and the selected halftone processing conditions Is used to perform halftone processing.

JP 2012-222433 A

  However, depending on conditions such as the type of printing system, medium (recording medium, paper, etc.), the state of the printing system, etc., there are printing patterns that are good and weak. The relationship between conditions and problems is listed below as an example.

[Applicability of printing system and printing pattern]
When the printing system is offset printing, it excels at an AM network in which gradation is expressed by the area of halftone dots, but an AM network having a high number of lines or an FM network in which gradation is expressed by the density of halftone dots, The printed image may be uneven due to poor fillability.

  When the printing system is an inkjet system, the structure of the inkjet head interferes with the periodic structure of the AM network, and when the AM network is used, the discharge performance called crosstalk is reduced.

[Adequacy of media type and print pattern]
When coated paper with a smooth surface is used, problems do not occur even when high-line AM and FM networks are used, but when non-coated paper with irregularities is used, high-line AM and FM networks are used. When a net is used, the halftone processing conditions are lost, and uneven density and mottle-like graininess are produced.

  When using photo paper with good ink absorbency, the ink is quickly absorbed by the media, so it is difficult for the ink to bleed, but when using coated paper with poor ink absorbency, bleed occurs and becomes a problem. .

  Furthermore, when printing is performed with an inkjet method using coated paper or the like having poor ink absorbability, a landing interference phenomenon occurs in which dots are united between adjacent pixels, often resulting in poor line reproducibility and graininess. Deterioration occurs.

[Appropriateness of printing system status and printing pattern]
When the printing system is offset printing, density unevenness occurs in the printed image due to uneven printing pressure. When the AM network with a low number of lines is used, uneven density due to uneven printing pressure becomes difficult to see.

  When the printing system is an inkjet system, streaks may occur in an image printed due to a nozzle failure. When using halftone processing conditions for realizing low-frequency dot arrangement, when using halftone processing conditions in which dots are arranged in an agglomerated manner by several pixels, streaks due to nozzle failure are difficult to see.

  That is, there is a relationship between the pattern to be printed and the printing system, media type, and printing system status. Conventionally, the above-described problems have been solved by, for example, a response to select halftone processing conditions empirically according to conditions and a response to adjust the system according to conditions.

  Although the printing system described in Patent Document 1 can grasp the production suitability of signal processing conditions (halftone processing conditions) and can select a signal processing condition with good production suitability, At the time of evaluation, the calculation result of the halftone processing unit is reproduced (actually the same processing as the halftone processing is executed), so it takes time to obtain the evaluation result.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and it is possible to select a halftone processing condition suitable for various conditions related to the printing system without obtaining a processing result of the halftone processing. An object of the present invention is to provide a program, a halftone processing condition evaluation method, a system, a program, a halftone processing condition presentation system, a method, and a program.

  In order to achieve the above object, the printing unit for printing on a recording medium, a halftone processing unit for performing halftone processing on image data to be printed, and halftone processing in the halftone processing unit are used. A halftone processing condition storage unit that stores two or more types of halftone processing conditions, and a quality evaluation chart that is used for quality evaluation of two or more types of halftone processing conditions. The quality evaluation chart generation unit that generates a quality evaluation chart including two or more kinds of arranged quality evaluation patterns and the printing unit are controlled to cause the printing unit to print the generated quality evaluation chart. A print control unit, a quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit that acquires read data of the printed quality evaluation chart, A quality evaluation information generating unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the obtained quality evaluation chart, and two or more types of stored halftone processes For each of the conditions, a similarity evaluation information storage unit storing similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns, generated quality evaluation information, and stored similarities An aptitude prediction information generation unit that generates aptitude prediction information of stored halftone processing conditions using degree evaluation information, and two or more types of halftone processing stored based on the generated aptitude prediction information Halftone processing condition selection that selects the halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing in the halftone processing section from the conditions If, to provide a printing system having a.

  According to the present invention, in a printing system in which two or more types of halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing are stored, two or more types of quality evaluation patterns that are evaluated for the degree of similarity to the halftone processing conditions are included. A quality evaluation chart is generated, and quality evaluation information of the quality evaluation chart is generated based on the read data of the quality evaluation chart.

  Suitability prediction information for each halftone processing condition is generated using the quality evaluation information for each generated quality evaluation pattern and the similarity evaluation information indicating the degree of similarity between the quality evaluation pattern and the halftone processing condition. The

  Halftone processing conditions that are balanced with various printing conditions according to the printing system, media type, and printing system status based on the generated suitability prediction information without obtaining halftone processing results Selection support becomes possible.

1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The block diagram which shows the structural example of the printing part shown in FIG. The block diagram which shows the structural example of the image process part shown in FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the image processing in the image processing part shown in FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the halftone process condition selection assistance applied to the printing system shown in FIG. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of a similarity table typically Explanatory drawing which shows an example of a quality evaluation table typically Explanatory drawing which shows the other example of a quality evaluation table typically Explanatory drawing which shows an example of a quality prediction value table typically Explanatory drawing which shows an example of a QCD weight table typically Explanatory drawing which shows an example of an individual quality weight table typically Explanatory drawing which shows an example of a gradation weight table typically Flow chart showing the flow of automatic change of the gradation weight table based on the image to be printed Explanatory drawing schematically showing an example of quality evaluation pattern Explanatory drawing schematically showing another example of quality evaluation pattern Explanatory drawing schematically showing another example of quality evaluation pattern Explanatory drawing schematically showing another example of quality evaluation pattern Explanatory drawing schematically showing another example of quality evaluation pattern Explanatory drawing schematically showing another example of quality evaluation pattern Explanatory drawing of the dot arrangement rule of the pattern for quality evaluation shown in FIGS. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the chart for quality evaluation typically Explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the chart for quality evaluation typically Illustration of in-plane unevenness evaluation Explanatory drawing of evaluation of unevenness over time Illustration of similarity table generation Flow chart showing flow of similarity table generation Overall configuration diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus as another application example of a printing system Explanatory drawing of full line type ink jet head

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[Overall configuration of printing system]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The printing system 10 shown in FIG. 1 mainly includes a printing unit 12 that performs printing on a recording medium, and a print control unit 14 that controls the printing unit 12.

  The printing system 10 also generates an image data acquisition unit 16 that acquires image data to be printed, and performs image processing on the acquired image data to generate print data (dot data) to be provided to the printing unit 12. And an image processing unit 18.

  Further, a halftone (HT) processing condition storage unit 20 that stores two or more types of halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing by the image processing unit 18 and two types stored in the halftone processing condition storage unit 20. Of the above halftone processing conditions, a halftone (HT) processing condition presentation unit 21 that presents halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing, and a halftone that selects halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing (HT) processing condition selection unit 22.

  The printing system 10 shown in this example has a function of supporting selection of halftone processing conditions. As a configuration for realizing the halftone processing condition selection support function, the printing system 10 includes a quality evaluation chart (indicated by reference numerals 240 and 270 in FIGS. 21 and 22) in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule. ) For generating the quality evaluation chart, the read data acquisition unit 26 for acquiring the read data of the quality evaluation chart printed by the printing unit 12, and the quality evaluation chart acquired by the read data acquisition unit 26 Quality evaluation table generation unit 28 that generates a quality evaluation table (shown with reference numeral 106 in FIG. 5) representing the quality of the pattern for quality evaluation from the read data of, and a quality evaluation table storage unit that stores the quality evaluation table 30.

  The quality evaluation table generation unit 28 illustrated in FIG. 1 functions as a quality evaluation information generation unit that generates quality evaluation information such as a quality evaluation table, a quality evaluation function, and a quality evaluation value.

  Further, as a configuration for realizing the halftone processing condition selection support function, the printing system 10 includes a similarity table (reference numeral 100 in FIG. 5) that represents the similarity (similarity) between the halftone processing conditions and the quality evaluation pattern. Quality of generating a similarity table storage unit 32 in which is stored) and a quality prediction value table (indicated by reference numeral 108 in FIG. 5) in which quality prediction values for each halftone processing condition are stored A prediction value table generation unit 33 and a quality prediction value table storage unit 35 in which the quality prediction value table is stored are provided.

  The quality prediction value and the quality prediction value table are aptitude prediction information for predicting the suitability of the halftone processing conditions for printing, and the quality prediction value table generation unit 33 illustrated in FIG. 1 functions as an aptitude prediction information generation unit. The predicted value table storage unit 35 functions as an aptitude prediction information storage unit.

Furthermore, as a configuration for realizing the halftone processing condition selection support function, the printing system 10 generates a cost evaluation table (not shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 5) generated by evaluating the cost for printing for each halftone processing condition. And a productivity evaluation table generated by evaluating productivity at the time of printing for each halftone processing condition (reference numeral 104 in FIG. 5). And a productivity evaluation table storage unit 36 in which is stored).
The cost evaluation table storage unit 34 functions as a cost evaluation information storage unit that stores cost evaluation information such as a cost evaluation table, a cost evaluation function, and a cost evaluation value. The productivity evaluation table storage unit 36 functions as a productivity evaluation information storage unit that stores productivity evaluation information such as a productivity evaluation table, a productivity evaluation function, and a productivity evaluation value.

  Furthermore, as a configuration for realizing the halftone processing condition selection support function, a priority parameter acquisition unit 38 that acquires a priority parameter (an index indicating the priority of an evaluation item), and a priority based on the acquired priority parameter A priority parameter table generating unit 40 that generates a degree parameter table (shown with reference numeral 110 in FIG. 5), and a priority parameter table storage unit 42 that stores the generated priority parameter table. Yes. The priority parameter table generation unit 40 and the priority parameter table storage unit 42 function as a priority parameter information generation unit and a priority parameter information storage unit.

  The system control unit 44 comprehensively controls each unit constituting the printing system 10. The system control unit 44 has a function of sending a command signal to each part of the apparatus based on information (data) input, processing results, and the like. Also, it has a function as a memory controller that controls writing of information to the storage unit of various information and reading of information from the various storage units.

  The operation unit 46 functions as means for inputting information to the printing system 10 by a user operation. Examples of the operation unit 46 include a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, and a touch panel.

  The display unit 48 is a means for displaying various information in the printing system 10. Examples of various types of information include system operating status, system setting status, and various setting screens. A monitor device such as an LCD monitor is applied to the display unit 48.

[Configuration example of printing section]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the printing unit 12. In the figure, a configuration example when an ink jet system is applied as the printing unit 12 is shown. The printing unit 12 shown in the figure includes a print data acquisition unit 50 that acquires print data (dot data, illustrated by reference numeral 86 in FIG. 4), a drive waveform storage unit 52 that stores a drive waveform, and a drive. A drive signal generation unit 58 that receives power supply from the power supply unit 54, amplifies the drive waveform, and generates a drive signal (drive voltage) supplied to the inkjet (IJ) head 56.

  Although FIG. 2 illustrates the printing unit to which the inkjet method is applied, the printing unit provided in the printing system according to the present invention is not limited to the inkjet method. For example, it is possible to apply other on-demand printing such as electrophotography. It is also possible to apply a printing method using a printing plate such as offset printing.

[Configuration example of image processing unit]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the image processing unit 18. In the figure, a configuration example of the image processing unit 18 when the inkjet method is applied as the printing unit 12 is shown. The image processing unit 18 shown in the figure includes an image data acquisition unit 60 that acquires image data (for example, raster data represented by gradation values from 0 to 255), and a color conversion process on the acquired image data. A color conversion processing unit 62 for performing color separation, and a color separation processing unit 64 for performing color separation (separation) processing on the image data subjected to the color conversion processing.

  The image processing unit 18 also performs a correction processing unit 66 that performs correction processing such as gamma correction and density unevenness correction on the image data separated into each color, and half the image data of each color that has been subjected to the correction processing. A halftone processing unit 68 that performs tone processing and a print data storage unit 70 that stores print data (dot data) generated by the halftone processing are provided.

  A dither method, an error diffusion method, a DBS (direct binary search) method, or the like can be applied to the halftone process.

  The print data generated by the image processing unit 18 may be expressed in gradation by binary (dot on / off), or may be expressed by multiple gradations (halftones) by dot size. A multi-tone (halftone) may be expressed by the number of dots constituting one pixel.

  FIG. 3 illustrates the configuration of the image processing unit 18 when the inkjet method is applied as the printing unit 12 (see FIGS. 1 and 2), but the configuration of the image processing unit 18 is applied to the printing unit 12. A configuration according to the printing method is adopted.

[Description of image processing]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of image processing in the image processing unit 18 (see FIGS. 1 and 3). When the image data 80 is acquired (step S10: image data acquisition step), color conversion processing is performed on the acquired image data 80 (step S12: color conversion processing step).

  As an example of color conversion processing, RGB image data is converted into CMYK image data in which color representation is performed using ink basic colors C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black). Processing to convert is mentioned.

  When the CMYK image data 82 is generated, color separation processing is performed to separate the CMYK image data 82 into image data for each color (step S14: color separation processing step). Generated.

  The CMYK image data 84 is subjected to correction processing such as gamma correction and density unevenness correction (step S16: correction processing step) and halftone processing (step S18: halftone processing step), binary, Alternatively, multi-value print data (dot data) 86 is generated.

[Explanation of halftone processing condition selection support]
Next, the halftone processing condition selection support function installed in the printing system 10 will be described in detail. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of halftone processing condition selection support applied to the printing system 10 shown in FIG.

  As described above, in the printing system 10, two or more types of halftone processing conditions are stored in the halftone processing condition storage unit 20 (see FIG. 1). Each halftone processing condition stored in the halftone processing condition storage unit 20 has a similarity (similarity) to a quality evaluation pattern (shown with reference numerals 220 to 230 in FIGS. 14 to 19) for each gradation. The similarity table 100 is generated. The generated similarity table 100 is stored in the similarity table storage unit 32 (see FIG. 1).

  The pattern for quality evaluation is a pattern in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule (number of dots per unit area, spatial frequency characteristics in dot arrangement frequency space (dot arrangement interval), dot cohesiveness, etc.) It is a pattern with regularity, not a complicated dot arrangement like the dot arrangement obtained as a result of halftone processing (details will be described later).

  A quality evaluation chart (see FIGS. 21 and 22) including two or more types of quality evaluation patterns is generated in advance by the quality evaluation chart generator 24 (see FIG. 1).

  A cost evaluation table 102 generated by the system developer evaluating the cost for printing for each halftone processing condition stored in the halftone processing condition storage unit 20 is a cost evaluation table storage unit. 34 (see FIG. 1).

  Further, the productivity evaluation table 104 generated by the system developer evaluating the productivity at the time of printing is stored in advance in the productivity evaluation table storage unit 36 (see FIG. 1).

  Here, “the cost for printing” is determined mainly from the viewpoint of the amount of ink used. The “productivity at the time of printing” is determined mainly from the viewpoint of the time (processing time) spent for the halftone process.

  First, a quality evaluation chart is printed using the printing unit 12 (see FIG. 1) (step S100: quality evaluation chart printing step).

  Next, the printed quality evaluation chart is scanned, and read data (scanned image) of the quality evaluation chart is acquired (step S102: quality evaluation chart read data acquisition step). For reading the quality evaluation chart, a reading device (scanner) separated from the printing system 10 may be used, or an inline scanner provided in the printing system 10 may be used.

  The quality evaluation table generation unit 28 (see FIG. 1) determines the area of each quality evaluation pattern from the read data of the quality evaluation chart, and determines a predetermined quality evaluation for each area of the quality evaluation pattern. A quality evaluation value is calculated for the item, and a quality evaluation table 106 is generated (step S104: quality evaluation table generation step).

  The quality evaluation table generation process in FIG. 5 functions as a quality evaluation information generation process for generating a quality evaluation value, which is quality evaluation information, and a quality evaluation table.

  When the quality evaluation table 106 is generated, a quality prediction value (total quality score) of each halftone processing condition is calculated using the similarity table 100 and the quality evaluation table 106 stored in advance (step S106: Quality predicted value calculation step), the quality predicted value table 108 is generated (step S108: quality predicted value table generating step).

  The quality prediction value table generation process in FIG. 5 functions as a quality prediction value that is the appropriateness prediction information and an aptitude prediction information generation process that generates a quality prediction value table.

  When the quality prediction value table 108 is generated, the optimum halftone processing conditions for quality are presented (step S110: halftone processing condition presentation step), and the halftone processing conditions used for the halftone processing are selected (step S110). S112: Halftone processing condition selection step). Halftone processing is executed using the halftone processing conditions selected at the time of printing.

[Example of halftone processing condition selection]
As a mode for selecting the halftone processing conditions, a mode in which the optimum halftone processing conditions are displayed on the display device (monitor device) and the user inputs selection information using the operation unit 46 (see FIG. 1) is adopted. Can do. When the optimum halftone processing conditions are presented, the printing system 10 (see FIG. 1) automatically selects (sets) the presented halftone processing conditions as the halftone processing conditions used for the halftone processing. Can be adopted.

  In the aspect in which the printing system 10 automatically sets the halftone processing conditions, the halftone processing condition presentation step (step S110 in FIG. 5) may be omitted.

[Configuration example using priority parameter table]
The priority parameter table 110 shown in FIG. 5 is a QCD weight table (FIG. 5) in which quality (Q), printing cost (C), and productivity (D) priority (weight) are specified. 5 (not shown in FIG. 10, shown with reference numeral 110A in FIG. 10), and an individual quality weight table in which the priority (weight) of quality evaluation items is defined (not shown in FIG. 5, with reference numeral 110B in FIG. 11). Are shown). The priority parameter table 110 is used as priority parameter information.

  The priority parameter acquisition unit 38 (see FIG. 1) indicates which of the priority parameter indicating which of the quality, the cost of printing, and the productivity of printing is to be prioritized, and which of the quality evaluation items is to be prioritized. When the priority parameter is acquired, a priority parameter table 110 indicating the acquired quality, the cost of printing, the priority of productivity at the time of printing, and the priority of quality evaluation items is generated.

  When the priority parameter table 110 is generated, a priority parameter is set by the user using the operation unit 46 (see FIG. 1), and the set priority parameter is acquired by the priority parameter acquisition unit 38. Is possible. In this aspect, the operation unit 46 functions as a priority parameter setting unit that sets a priority parameter.

  In the halftone processing condition presentation step shown in FIG. 5, using the quality prediction value table 108, the cost evaluation table 102, the productivity evaluation table 104, and the priority parameter table 110 (QCD weight table 110A shown in FIG. 10), It is possible to present halftone processing conditions that are predicted to have the best balance of quality, printing cost, and productivity.

  And halftone processing conditions such as quality priority, printing cost priority, and printing productivity priority are presented, so that the balance of quality, printing cost, and printing productivity is the best. It is possible to select a halftone processing condition that is predicted to be good.

  In addition, by considering the priority parameter for the quality evaluation item, it is possible to select an optimum halftone processing condition for quality. The individual quality weight table in which the priority between the quality evaluation items is defined can be applied to the quality prediction value calculation step (step S106 in FIG. 5) for calculating the quality prediction value. By calculating the quality prediction value using the individual quality weight table, the quality prediction value in consideration of the priority for the quality evaluation item is calculated.

[Configuration example using gradation weight table]
The gradation weight table 112 illustrated in FIG. 5 defines gradation priorities (weights) such as shadow side priority and highlight side priority. The gradation weight table 112 is used as gradation weight information.

  When the gradation weight representing the priority of the gradation is acquired using the priority parameter acquisition unit 38, the gradation weight table 112 is generated based on the acquired gradation weight. The gradation weight table 112 is generated by the priority parameter table generation unit 40.

  The priority parameter acquisition unit 38 functions as a gradation weight acquisition unit that acquires gradation weights representing gradation priority, and the priority parameter table generation unit 40 generates gradation weight information that generates gradation weight information. It functions as a part.

  As an aspect of acquiring the gradation weight, there is an aspect in which the gradation weight is set by the user using the operation unit 46 (see FIG. 1), and the set gradation weight is acquired by the priority parameter acquisition unit 38. In such an aspect, the operation unit 46 functions as a gradation weight setting unit.

  Although details will be described later, a mode in which the gradation weight table 112 is automatically changed in accordance with an image to be printed (user job image) is also possible. In this aspect, every time the user job image is changed, the gradation weight table 112 is changed, and selection of halftone processing conditions is executed.

  The halftone processing condition selection is executed when the printing system 10 is started up. Alternatively, it may be executed when the printing system (printing unit 12) is adjusted, changed, exchanged, or the like. Since the halftone processing conditions are determined for each ink color to be used, the halftone processing conditions are selected for each ink color to be used.

[Description of similarity table]
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an example of the similarity table 100. The similarity table 100 shown in FIG. 6 includes three types of quality evaluation patterns (assuming that patterns A, B, and tentatively) for each of the three types of halftone processing conditions (assumed to be halftones 1, 2, and 3). An evaluation value (hereinafter referred to as “similarity evaluation value”) indicating the degree of similarity to C. is stored.

  In addition, for each quality evaluation pattern, a similarity evaluation value with each halftone processing condition is calculated and stored for four types of gradations (assuming gradations a, b, c, and d). Further, a value obtained by summing the similarity evaluation values for each gradation (similarity evaluation representative value described in the “total” column) is calculated and stored.

  The similarity evaluation value stored in the similarity table 100 of FIG. 6 represents that the degree of similarity is higher (similar) as the numerical value is larger. For example, it can be said that the pattern A has a high degree of similarity with the halftone 1.

[Explanation of quality evaluation table]
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an example of the quality evaluation table 106 (see FIG. 5). The quality evaluation table 106A illustrated in FIG. 7 includes five types of quality evaluation items (average density, graininess, streak (one-dimensional) for three types of quality evaluation patterns (assuming patterns A, B, and C). Quality evaluation value (quality evaluation value) is calculated and stored in the case of uneven density density), in-plane unevenness (two-dimensional density unevenness, unevenness over time).

  In the quality evaluation table 106A shown in FIG. 7, the quality evaluation value is standardized for each quality evaluation item.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing another example of the quality evaluation table 106 (see FIG. 5). The quality evaluation table 106B shown in FIG. 8 shows the quality of two types of quality evaluation items (positional stability and time stability) for three types of quality evaluation patterns (assumed to be patterns A, B, and C). An evaluation value (quality evaluation value) is calculated and stored.

  The quality evaluation items shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 are examples, and the quality evaluation items can be appropriately added, deleted, changed, and the like.

[Explanation of quality prediction value table]
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of the quality prediction value table 108. The quality predicted value table 108 shown in FIG. 9 is obtained by calculating the evaluation values of the similarity table 100 shown in FIG. 6 and the quality evaluation table 106B shown in FIG. Evaluation values in the prediction (assumed to be evaluation value 1 and evaluation value 2) are calculated, and the quality prediction value is calculated from the calculated evaluation value in the quality prediction.

  The quality prediction value table 108 shown in FIG. 9 stores two types of evaluation values (evaluation value 1 and evaluation value 2). The evaluation value 1 is calculated by multiplying the similarity evaluation representative value for each pattern and the position stability evaluation value for each pattern for each halftone processing condition.

  The evaluation value 2 is calculated by multiplying the similarity evaluation representative value for each pattern for each halftone processing condition and the evaluation value for temporal stability for each pattern. A total evaluation value is calculated by adding the evaluation value 1 and the evaluation value 2 for each halftone processing condition and for each pattern.

  Furthermore, a value obtained by summing up the total evaluation values of the patterns for each halftone processing condition is used as a quality prediction value for each halftone processing condition.

  Here, “positional stability” is at least one of the concept including the average density, graininess, streaks, and in-plane unevenness shown in FIG. 7, and at least one of the average density, graininess, streaks, and in-plane unevenness. It can be one. For example, the aspect which makes in-plane nonuniformity position stability is mentioned. Further, “time stability” may be a concept including unevenness over time illustrated in FIG.

  In the quality prediction value table 108 illustrated in FIG. 9, the relationship between the quality prediction values of halftones 1, 2, and 3 is as follows: Quality prediction value of halftone 1> Quality prediction value of halftone 3> Quality prediction value of halftone 2 As a result of evaluating the quality of each quality evaluation pattern from the viewpoint of position stability and time stability, halftone 2 is presented as the optimum halftone processing condition.

  Note that the presentation form of the optimum halftone processing condition may present a quality prediction value for each halftone processing condition.

  As the evaluation values constituting the quality prediction value table 108 illustrated in FIG. 9, the similarity table 100 illustrated in FIG. 6 and the quality evaluation table 106B illustrated in FIG. 8 (the quality evaluation table 106A illustrated in FIG. 7) are used. It is only necessary to be generated and is not limited to the above-described form.

The quality evaluation value (E _total ) in the quality prediction value table 108 illustrated in FIG. 9 is calculated by the following equation [Equation 10].

In the above [Equation 10], q, c, and d are quality item values, cost item values, and productivity item values, respectively (see FIGS. 6 and 7). W ₁ (q), W ₁ (c), and W ₁ (d) are the quality weight, cost weight, and productivity weight of the priority parameter table, respectively (see FIG. 10, details will be described later).

Further, e _q (ht, pat) is a quality evaluation value (evaluation values 1 and 2 in FIG. 9) for the quality evaluation pattern (pat) for each halftone processing condition (ht), and e _c (ht) is a half The cost evaluation value for each tone processing condition (ht) (information stored in the cost evaluation table 102 in FIG. 5, a preset fixed value), e _d (ht) is the production for each halftone processing condition (ht). Evaluation value (information stored in the productivity evaluation table 104 in FIG. 5, a preset fixed value).

The quality evaluation value e _q (ht, pat) in the above [Equation 10] is expressed by the following equation [Equation 11].

W ₂ (item) in the above [Equation 11] is a weight for each quality item (item) in the individual quality weight table 110B (see FIG. 11, details will be described later), and Q (pat, item) is a quality evaluation table ( 7 is an evaluation value for each quality evaluation item (item) and for each quality evaluation pattern (pat) in reference numeral 106A in FIG. 7 and reference numeral 106B in FIG.

In addition, W ₃ (lev) in the above [Equation 11] is a weight for each gradation (lev) in the gradation weight table 112 (see FIG. 12, details will be described later), and S (ht, pat, lev) is This is a similarity evaluation value for each halftone processing condition (ht), for each quality evaluation pattern (pat), and for each gradation (lev) in the similarity table 100 (see FIG. 6).

[Description of priority parameter table]
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an example of a QCD weight table, which is one form of the priority parameter table 110. In the QCD weight table 110A shown in the figure, quality, printing cost, and productivity weight (balance) are determined. The higher the numerical value, the higher the priority, and the lower the numerical value, the higher the priority. The rank is lowered.

  The QCD weight table 110A shown in FIG. 10 is quality-oriented, quality is most important, productivity is next important, and cost is most neglected.

Obtained by the priority parameter acquisition unit 38 of FIG. 1, in accordance with the priority parameter information representative of the quality, cost of printing, the productivity of priority during printing, "quality-oriented", "cost emphasized" A QCD weight table such as “productivity-oriented” is generated.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an example of an individual quality weight table, which is one form of the priority parameter table 110. In the individual quality weight table 110B shown in the figure, for five types of quality evaluation items, the weights between the quality items are determined. The higher the numerical value, the higher the priority, and the lower the numerical value, the lower the priority. .

  The individual quality weight table 110B illustrated in FIG. 11 has a higher priority in the order of unevenness over time, in-plane unevenness, streaks, graininess, and average density.

  An individual quality weight table in which the priority (weight) of the quality evaluation items is changed is generated according to the priority parameter information representing the priority of the quality evaluation items acquired by the priority parameter acquisition unit 38 of FIG. The

[Description of gradation weight table]
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an example of a gradation weight table used as gradation weight information. In the gradation weight table 112 shown in the figure, priorities for four kinds of gradations (gradation a <gradation b <gradation c <gradation d) are determined. In the gradation weight table 112 shown in FIG. 12, the priority of the gradation d having the highest gradation value is the highest, and the priority becomes lower as the gradation value becomes lower.

  Gradation weights such as “highlight side priority”, “shadow side priority”, and “halftone priority” according to the priority parameter information indicating the priority of the gradation acquired by the priority parameter acquisition unit 38 of FIG. A table is generated.

  According to the printing system and the printing method configured as described above, the quality evaluation pattern in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule in the printing system 10 in which two or more types of halftone processing conditions are stored. And a similarity table 100 representing the degree of similarity with each halftone processing condition is prepared.

  The quality evaluation pattern read data printed using the printing unit 12 is acquired, the quality evaluation items are evaluated for each quality evaluation pattern, and the quality evaluation table 106 is generated.

  A quality prediction value for each halftone processing condition is calculated using the quality evaluation table 106 and the similarity table 100, a quality prediction value table 108 is generated, a halftone processing condition that takes quality into consideration is presented, and the quality An optimum halftone processing condition can be selected from the viewpoint.

  Since the quality of each halftone processing condition is evaluated from the print result of the quality evaluation pattern in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule, the halftone processing conditions are evaluated without executing halftone processing. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the period spent for quality evaluation in selecting halftone processing conditions.

  Also, halftones that take into account the balance of quality, printing cost, and printing productivity based on priority parameter information that represents the priority of quality, printing cost, and printing productivity Processing conditions are presented, and it is possible to select a halftone processing condition that provides the best balance of quality, cost for printing, and productivity for printing.

  Further, halftone processing conditions based on priority parameter information representing gradation priority are presented, and selection of halftone processing conditions in consideration of gradation priority becomes possible.

[Application example of gradation weight table]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a flow of automatic generation of a gradation weight table based on an image to be printed. A gradation weight table 112 (see FIGS. 5 and 12) is automatically generated according to the gradation characteristics of the image to be printed (user job image), and gradation weights according to the gradation characteristics of the image to be printed are set. It is possible to select a halftone processing condition in consideration.

  First, an image to be printed is registered (step S200: print target image registration step). Next, the gradation characteristic information 200 of the registered image is acquired (step S202: gradation characteristic information acquisition step).

  When acquiring the gradation characteristic information, the image to be printed is subjected to color separation, and gradation characteristic information for each color is acquired. As an example of the acquired gradation characteristic information, a histogram representing the appearance frequency for each gradation can be cited.

  Based on the acquired gradation characteristic information, a gradation weight table 202 reflecting the gradation characteristics of the image to be printed is generated (step S204: gradation weight table generation step).

  The automatic generation of the gradation weight table corresponding to the image to be printed may be executed every time the image to be printed is changed.

  A gradation weight table is automatically generated according to the gradation characteristics of the image to be printed, so that halftone processing conditions that take into account the gradation characteristics of the image to be printed are presented, and the image to be printed Therefore, it is possible to select a halftone processing condition suitable for the tone characteristics.

[Explanation of quality evaluation chart]
14 to 19 are explanatory diagrams schematically illustrating examples of quality evaluation patterns, and FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram of the dot arrangement rules of the quality evaluation patterns illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 19. Moreover, FIG. 21 is explanatory drawing which shows typically an example of the pattern for quality evaluation comprised from two or more types of quality evaluation charts.

  14 to 19, one square represents a pixel, and a filled pixel represents a pixel on which a dot is arranged.

  The pattern for quality evaluation described below defines the regularity of the number of dots per unit area, spatial frequency characteristics, and dot cohesiveness. The number of dots per unit area, spatial frequency characteristics, and dot cohesiveness are defined. From this point of view, the halftone processing conditions can be evaluated.

  In the quality evaluation pattern 220 shown in FIG. 14, dots are arranged every other pixel in the x direction and the y direction. In the quality evaluation pattern 222 shown in FIG. 15, dots are arranged every other pixel in the x direction, and dots are arranged every two pixels in the y direction.

  In the quality evaluation pattern 224 illustrated in FIG. 16, dots are arranged in an oblique direction, and dots are arranged every other pixel in the x direction and continuously in the y direction. The quality evaluation pattern 226 shown in FIG. 17 also has dots arranged in an oblique direction and dots arranged in a staggered pattern.

  The quality evaluation pattern 228 illustrated in FIG. 18 and the quality evaluation pattern illustrated in FIG. 19 are aggregated dot arrangements in which dots are continuously arranged in at least one of the x direction and the y direction.

The dot arrangement rule shown in FIG. 20 is a generalization of points (pixels) where dots are arranged in the quality evaluation patterns 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 shown in FIGS. The point P _{n, m} where the dot is arranged is expressed by the following equation [Equation 1].

  Based on the dot arrangement shown in [Equation 1], the quality evaluation pattern is generated in consideration of the dot arrangement rules in the x and y directions, the cohesiveness, and the number of consecutive basic patterns.

In the above [Equation 1], _{pn, m} indicates a point where a dot is arranged. n and m are arbitrary integers. _Further, a x, _{a y} is the x component, y component of the vector _a, b x, _{b y,} the x component of the vector b is the _y-component, c x, _{c y} is the x component of vector c , Y component.

a _α , b _α , and c _α represent scalar quantities of the vectors a, b, and c, where a _α and b _α are natural numbers, and c _α is an integer. That is, n, m, c _α ∈ Z (Z is an integer), a _α , b _α ∈ N (N is a natural number).

  The vector a and the vector b are reference vectors for determining points where dots are arranged, and the vector c is applied in the case of agglomerated dot arrangement (dot arrangement in which dots are arranged at adjacent points). Is a vector.

  A vector a and a vector b are determined based on the point o in FIG. The angle formed by the vector a and the vector b can be an arbitrary angle, and the vector a and the vector b do not have to be orthogonal.

A point P where a dot is placed next to the point o is a point that is obtained by multiplying the vector a and the vector b by an integer multiple from the point o, and can be expressed as P _{n, m} = o + na + mb. A point P _{1,1 in} FIG. 20 represents a point where dots are arranged when n = 1 and m = 1.

Further, considering the agglomerated dot arrangement, the point P _{n, m} where the dot is arranged can be expressed as P _{n, m} = o + na + mb + c. Here, if c is too large, it cannot be distinguished from dots arranged at other points. Therefore, the conditions of | c _α / a _α ≦ 0.5 | and | c _α / b _α ≦ 0.5 | Required. If the dot arrangement is not agglomerated, c = 0.

When P _{n, m} = o + na + mb + c is expressed by a determinant, [Expression 1] is obtained. the above〔
In equation (1), the vectors a, b, and c are grouped together for convenience, and the matrix x is the group of n and m.

  In the quality evaluation patterns 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230 shown in FIGS. 14 to 19, the matrix x of the above [Equation 1] can be expressed as the following [Equation 2] to [Equation 7]. .

  However, the dot arrangement rule of the quality evaluation pattern is not limited to the above example. It may be based on a predetermined arrangement rule.

  The quality evaluation chart 240 illustrated in FIG. 21 is applied to an aspect in which the inkjet method is applied to the printing unit 12 of FIG. 1 and a full-line inkjet head is provided. A full-line type ink jet head is a length longer than the total length of the recording medium in the width direction (nozzle alignment direction) of the recording medium orthogonal to the relative conveyance direction (paper feeding direction) between the ink jet head and the recording medium (paper). An inkjet head having a structure in which nozzles are arranged.

  A printing system equipped with a full-line type inkjet head is capable of single-pass image formation in which an image is formed over the entire image forming area of a recording medium by relatively moving the recording medium and the inkjet head only once. Is possible.

  The quality evaluation chart 240 shown in FIG. 21 is a group of quality evaluation patterns 242, 244, and 246 in which a plurality of types of quality evaluation patterns (see FIGS. 14 to 19) are arranged along the width direction of the recording medium. , 248, 250, 252, 254, 256, 258, 260, and the quality evaluation pattern groups 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, 252, 254, 256, 258, 260 are arranged along the paper feed direction. Has been.

  Further, different quality evaluation patterns are applied to the quality evaluation pattern groups 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, 252, 254, 256, 258, and 260, respectively.

  The quality evaluation chart 270 illustrated in FIG. 22 is applied to an aspect in which the inkjet method is applied to the printing unit 12 of FIG. 1 and a serial inkjet head is provided. The serial type inkjet head is an inkjet head having a structure in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged in a recording medium (paper) conveyance direction (paper feeding direction, sub-scanning direction).

  In the image formation using the serial type ink jet head, an image having a length corresponding to the nozzle arrangement is formed in the transport direction of the recording medium while the ink jet head is scanned in the width direction (main scanning direction) of the recording medium. When the image formation for one time in the transport direction is performed, the recording medium is moved by a certain amount along the transport direction of the recording medium, and image formation is performed for the next area.

  By repeating this operation, an image is formed over the entire image forming area of the recording medium.

  The number of quality evaluation pattern groups constituting the quality evaluation chart is not limited to the twelve types of the quality evaluation chart 240 illustrated in FIG. 21 and the twelve types of the quality evaluation chart 240 illustrated in FIG. The number is appropriately determined according to the number of stored halftone processing conditions, the contents of the halftone processing conditions, and the like.

[Explanation of evaluation examples for each quality evaluation item]
Next, an evaluation example for each quality evaluation item will be described. The quality evaluation table 106A illustrated in FIG. 7 is preferably standardized in consideration of an operation (multiplication with other tables) when generating the quality prediction value table 108 illustrated in FIG. The quality evaluation table 106A illustrated in FIG. 7 has a relative ratio of quantitative evaluation values for each quality evaluation pattern (patterns A, B, and C) (a value in which the sum of values for each quality evaluation item is 1). Yes.

<Evaluation example of graininess>
In the evaluation of granularity, a granular value (evaluation value of granularity) is calculated. The granular value is calculated for each area (each quality evaluation pattern) in the plane where the quality evaluation chart is formed, and the average value of all the areas (all quality evaluation patterns) (total of granular values / number of granular values) And this value is used as a granular value.

  As the granular value, it is also possible to apply a known evaluation value of granularity such as an RMS value or the sum of the winner spectrum after VTF superimposition.

<Evaluation example of in-plane unevenness>
FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram of the evaluation of in-plane unevenness, and is a density profile in any one direction within the surface on which the quality evaluation chart is formed. An in-plane unevenness evaluation value is calculated for each quality evaluation pattern using the density profile shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 23, a density profile in the x direction (the width direction of the recording medium) is generated for each quality evaluation pattern. In FIG. 23, only three types of typical density profiles are shown. When the density profile for each quality evaluation pattern is generated, the standard deviation is calculated for each density profile, and the standard deviation is divided by the in-plane average density to obtain the in-plane unevenness evaluation value E _{pat ( t)} is calculated. Here, pat (t) represents “the in-plane unevenness evaluation value of the t-th quality evaluation pattern”.

The in-plane unevenness evaluation value E _{pat (t)} for each quality evaluation pattern is expressed by the following equation [Equation 8].

<Example of evaluation of unevenness over time>
FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of evaluation of unevenness over time, and a quality evaluation chart for a plurality of quality evaluation charts (u _1st sheet, u _2nd sheet, u _3rd sheet) printed at different printing timings. Is a concentration profile in any one direction within the plane on which is formed. Using the density profile shown in FIG. 24, an evaluation value for unevenness over time is calculated for each quality evaluation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 23, a density profile in the x direction (the width direction of the recording medium) is generated for each quality evaluation pattern. In FIG. 23, only three types of typical density profiles are shown for each quality evaluation chart.

The density value difference between the density profiles is calculated for each position in the x direction of each density profile, the maximum value among the calculated absolute values of the density difference value is obtained, and the obtained maximum value is used as the in-plane average density value. By dividing by, an evaluation value e _pat for unevenness over time is calculated. The non-uniformity evaluation value e _pat over time is expressed by the following equation [Equation 9].

<Example of streak evaluation>
A streak is a state in which white streaky density unevenness or black streaky density unevenness occurs along an arbitrary direction on the image forming surface. In ink jet image formation, it is caused by a specific nozzle failure. Occur.

  In the streak evaluation, the absolute contrast value of the portion with the strongest streak is calculated as the streak evaluation value. That is, in the quality evaluation chart, the in-plane average density value is subtracted from the density value of the streak portion for the strongest streak portion (the position where the density difference from the adjacent position is maximum), and the streak evaluation value is calculated. .

<Evaluation example of average concentration>
In the evaluation of the average density, an average density value is calculated for each quality evaluation pattern and used as an average density evaluation value.

[Explanation of similarity evaluation]
Next, generation of the similarity evaluation table illustrated in FIG. 5 will be described. FIG. 25 is a conceptual diagram showing a flow of similarity evaluation table generation.

  The degree of similarity between the plurality of halftone processing conditions 1 stored in advance in the printing system 10 and the quality evaluation pattern 2 stored in advance in the printing system 10 is evaluated (step S300: similarity evaluation step). The similarity table 100 is generated based on the evaluated similarity (step S302: similarity table generation step).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the similarity evaluation step (step S300) of FIG. First, two or more types of quality evaluation patterns 2 are generated (step S310: quality evaluation pattern generation step).

  Next, for each halftone processing condition, a dot arrangement (halftone pattern) corresponding to each gradation is output (step S312: halftone pattern output step). The output of the halftone pattern may be printing or simulation.

  Next, with respect to the output halftone pattern, the number of quality evaluation patterns per unit area is obtained (step S314: search step), and each quality evaluation pattern and halftone processing conditions are determined from the obtained number. A similarity evaluation value is calculated (step S316: similarity evaluation value calculation step), and a similarity table 100 is generated (step S302: similarity table generation step).

  Dot arrangement that is independent of the dot arrangement that reflects the halftone processing conditions, and by analyzing the dot arrangement that reflects the halftone processing conditions using a dot pattern with a certain regularity, halftone processing is performed. The similarity between each quality evaluation pattern and the halftone processing conditions can be evaluated without executing and using a complicated analysis method.

  Next, another example of the similarity evaluation table generation will be described. First, two or more types of quality evaluation patterns 2 are generated (quality evaluation pattern generation step), and for each halftone processing condition, a dot arrangement (halftone pattern) corresponding to each gradation is output (halftone pattern). Output process). A halftone pattern is output. Up to this point, it is the same as the above example.

  Next, the cross-correlation value with the quality evaluation pattern is calculated at each pixel position of the halftone pattern for each gradation (cross-correlation value calculation step), and the average value of the cross-correlation values for all the pixels of the halftone pattern (Similarity evaluation value calculation step), the similarity evaluation value between each quality evaluation pattern and the halftone processing condition is calculated from the calculated average value, and the similarity table 100 is generated (similarity) Table generation step).

  Evaluation of similarity using cross-correlation values is expected to obtain highly reliable results.

  In the various evaluations described above, examples of evaluation in the real space have been described. However, various evaluations can be performed in the frequency space.

  The evaluation of the similarity between the halftone processing condition and the quality evaluation pattern described here can be used independently of the printing system described above as the evaluation of the halftone processing condition.

  In other words, the dot arrangement is independent of the dot arrangement reflecting the halftone processing conditions, and the halftone is analyzed by analyzing the dot arrangement reflecting the halftone processing conditions using a dot pattern having a certain regularity. It is possible to grasp the performance of the halftone processing conditions from the performance evaluation result of the dot pattern having a certain regularity without executing the processing and without using a complicated analysis method.

[Application examples of other systems (devices)]
Next, another system (apparatus) application example will be described.

  FIG. 27 is an overall configuration diagram of an inkjet recording apparatus 300 that functions as a printing system. The inkjet recording apparatus 300 shown in the figure includes a transport unit 304 that transports the recording medium 302 and black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y) color inks with respect to the recording medium 302. And a printing unit 307 having ink jet heads 306K, 306C, 306M, and 306Y. The printing unit 307 corresponds to the printing unit 12 in FIG.

  The transport unit 304 has a structure in which an endless transport belt 308 is wound around a pair of rollers 310 and 312. The conveyance unit 304 includes a negative pressure generation unit 314 that generates negative pressure (suction pressure) from the back side of the conveyance belt 308 (opposite side of the printing unit 307). The negative pressure generator 314 is connected to the pump 316 and operates the pump 316 to generate a negative pressure.

By applying the negative pressure generated by the negative pressure generating unit 314 to the recording medium 302, the recording medium 302 is sucked and fixed to the conveyance belt 308.

  A guide roller 320 for bringing the recording medium 302 into close contact with the recording medium support surface of the conveyance belt 308 is provided in the carry-in portion 318 of the recording medium 302. A guide roller 324 is also provided in the discharge unit 322 of the recording medium 302.

  A heater 326 that heats the recording medium is disposed on the upstream side of the printing unit 307 in the recording medium conveyance direction, and the recording medium sent immediately below the printing unit 307 is adjusted to a preset temperature.

  An inline sensor 328 that reads an image formed on the recording medium is disposed on the downstream side of the printing unit 307 in the recording medium conveyance direction. Based on the read data acquired from the in-line sensor 328, the ejection abnormality of the ink jet heads 306K, 306C, 306M, 306Y can be detected.

  FIG. 28 is a plan perspective view showing a structural example of the ink jet heads 306K, 306C, 306M, and 306Y shown in FIG. Since a common structure is applied to the inkjet heads 306K, 306C, 306M, and 306Y illustrated in FIG. 27, the inkjet head is illustrated with reference numeral 306 in FIG.

  28 includes a plurality of inkjet heads 306 over a length that is equal to or greater than the total length in the width direction of the recording medium (shown by an arrow line with a symbol M) orthogonal to the relative conveyance direction of the inkjet head 306 and the recording medium 302. This is a full line type inkjet head in which the nozzles are arranged.

  Note that the direction indicated by reference numeral S in FIG. 28 is the relative conveyance direction between the inkjet head 306 and the recording medium 302.

Ink jet head 306 illustrated in FIG. 28, the row direction along the widthwise direction of the recording medium 302, and the oblique column direction intersecting the width direction of the recording medium 302, a plurality of nozzles 350 are two-dimensionally (matrix) This is a so-called matrix head arranged.

  In the projected nozzle group in which the plurality of nozzles 350 arranged in the inkjet head 306 are projected in the width direction of the recording medium 302, the plurality of nozzles 350 are arranged at equal intervals in the same direction.

  The configuration of the printing unit 12 illustrated in FIG. 2 can be applied to the printing unit 307 of the inkjet recording apparatus 300. Further, the configuration of the image processing unit 18 illustrated in FIG. 3 can be applied to an image processing unit (not illustrated) of the inkjet recording apparatus 300.

  Each nozzle 350 communicates with the pressure chamber 352. The pressure chamber 352 is provided with a discharge pressure generating element (not shown) that applies a discharge pressure to the ink in the pressure chamber 352. By operating the ejection force generating element, the ink in the pressure chamber 352 is ejected from the nozzle 350.

  As the ejection force generating element, a piezoelectric element that causes a deflection deformation when a driving voltage is applied, a heating element that is heated when a driving voltage is applied, or the like can be used.

  The configuration including the nozzle 350, the pressure chamber 352, the flow path for communicating the nozzle 350 and the pressure chamber 352, and the ejection force generating element functions as the ejection element (recording element) 354.

  The ink jet head is not limited to the full line type, and a serial type ink jet head can be applied.

  In addition, an aspect provided with a pretreatment part such as a treatment liquid application step for applying a treatment liquid that reacts with ink to develop aggregation (or insolubilization) in the ink, actinic rays that cause a curing reaction by irradiation with actinic rays such as ultraviolet rays An embodiment using a curable ink (ultraviolet curable ink) can be applied.

  As a conveyance mode of the recording medium 302, a rotary conveyance method using an impression cylinder (conveyance drum) can be applied. In addition, a mode including a post-processing unit such as a fixing unit that fixes an image formed on the recording medium 302 can be applied.

[Example of application to halftone processing condition presentation system, method, and program]
The printing system described above is a halftone selection condition system, method, and program that presents halftone selection conditions used for halftone processing of a printing apparatus (external device) from two or more types of halftone processing conditions. Can be applied.

  For example, a quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected is generated in advance, and a quality evaluation chart printed by a printing apparatus to which the selected halftone processing conditions are applied A read data acquisition unit (read data acquisition step) for acquiring read data, a quality evaluation information generation unit (quality evaluation information generation step) for generating quality evaluation information from the read data of the quality evaluation chart, a halftone processing condition to be selected, and Similarity evaluation information acquisition unit (similarity evaluation information acquisition step) for acquiring similarity evaluation information representing the degree of similarity with the pattern for quality evaluation, halftone processing of a selection target using the quality evaluation information and the similarity evaluation information The aptitude prediction information generation unit (appropriate prediction information generation step) that generates the aptitude prediction information of the condition, the selection target haha based on the aptitude prediction information It is possible to configure a halftone processing condition presentation system (method) including a halftone processing condition presentation unit (halftone processing condition presentation step) that presents an optimum halftone processing condition from among the tone processing conditions. .

  In addition, it is possible to configure a program that causes a computer to execute the functions of each part of the halftone processing condition presentation system.

  The printing system, printing method, halftone pattern evaluation method, and halftone pattern evaluation system described above can be changed, added, or deleted as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Moreover, it is also possible to combine each embodiment mentioned above suitably.

[Invention disclosed in this specification]
As will be understood from the description of the embodiments of the invention described in detail above, the present specification includes disclosure of various technical ideas including at least the invention described below.

  (First aspect): a printing unit that performs printing on a recording medium, a halftone processing unit that performs halftone processing on image data to be printed, and a halftone that is used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit A halftone processing condition storage unit that stores two or more types of processing conditions, and a quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of two or more types of halftone processing conditions, in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule Control unit for generating a quality evaluation chart including two or more types of quality evaluation patterns, and a print control for controlling the printing unit to cause the printing unit to print the generated quality evaluation chart A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit for acquiring the read data of the printed quality evaluation chart, and the acquired product A quality evaluation information generating unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from read data of the evaluation chart, and each of two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions A similarity evaluation information storage unit storing similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns, generated quality evaluation information, and stored similarity evaluation information An aptitude prediction information generating unit that generates aptitude prediction information of the stored halftone processing conditions, and based on the generated aptitude prediction information, from among two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions A halftone processing condition selection unit for selecting a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit. Printing system.

  According to the first aspect, in the printing system in which two or more types of halftone processing conditions used for the halftone processing are stored, two or more types of quality evaluation patterns whose degree of similarity with the halftone processing conditions is evaluated A quality evaluation chart is generated, and quality evaluation information of the quality evaluation chart is generated based on the read data of the quality evaluation chart.

  Suitability prediction information for each halftone processing condition is generated using the quality evaluation information for each generated quality evaluation pattern and the similarity evaluation information indicating the degree of similarity between the quality evaluation pattern and the halftone processing condition. The

  Halftone processing conditions that are balanced with various printing conditions according to the printing system, media type, and printing system status based on the generated suitability prediction information without obtaining halftone processing results Selection support becomes possible.

  The quality evaluation information includes a quality evaluation value, a quality evaluation function, and a quality evaluation table.

  The similarity evaluation information includes a similarity evaluation value, a similarity evaluation function, and a similarity evaluation table.

  The suitability prediction information includes suitability prediction values and suitability prediction tables.

  (Second aspect): In the printing system according to the first aspect, priority parameter acquisition for acquiring a priority parameter indicating which of quality, printing cost, and productivity of printing is to be prioritized. And a priority parameter information generation unit that generates priority parameter information indicating the priority for each parameter based on the acquired priority parameter, and the halftone processing condition selection unit includes the acquired priority In consideration of the degree parameter information, a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit is selected from two or more kinds of stored halftone processing conditions.

  According to the second aspect, by acquiring a priority parameter indicating which parameter of quality, printing cost, and productivity is given priority, quality, printing cost, printing It is possible to support selection of optimum halftone processing conditions with a good balance of productivity.

  (Third Aspect): In the printing system according to the second aspect, the priority parameter acquisition unit includes, as a quality evaluation item in the quality parameter, graininess, one-dimensional density unevenness, two-dimensional density unevenness, time A priority parameter including at least one item of the density unevenness and the average density is acquired.

  According to the third aspect, it is possible to support selection of optimum halftone processing conditions having a good balance of graininess, one-dimensional density unevenness, two-dimensional density unevenness, time-dependent density unevenness, and average density. Become.

  Examples of one-dimensional density unevenness include streaks (density unevenness along any one direction).

  Examples of two-dimensional density unevenness include density unevenness (in-plane unevenness) in any two directions on the surface on which the quality evaluation chart is formed.

  (Fourth aspect): In the printing system according to the second aspect, the priority parameter acquisition unit includes a priority parameter including at least one item of position stability and time stability as a quality evaluation item in the quality parameter. Get information.

  According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to support selection of an optimum halftone processing condition with a good balance between position stability and time stability.

  Examples of position stability include granularity, one-dimensional density unevenness, two-dimensional density unevenness, and average density. Further, as an example of time stability, there is density unevenness with time.

  (Fifth aspect): The printing system according to any one of the second to fourth aspects includes a priority parameter setting unit for setting a priority parameter.

  According to the fifth aspect, the priority parameter can be set from the outside, and selection of an optimum halftone processing condition can be supported using the set priority parameter.

  (Sixth aspect): In the printing system according to any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect, cost evaluation information for evaluating the cost at the time of printing is stored for each of two or more types of halftone processing conditions. A halftone process comprising: a cost evaluation information storage unit; and a productivity evaluation information storage unit that stores productivity evaluation information for evaluating productivity at the time of printing for each of two or more types of halftone processing conditions The condition selection unit is used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit from among two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions in consideration of at least one of cost evaluation information and productivity evaluation information. Select halftone processing conditions.

  In the sixth aspect, a table format in which cost evaluation values are stored can be applied to the cost evaluation information. A table format in which productivity evaluation values are stored can be applied to the productivity evaluation information.

  (Seventh Aspect): In the printing system according to any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect, the quality evaluation chart generation unit is at least one of the number of dots per unit area, spatial frequency characteristics, and dot cohesiveness Two or more different quality evaluation patterns are generated.

  According to the seventh aspect, it is possible to evaluate the halftone processing conditions from the viewpoint of the number of dots per unit area, spatial frequency characteristics, and dot aggregation.

  (Eighth Aspect): In the printing system according to any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect, the quality evaluation chart generating unit is about a width direction of the recording medium orthogonal to a relative movement direction between the recording medium and the printing unit. Quality including a pattern group for quality evaluation in which multiple patterns for quality evaluation of the same type are arranged, and a pattern group for quality evaluation consisting of different types of quality evaluation patterns in the relative movement direction of the recording medium and the printing unit Generate an evaluation chart.

  According to the eighth aspect, the quality evaluation of the quality evaluation pattern can be efficiently performed in single-pass printing.

  (Ninth aspect): In the printing system according to any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect, a gradation weight acquisition unit that acquires gradation weights representing priority of gradation, and the acquired gradation A tone weight information generation unit that generates tone weight information indicating priority in tone based on the weight, and the aptitude prediction information generation unit generates aptitude prediction information using the generated tone weight information. Generate.

  According to the ninth aspect, it is possible to support selection of halftone processing conditions in consideration of gradation priority (weight).

  (Tenth aspect): In the printing system according to the ninth aspect, an image setting unit that sets an image to be printed, and a gradation characteristic information generation unit that generates gradation characteristic information in the set image to be printed The gradation weight acquisition unit acquires gradation weights based on the generated gradation characteristic information, and the gradation weight information generation unit uses the gradation weights based on the generated gradation characteristic information. The tone weight information is automatically generated.

  According to the tenth aspect, it is possible to support selection of halftone processing conditions reflecting the gradation characteristics in the image to be printed.

  (Eleventh aspect): The printing system according to the ninth aspect or the tenth aspect includes a gradation weight setting unit for setting gradation weights.

  According to the eleventh aspect, the gradation weight can be set from the outside, and the selection of the halftone processing condition that reflects the set gradation weight can be supported.

  (Twelfth Aspect): In the printing system according to any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect, the similarity evaluation information storage unit has a dot arrangement corresponding to each halftone processing condition generated for each gradation. The degree of similarity between the halftone processing conditions generated based on the number of quality evaluation patterns included per unit area and the quality evaluation pattern is stored as similarity evaluation information.

  According to the twelfth aspect, even if the dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing condition is complicated, the halftone processing is performed without using a complicated analysis method by using a quality evaluation pattern having a certain regularity. The similarity between the condition and the quality evaluation pattern can be evaluated.

  (Thirteenth aspect): In the printing system according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the similarity evaluation information storage unit is a pixel in a dot arrangement corresponding to each halftone processing condition generated for each gradation. A cross-correlation value with the quality evaluation pattern for each position is calculated, and an average of the cross-correlation values for all pixels in the dot arrangement corresponding to each halftone processing condition is stored as similarity evaluation information.

  According to the thirteenth aspect, by evaluating the similarity between the dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing condition and the cross-correlation value between the quality evaluation patterns, the relatively reliable similarity can be evaluated. It becomes possible.

  (Fourteenth aspect): a halftone processing step for performing halftone processing on image data to be printed by a printing unit that performs printing on a recording medium, and halftone processing used for the halftone processing in the halftone processing step It is a halftone processing condition storage step in which two or more types of conditions are stored, and a quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of two or more types of halftone processing conditions, in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule A quality evaluation chart generating step for generating a quality evaluation chart including two or more types of quality evaluation patterns, a quality evaluation chart printing step for causing the printing unit to print the generated quality evaluation chart, A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition step of acquiring read data of the quality evaluation chart, A quality evaluation information generation step for generating quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the obtained quality evaluation chart, and two or more types of stored halftone processes For each of the conditions, a similarity evaluation information storage step in which similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns is stored, generated quality evaluation information, and stored similarities Using the degree evaluation information, for two or more types of halftone processing conditions, aptitude prediction information generation step for generating each aptitude prediction information, and two or more types of stored memorization based on the generated aptitude prediction information Select the halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing in the halftone processing process from the halftone processing conditions. Printing method comprising Futon processing condition selection step.

  (Fifteenth aspect): Used for halftone processing in a printing section that performs printing on a recording medium on a computer, a halftone processing section that performs halftone processing on image data to be printed, and a halftone processing section A halftone processing condition storage unit for storing two or more types of halftone processing conditions, and a quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of two or more types of halftone processing conditions, in accordance with a dot arrangement rule determined in advance. The quality evaluation chart generation unit that generates a quality evaluation chart that includes two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which is placed and the printing unit are controlled, and the generated quality evaluation chart is printed on the printing unit Print control unit to be acquired and quality evaluation chart read data acquisition for acquiring read data of the printed quality evaluation chart A quality evaluation information generating unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart, and two or more types of stored halves For each of the tone processing conditions, a similarity evaluation information storage unit storing similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns, generated quality evaluation information, and stored An aptitude prediction information generation unit that generates aptitude prediction information of the stored halftone processing conditions using the similarity evaluation information, and two or more types of half stored based on the generated aptitude prediction information A halftone processing condition for selecting a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit from the tone processing conditions. Print program for executing the selection unit, functions.

  (Sixteenth aspect): A halftone processing condition evaluation method that represents a rule of dot arrangement in halftone processing for image data to be printed, and for each of two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be evaluated A dot arrangement generation process for generating a dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing condition for each key, a quality evaluation pattern generation process for generating two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are regularly arranged, and Similarity evaluation information generation step for generating the number of quality evaluation patterns included per unit area as the similarity evaluation information with the quality evaluation patterns for each halftone processing condition for the dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing conditions And a method for evaluating halftone processing conditions.

  According to the sixteenth aspect, even if the dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing condition is complicated, the halftone processing is performed without using a complicated analysis method by using a quality evaluation pattern having a certain regularity. The condition can be evaluated.

  (Seventeenth aspect): A halftone processing condition evaluation system representing dot arrangement rules in halftone processing for image data to be printed, each of two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be evaluated. A dot arrangement generation unit that generates dot arrangements corresponding to halftone processing conditions for each gradation, and a quality evaluation pattern generation unit that generates two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are regularly arranged. Similarity evaluation information generation for generating the number of quality evaluation patterns included per unit area for the dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing conditions as similarity evaluation information with the quality evaluation patterns for each halftone processing condition A halftone processing condition evaluation system.

  (Eighteenth aspect): For each of two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be evaluated in a halftone processing condition evaluation system representing a dot arrangement rule in halftone processing for image data to be printed. A dot arrangement generation unit that generates dot arrangements corresponding to halftone processing conditions for each gradation, a quality evaluation pattern generation unit that generates two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are regularly arranged, and generation Similarity evaluation information for generating the number of quality evaluation patterns included per unit area as similarity evaluation information with the quality evaluation pattern for each halftone processing condition for the dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing conditions An evaluation program for halftone processing conditions for executing the function of the generation unit.

  (Nineteenth aspect): A halftone processing condition presentation system for presenting a halftone processing condition applied to a halftone process of a printing apparatus from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected. Is a quality evaluation chart printed using, and is used for quality evaluation of the selection target halftone processing conditions, and includes two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule. Quality evaluation chart reading data acquisition unit for acquiring quality evaluation chart reading data, and quality evaluation information indicating the quality of each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the acquired reading data of the quality evaluation chart For each of the quality evaluation information generation unit to be generated and two or more halftone processing conditions to be selected, Using the similarity evaluation information acquisition unit that acquires similarity evaluation information that represents the degree of similarity with each of the patterns for quality evaluation of more than types, the generated quality evaluation information, and the acquired similarity evaluation information An aptitude prediction information generation unit that generates aptitude prediction information of the halftone processing conditions that have been selected, and a halftone processing condition of the printing device based on the generated aptitude prediction information, from among two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected A halftone processing condition presentation system comprising: a halftone processing condition presentation unit for presenting halftone processing conditions used for tone processing.

(20th aspect): A halftone processing condition presentation method for presenting a halftone processing condition applied to a halftone process of a printing apparatus from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected. Is a quality evaluation chart printed using, and is used for quality evaluation of the selection target halftone processing conditions, and includes two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule. Quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the quality evaluation chart read data acquisition process for acquiring the quality evaluation chart read data and the acquired quality evaluation chart read data. For each of the quality evaluation information generation process to be generated and two or more halftone processing conditions to be selected, Selection using the similarity evaluation information acquisition step for acquiring similarity evaluation information representing the degree of similarity with each of the patterns for quality evaluation of more than types, the generated quality evaluation information, and the acquired similarity evaluation information Based on the suitability prediction information generation process that generates suitability prediction information for two or more types of target halftone processing conditions, and based on the generated suitability prediction information, printing from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected A halftone processing condition presentation method including a halftone processing condition presentation step of presenting a halftone processing condition used for the halftone processing of the apparatus.

  (21st aspect): Halftone processing condition presentation in a halftone processing condition presentation system that presents halftone processing conditions to be applied to halftone processing of a printing apparatus from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected A program, which is a quality evaluation chart printed on a computer using a printing apparatus and used for quality evaluation of a halftone processing condition to be selected, in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit that acquires read data of a quality evaluation chart including two or more types of quality evaluation patterns, and two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the acquired read data of the quality evaluation chart A quality evaluation information generation unit that generates quality evaluation information representing each quality of the A similarity evaluation information acquisition unit that acquires similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of two or more types of quality evaluation patterns for each of two or more types of elephant halftone processing conditions, and a generated quality evaluation Information, and an aptitude prediction information generation unit that generates aptitude prediction information of halftone processing conditions using the acquired similarity evaluation information, and two or more types of half to be selected based on the generated aptitude prediction information A halftone processing condition presenting program for executing a function of a halftone processing condition presenting section for presenting a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing of a printing apparatus from tone processing conditions.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Printing system, 14 ... Print control part, 18 ... Image processing part, 20 ... Halftone process condition storage part, 21 ... Halftone process condition presentation part, 24 ... Quality evaluation chart production | generation part, 26 ... Read data acquisition part 28 ... Quality evaluation table generation unit, 30 ... Quality evaluation table storage unit, 32 ... Similarity table storage unit, 33 ... Quality prediction value table generation unit, 34 ... Cost evaluation table storage unit, 35 ... Quality prediction value table storage unit 36 ... Productivity evaluation table storage unit, 40 ... Priority parameter table generation unit, 42 ... Priority parameter table storage unit, 46 ... Operation unit, 68 ... Halftone processing unit, 100 ... Similarity table, 102 ... Cost evaluation Table 104: Productivity evaluation table 106, 106A, 106B Quality evaluation table 108 Quality prediction value table 10, 110A, 110B ... priority parameter table, 112, 202 ... gradation weight table, 200 ... gradation characteristic information, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230 ... pattern for quality evaluation, 240, 270 ... quality evaluation Chart, 242,244,246,248,250,252,254,256,258,260,272,274,276,278,280,282,284,286,288,290,292,294 ... for quality evaluation Pattern group

Claims (21)

A printing unit for performing printing on a recording medium;
A halftone processing unit that performs halftone processing on image data to be printed;
A halftone processing condition storage unit for storing two or more types of halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit;
A quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of the two or more halftone processing conditions, wherein the quality evaluation chart includes two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule. A quality evaluation chart generation unit to be generated;
A printing control unit that controls the printing unit to cause the printing unit to print the generated quality evaluation chart;
A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit for acquiring read data of the printed quality evaluation chart;
A quality evaluation information generation unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart;
For each of the two or more stored halftone processing conditions, a similarity evaluation information storage unit that stores similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity to each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns;
An aptitude prediction information generating unit for generating aptitude prediction information of the stored halftone processing conditions using the generated quality evaluation information and the stored similarity evaluation information;
Halftone processing for selecting a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit from the two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions based on the generated suitability prediction information A condition selection section;
Printing system equipped with. A priority parameter acquisition unit for acquiring a priority parameter indicating which parameter of quality, cost for printing, and productivity for printing should be prioritized;
A priority parameter information generating unit that generates priority parameter information indicating a priority for each parameter based on the acquired priority parameter;
With
The halftone processing condition selection unit is used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit from among the two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions in consideration of the acquired priority parameter information. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein selected halftone processing conditions are selected. The priority parameter acquisition unit, as a quality evaluation item in the quality parameter,
The printing system according to claim 2, wherein a priority parameter including at least one of graininess, one-dimensional density unevenness, two-dimensional density unevenness, time-dependent density unevenness, and average density is acquired. The priority parameter acquisition unit, as a quality evaluation item in the quality parameter,
The printing system according to claim 2, wherein priority parameter information including at least one item of position stability and time stability is acquired.   The printing system according to claim 2, further comprising a priority parameter setting unit that sets the priority parameter. For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions, a cost evaluation information storage unit that stores cost evaluation information that evaluates the cost at the time of printing,
For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions, a productivity evaluation information storage unit that stores productivity evaluation information for evaluating productivity at the time of printing;
With
The halftone processing condition selection unit considers at least one of the cost evaluation information and the productivity evaluation information, and selects the halftone processing from the two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing in a section is selected.   7. The quality evaluation chart generation unit generates two or more types of quality evaluation patterns that differ in at least one of the number of dots per unit area, spatial frequency characteristics, and dot aggregation. The printing system according to item.   The quality evaluation chart generating unit includes a quality evaluation pattern group in which a plurality of quality evaluation patterns of the same type are arranged in the width direction of the recording medium orthogonal to the relative movement direction of the recording medium and the printing unit. The quality evaluation chart in which a quality evaluation pattern group composed of different types of quality evaluation patterns is arranged in the relative movement direction of the recording medium and the printing unit is generated. The printing system described. A gradation weight acquisition unit that acquires gradation weights representing gradation priorities;
A gradation weight information generating unit that generates gradation weight information representing a priority in gradation based on the acquired gradation weight;
With
The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the suitability prediction information generation unit generates suitability prediction information using the generated gradation weight information. An image setting section for setting an image to be printed;
A gradation characteristic information generation unit for generating gradation characteristic information in the set image to be printed;
With
The gradation weight acquisition unit acquires a gradation weight based on the generated gradation characteristic information,
The printing system according to claim 9, wherein the gradation weight information generation unit automatically generates gradation weight information using a gradation weight based on the generated gradation characteristic information.   The printing system according to claim 9, further comprising a gradation weight setting unit that sets the gradation weight.   The similarity evaluation information storage unit generates the halftone generated based on the number of quality evaluation patterns included per unit area with respect to a dot arrangement corresponding to each halftone processing condition generated for each gradation. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein a similarity between a processing condition and the quality evaluation pattern is stored as the similarity evaluation information.   The similarity evaluation information storage unit calculates a cross-correlation value with the quality evaluation pattern for each pixel position in a dot arrangement corresponding to each halftone processing condition generated for each gradation, and each halftone process 12. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein an average of the cross-correlation values for all pixels having a dot arrangement corresponding to a condition is stored as the similarity evaluation information. A halftone processing step of performing halftone processing on image data to be printed by a printing unit that executes printing on a recording medium;
A halftone processing condition storage step in which two or more halftone processing conditions used for the halftone processing in the halftone processing step are stored;
A quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of the two or more halftone processing conditions, wherein the quality evaluation chart includes two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule. A quality evaluation chart generation process to be generated; and
A quality evaluation chart printing step for causing the printing unit to print the generated quality evaluation chart;
A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition step for acquiring read data of the printed quality evaluation chart;
A quality evaluation information generating step for generating quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart;
For each of the two or more stored halftone processing conditions, a similarity evaluation information storage step in which similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns is stored;
Using the generated quality evaluation information and the stored similarity evaluation information, aptitude prediction information generation step for generating aptitude prediction information for each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions;
Halftone processing for selecting halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing in the halftone processing step from the two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions based on the generated suitability prediction information A condition selection step;
Including printing method. On the computer,
A printing unit for performing printing on a recording medium;
A halftone processing unit that performs halftone processing on image data to be printed;
A halftone processing condition storage unit for storing two or more types of halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit;
A quality evaluation chart used for quality evaluation of the two or more halftone processing conditions, wherein the quality evaluation chart includes two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule. A quality evaluation chart generation unit to be generated;
A printing control unit that controls the printing unit to cause the printing unit to print the generated quality evaluation chart;
A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit for acquiring read data of the printed quality evaluation chart;
A quality evaluation information generation unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart;
For each of the two or more stored halftone processing conditions, a similarity evaluation information storage unit that stores similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity to each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns;
An aptitude prediction information generating unit for generating aptitude prediction information of the stored halftone processing conditions using the generated quality evaluation information and the stored similarity evaluation information;
Halftone processing for selecting a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing in the halftone processing unit from the two or more types of stored halftone processing conditions based on the generated suitability prediction information Condition selection part,
Print program that executes the functions of A halftone processing condition evaluation method representing a dot arrangement rule in halftone processing for image data to be printed,
For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be evaluated, a dot arrangement generation step for generating a dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing conditions for each gradation,
A quality evaluation pattern generation step for generating two or more types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are regularly arranged; and
For the dot arrangement corresponding to the generated halftone processing condition, the number of the quality evaluation patterns included per unit area is generated as similarity evaluation information with the quality evaluation pattern for each halftone processing condition A similarity evaluation information generation step,
Method for evaluating halftone processing conditions including An evaluation system for the halftone processing condition representing a regular dot arrangement in the halftone processing against the image data to be printed,
For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be evaluated, a dot arrangement generation unit that generates a dot arrangement corresponding to the halftone processing conditions for each gradation,
A pattern generation unit for quality evaluation that generates two or more types of patterns for quality evaluation in which dots are regularly arranged; and
For the dot arrangement corresponding to the generated halftone processing condition, the number of the quality evaluation patterns included per unit area is generated as similarity evaluation information with the quality evaluation pattern for each halftone processing condition A similarity evaluation information generating unit,
System for evaluating halftone processing conditions. On the computer,
In the halftone processing against the image data to be printed, for each of two or more of the half-tone processing conditions to be evaluated in the evaluation system of the halftone process conditions representative of the rule of dot arrangement, the halftone processing conditions for each tone A dot arrangement generation unit for generating a dot arrangement corresponding to
A pattern generation unit for quality evaluation that generates two or more types of patterns for quality evaluation in which dots are regularly arranged; and
For the dot arrangement corresponding to the generated halftone processing condition, the number of the quality evaluation patterns included per unit area is generated as similarity evaluation information with the quality evaluation pattern for each halftone processing condition Similarity evaluation information generating unit,
Evaluation program for halftone processing conditions to execute the functions of. A halftone processing condition presentation system for presenting halftone processing conditions to be applied to a halftone process of a printing device from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected,
It is a quality evaluation chart printed using the printing apparatus and used for quality evaluation of the halftone processing conditions to be selected, and two types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit that acquires read data of the quality evaluation chart included above,
A quality evaluation information generation unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart;
For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected, a similarity evaluation information acquisition unit that acquires similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns;
Using the generated quality evaluation information and the acquired similarity evaluation information, an aptitude prediction information generation unit that generates aptitude prediction information of two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected;
A halftone processing condition presenting unit for presenting halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing of the printing apparatus from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected based on the generated suitability prediction information When,
A halftone processing condition presentation system. A halftone processing condition presenting method for presenting a halftone processing condition to be applied to a halftone process of a printing device from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected,
It is a quality evaluation chart printed using the printing apparatus and used for quality evaluation of the halftone processing conditions to be selected, and two types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule Quality evaluation chart read data acquisition step for acquiring read data of the quality evaluation chart included above,
A quality evaluation information generating step for generating quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart;
For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected, a similarity evaluation information acquisition step of acquiring similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns;
Using the generated quality evaluation information and the acquired similarity evaluation information, aptitude prediction information generation step for generating aptitude prediction information of two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected;
A halftone processing condition presenting step for presenting a halftone processing condition used for halftone processing of the printing apparatus from among two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected based on the generated suitability prediction information When,
Method for presenting halftone processing conditions including A halftone processing condition presentation program in a halftone processing condition presentation system that presents halftone processing conditions to be applied to a halftone process of a printing device from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected,
On the computer,
It is a quality evaluation chart printed using the printing apparatus and used for quality evaluation of the halftone processing conditions to be selected, and two types of quality evaluation patterns in which dots are arranged according to a predetermined dot arrangement rule A quality evaluation chart read data acquisition unit that acquires read data of the quality evaluation chart included above,
A quality evaluation information generation unit that generates quality evaluation information representing the quality of each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns from the read data of the acquired quality evaluation chart;
For each of the two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected, a similarity evaluation information acquisition unit that acquires similarity evaluation information representing a degree of similarity with each of the two or more types of quality evaluation patterns;
Using the generated quality evaluation information and the acquired similarity evaluation information, an aptitude prediction information generation unit that generates aptitude prediction information of halftone processing conditions;
A halftone processing condition presenting unit for presenting halftone processing conditions used for halftone processing of the printing apparatus from two or more types of halftone processing conditions to be selected based on the generated suitability prediction information ,
Program for presenting halftone processing conditions to execute the functions of.